As temperatures soar and Abu Dhabi Summer Season kicks off, the capital’s three months of mega entertainment will help residents beat the summertime sadness
The curtains have opened on the capital’s mammoth summer festival following a week of spectacular performances of Cinderella by the Royal Moscow Ballet. Running until 31st August, Abu Dhabi Summer Season features world-class live entertainment, family activities and hot hotel deals to suit everyone.
Organised by the Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi), the jam-packed summer series seeks to show tourists and visitors alike that as temperatures soar, so does the excitement.
“Activities are spread across the emirate and I can promise everyone that there’s much more to Abu Dhabi this summer season with the programme boasting events ranging from international performances to local sporting challenges, mall activations and the best summer deals around for hotels and attractions,” explained Sultan Al Dhaheri, acting executive director of tourism, TCA Abu Dhabi.
“We are moving towards becoming a year-round destination with this programme designed to appeal to all nationalities and ages to extend our seasonal appeal. We want to persuade travellers that any time is a good time to have a great time in Abu Dhabi.”
Summer blockbusters
The festival’s headline of events features an impressive international line-up that caters to sports fans, theatregoers, music lovers and children.
World Cup
Abu Dhabi we have kick off. As part of the summer season, the capital has come alive with World Cup celebrations. Yas Island’s du Forum hosts the emirate’s biggest festivities, with a virtual graffiti wall and children’s activities just the beginning. As the quarterfinals approach, keep your eyes peeled for new activities to be hosted at the mammoth venue. For more information visit: www.celebratetheseason.ae
Freej Live: Abood’s Dream
The popular Emirati children’s show, Freej, comes to life as the cartoon creation hits the stage. Freej Live: Abood’s Dream follows the main character and hilarious hero as he embarks on an adventure in search of his grandmother’s pet. The full-length show runs from 31st July to 2nd August at the Emirates Palace Theatre followed by additional performances in the Western Region and Al Ain. For more information visit: www.thinkflash.ae
Shadowland
Billed as a blend of shadow act, dance and circus, the new performance by internationally acclaimed dance troupe, Pilobolus (above), promises to be a one-of-a-kind theatrical spectacular. From the writer of Spongebob Squarepants comes this surreal story of a young girl’s coming-of-age, told by dancers casting shadows of morphing silhouettes across screens. Shadowland will be starting from 8th August at ADNEC. For more information visit: www.alchemy-project.com
Arab Stars Showcase
For one night only, the best of Arab Idol, Arabs Got Talent and The Voice Middle East come together for a showcase in the capital. Saudi illusionist Ahmed Al Bayed joins Palestinian singer Mohamed Assaf, winner of Arab Idol season two, and speed painter Mohammad Al-Dairi for a spectacular night of entertainment. 14th August at Emirates Palace Theatre. For more information visit: www.thinkflash.ae
Bollywood Spectacle Sunidhi Chauhan
Dubbed the most sought after Indian playback singer, Bollywood sensation Sunidhi Chauhan makes her capital debut this summer. Celebrate Indian Independence Day with a performance packed with colour, dance and equally vibrant music on 15th August at Emirates Palace Theatre. For more information visit: www.thinkflash.ae
La Verità
When a rare scrim is discovered in a theatre, it makes its way into the hands of producer Daniele Finzi. The unique Salvador Dalí piece takes centre stage, providing a surreal backdrop for Finzi’s new creation, La Verità, a show that pays homage to the life and work of the famous artist through singing acrobats, blindfolded characters and impossible balancing acts. Starting from 21st August at ADNEC. For more information visit: www.alchemy-project.com
David Blaine: Real or Illusion?
He’s best known for his jaw dropping stunts from ‘Drowned Alive’ to ‘Above the Below’ and now the world-renowned illusionist and endurance artist, David Blaine (right), is making his regional debut in the capital. The record-breaking magician will be dazzling audiences with three performances of life-threatening feats and an unforgettable grand finale. From 21st to 23rd August at Emirates Palace Theatre. For more information visit: www.thinkflash.ae
United Nations of Comedy II
The second instalment from this comedic troupe promises two days of rib-tickling, side-splitting stand up. This year’s line-up features some of the world’s top comedians including Aron Kader, Khaled Khalafalla and Sammy Obeid. Shows take place at Emirates Palace on 28th and 29th August. For more information visit: www.thinkflash.ae
Hot deals to keep cool
Aside from the season’s string of live entertainment, the emirate comes alive with a plethora of activities. To see the full list of events and offers visit: www.abudhabisummerseason.ae
Summer zoo nights
Al Ain Zoo comes alive this summer with a range of night activities. Grab a pair of night goggles at the park and watch the nocturnal creatures emerge. Visitors can snap up the chance to watch the crocodile feeding frenzy every Thursday at 5pm. The zoo is open daily from 4pm to 10pm. For more information visit: www.alainzoo.ae
What’s cooking?
There are plenty of activities at Danat Jebel Dhanna Resort for your tiny tots this summer. If your little one is a mini-Michel Roux, he’ll love these baking sessions where he can make pizza, muffins, cupcakes and cookies. Children between seven and 12 years. 27th June and 8th and 29th August. Meanwhile, the kid’s play area features Wii games, face painting and art activities while the garden plays host to balloon bashing, sack races and kite flying. For more information call: 02 801 2241
Stay for less
Looking for a getaway without having to go away? As part of the summer season, residents can take advantage of over 55 hotel offers including discounts at Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Holiday Inn Abu Dhabi, One to One – Ain Al Faida and each of the three Anantara properties on Sir Bani Yas Island. Enjoy special room rates and discounts on dining and spa treatments.
Take a swing at it
Summer is in full swing at the capital’s golf clubs with some hot offers going around. Nestled in the heart of the capital, Abu Dhabi City Golf Club offers a Summer Sizzlers package of bulk-buy golf rounds starting at AED 1599 for 15 rounds. For more information visit: www.adcitygolf.com.
Meanwhile, Yas Island’s iconic links course welcomed the return of its Yas Links Summer Passport. Take advantage of the golf academy summer membership rates, or enjoy a round of night golf on the par 3 course. For more information visit: www.yaslinks.com
Sports in the Garden City
Residents in Al Ain can stay active at the expansive sports resort, Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Golf Club. The club offers 15 per cent discount on equestrian, shooting, golf and rugby membership as well as dining across the club’s restaurants until the end of August. Also enjoy promotional offers on golf lesson packages or take part in the open Ramadan shooting competition starting on the 2nd day of Ramadan. For more information visit: www.aesgc.ae
Ladies of leisure
As part of the season, a range of activities and promotions are on offer exclusively for the emirate’s ladies. At Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi enjoy a 25 per cent discount on pool and gym access and monthly membership. Grab your girlfriends and head to the luxurious ESPA at The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal for a full day of pampering. The ‘ladies who spa’ promotion starts at AED 4,520 ++ for four guests including a massage and facial, hair stylist services and dinner in Li Jiang.
For a full list of Abu Dhabi Summer Season promotions, events and activities visit: www.abudhabisummerseason.ae
Rachael Peacock
