Abu Dhabi events in January 2026 are packed with headline concerts, heritage festivals, major sports, and family-friendly shows—making it one of the best months to explore the capital without the summer heat. The biggest highlights include Saadiyat Nights on Saadiyat Island (with globally known artists), a mega arena concert at Etihad Arena, and the culture-rich Al Hosn Festival in the heart of the city.
Some dates (especially religious or seasonal programming) can shift, but many January events already have official ticket pages and confirmed schedules, so you can plan confidently. This guide focuses on what’s worth booking early, what’s ideal for families, and what to watch if you’re planning a weekend trip from Dubai.
Biggest ticketed concerts and live shows in Abu Dhabi
Saadiyat Nights: the capital’s open-air concert season
If you want one premium night out in January, start with Saadiyat Nights. The official Saadiyat Island event listing confirms a January 2026 lineup that includes:
- Diana Ross & Seal — 9 January 2026 (Saadiyat Island)
- Ludovico Einaudi — 10 January 2026 (Saadiyat Island)
Tip that improves the experience: For Saadiyat outdoor shows, arrive early for parking + entry flow (especially on Fridays) and plan a post-show route back to the city.
Etihad Arena: the “big arena” moment of the month
The most talked-about arena booking is LINKIN PARK – From Zero World Tour, officially listed on Etihad Arena’s website as 20 January 2026.
- LINKIN PARK — 20 January 2026, Etihad Arena (Yas Island)
Heritage and culture festivals you should book early
Al Hosn Festival (confirmed dates)
Al Hosn Festival is a must for anyone who wants “real Abu Dhabi” beyond the malls—traditional crafts, performances, food, and community atmosphere. The Abu Dhabi Culture and Visit Abu Dhabi listings both confirm: 17 January to 1 February 2026.
Sheikh Zayed Festival (season running into January)
If you’re visiting Abu Dhabi with family, the Sheikh Zayed Festival is a strong pick. The festival “Plan Your Visit” page confirms the season runs from 1 Nov 2025 to 22 Mar 2026 in Al Wathba, with AED 10 entry.
Art exhibitions and cultural experiences
Louvre Abu Dhabi: winter is the best time to go
Even if you’re not “museum people,” January is ideal for Louvre Abu Dhabi because you can combine indoor galleries with outdoor waterfront views comfortably. (Check the museum’s official calendar for current exhibitions and ticket policies before you go.)
Sports events worth planning around
Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open (WTA 500) — confirmed dates
If you want a high-energy weekend with a “global event” feel, the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open 2026 is confirmed for 31 January to 7 February 2026 at the International Tennis Centre in Zayed Sports City.
Family-friendly events in late January
Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out! — official venue confirmation
A reliable option for kids (and parents who want a predictable, easy win): Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out! is confirmed by Etihad Arena for 30 Jan to 1 Feb 2026.
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Contact us via WhatsAppAbu Dhabi January 2026 events calendar (quick planner)
| Date | Event | Area/Venue | Ticket note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 Jan 2026 | Diana Ross & Seal (Saadiyat Nights) | Saadiyat Island | Official ticket listings live |
| 10 Jan 2026 | Ludovico Einaudi (Saadiyat Nights) | Saadiyat Island | Official ticket listings live |
| 17 Jan–1 Feb 2026 | Al Hosn Festival | Al Hosn / Qasr Al Hosn | Confirmed dates |
| 20 Jan 2026 | LINKIN PARK (From Zero Tour) | Etihad Arena, Yas Island | Official venue listing |
| 30 Jan–1 Feb 2026 | Peppa Pig live | Etihad Arena, Yas Island | Confirmed dates |
| 31 Jan–7 Feb 2026 | Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open | Zayed Sports City | Confirmed dates |
FAQs: Best events happening in Abu Dhabi in January 2026
The top picks are Saadiyat Nights concerts (including Diana Ross & Seal and Ludovico Einaudi), Al Hosn Festival, and LINKIN PARK at Etihad Arena. These combine “book-ahead” demand with peak winter weather and iconic venues.
Yes—Saadiyat Island’s official events page lists dates for January 2026 shows, and major ticketing platforms display matching event dates. Always double-check the ticket page close to the event for timing updates.
Al Hosn Festival is confirmed to run from 17 January to 1 February 2026, celebrating Emirati heritage through food, crafts, performances, and family programming at Al Hosn (Qasr Al Hosn area).
Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out! is a safe family pick, confirmed at Etihad Arena from 30 January to 1 February 2026, designed as a kid-friendly interactive live show.
Yes. Etihad Arena’s official event page lists LINKIN PARK in Abu Dhabi on 20 January 2026 as part of the From Zero World Tour.
The tournament is confirmed from 31 January to 7 February 2026 at Zayed Sports City’s International Tennis Centre, with listings on both ZSC and Visit Abu Dhabi.
For major ticketed shows (arena concerts and Saadiyat Nights), booking early is smart due to demand. For large festivals, you can often buy closer to the date, but weekends typically get busier—especially around late January.
Conclusion
January 2026 is one of the strongest months on the Abu Dhabi calendar because the city delivers premium entertainment + heritage + sport in the most comfortable weather window of the year. If you want the “big night out,” Saadiyat Nights and Etihad Arena lead the month with headline bookings. If you want something that feels uniquely local, Al Hosn Festival is the best cultural anchor—perfect for families, visitors, and anyone curious about Emirati traditions beyond the typical tourist checklist.
At OPlus Realty, we often see lifestyle planning (events, commute, community vibe, and weekend options) influence relocation choices just as much as rent and square footage—especially for families and working professionals choosing between Dubai and Abu Dhabi.