Rave’s Top Weekend Picks in Abu Dhabi: October 17–19, 2025

Abu Dhabi weekends are all about flavour, fun, and unforgettable experiences, and this round-up has it all. From decadent lobster feasts and beachside evenings to playful brunches and live jazz, every event promises a perfect mix of atmosphere, indulgence, and city energy. Consider it a curated guide to making the most of the weekend.

Go Large on Friday with Lobster Night at Li Jiang

Turn your Friday into a flavour-packed affair at Li Jiang, where moody lighting and the buzz of the open kitchen set the scene. Dive into Lobster Night, a four-course indulgence featuring premium Canadian lobster in everything from delicate steamed dumplings to wok-fried creations bursting with buttery richness.

Where: Li Jiang, The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal

When: Friday, 17 October, 5 PM – 11 PM

Price: AED 308 (four-course set menu)

Reservations: +971 2 818 8203 | abudhabi.restaurants@ritzcarlton.com

Ladies’ Night at Fahid Beach Club by Barbossa

Fridays are for the girls at Fahid Beach Club by Barbossa. Gather your friends and enjoy beachside beats, complimentary beverages, and the ultimate sunset-to-moonlight vibe from 8 PM till midnight.

Where: Fahid Beach Club by Barbossa, Abu Dhabi

When: Friday, 17 October, 8 PM – midnight

Reservations: +971 56 358 4458 | bcreservations@barbossa.ae

Live Jazz & R&B at Sorso

Ease into Saturday with the soulful sounds of Tracey and her band performing live jazz and R&B at Sorso. Set within the elegant ambience of The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, it’s the perfect way to add rhythm and style to your weekend.

Where: Sorso, The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal

When: Saturday, 18 October, 9 PM – 11:45 PM

Reservations: +971 2 818 8203 | abudhabi.restaurants@ritzcarlton.com | sorsoabudhabi.com

Beetlejuice Brunch at Barbossa

Brunch gets a wicked twist this Saturday as Barbossa comes alive with the Beetlejuice Brunch, celebrating the arrival of the hit musical in Abu Dhabi. Expect themed décor, live entertainment, bold flavours, and a few mischievous surprises. Guests who dress the part stand a chance to win musical tickets, while ticket holders enjoy 15% off food and drinks post-brunch.

Where: Barbossa, Yas Bay, Abu Dhabi

When: Saturday, 18 October, 1 PM – 5 PM

Price: Starts from AED 249

Reservations: +971 50 185 8068 | reservations@barbossa.ae

Oktoberfest at Hawksbill Restaurant, Saadiyat

Raise your steins and say Prost! to the weekend at Hawksbill Restaurant’s scenic Dolphin Lawn. Celebrate Oktoberfest with Bavarian beats, authentic German bites under the island sun. A live solo performance will close out the festivities in true Saadiyat style.

Where: Hawksbill Restaurant, Dolphin Lawn, Saadiyat Beach Golf Club

When: Saturday, 18 October, 11 AM – 11 PM

Price: AED 80 combo

Reservations: +971 56 660 8780 | dining.sbgc@viyagolf.com

Pool, Pancakes & Playtime at Yas Acres Golf & Country Club

Make your Sunday mornings special with a relaxed poolside breakfast at Yas Acres Golf & Country Club. Let the kids splash and play while you savour a delicious à la carte breakfast spread from buttery croissants and hearty wraps to indulgent crêpes.

Where: Yas Acres Golf & Country Club, Yas Island

When: Sunday, 19 October, 9 AM – 11 AM

Price: AED 100 per adult (AED 75 redeemable in F&B) | AED 30 per child (6–12 years, fully redeemable) | Free for kids under 6

Reservations: +971 50 757 4808 | dining.yagcc@viyagolf.com

Play & Munch at Goldfish Sushi & Yakitori Abu Dhabi

Perfect for little foodies, Goldfish Sushi & Yakitori’s interactive Kids’ Menu brings together fun, flavour, and creativity. Expect mini maki rolls, salmon nigiri, crispy fish popcorn, and foldable activity sheets to keep the little ones entertained.

Where: Goldfish Sushi & Yakitori, Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi

When: Throughout the weekend, 10 AM – 11 PM

Price: À la carte

Reservations: Walk-ins welcome

Weekend Cantonese Treasure at Hakkasan Abu Dhabi

The Michelin-starred Hakkasan Abu Dhabi at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental ushers in the new dining season with the return of its terrace and an elevated Cantonese Treasure dim sum experience, now available on both Saturdays and Sundays. Inspired by the centuries-old Cantonese tradition of yum cha, the curated menu includes handcrafted bites such as Har Gau, Wagyu Beef Dumpling, Chicken Taro Croquette, and XO Tiger Prawn Cheung Fun — perfect for a refined afternoon indulgence overlooking the palace gardens.

Where: Hakkasan Abu Dhabi, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental

When: Every Saturday and Sunday from 18 October 2025, 12 PM – 3:30 PM

Price: AED 128 (three baskets) | AED 188 (five baskets)

Reservations: +971 2 690 7739 | MOAUH-Hakkasan@mohg.com

Lead image by Saeed Alsoomehi