< PreviousNew attractions 20 SUMMER 2025 TIMEOUTABUDHABI.COM CaptionCaaapppappaapppaaaapppppaaaappapapaaaaaapappppaaaappaapptiotiotiooootioootiotiotiotiotiotiotioooott nnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi Opening date: Open now If you thought art was something to be observed from a distance, think again. teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, the latest addition to the Saadiyat Cultural District, is here to shatter those notions. This isn’t your typical museum; it’s a 17,000-square-meter Velodrome Abu Dhabi playground where art, technology, and nature converge to create an ever-evolving, interactive experience. Open since April, this permanent exhibition is the brainchild of the Tokyo- based art collective teamLab, known for their immersive digital installations worldwide. But this is their most ambitious project yet, featuring over 700 high- brightness projectors that transform the space into a dynamic landscape reacting to your every move. From the moment you step inside, you’re not just a visitor – you’re a participant. The artworks here don’t exist independently; they come alive through your interaction. In New attractions TIMEOUTABUDHABI.COM SUMMER 2025 21 NeNeNeNNeeeNew w w ww ataaaa trrracacactititititititititititititititititititititittittitittitititiititittiiiiiiiiiiiiononononononooooooooooooooooooooooo sssss teamLab Velodrome Abu Dhabi Opening date: TBA This one is for all the cyclists out here. Abu Dhabi is set to make a significant mark on the global cycling map with the upcoming Velodrome Abu Dhabi on Hudayriyat Island. This state-of-the-art facility will feature the region’s first Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) Category 1 indoor cycling track, making it a hotspot for international championships and events. The Velodrome isn’t just about indoor racing; it boasts a unique architectural design that includes a rooftop track connected to the ground by a 600-meter cycling ramp. This feature offers cyclists panoramic 360-degree views of Hudayriyat Island and the Abu Dhabi skyline, blending athleticism with breathtaking scenery. Beyond professional competitions, the Velodrome aims to be a hub for community engagement, hosting events that cater to cyclists of all ages and skill levels. This initiative aligns with Abu Dhabi’s recognition as the first city in the region the Levitation Void, a glowing sphere hovers in a red chamber, responding to touch with subtle movements. One of the most physically engaging installations is Biocosmos, where you traverse a suspended mesh net surrounded by 360-degree projections of flowers, coral and flocks of birds. As you move, the environment responds, creating a sensation of being part of a living ecosystem. The museum is divided into two zones: the Wet Zone and the Dry Zone. In the Wet Zone, you’ll wade through shallow pools filled with glistening ovoids that emit light and sound upon touch, creating a symphony of interaction. The Dry Zone offers equally mesmerising experiences, like the Circulating Universe of Water Particles, where digital waterfalls cascade around you, altering their flow as you move. So, if you’re ready to immerse yourself in a world where art breathes, evolves and responds to you, teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi awaits. Just remember to bring your curiosity and maybe a towel. O Dhs150 for adults (18 and above), Dhs115 for teenagers (13-17) and Dhs50 for children (four-12). Open Sun-Fri 10am-7pm, Sat 10am- 8pm. Saadiyat Cultural District, Saadiyat Island, teamlababudhabi.com. teamLab Phenomena Abu DhabiNew attractions 22 SUMMER 2025 TIMEOUTABUDHABI.COM to be designated a “Bike City” by the UCI, highlighting the emirate’s commitment to promoting cycling as a sustainable and inclusive mode of transportation and recreation. Pretty cool. The Velodrome is a key component of the broader Hudayriyat Island masterplan, which encompasses a range of sports and leisure facilities. There’s Surf Abu Dhabi, the world’s largest artificial wave facility, and a planned sprawling urban park that will be the largest in the UAE, complete with elevated cycling paths, eco-tourism platforms and mangrove walks. With the addition of the Velodrome, Hudayriyat Island is poised to become a premier destination for sports enthusiasts and tourists alike. O Opening date TBA. Hudayriyat Island. Zayed National Museum Opening date: TBA If you haven’t spotted this one in the Abu Dhabi skyline – where have you been? The Zayed National Museum will be the centrepiece of Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Island Cultural District, honouring the legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the United Arab Emirates. Designed by the renowned architectural firm Foster + Partners, the museum’s structure features five soaring towers inspired by falcon wings, reflecting Sheikh Zayed’s passion for falconry and symbolising the nation’s cultural heritage. The museum’s design incorporates sustainable features, including solar thermal towers that function as chimneys to naturally cool the building, demonstrating a commitment to environmental consciousness. Inside, visitors will find six permanent galleries, a temporary exhibition space, and an outdoor gallery. They will all narrate the rich tapestry of the UAE’s history, culture and social and economic transformation from the beginning. Exhibits will showcase artefacts dating back as far as 300,000 years and evidence of early human life in the region. The museum aims to highlight the UAE’s role as a crossroads of the world, emphasising themes of education, conservation, sustainability, cultural heritage, humanitarianism and faith. The museum will also serve as a centre for learning and cultural exchange, with educational programs designed to deepen the understanding of Emirati culture and values. As a tribute to Sheikh Zayed’s vision and the UAE’s journey, the museum stands as a beacon of national pride and proof of the commitment to preserving and sharing its rich heritage with the world. O Opening date TBA. Saadiyat Cultural Disctrict, Saadiyat Island. Caption Zayed National MuseumNew attractions TIMEOUTABUDHABI.COM SUMMER 2025 23 New attrtracactitiononss Zayed National MuseumNew attractions 24 SUMMER 2025 TIMEOUTABUDHABI.COM Yas WaterworldNew attractions TIMEOUTABUDHABI.COM SUMMER 2025 25 Time Out Market Abu Dhbai New eats Novikov Get ready for a serious flavour fusion, because the internationally loved Novikov has officially landed. Originally launched in 1991 by Arkady Novikov, this sleek global brand is best known for its unique mashup of Asian and Italian dishes – think sushi one minute and handmade pasta the next. Dubai foodies will remember its stylish DIFC venue fondly, and now it’s Abu Dhabi’s turn to dine in style with a Mediterranean concept. O Open Sun-Thu 12pm-1am, Fri-Sat 12pm-2am. The Galleria Al Maryah Island, reservations@novikovabudhabi.ae (02 563 2937). Time Out Market Yep, it’s official: Time Out Market is coming to Abu Dhabi. Set to be a new destination for food and culture in the capital, expect all your faves under one roof, expertly curated by the Time Out team. Located on Saadiyat Island, it will span over 35,000 square feet and include 15 of Abu Dhabi’s best restaurateurs, 3 bars and a cultural and entertainment space. O Opening date TBA. Saadiyat Island. Yas Waterworld’s massive expansion Opening date: Open now Summer in Abu Dhabi is about to get seriously soaked. Yas Waterworld is turning up the thrills with a major new expansion, and we’ve got the lowdown on all the slides, rides and splashes heading your way. With 12 brand-new attractions dropping this season, it’s clear the capital’s favourite waterpark is making waves in all the right ways, just in time to cool us down. The buzz? A family-friendly, thrill-filled upgrade that dives deeper into the park’s legendary Legend of the Lost Pearl story. The new zone is styled like a forgotten city – think ancient ruins, mysterious treasure chambers, and secret passageways – with a whole line-up of attractions that promise non-stop adventure. One of the most exciting additions is Dawwama Junior – the first of its kind anywhere in the world. Inspired by the park’s iconic tornado ride, this pint-sized version lets little ones experience their first taste of whirlwind water fun in a perfectly kid-safe package. It’s just one of several rides created especially for younger adrenaline junkies. Also making a big splash: Al Sahel Junior, the region’s first mini zero-gravity boomerango. That’s right – kids can now get their kicks with gravity-defying drops and twists tailored just for them. Over at Rimal Racer, mini daredevils can race side-by- side down thrilling slides for the ultimate playground bragging rights. But it’s not just for the kiddos. Whole families can buckle up for Mataha Madness, a labyrinth-style maze of watery twists and disorienting turns. Want something a little more spin-tastic? Sadaf Swirl will have you whirling through high-speed excitement. And the big crowd-pleaser might just be Bahamut’s Rage – a log flume-style ride with drops that’ll have everyone screaming (in a good way). Need something for a mid-afternoon cooldown? Bandit’s Playground in Bandit’s Village is packed with splash zones, interactive water surprises, and laid-back family fun for all ages. Opened since July 1, the new attractions will bring even more excitement to a park already packed with award-winning rides. Whether you’re racing your mates, navigating watery mazes, or discovering lost treasures, Yas Waterworld’s newest additions are guaranteed to keep the fun flowing all season long. So grab your goggles, slap on some SPF, and get ready – the next chapter in Abu Dhabi’s ultimate waterpark adventure is about to begin. O From Dhs295. Open daily 10am-7pm. Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, yaswaterworld.com. Yas Waterworld26 SUMMER 2025 TIMEOUTABUDHABICOM Caption here We eat and we do judge We eat and we do judge BB Social Dining We eat and we do judge Best Restaurants 2025 TIMEOUTABUDHABI.COM SUMMER 2025 27 It’s official: we bring you the very best restaurants in Abu Dhabi W hether you’re craving silky sashimi, gooey cheese-pull pizza, a butter chicken feast, or an elegant afternoon tea with a view – Abu Dhabi’s dining scene has never been tastier. From sleek steakhouses and stylish seafood spots to budget-friendly bites and boisterous brunches, the Time Out Abu Dhabi team has tasted their way across the capital to bring you the very best of the best. We’re talking category winners and highly commended runners-up, handpicked for flavour, flair and overall fabulousness. This year, we’ve added exciting new categories (hello, Best Dessert Spot and Best Lebanese Restaurant) and revisited fan favourites like Best Asian, Best Breakfast and Best Bar Food. Each listing is the result of months of eating, sipping and obsessively note-taking – all in the name of good taste. So whether you’re planning a special night out, a chilled café catch-up, or just fancy trying something new, you’ll find the top restaurants in Abu Dhabi to book right now. Let’s dig in, shall we? Best Asian WINNER BB Social Dining When BB Social Dining made its way from Dubai to Abu Dhabi in 2023, we couldn’t get through the doors quickly enough to try its creative cuisine. Two years later and we’re still completely obsessed with its delicious dim sum (plus nigiri and maki rolls for that matter), while you also absolutely have to try its habibti bao too. More than just connoisseurs of great Asian food, the vibe is also achingly We eat and we do judge Best Restaurants 2025 28 SUMMER 2025 TIMEOUTABUDHABICOM Mamafri cool here, so much so that we’re not even sure that we fit in. Not that we’re going to let that stop us. O Licensed. Rosewood Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island, @bbabudhabi (02 236 2600). HIGHLY COMMENDED Mamafri A locals’ favourite and another Dubai-born eatery, Mamafri may be Emirati-owned, but it sure knows how to whip up some killer pan-Asian food. Focusing on Southeast Asia, plates here include crispy beef served over mashed potato, crispy chicken bao buns, mie goreng, Malaysian curry, Wagyu sandos and ramen that will blow you away. Its interiors are pretty special too, with dusty pink walls and plenty of complementary neutral tones in the furnishing, too. You’ll find it down at Sheikha Fatima Park. O Unlicensed. Sheikha Fatima Park, @lovemamafri (02 666 3312). Pho Mo This authentic and modern Vietnamese spot offers hands down some of the tastiest high-quality Vietnamese cuisine in the capital. Inspired by Vietnam’s national dish, Pho Mo makes a mean… well… pho with the perfect balance of rice noodles, a flavourful broth topped with fresh chillies and flavoursome herbs. Located at The Galleria on Al Maryah Island, Pho Mo stands out for its unique approach to Vietnamese cuisine, subtly blending traditional flavours with influences from Vietnam’s French colonial heritage, all while adding a modern twist. Founded by professionally trained architect Yuli Lee, Pho Mo marks her first venture into the F&B industry. Clearly, Lee knows exactly what she’s doing. O Unlicensed. The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, phomo. ae (02 673 3630). Best Chinese WINNER Hakkasan With its fancy location, chic outdoor terrace and decadent, moody nightclub atmosphere, Hakkasan is a trailblazer when it comes to a glamorous Chinese restaurant experience in the capital. Start with a couple of mixed drinks to get you in the mood before digging into elevated takes on classic staples like the mixed dim sum basket, the famed duck salad and black pepper beef. Don’t forget to order the signature Peking duck, too, with extra caviar if you’re feeling flush. O Licensed. Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, hakkasan.com (02 690 7739). HIGHLY COMMENDED Dai Pai Dong A restaurant designed to make its diners feel indulged, believe us when we tell you that a meal at Dai Pai Dong is a five-star culinary experience from start to finish. Housed in the luxe Rosewood Abu Dhabi hotel, plates here are inspired by Cantonese street food favourites with an upmarket twist, including the likes of roasted duck, beef lettuce wraps and double-boiled chicken wontons. We also love the fact that, where possible, chefs use local ingredients – a rarity in the city’s Chinese restaurants, yet a much-needed move. O Licensed. Rosewood Abu Dhabi, The Galleria Al Maryah Island, rosewoodhotels.com (02 813 5588). Shang Palace Don’t let the lazy Susans on the tables put you in a spin – for tasty Chinese food with a beautiful view of the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Shang Palace at the Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri should be your first port of call. The interiors feature décor you’d typically find in a Chinese restaurant, from hanging lanterns to plenty of reds. While not the cheapest option on the list, you more than get what you pay for with signature dim sum like the chicken and shrimp siew mai, the spicy Schezuan eggplant and the crispy tiger prawns, which are all insanely delicious. Trust us – you’ll be glad the lazy Susans give you easy access to all of it O Licensed. Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri Abu Dhabi, shangpalaceabudhabi.com (02 509 8555).Best Restaurants 2025 TIMEOUTABUDHABI.COM SUMMER 2025 29 HakkasanNext >