Abu Dhabi Events: Winter Wonderland on Yas Island
It may be sunny all year round in Abu Dhabi, but come December, winter dreams are realized. Yes, folks, it’s that time of year again for festive winter events. And Yas Island is the dreamy destination for all your gleeful celebrations because this spectacular island will host some of the most spectacular events in Abu Dhabi.
Beyond the magical lineup of events, spending winter in Yas Island means easy access to every concert, theater show, festive family activity, and other special events. With Stay and Play in Yas Island, you’ll also enjoy what the island offers and stick to your budget.
Even better, special packages featuring winter events may be available soon. Keep checking our website for updates.
In the meantime, make your plans. List your favorites. Book your tickets (because tickets go fast). These are just some of the winter events and celebrations to check out.
Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at Yas Marina Circuit
December 5 - 8, 2024
The F1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2024 is one of the most awaited events of the year. Tickets are snapped up quickly, filling up a 60,000-seater stadium. The biggest sporting event sees the fastest drivers in the world battle it out at super speeds on the track. It’s a high-octane, must-see winter event in Yas Island.
With your ticket to the F1 weekend, you get access to any one theme park in Yas Island.
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix features more than a thrilling race. This hotly anticipated sporting event also has a lineup of musical performances you won’t want to miss.
Expect the following acts for the Yasalam After-Race Concerts.
- Teddy Swims and Peggy Gou, December 5 at Etihad Park
- Maroon 5, December 6 at Etihad Park
- Afterlife, December 6 at Yas Gateway Park
- Eminem, December 7 at Etihad Park
- Muse, December 8 at Etihad Park
You can upgrade your F1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2024 tickets to gain exclusive access to any after-race concerts.
Yas Winter Fest at Gateway Park North
December 13 - 22, 2024
Dubbed Abu Dhabi’s biggest winter celebration, the Yas Winter Fest promises to deliver seasonal cheer in numerous ways.
There will be carnival rides for the young and young at heart, the usual snowball fights with not-so-usual artificial snow, classic holiday movies playing in an outdoor cinema, magicians, singing and dancing in non-stop festive shows, and one-stop holiday shopping in a charming artisan market.
Completing the dreamy winter atmosphere in Yas Gateway Park North is the tree lighting ceremony. Gaze upon the towering holiday tree as it sparkles in hundreds of little lights. But don’t linger too long because there's lots more to see in this annual winter event, from Santa Land to Kid’s Zone.
Elf The Musical at Etihad Arena
December 14 - 15, 2024
Enjoy a festive production of the popular holiday movie with the entire family. Whether you’re a fan of Buddy The Elf or just discovering this heartwarming, hilarious story, “Elf The Musical” in Abu Dhabi is sure to fill you with joy and Christmas spirit.
World Tennis League at Etihad Arena
December 19 - 22, 2024
You’ve been waiting for it, and now it’s here: Season 3 of the World Tennis League. Watch 16 of the world's top tennis players across 4 teams battle it out on the court. For exclusive access to the post-match concerts and Club Lounge, we recommend booking the Hospitality Package.
Alternatively, you can get separate tickets for the following concerts:
- Bryan Adams on December 19, 2024
- Anastacia on December 20, 2024
- Akon and Sean Paul on December 21, 2024
Winterfest at Ferrari World™ Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
December 7, 2024 - January 5, 2025
Winter season and Ferrari World™ Yas Island, Abu Dhabi? It’s the best of both worlds when you adore the finest pieces of automotive machinery ever made. This time around, however, your visit to Ferrari World™ will have an even more captivating appeal with Winterfest.
What can you expect from your winter wonderland in Ferrari World™?
- Ice skating live show with Bella, Jack, and Gioto at the Red Theatre
- Daily giveaway at La Piazza
- Heartwarming winter tale with Jack and Bella at La Piazza
- Magical winter fun and cozy activities in Little Pioneers Village at La Piazza
- Tree lighting ceremony with Bella, Jack, and Gioto at La Piazza
Winter Spectacular at Warner Bros. World™ Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
December 7, 2024 - January 5, 2025
Enchanting rides, over 60 lovable and familiar characters, and unforgettable family-friendly experiences. What’s not to love about Winter Spectacular At Warner Bros. World™ Yas Island, Abu Dhabi?
This winter, the park has a special treat in store for you: Merry Mayhem, a brand new show headlined by Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck. Watch the duo make a hilarious mess of their event before party planners Jingle and Jangle step in to rescue them!
Jimmy Carr at Etihad Arena
January 11, 2025
Start the year with a laugh by booking a ticket to see funnyman Jimmy Carr. The award-winning comedian, writer, and presenter is known for his dark humor, dry wit, heckler comebacks, and one-line jokes. The Yas Island show is part of Jimmy Carr’s “Laughs Funny” tour.With decorations made with sustainable materials, celebrating marine themes, you will be delighted from the moment you set foot inside the park.
Enjoy a meet and greet with Mr. Wonder and his wonderful crew, tuck into seasonal delights like special hot chocolate, walk around the arctic-inspired Juhani Village festooned with snow and festive decorations.
Jung Jaeil + 21st Century Orchestra at Etihad Arena
January 16, 2025
Watch the 21st Century Orchestra as they perform some of the most powerful scores of Jung Jaeil. The notable composer will conduct the orchestra as it performs some of his musical scores from “Squid Game,” “Parasite,” and “Okja.”
Movies in Concert at Etihad Arena
The Etihad Arena will feature several of the biggest Hollywood movies set to live orchestra in January.
Star Wars: The Force Awakens
January 16, 2025
This critically acclaimed and popular score by the legendary John Williams is a must-watch for fans of the series and lovers of great music. It is performed by the acclaimed 21st Century Orchestra.
Jurassic Park
January 17, 2025
Accompanied by a live performance of John Williams’ iconic score by the 21st Century Orchestra, “Jurassic Park” will be a completely unforgettable cinematic experience.
Frozen
January 17, 2025
With a live performance of Christophe Beck’s GRAMMY®-nominated score, you’ll almost feel like the enchanting Elsa and Anna are right there with you in “Frozen.”
Top Gun: Maverick
January 18, 2025
With its heart-stopping, adrenaline-pumping action, “Top Gun: Maverick” is a must-see movie on the big screen and now, with a live performance of its memorable score.
The Lion King
January 18, 2025
Relive the heartwarming story of Walt Disney Animation Studio’s most iconic feature, “The Lion King” as it comes to life with Hans Zimmer’s Oscar®-winning score, performed live.
Sting 3.0 at Etihad Arena
April 3, 2025
For one night only, multi-Grammy-winning artist Sting plays the Etihad Arena with guitarist Dominic Miller (Sting’s long-time collaborator) and drummer Chris Maas (who had served as tour drummer for Mumford & Sons). Expect a mix of Sting’s classics with rare singles.
Les Miserables: The Arena Spectacular at Etihad Arena
April 10-20, 2025
“Les Misérables: The Arena Spectacular” is on its world tour, and it is headed for Yas Island, featuring an extraordinary new design created for larger venues with a cast and orchestra of over 65.
With a core cast of celebrated Les Mis guest stars, Les Misérables in Abu Dhabi will present performances of the musical’s iconic songs, such as “I Dreamed a Dream”, “On My Own”, and “One Day More.”
SeaWonder at Seaworld® Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Experience the magic of winter at Seaworld® Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. From the 40-minute immersive winter experience to a magical storytime with Puck, Shivers, and the new character Mr. Wonder, SeaWonder promises to bring you the coolest winter events in Yas Island.
Spend Winter on Yas Island
Your winter will be thrilling, magical, and unforgettable when you spend it on Yas Island with loved ones.
Make your plans and book your tickets to these spectacular winter events.
Explore more Yas Island offers today.