Are you surfing the web for what’s unique to try in May in Abu Dhabi 2026? Well, here it is. This blog outlines some of the most exciting things to do in Abu Dhabi in May 2026 that you can’t miss.  

May in Abu Dhabi is indeed the most underrated time of the year because of Abu Dhabi Weather in May, but with these unique things to do, you can make it a highly immersive experience. 

Is Abu Dhabi next to your wishlist for May? Then, how about making it a lasting memory with a trusted travel agency in the UAE, that ensures your hassle-free experience in the city? 

Willing to customize your itinerary? If yes, then before planning anything, let’s explore some of the unmatched experiences to enjoy in Abu Dhabi in May 2026: 

Quick Guide: Abu Dhabi in May 2026 

Is Abu Dhabi too hot in May? Yes, it’s summer in Abu Dhabi with low rainfall and increased humidity.  

• Abu Dhabi temperature in May: Days are 340 C to 400 C, and Nights are 240 C to 280 C. 
• Best season for: Budget-friendly Abu Dhabi Trip, Indoor Adventures, Exciting Evening Activities 
• Top experiences: Evening desert safaris & bonfire nights, concerts, Eid al Adha celebrations 
• Ideal for: Couples, Families, Budget travelers 
• Important tips: Carry sun protection essentials during the day 
• Ideal tour duration: 3 to 4 days 
• Cultural etiquettes: Cover your shoulders and knees while entering the mosque. 
• Eid Al Adha special in Abu Dhabi: Fireworks at Yas Bay, cultural experience at Al Hosn, Eid special menus at Rosewood Abu Dhabi, etc. 

As the month progresses, the temperature in Abu Dhabi will rise, making late May hotter than at the start. If you are planning your trip to Abu Dhabi in May, then plan your trip smartly by considering the following exciting things to do: 

Top 13 Unique Things to do in Abu Dhabi in May 2026 

Thinking about what to include in the Abu Dhabi itinerary for May? Here we have some of the most unusual places to visit in Abu Dhabi in May, including concerts, exhibitions, festivals, and more. So, let’s take a sneak peek: 

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Top Abu Dhabi May Events 2026 

Did those rockstar bands or musical nights amuse you? If yes, here are some must-visit concerts in Abu Dhabi in May to help you plan your evenings with family or friends.  

Must read for adventure lovers: Things to do in SeaWorld Abu Dhabi 

1. Enjoy German Rock Band, Scorpions Concert 

Have you ever heard the iconic hits like “Wind of Change” and “Rock You Like a Hurricane”? If yes, then it’s time for you to enjoy its rocking vibes live at the Scorpions concert. Experience the energy and power of Scorpions’ live performance as they deliver an unmatched, electrifying show in March.  

Whether you are a long-time fan or have recently become obsessed with their music, the concert promises to be an epic rocking night. Grab your tickets early because the Scorpions concert is something for which most of the population in Abu Dhabi is mad about. 

Dates: Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd May 2026 

Timing: 20:00 hrs. to 23:00 hrs. 

Location: Etihad Arena 

Entry Fee: Starts from AED 474 

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2. Experience Live Theatre, CATS the Musical  

It’s time for Abu Dhabi residents to enjoy “CATS the Musical” in 2026. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s record-breaking musical “CATS” is finally arriving in Abu Dhabi. One of the world’s most loved stage productions for a local audience.  

It’s the most appealing moment for both first-time theatregoers and long-time fans. In May 2026, get ready for a standout live theatre experience in Abu Dhabi for anyone who enjoys timeless musical and world-class performances. 

Dates: 13th to 24th May 2026 

Timing: 20:00 hrs. to 23:30 hrs. 

Location: Etihad Arena 

Entry Fee: Starts from AED 90 

3. Khaleeji Jazz by Boom Diwan  

Do you like listening to Khaleeji music? How about experiencing the Khaleeji music with contemporary jazz?  

So, Khaleeji fans in Abu Dhabi, plan your melodic start of May with a sophisticated fusion genre by Boom Diwan. They gained popularity for performing original fusions that honor Gulf heritage while exploring jazz structures. Founded by Grammy-nominated musician and NYU Abu Dhabi professor Ghazi Faisal AL-Mulaifi, this collaborative ensemble brings authentic Khaleeji melodies to life.  

If you are a Khaleeji Music lover, then this concert in Abu Dhabi in May 2026 deserves to be on your bucket list. 

Dates: 1st May 2026 

Timing: 20:00 hrs. – 22:00 hrs. 

Location:Cultural Foundation, Abu Dhabi 

Entry Fee: TBA 

4. Get Ready for a Rocking Night with Hauser 

The start of May 2026 is going to be the most rocking and happening. Experience the internationally acclaimed live show of Hauser in Abu Dhabi. Stjepan Hauser is globally recognized for his genre-bending performances that blend elegance, drama, and rock-star energy in concerts.  

Emirati, get ready to listen to the global phenomenon, Hauser, with his iconic rendition of “Smooth Criminal” as a founding member of 2Cellos. Make your May 2026 in Abu Dhabi, the most electrifying with the world-class stage performance of Hauser. 

Dates: 2nd May 2026 

Timings: 19:00 – 21:00 

Location: Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi 

Entry Fee: Starts from AED 248 

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Exciting Outdoor Activities in Abu Dhabi in May 

Looking for some outdoor things to do in Abu Dhabi in May? Below are the most exciting outdoor adventures that you can’t miss in Abu Dhabi in May.  

Also read: Gujarati Restaurants in Abu Dhabi 

5. Dubai: Luxury Canal Dinner Cruise  

One of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi in May for couples is the luxury canal dinner cruise passing by the Dubai water canal. Start by getting escorted to a glass-encased dhow for a delicious international buffet and admire the popular landmarks like Dubai Festival City Mall and Burj Khalifa.  

The dinner cruise offers a chance to witness the Dubai skyline, like the Business Bay Bridge, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Water Canal Bridge, the Westin Hotel and the JW Marquis Hotel. Take your beloved partner to this mind-blowing cruise tour and enjoy the sumptuous feast of Arabic appetizers and more.  

Dates: Friday 1st May to Wednesday 6th May. 

Timing: 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM 

Location: Downtown Dubai 

Entry Fee: Starts from AED 202.01 per person 

6. Desert Safari with BBQ, Camel Ride & Sandboarding 

Abu Dhabi’s desert is one of the best outdoor places in Abu Dhabi May, where you can plan a wonderful evening with family, friends, or a beloved one. From sunset experience at the Bedouin camp to cultural activities and a delicious BBQ buffet dinner and stargazing. 

Take a walk up a dune in the picturesque desert or give yourself an exhilarating treat with a dune-bashing experience. Experience some unusual cultural adventures like henna painting, Shisha smoking, and camel rides. 

Dates: Friday 1st May to Wednesday 6th May 

Timing: 6 to 7 hours 

Location: Abu Dhabi Desert Safari 

Entry Fee: Starts from AED 298.17  

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7. Relive the Oliver Jeffers Story at The Way Back Home  

Experience a theatrical story for young imaginations is going to be held in Abu Dhabi to entertain the audience and treat their fans.  

Relive the moments beyond the stars with a story following a young boy who discovers a plane in his cupboard and sets off on an unexpected adventure to the moon.  

The live show is highly inspired by the world of How to Catch a star and lost and found? 

Dates: 6th to 9th May 2026 

Timing: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM  

Location: Cultural Foundation 

Entry Fee: Starts from AED 100 

8. International Exhibition for Security & National Resilience  

If you love TECH TALKS, then ISNR Abu Dhabi is a must-visit for you in May. The ISNR Abu Dhabi 2026 is a premier homeland security event organized at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. This exhibition connects government entities with the latest security solutions.  

It aims for counter-tourism, cybersecurity, and critical infrastructure protection attracting over 20,0000 attendees. 

Dates: 19th & 21st May, 2026 

Timing: 9:00 am to 6:00 PM 

Location: Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre 

Entry Fee: Starts from AED 237 

Top Events in Abu Dhabi in May 2026 

Mark your Abu Dhabi's May 2026 Event Calendar with the following recital series, that lets you reconnect with the traditional Arabic and Emirati music. 

9. Emirati Recital Series - Elham Al Marzooqi 

Do you have an interest in listening to an intimate recital series?  

If yes, then plan your evening with this amazing Emirati Recital Series by Elham Al Marzooqi, one of the best indoor activities in Abu Dhabi May. She is widely recognized as the UAE's first professional female cellist. She has performed at Carnegie Hall and with international artists. 

This is a wonderful traditional Arabic repertoire in a programme created in collaboration with Beit Al Oud, which lets you experience the heritage of Emirati music.  

Dates: 16th May, 2026 

Timing: 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM 

Location: New York University Abu Dhabi  

Entry Fee: Starts from AED 125 

10. Emirati Recital Series - Fatima Al Hashima & Ina Chareli 

Do you also enjoy music with pianists? Then listen to Emirati Mezzo-Soprano Fatima Al Hashimi and Pianist Ina Chareli in Abu Dhabi. 

The most talented duo will set the stage and vibes with classical and traditional Arabic music. It perfectly combines gentle melodies with expressive piano accompaniment. The event offers a top-class performance that is easy to follow and enjoyable for all. 

Plan a fun-filled musical evening with friends or family in Abu Dhabi and appreciate their talent. 

Dates: 12th May, 2026 

Timing: 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM 

Location: New York University Abu Dhabi 

Entry Fee: Free 

11. Emirati Recital Series - Saif Al Naqbi, Noura Al Mazrouei & Mubarak Al 

Are you in the mood to experience Arabic music? If yes, then plan your evening with this amazing event in Abu Dhabi in May – Emirati Recital Series.  

Enjoy the live performances of Oud Virtuosos Saif AL Naqbi, Noura Al Mazrouei, and Mubarak Al Dhaheri. All these top-class artists were shaped by their studies at Beit Al Oud, Abu Dhabi. 

For a relaxing evening in Abu Dhabi, you can head out with friends, family, or beloved soulmate to this event and experience the textures of oud and qanun. 

Dates: 15th May, 2026 

Timing: 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM 

Location: New York University Abu Dhabi 

Entry Fee: Starts from AED 100 

Abu Dhabi Festivals in May 2026 

Looking for some immersive family activities Abu Dhabi May? Then plan your holidays in Abu Dhabi around the following main festivals to experience their cultural side: 

12. Experience the Spiritual Walk of Arafah  

The unique experience of Arafah Hajj in Abu Dhabi allows you to relive the powerful moments of this occasion. It’s a guided spiritual journey where you symbolically walk, reflect, and connect with the essence of Arafah. It’s a moment known for deep prayers, forgiveness, and inner peace to the soul.  

Listen to the immersive storytelling sessions or spend moments of quiet reflection; this activity offers a meaningful glimpse into the Hajj. Expect a huge crowd of pilgrims to gather on the plains of Arafat near Mecca during Hajj, standing in prayer, reflection, and supplication. 

Dates: 25th May 

13. Step into the spirit of Eid Al Adha 

Celebrate the spirit of Sacrifice with an immersive experience of Eid Al Adha that beautifully captures its essence. Discover the significance behind this sacred festival through storytelling, moments of reflection, and traditions of sacrifice, gratitude, and giving. 

The main highlights of the festival are special prayers, festive fireworks at Yas Marina, and family-friendly events. Eid prayers are held across mosques in Abu Dhabi around 5:57 am.  

Dates: Tuesday, 26th May – Wednesday, 27th May 

Know more about Eid Al Adha in Abu Dhabi 

Tips for Visiting Abu Dhabi in May 

Make your holidays in Abu Dhabi go with these easy-to-follow tips for visiting Abu Dhabi in summer: 

• Be ready for the heat: May marks the start of intense summer, with temperatures crossing 35 to 40 degree celsius.  
• Stay safe from sun: Dont forget to carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat at all times. It can be quite harsh, especially during the day. 
• Grab the best deals on hotels: Choose stays with pools or easy access to indoor attractions in Abu Dhabi that too at the best affordable rates. 
• Enjoy indoor experiences: Discover more indoor activities in Abu Dhabi in May like malls, museums, and cultural spots during the day to avoid sun exposure. 
• Stay hydrated: Always carry a reusable water bottle to remain hydrated in the desert climate of Abu Dhabi. 
• Dress modestly but respectfully: Wear breathable fabrics that are allowed even at religious sites. 
• Plan evening outdoor activities: The evenings in Abu Dhabi in May are enjoyable with exciting experiences like desert safaris, beach walks, and waterfront dining. 

What to wear in Abu Dhabi in May? 

Thinking about what to wear in Abu Dhabi in May? Light, breezy, and modest clothing is highly recommended.  

For women: 

• Easy breezy maxi dresses, skirts or linen trousers 
• Oversized t-shirts or tops covering shoulders 
• A scarf or pashmina for mosque visits, where arms and legs should be covered. 
• A hat, sunglasses, swimwear (for beach day out), along with a cover-up. 

For men: 

• Cotton t-shirts or shirts 
• Linen trousers, jeans, or knee-length shorts 

Other essentials to pack: 

• Sun protection 
• Comfortable shoes, sandals, or sneakers 

Conclusion 

Indulging in these exciting things to do in Abu Dhabi in May perfectly blends luxury, culture, romantic escapes, festivals, and more. If it’s on your bucket list for holidays, then don’t miss out on these to uplift your travel experience in Abu Dhabi May Itinerary. 

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