Abu Dhabi is set for a busy November, with a packed calendar of events spanning international art exhibitions, major music performances, sporting competitions, family entertainment and cultural festivals.

Highlights include the debut of Frieze Abu Dhabi, the return of the Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial, Hans Zimmer’s highly anticipated concert at Etihad Arena, and performances by Turkish pop star Tarkan and Egyptian singer Angham.

The programme also features the Traditional Handicrafts Festival, Maritime Heritage Festival, Al Ain Book Festival and Taste of Abu Dhabi, offering residents and visitors a variety of experiences across the emirate.

From international art and design to Emirati heritage and live entertainment, here are some of the key events taking place in Abu Dhabi this November.

Art, Culture and Heritage

The Traditional Handicrafts Festival, running until 11 November, offers visitors an opportunity to explore Emirati craftsmanship through live demonstrations, traditional artisan displays and a cultural marketplace. The festival aims to preserve and promote traditional skills while encouraging younger generations to engage with the UAE’s cultural heritage.

The Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial, running from 23 October 2026 to 15 February 2027, returns with new artistic commissions across public spaces in the emirate. The programme opens in Al Ain Region before expanding to Abu Dhabi from 15 November, bringing contemporary artworks into everyday public environments.

Book enthusiasts can head to the Al Ain Book Festival, taking place from 17 to 23 November across several locations in the city. The festival will feature new book releases, author appearances, cultural discussions, poetry evenings, cooking demonstrations and musical performances celebrating local talent.

From 18 to 22 November, NOMAD Abu Dhabi will take place at Terminal 1 of the Old Abu Dhabi Airport. The international art and design fair will bring together galleries, collectors, curators and cultural figures, showcasing collectible design and contemporary creative works from around the world.

Another major addition to the capital’s cultural calendar is the inaugural Frieze Abu Dhabi, scheduled for 19 to 22 November at Manarat Al Saadiyat. Building on the legacy of Abu Dhabi Art, the international fair will connect the emirate with Frieze’s global network of galleries, artists and collectors, marking a new chapter in Abu Dhabi’s development as an international arts destination.

The Maritime Heritage Festival, returning to the Corniche from 20 to 29 November for its fifth edition, will celebrate the emirate’s coastal traditions and maritime history. The 10-day programme will include traditional performances, artisan demonstrations, storytelling and coastal cuisine, highlighting the heritage of fishing, pearl diving and seafaring.

Music, Entertainment and Major Events

The entertainment programme begins with comedian Mo Amer, who will perform at Etihad Arena on 6 November. The creator of Netflix’s hit series 'Mo' will present his latest stand-up material, combining personal storytelling, humour and observations.

On 13 November, internationally acclaimed composer Hans Zimmer will bring his 'THE NEXT LEVEL' tour to Etihad Arena as part of the 23rd edition of Abu Dhabi Festival. Accompanied by a 19-piece band, Zimmer will perform music from major film scores, including 'The Lion King', 'Gladiator', 'Interstellar' and 'Dune: Part One'.

Food lovers can also enjoy Taste of Abu Dhabi, taking place from 13 to 15 November at Yas Gateway Park North. The three-day festival will bring together popular restaurants, food and beverage experiences, live cooking demonstrations and musical entertainment. Family activities will also be available for younger visitors.

Sporting action takes centre stage on 14 November when Real American Freestyle Wrestling (RAF) makes its Abu Dhabi debut at Etihad Arena. The event will feature UAE-based combat sports star Khamzat Chimaev against Colby Covington, alongside appearances by Arman Tsarukyan and Henry Cejudo. The competition will also bring together Olympic and world champions, NCAA stars and leading wrestling and mixed martial arts athletes.

Dance enthusiasts can attend a performance by American Ballet Theatre at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental on 21 November. The programme will combine classical and contemporary works, featuring Frederick Ashton's 'Birthday Offering', Jiří Kylián's 'Nuages' and Natalia Makarova's staging of 'Paquita'.

Turkish music star Tarkan will perform at Etihad Arena on 27 November. Known for his chart-topping hits, energetic stage presence and powerful vocals, the singer is expected to deliver a programme combining familiar favourites with more recent releases, supported by visual effects and choreography.

Family Festivals and Arabic Music

The MOTN Festival will return to Al Mugheirah Bay in Al Dhafra Region and Al Jahili Park in Al Ain Region from 27 November to 2 December, marking its 10th anniversary. Under the theme 'World of Wonder', the festival will feature rides, interactive attractions, live music, food and family entertainment. The event will subsequently continue at Abu Dhabi Corniche from 9 December 2026 to 3 January 2027.

On 29 November, Egyptian singer Angham, known as 'The Voice of Egypt', will perform at Space42 Arena. The concert will feature some of her best-known songs, including 'Yaretak Fahemni', 'Sidi Wesalak' and 'Omry Maak', offering audiences an evening of Arabic music.

The month concludes with an opera gala at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental on 29 November, featuring the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra. The performance will commemorate the 125th anniversary of Giuseppe Verdi’s passing, with conductor David Crescenzi leading the orchestra alongside soprano Maria Agresta and tenor Giorgio Berrugi. The programme will feature overtures, arias and duets from 'Nabucco', 'I vespri siciliani', 'Otello' and 'La traviata'.

With international cultural showcases, headline concerts, sporting events and family attractions, Abu Dhabi’s November calendar offers a diverse programme for residents and visitors, further highlighting the capital’s growing position as a regional destination for arts, culture and entertainment. -TradeArabia News Service