The Harry Potter Exhibition is officially open in Abu Dhabi
Landing at Manarat Al Saadiyat until September 21, this is the Middle East debut of the international touring exhibition that's already enchanted more than 3.7 million fans around the world.
Whether you're a lifelong Potterhead or new to the wizarding world, the immersive experience is packed with spellbinding moments, iconic props and interactive surprises.
The exhibition dives deep into the beloved world of Harry Potter, Fantastic Beasts and even The Cursed Child stage production, with meticulously recreated environments, original costumes and dazzling technology that brings Hogwarts to life right before your eyes. Think of it as stepping straight onto the set – only better, because you will actually get to be part of the magic.
Expect to stroll through the great hall, brew potions in Snape's classroom, cast a patronus in the Forbidden Forest and see your name pop up on the Marauder's map.
Want to know your Hogwarts house? You'll pick it during registration and follow its story through stained-glass windows, have a photo op with the Sorting Hat and have your own personalised Hogwarts journey (don't worry though, you'll still get to see the story of each house).
And yes, there's merch – lots of it. From chocolate frogs to limited-edition collectibles, the exhibition store is packed with magical goodies you won't find anywhere else.
Let's go, muggles.
From Dhs115. Starting July 25, open weekly Weds-Mon. Manarat Al Saadiyat. abudhabi.harrypotterexhibition.com.
You might also like…
Abu Dhabi's best restaurants: Everywhere you should eat at least once
Your dinner inspo is sorted
12 fantastic road trips across the GCC
Fill up the tank and go
Abu Dhabi to Dubai by bus: How to travel between the two cities
Everything you need to know, from getting a Nol card to bus timetables
Old Abu Dhabi: 15 best spots to uncover the history of the capital
Peel back the layers of time
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The National
a day ago
- The National
Timeframe: When the UAE was left spellbound by Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
Abu Dhabi is getting ready for a spellbinding experience as Harry Potter: The Exhibition comes to Manarat Al Saadiyat. But before the exhibition, the UAE was already captivated by the wizarding world created by J K Rowling as fans of the Boy Wizard turned out to Dubai's Mall of the Emirates for the book launch of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child in July 2016. The book featured the script of the then-new two-part play of the same name, which had its official premiere in London's West End. Fans of the eagerly awaited novel turned out to the Virgin Megastore inside the mall at 2am to be among the first to get a copy. The book went on sale at 3am, to coincide with the midnight launch in the UK. To set the mood, the Harry Potter movie theme music played in the background as fans dressed up for the occasion. Some had lightning-shaped scars on their foreheads, created with make-up pencils, while others wore the wizard's signature round eyeglasses. A woman wore a lavender wig – probably in honour of Nymphadora Tonks, a witch who died while defending Hogwarts – while a Professor Snape look-alike was spotted, with the distinctive nose and severe black hairstyle, along with a touch of kohl around the eyes. Black picnic tables were set up at the entrance of the store to mimic the Hogwarts Great Hall, while gold and black balloons were on the floor. There was even one foil balloon in the shape of the Snitch – the winged ball used in the wizarding sport of Quidditch. Co-written by Rowling, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is set 19 years after the conclusion of the final novel in the series, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. It features a grown-up Harry, struggling to balance his life as a father of three and an overworked employee of the Ministry of Magic.
What's On
2 days ago
- What's On
Things to do this weekend in Abu Dhabi: August 1 to 3
From August 1 to 3, Abu Dhabi is packed with unforgettable experiences and vibrant happenings. Pamper yourself with expert beauty treatments, step into the world of Harry Potter, or soak up the neon energy at SeaWorld's Electric Ocean Festival. Sports fans can catch world-class grappling or join a community fun run to get active. Ready to make the most of your weekend? Here's your go-to guide for the best events and activities around the capital. Step inside the wizarding world at Harry Potter: The Exhibition Image: Archive Wands up, a spellbinding experience awaits you in the capital. Harry Potter: The Exhibition has flown (although not on a broom) into Manarat Al Saadiyat, inviting fans to journey through the magical universe like never before. From exploring the iconic Great Hall and brewing potions in Snape's classroom to summoning a Patronus in the Forbidden Forest, this immersive adventure brings the wizarding world to life. You'll even get sorted into your own Hogwarts house and follow its story through the exhibition, complete with interactive stops, stained-glass windows, and your name lighting up the Marauder's Map. Of course, it wouldn't be complete without a visit to the gift shop, think chocolate frogs, Butterbeer, and limited-edition merch you won't find anywhere else. Location: Manarat Al Saadiyat, Abu Dhabi Times: Wednesday to Monday, 10am to 10pm (closed Tuesdays) Cost: From Dhs115 Contact: Glow up at Electric Ocean Festival Image: Archive SeaWorld Yas Island Abu Dhabi turns up the volume and the neon effect for the return of Electric Ocean Festival, a glowing celebration of lights, beats and underwater vibes happening all summer long. This year brings a brand-new pre-show party to get everyone in the mood before the main event. The One Ocean realm transforms into a high-energy playground, complete with breakdancers, drummers, aerial acrobats, and SeaWorld's beloved characters, including Sakina, SeaStar, Puck and Shivers, all lighting up the stage. Feeling the rhythm? Slip on some glowing headphones and dance the night away at the immersive silent disco. Location: SeaWorld Yas Island Abu Dhabi Times: Daily, 10am to 8pm (evening entertainment starts later) Cost: From Dhs375 (adults), Dhs320 (kids) Contact: Catch world-class grappling action in Al Ain Image: Archive Combat sports fans, this one's for you. The Abu Dhabi World Grappling Championship 2025 is set to take over ADNEC Centre Al Ain from August 1 to 3, marking the global debut of this high-stakes tournament. Expect a thrilling three-day showdown as top-tier athletes from more than 20 countries go head-to-head in this intense form of close-contact combat. It's a major moment for the UAE's booming grappling and jiu-jitsu scene and the first event of its kind on the international calendar. Location: ADNEC Centre Al Ain Times: August 1 to 3 Cost: Free for spectators (check website for more info) Contact: Join an indoor fun run at Bawabat Al Sharq Mall Ready, set, run… but indoors. Bawabat Al Sharq Mall is hosting a community-friendly indoor run with 1km, 3km and 5km race categories, perfect for all ages and fitness levels. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just in it for the good vibes, this active day out is all about movement, fun, and quality time with friends and family, minus the summer heat. Location: Bawabat Al Sharq Mall, Abu Dhabi Times: Check registration page for race timings Cost: From Dhs26.25 Contact: Image: Archive > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
The National
2 days ago
- The National
Five tips for a magical visit to Harry Potter: The Exhibition in Abu Dhabi
A touring exhibition celebrating Harry Potter's Wizarding World has opened in the UAE, making its first visit to the Middle East. Harry Potter: The Exhibition opened on Thursday at Manarat Al Saadiyat in Abu Dhabi and will run until September 21. The global tour opened in Philadelphia in February 2022, and has travelled to major cities across North America, Europe and Australia, including New York, Atlanta, Vienna, Paris and Melbourne. The immersive experience brings to life the magical universe in the book and film series. It has already attracted 3.7 million visitors worldwide – making it a must for Potter fans in the Emirates. Whether you are a lifelong Gryffindor or a curious Muggle, here is what to expect when entering the world of Harry Potter in Abu Dhabi. Dress up for photo opportunities Harry Potter fans are some of the most passionate in the world, and the exhibition awards such dedication early on. To start the experience, guests are given an armband and asked to sign up for an account, adding in key fandom details such as their favourite Hogwarts School house, magic wand and chosen Patronus – akin to a spirit animal or guardian. Each armband then activates activities throughout the attraction's 25 rooms. Before the fun fully begins, guests have the opportunity to capture their excitement in a photobooth. They can preview the images against different Potter-themed backgrounds and then collect them after the exhibition. Maximise the photo opportunities by dressing for the occasion, by wearing your Hogwarts house uniforms or movie merchandise, or perhaps as characters that feature throughout the tour. Search out your favourite characters Everyone who has watched the Harry Potter films likes the main trio of Harry, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger. But there are plenty of other characters who are fan favourites, despite only having limited screen time. As you explore, it's worth keeping an eye out, as just about every memorable character from the films is represented in the exhibition, be it the whimsical Luna Lovegood, the dastardly Severus Snape or the beguiling Remus Lupin. Also a Twilight fan? You'll be glad to know there is plenty of Robert Pattinson's character Cedric Diggory on show too, despite his short run in the movies. The exhibition offers the chance to get a close look at the details of your favourite character's original costumes. Come ready to engage with every activity Passing through each room, visitors will notice pads that are activated by their armbands. These might generate something simple and cute like seeing your name on the Marauder's Map, or something more elaborate, such as being given a house by the Sorting Hat. Some activities are more playful, such as mixing potions or scoring at Quidditch – and the points matter. At the end of the tour, there is a screen that displays the amount of points each house has accumulated, so represent your house well and ace those challenges. Come with enough time and energy to make the most of each activity. Budget for the gift shop Don't have any Harry Potter gear? Don't fret, there's a large merchandise and gift shop at the end of the experience. The selection is comprehensive, so plan ahead to get gifts for your Potter-loving friends. From film-accurate Hogwarts uniforms to mugs and key chains, there's something for every fan. Sample butterbeer The Harry Potter books and films have introduced audiences to many peculiar and tasty foods and snacks, as well as the wizard's drink of choice – butterbeer. At the exhibition, fans can savour a real-life version of the frothy, sweet beverage enjoyed by Harry and his friends at the Three Broomsticks Inn in Hogsmeade. Non-alcoholic and served chilled, it blends butterscotch and shortbread flavours. Keen fans can choose to enjoy it in special butterbeer glass that they can take home.
