Latest news with #CulturalFoundation
What's On
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- What's On
7 incredible things to do in Abu Dhabi this long weekend: June 27 to 29
Another weekend, another curated list for our lovely capital crowd but this one is special, because we're enjoying three days off. With summer in full swing, it's all about cool escapes and adventures – from brunches to comedy bigwigs and film festivals. Here's what to do in Abu Dhabi this weekend. Friday, June 27 Kick off the weekend with a brunch at Dino's Italian cuisine lovers can enjoy their favourite authentic dishes at an à la carte style brunch at Dino's Bistro Italiano, including seafood, cheese & antipasti stations, paired with a selection of premium beverages to choose from. Start the weekend right. Offer: Dhs240 per head Location: Dino's Bistro Italiano, Pearl Rotana Capital Centre Timings: 6pm to 11pm Contact: (0) 2 307 5551 @dinosbistroitaliano Catch a film festival The European Film Festival opened at the Cultural Foundation and the rich programme continues throughout the week, offering audiences a wide selection of European films across genres. A key highlight is the highly anticipated Emirati film Mountain Boy , providing a unique opportunity to celebrate UAE talent alongside European cinematic productions. Location: Cultural Foundation, Abu Dhabi Timings: Until Sunday, June 29 Contact: (0) 2 657 6348 @abudhabicf Watch Dave Chapelle in action Dave Chappelle returns to Abu Dhabi this weekend as part of Abu Dhabi Comedy Season after a hugely successful show in April 2024, and you don't want to miss this. Tickets for the funnyman start at Dhs250 and you're guaranteed a brilliant night. Offer: Dhs275 per ticket Location: Etihad Arena Timings: 8pm Contact: (600) 511115 @ Saturday, June 28 Make the most of summer at Surf Abu Dhabi Seasoned and budding surfers, head over to Surf Abu Dhabi, the world's biggest and most advanced artificial wave facility. You can choose from open sessions tailored to beginner, intermediate and advanced surfers, as well as 1-on-1 surfing lessons, and an entire 90-minute surf trip for you and 5 other surfers. Offer: Starts from Dhs600 Times: Daily, 9am to 10pm Location: Surf Abu Dhabi, Hudayriat Island Contact: @surfabudhabi Tuck into an afternoon tea This indulgent affair invites guests to savour a thoughtfully curated four-course menu that showcases the chef's most iconic and imaginative creations. The Pierre Hermé afternoon tea is available daily, with two seating options. Celebrate a special occasion with this special experience. Offer: Starts from Dhs345 Times: Daily, 2pm to 2.30pm, 4pm to 4.30pm Location: Majlis, Rosewood Abu Dhabi Contact: @rosewoodabudhabi Sunday, June 29 Enjoy a brush and bites night at Taparelle Taparelle and Manarat Al Saadiyat's Art Studio are teaming up for a creative evening of painting, flavour, and conversation with brush and bites night. Set within Taparelle's art-filled space, the session invites guests to unwind with guided painting, refreshing mocktails, and curated Mediterranean bites. Offer: Dhs300 per head Location: Taparelle, Manarat Al Saadiyat Timings: 5pm to 7.30pm Contact: (0) 2 657 5832 @taparellerestaurant Take a trip to Al Jahili Fort This heritage-infused site was built close to two centuries ago in Al Ain and is one of the largest that has ever been built in the UAE. Initially built to serve as the summer residence of H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan before British forces assumed military use of the tower until 1970. It represents a fascinating cultural enclave to walking around and explore. Location: Mohammed Bin Khalifa Al Nahyan St – Al Jahili – Hai Al Qalaa Images: Supplied/Getty > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
Time of India
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Discover Abu Dhabi's top 7 interactive art and culture spots for the whole family
Kids today want more than just fun holidays; they crave new friends, tasty treats, and hands-on cultural adventures. A recent global survey by Experience Abu Dhabi (Will create a hyperlink of the survey article) shows that children love exploring art, history, and stories from around the world, with Indian kids especially eager for experiences that spark their imagination. Abu Dhabi is the perfect spot for this kind of family adventure. From messy art studios and immersive digital spaces to heritage villages and cosy libraries, the city is packed with interactive, kid-friendly cultural gems. Here's a list of 7 must-visit places where your family can dive into art and culture and make unforgettable memories. Get creative at Manarat Al Saadiyat's Art Studio Nestled in the heart of Saadiyat Cultural District, this art studio is a spacious and creative playground where a family can get hands-on with arts and crafts in one of their group workshops or just by themselves. For an Indian family looking to mix a bit of culture with fun, it's the perfect spot to explore after checking out the stunning museums nearby. Think of it as a colourful pit stop where your little ones can unleash their creativity, surrounded by world-class art and cool cultural vibes. Paint, play, repeat at the Splatter Room! Just wait and see how your kids suit up and go wild at the Splatter Room in Al Seef Village Mall. It's a full-blown paint party where families can toss, drip, and splash neon colours onto canvases with brushes, squeeze bottles, and even water guns! Just pure creative chaos. Perfect for families who want something beyond the usual touristy stops, this one's part art therapy, part unforgettable memory. A bookish adventure at the Cultural Foundation If your little one is a big-time reader, the Children's Library at the Cultural Foundation is just the spot. The three-story library is known for its large collection of books, art studios, and interactive play areas, making it suitable for children of all ages. Young minds can unplug, dive into stories, and get creative with books, tech, and even interactive programmes. Perfect for a quick break between sightseeing sprees. Art meets play at the Children's Museum, Louvre Abu Dhabi Inside the grand Louvre Abu Dhabi, there is a colourful little world that kids absolutely adore - the Children's Museum. With touchable exhibits, storytelling corners, and hands-on art stations, this space is designed to make young minds feel right at home with creativity. Whether your kids are inquisitive or the quiet doodler, there's something to spark their imagination here. Embrace nature at Jubail Mangrove Park Visit a natural wonderland just outside the city at Jubail Mangrove Park, where kids can swap screens for serene scenes. With lush greenery, winding boardwalks, and exciting kayaking tours, families can spot turtles, herons, and crabs up close while learning about how these magical mangroves protect the coastline and fight climate change. It's fun, educational, and the perfect way to kick off a culture-packed adventure. Spin, Sculpt, and Smile at Studio Clay Let kids tap into their artistic side at Studio Clay, a warm and welcoming pottery studio that turns family fun into lasting art. With guidance from expert instructors and a nod to Emirati traditions, children can shape, paint, and personalise their own creations, making it the perfect blend of creativity and art. Step back in time at Emirates Heritage Village This spot is like walking into a living museum, complete with camel rides, old souqs, and even a traditional mosque. The art gallery here is especially charming, showcasing everything from Sadu weaving to marine crafts, with real artisans at work. Your family can even try their hand at some of these traditional crafts. It's free, super interactive, and a great way to connect with Emirati roots in the most hands-on way. So, if your idea of a family holiday includes inspiring art, meaningful stories, and memories that go beyond souvenirs, Abu Dhabi delivers in the coolest cultural way possible. Summer in Abu Dhabi, totally recommended!
Al Etihad
22-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Al Etihad
Lights, camera, action as curtain rises on European Film Festival at Cultural Foundation Abu Dhabi
22 June 2025 18:54 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)Good news for film fans and European Film Festival (EUFF) is being held in Abu Dhabi on June 23 to 29 at the Cultural Foundation Abu second edition of the festival is being organised by the European Union Delegation to the UAE, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), with the support of EU Member States Embassies and Cultural Institutes in the can expect to be transported to diverse landscapes, experience captivating narratives, and witness the power of European year's festival features a curated selection of 17 European films from a diverse range of countries, including Latvia, Poland, Netherlands, Malta, Germany, Czechia, Austria, France, Italy, Bulgaria, Lithuania, Ireland, Hungary, Sweden, Spain, Romania and a significant first, an Emirati film will also be featured, 'Mountain Boy'. This award-winning production was brought to life by a team of 32 Emirati cast and crew members, including Emirati film director, Zainab festival offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in both European and Emirati cultures, discover exceptional cinematic talent, and engage in a vibrant exchange of EUFF will also host a free three-day workshop titled 'Developing and Funding Films: From Concept to Creation', led by European film expert, Graziella Bildesheim, an award-winning producer with over 30 years of experience in the film industry. The workshop is specifically designed for producers, aspiring filmmakers, screenwriters and industry professionals. Participants will have the chance to hone their craft, learn from experienced professionals and connect with fellow EUFF is designed to foster collaboration between EU and UAE film professionals, promote cultural exchange and empower local talent through the sharing of insights and best are Dh25 for one film, Dh150 for a multi-day pass. Screening programme:- Monday, June 23 'Flow' (animation, 7pm) – Latvia- Tuesday, June 24'Mountain Boy' (adventure, 6pm) - UAE'Dangerous Gentlemen' (crime comedy, 8pm) – Poland- Wednesday, June 25'Bigman' (family, 4pm) - Netherlands'Carmen' (romantic comedy, 6pm) - Malta'Two to One' (comedy, 8pm) – Germany- Thursday, June 26'Living Large' (animation, 4pm) - Czechia'Mond' (drama, 6pm) - Austria'The Musicians' (comedy musical, 8pm) – France- Friday, June 27'Io Sto Bene' (drama, 4pm) - Italy'The Trap' (drama, 6pm) - Bulgaria'Remember to Blink' (drama, 8pm) – Lithuania- Saturday, June 28'Tarrac' (sports drama, 4pm) - Ireland'Four Souls of Coyote' (animation, 6pm) - Hungary'UFO Sweden' (sci-fi adventure, 8pm) – Sweden- Sunday, June 29'Ramona' (romantic comedy, 2pm) - Spain'Horia' (adventure, 4pm) - Romania 'Riders' (adventure, 6pm) - Slovenia
FACT
19-06-2025
- Entertainment
- FACT
The European Film Festival returns to Abu Dhabi
The European Film Festival celebrates cinema, culture and collaboration. There's always something happening in Abu Dhabi. While local talent and culture remain at the centre of the capital's creative scene, it also knows how to embrace the world. This time, Abu Dhabi is marking the return of the celebrated European Film Festival. Back for its second edition, the celebration of cinema will take place from 23 to 29 June at the Cultural Foundation in Abu Dhabi. Organised by the European Union Delegation to the UAE, in collaboration with the Cultural Foundation, this week-long celebration of cinema aims to bridge cultures, foster dialogue, and showcase diverse perspectives. The theme of this year's festival revolves around identity, resilience, and social change. Seventeen films from across the continent will be screened, spotlighting cinematic gems from France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Spain, Sweden, and more. Expect coming-of-age dramas, historical adventures, comedies, and much more. Some of the films to look out for include Bigman from the Netherlands, Ramona from Spain, Dangerous Gentlemen from Poland, and Four Souls of Coyote from Hungary. For the first time, the festival will also feature an Emirati production. Mountain Boy, directed by Zainab Shaheen and brought to life by a 32-member Emirati cast and crew, will join the line-up, marking a significant moment of cultural exchange and collaboration between the UAE and Europe. In addition to the screenings, the European Film Festival will host a free three-day workshop. Aimed at aspiring filmmakers and screenwriters, these sessions are designed to support local talent with practical skills and industry insights. Tickets to the European Film Festival screenings start from AED 25 per film. So, whether you're a cinephile or a budding filmmaker, this festival promises to entertain, educate, and inspire. GO: Visit for more information.
Al Etihad
17-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Al Etihad
Abu Dhabi turns down the heat with snow parks and artistic adventures
18 June 2025 00:14 MAYS IBRAHIM (ABU DHABI)As temperatures climb in the UAE, Abu Dhabi is embracing summer with a refreshing wave of indoor experiences. From cutting-edge art experiences and oceanic wonders to sports havens and adrenaline-packed theme parks, the capital is brimming with places that offer cool relief and creative energy all summer long. Arts, Culture & EntertainmentAt the Cultural Foundation, visitors can immerse themselves in Malaysia's vibrant contemporary art scene through "To Know Malaysia is to Love Malaysia: Highlights from the AFK Collection", running until September 10. The exhibition offers a rich view into Malaysia's creative independence and artistic evolution. Running alongside it is "Maitha Abdalla: Between Metamorphosis and Reality", showcasing a mix of paintings and sculptures until August families, the long-running "Crafts and Play" exhibit, open until June 25, invites children aged 3 to 12 to learn about Emirati weaving traditions through hands-on games centred on Al-Sadu, Talli, and Khoos Cultural Foundation's Children's Library adds to the family-friendly lineup with daily programming that fosters literacy and imagination. Regular favourites include Storytime, Baby & Me, and Maker Mums. Entry to the library and exhibitions is free, with select workshops requiring prior Cultural Foundation also offers a wide range of paid art classes in painting, ceramics, sewing, and design that cater to the creative minds of all town at Manarat Al Saadiyat, the Middle East debut of "Harry Potter: The Exhibition" opens on July 25 and runs through September 14. The exhibition brings the beloved franchise to life with original props, costumes, and interactive experiences for fans, young and on display is "Layered Medium: We Are in Open Circuits", a landmark collaboration with the Seoul Museum of Art that explores the legacy of Korea's radical contemporary art art studio sessions also continue at Manarat Al Saadiyat, with a full schedule of workshops and drop-in classes for all age lovers can retreat into immersive spaces like teamLab Phenomena in Saadiyat Cultural District. This vast, multi-sensory art destination merges light, sound, and movement to produce artworks that shift and evolve with the Abu Dhabi is also offering plenty to keep visitors engaged - children enjoy free summer access, while general admission is 30% off online, excluding select seasonal can visit the Children's Museum's latest exhibition, "Picturing the Cosmos", a space-themed journey that explores how artists from different cultures interpret the older children and teens, the museum's ArtLab summer programme returns with multi-day workshops in July and August. Participants will explore ancient languages and symbolism, inspired by the story of the Tower of Babel, through collaborative, hands-on art July, the museum will unveil a new 30-minute virtual reality experience that allows guests to travel through time and visit historical empires, from Imperial Rome to Mughal WTC Abu Dhabi has launched a seven-month programme of weekly events and entertainment for all nights take over the public square every Tuesday evening with family-friendly screenings and free popcorn. Thursdays are for gamers, with a dedicated digital zone open from 2pm to 10pm, while Friday evenings feature live music and high-energy musical bingo. Saturdays kick off with morning fitness classes, including yoga, Zumba, and is free with a same-day shopping receipt from the mall, and all children under 13 must be accompanied by an 421 Arts Campus in Mina Zayed hosts a contemporary art space with a roster of galleries, workshops and art shows. Housed in converted warehouses, it's both a platform for emerging talent and a welcoming place for community connection over coffee and conversation. Cool Escapes & High-Energy AdventuresIf thrill is what you're after, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi guarantees high-octane fun with the world's fastest rollercoaster, the planet's tallest loop ride, and over 40 record-breaking attractions. For something a little cooler, Snow Abu Dhabi at Reem Mall brings the magic of winter to the desert. Designed as an "Enchanted Forest", the indoor snow park features over 20 rides and attractions, including a polar train, a magical carousel, and a soaring owl-themed ride, all wrapped in immersive marine-inspired magic, The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi, home to more than 46,000 creatures, offers cool encounters in its ten themed zones. Sharks, rays, and sea turtles are just the beginning, with the educational arm ready to welcome up to 50,000 students a short drive away, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi promises more aquatic adventures with eight immersive realms, 100+ animal encounters, 35 interactive rides, and roaming performances that merge education with Yas Mall launched a new Fitness & Wellness series, which runs until December. Held in the cool interiors of the Prayer Hall Corridor, classes like Pilates, Flex & Flow, Cardio & Core, and Full Body Fitness are led by local instructor Azza Al Mughairy and open to all levels with limited Sports City (ZSC) offers another summer option for indoor fitness lovers, featuring everything from boxing and futsal to tennis and early morning refreshing ice-skating rink offers the perfect escape from the summer heat, complemented by a massive 40-lane bowling centre and the city's largest billiards and snooker hall. It also caters to niche and regional interests, with spaces for hurling, camogie, and Ultimate Frisbee. And if you're in the mood for a relaxed outdoor stroll without breaking a sweat, head to the UAE's first-ever air-conditioned pedestrian walkway in Al Nahyan. Opened by the Department of Municipalities and Transport in late 2024, the path stays at a breezy 24°C year-round thanks to underground cooling systems, heat-filtering roofing, and sound-muffling walls. Source: Aletihad - Abu Dhabi
