December in the UAE is a time for celebration, starting with Eid Al Etihad and continuing through Christmas all the way to New Year’s Eve. Get into the festive spirit with Hudayriyat Island’s packed calendar of seasonal activities, where something new awaits every day – from winter children’s camp and Santa-spotting to Christmas brunches and NYE gala dinners.
ACTIVITIES ON HUDAYRIYAT ISLAND
Surf Discovery Session
Catch your first wave at Surf Abu Dhabi! The world’s largest artificial wave facility has taken all the typical first-time hassles out of the equation for a one-of-a-kind learning experience with consistent, predictable waves and expert guides, who make the process feel natural. Arrive an hour before your session to get fitted with the right surfboard and gear and receive a quick briefing on the basics of standing up on a board. Price includes a surfboard, surf accessories, sunscreen and a great time. A rash vest, wet suit or a life vest can also be provided if needed – all you need to bring is swimwear. After your session, relax by the poolside and enjoy a well-deserved post-surf meal.
Location: Surf Abu Dhabi
Dates: Every day except when events take place
Time: 45-min slots available, with the first starting at 8am and the last at 7:15pm
Ages: 8+ years
Prices: AED 350 per session
Booking: https://www.surfabudhabi.com/surf/experiences/discovery
54th Eid Al Etihad
Bring your family down to Marsana’s Eid Al Etihad Festival to celebrate the spirit of the nation together. Mark the 54th anniversary of the UAE’s formation with a truly special cultural experience by the seashore, featuring an exciting line-up of traditional entertainment, roaming performers and children’s activities.
Location: Green Lawn, Marsana
Date: Tuesday, 2 December
Time: 3pm to 8pm
Entry: Free
BMX Winter Workshop
Does your child dream of becoming a wiz on two wheels? Sign them up for Circuit X’s BMX workshop for kids and teens this winter. Led by professional instructors, young riders will learn tricks, safety skills and track techniques in a safe, high-energy environment.
Location: Circuit X BMX Park
Dates: Every Thursday
Timings: 4pm to 6pm
Price: AED 85 (includes bike rental if needed)
Registration link: www.circuitxuae.com/bmxworkshop
Ilios Surf Break
An all-in-one Friday experience designed for thrill seekers and chill lovers. The Ilios Surf Break combines Discovery surf lessons, all day poolside access, and a curated F&B package in a lively social atmosphere with live entertainment.
Location: Surf Abu Dhabi and Ilios Beach Club
Date: Every Friday
Time: Ilios & pool access from noon to 6pm
Wave sessions (45 min each) Start at 11:45 AM to 2pm
Waves: Beach Break – Discovery Surf Session
Age: 8+ years
Price: Surfing + drinks & bites – AED 550 & 10% service charge
Booking: https://www.sevenrooms.com/experiences/Ilios/ilios-surf-break-6573049589219328
Treasure Hunters: Holiday Edition
Join a fun-filled family competition as Splash Park’s Splash Island takes the gold rush to the next level this December. Kids can pan for gemstones, with surprise ‘lucky stones’ offering bonus prizes, and compete in themed mini games, like the Fastest Treasure Hunter Race, Junior Geologist Quiz and Creative Story Challenge.
Location: Splash Island, Circuit X Splash Park
Dates: Every Friday
Timings: 4pm to 6pm
Price: AED 50 (in addition to park ticket)
Registration link: www.circuitxuae.com/treasurehunt
Grow & Glow: A Family Gardening Experience
Bond with your kids while learning about food, nature and sustainability in this eco-friendly, family-focused workshop. Discover the basics of sustainable gardening by planting edible seeds, creating compost jars and crafting and decorating DIY pots and planters from upcycled materials.
Location: Mini-Kids, Circuit X Ropes Park
Dates: Every Saturday
Timings: 10am to 11am
Ages: 4-8 years
Price: AED 75 per child (parents join for free)
Registration link: https://www.circuitxuae.com/littlesprouts
Surf Social
Surf Abu Dhabi presents the UAE’s first community surfing experience. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pro, join fellow surfing enthusiasts to ride fun party waves, then relax at Nalu with bites and drinks. Whether you’re there for the waves or just the vibes, you’re in good company.
Location: Surf Abu Dhabi and Nalu Restaurant & Lounge
Date: Every Saturday
Time: Nalu & pool access from noon
Wave sessions (45 min each) from 3pm to 5pm
Waves: 5 x Beach Break
5 x Main Wave
Prices: Soft drinks & bites – AED 150
House drinks & bites – AED 250
Surfing + soft drinks & bites – AED 650
Surfing + house drinks & bites – AED 750
Booking: https://www.surfabudhabi.com/surf/experiences/surf-social
Hudayriyat Women’s Cycling Series | Race 4
Abu Dhabi’s favourite women’s cycling series concludes with a grand finale under the theme ‘Celebration of Success’, where points will be doubled and spots on the podium will be determined. Compete in the 72 km official race for your last stab at a share of the total cash prize pool of over AED 50,000 that’s up for grabs for riders who compete in at least 3 of the 4 races. Amateur cyclists can join the 37 km or 12 km community ride, a fun, inclusive, non-competitive social ride. Don’t have a bike? Don’t worry – you can rent one onsite from Wolfi’s Bike Rental.
Location: Hudayriyat Cycling Track
Date: Sunday, 7 December
Time: 6am to 10:30am
Race categories: Juniors – 14-17 years
Open – 18-39 years
Masters – 40-49 years
Veterans – 50+ years
Other categories: Community Long Ride (37 km) – 13+ years
Community Short Ride (12 km) – 6+ years
Registration fees: Single Race – AED 105
Community Ride – AED 65
Registration link: https://my.raceresult.com/353576/registration
World Explorers Winter Camp
Abu Dhabi’s most exciting outdoor winter day camp returns! This December, Circuit X introduces World Explorers, an adventure-packed experience inspired by iconic voyagers like Marco Polo and Ibn Battuta. Children will dive into a world of discovery through orienteering, map challenges, wind experiments, kayaking, climbing, shelter building, planting and Circuit X park activities, including skating, BMX riding, ziplining and obstacle course.
Designed to spark curiosity, build confidence and instill a spirit of discovery, the camp brings history and exploration to life in a fun, hands-on way. Kids earn stamps in their Explorer Passport as they travel across continents right here in Abu Dhabi.
Location: Circuit X
Dates: 8 December to 2 January (Monday to Friday)
Timings: Full day – 8:30am to 2pm
Extended day – 8:30am to 4pm
Ages: 5-15 years (4 if with older sibling)
Prices: Daily Camp Pass – AED 210
Extended Day Pass – AED 260
Weekly Camp Pass – AED 849
Extended Week Pass – AED 995
Weekly Siblings Pass – AED 699 per child
Registration: https://circuitxuae.com/events/wintercamp2025
or Whatsapp https://wa.me/971566162779
Festival of Health
Learn more about movement, nutrition, sleep and mental wellbeing at the Festival of Health, the emirate’s flagship public wellness event. The interactive and family-friendly gathering inspires healthier living through live demos, workshops and a curated marketplace of wellbeing brands.
Location: Between Bab Al Nojoum and the Hudayriyat Heritage Trail
Dates: 12-16 December (Friday to Tuesday)
Timings: 4pm to 10pm
Entry: Free
Registration link: www.circuitxuae.com/bmxworkshop
Santa’s Secret Visit at Circuit X
For a magical experience for the whole family, don’t miss Santa’s daily visits to Circuit X. Spot the jolly man in red and his little helpers at Splash Park, Skate Park, BMX Park or Ropes Park and receive a gift. Enjoy festive activities, including cookie decorating, mini games and photo opportunities.
Location: Circuit X
Dates: 15 to 23 December
Timings: 4pm to 6pm
Price: Free with park tickets
Booking: https://circuitxuae.com/get-tickets
New Year’s Eve Celebration
Spend an unforgettable New Year’s Eve with the whole family at Marsana Beach, one of the capital’s most vibrant hotspots. Mark the beginning of a wonderful new year with a live DJ, international dancers, fire dance,breathtaking fireworks and Marsanas night beach.
Location: Marsana East Beach
Date: Wednesday, 31 December
Time: 8pm to 1am
Price: AED 300 with a sun lounger and AED 50 F&B cashback (gold wristband)
AED 225 with a beanbag and AED 50 F&B cashback (silver wristband)
AED 150 with casual seating and AED 50 F&B cashback (bronze wristband)
Hudayriyat Corporate Games
The Hudayriyat Corporate Games, Abu Dhabi’s largest corporate sporting event of the year, is returning for its highly anticipated second edition, presented by Binance, Wasserman Live and IBM. The three-day festival of fitness, teamwork and camaraderie will bring together top talent from companies across the emirate for the ultimate multi-sport showdown, creating connections that go beyond the office.
Location: Hudayriyat Island and 321 Sports
Dates and Times: Friday, 16 January – 6pm to 10pm
Saturday, 17 January – 8am to 10pm
Sunday, 18 January – 7am to 2pm
Registration link: https://hudayriyatcorporategames.com/
Registration deadline: 31 December 2025
DINING AND NIGHTS OUT ON HUDAYRIYAT ISLAND
Eid Al Etihad Cheesecake
This Eid Al Etihad, the pastry chefs at Nalu created an exclusive saffron cheesecake with a commemorative UAE-themed chocolate decoration. In addition, all à la carte desserts will be served with the same UAE chocolate accent for the occasion.
Location: Nalu Restaurant & Lounge, Surf Abu Dhabi
Date: 29 November to 3 December (Saturday to Wednesday)
Layali Ilios: Eid Al Etihad Edition
Celebrate the long weekend with a Sunday night experience that blends Arabian charm with Ilios’ signature Mediterranean spirit, with a seamless mix of Afro and Arabic house music creating the perfect ambience.
Location: Ilios Beach Club, Surf Abu Dhabi
Dates: Sunday, 30 November
Time: 5pm onwards
Price: For ladies – complimentary entry and one drink
For gents – AED 150 including two drinks
Booking: WhatsApp https://wa.link/tfwhxf
Email reservations@iliosbeachclubuae.com
Phone 02 419 8508
Ilios Business Lunch
Enjoy a refreshing midday break with a three-course weekday business lunch by the waves at Ilios, featuring Mediterranean flavours with a Japanese twist, complemented by water and coffee or tea.
Location: Ilios Beach Club, Surf Abu Dhabi
Date: Every Monday to Friday except public holidays
Time: Noon to 4pm
Price: AED 145 per person including one starter and one main course
AED 180 per person including two starters and one main course or one starter, one main course and one dessert
Booking: https://www.sevenrooms.com/experiences/Ilios/business-lunch-4958062731345920
Surf Business Lunch
Escape the office and head to Nalu for a business lunch in a surf-inspired atmosphere, featuring a selection of dishes influenced by Latin American and Asian cuisines, accompanied by water and coffee or fine tea.
Location: Nalu Restaurant & Lounge, Surf Abu Dhabi
Date: Every Monday to Friday except public holidays
Time: Noon to 4pm
Price: AED 125 per person including one starter and one main course
AED 160 per person including two starters and one main course or one starter, one main course and one dessert
Booking: https://www.sevenrooms.com/experiences/Nalu/business-lunch-5253438847860736
Sundowners at Nalu
Need to unwind after work? Watch the sun set in the company of your nearest and dearest and sample the selection of bar bites and draft beer at Nalu while the resident DJ sets the perfect vibe.
Location: Nalu Restaurant & Lounge, Surf Abu Dhabi
Date: Every Monday to Friday except public holidays
Time: 4pm to 7pm
Price: Half pint – AED 23
Full pint – AED 36
Booking: WhatsApp https://wa.link/tfwhxf
Email reservations@nalusurfclubuae.com
Phone 02 419 8509
Pool Day Access
From morning calm to sunset glow, enjoy full-day pool access with crafted bites and refreshing drinks while letting Nalu’s surf-inspired vibes wash over you.
Location: Nalu Restaurant & Lounge, Surf Abu Dhabi
Date: Sunday to Friday
Time: 8am to 6pm
Price: AED 250 (AED 200 redeemable on food and drinks)
Free for children under six years
Booking: https://www.sevenrooms.com/experiences/Nalu/sun-loungers-10889102151
Because it’s HER
Grab your girls for the perfect start to your weekend with a golden-hour escape at Ilios, featuring free-flowing drinks, sunset views, a temperature-controlled pool and good vibes only.
Location: Ilios Beach Club, Surf Abu Dhabi
Date: Every Friday except public holidays
Time: 4pm to 7pm
Price: Soft package – AED 125
House package – AED 149
Booking: WhatsApp https://wa.link/tfwhxf
Email reservations@iliosbeachclubuae.com
Phone 02 419 8508
Pizza Night
Gather your friends and feast on endless rounds of freshly baked pizza in Nalu’s laid-back surf-inspired setting, where the only limit is your appetite.
Location: Nalu Restaurant & Lounge, Surf Abu Dhabi
Date: Every Friday except public holidays
Time: 7pm to 9pm
Price: Unlimited pizza for 2 hours – AED 125
8 bottles of Corona – AED 200
Booking: https://www.sevenrooms.com/experiences/Nalu/pizza-chill-friday-nights-at-nalu-4555531225022464
Surf Brunch
Saturday afternoons at Nalu just got a new rhythm. Gather your friends and family for a big beautiful brunch featuring signature coastal dishes, poolside drinks, a resident DJ and acoustic percussion sets – with pool access included.
Location: Nalu Restaurant & Lounge, Surf Abu Dhabi
Date: Every Saturday
Time: 1pm to 4pm
Prices: Soft package – AED 350
House package – AED 450
Booking: https://www.sevenrooms.com/experiences/Nalu/latin-american-brunch-4763078891683840
Après Surf
From sandy toes to sundowners, enjoy a laid-back post-surf vibe by the pool that transitions into lively beats at sunset at Nalu, where California meets Abu Dhabi.
Location: Surf Abu Dhabi and Nalu Restaurant & Lounge
Date: Every Saturday
Time: 5pm to 7pm
Prices: Soft package – AED 125
House package – AED 200
Booking: WhatsApp https://wa.link/tfwhxf
Email reservations@nalusurfclubuae.com
Phone 02 419 8509
Sunday Roast
Turn your Sunday into a celebration with a three-course roast with a coastal twist. Enjoy unlimited sides and dessert, plus entertainment from a resident DJ.
Location: Nalu Restaurant & Lounge, Surf Abu Dhabi
Date: Every Sunday
Time: Noon to 4pm
Price: AED 160 per person for one main, unlimited sides and a dessert with two half-pints of Corona
Booking: https://www.sevenrooms.com/experiences/Nalu/sunday-roast-5233543318224896
‘A Taste of Greece’ Brunch
Celebrate tradition, flavour and togetherness at Ilios with its ‘A Taste of Greece’ brunch. Gather your family and friends to experience the warmth of Greek hospitality with authentic homemade recipes, served family-style in a refined yet relaxed coastal ambiance.
Location: Ilios Beach Club, Surf Abu Dhabi
Date: Every Sunday
Time: 1pm to 4pm
Prices: Soft package – AED 325
House package – AED 450
Booking: https://www.sevenrooms.com/experiences/Ilios/greek-brunch-4928165422055424
Beats Pool Party
Ilios presents a sunset pool party in collaboration with Abu Dhabi House Movement and No Fui Yo Fue El Tequila. Dance to electrifying house beats and enjoy cool vibes with exclusive beverage packages and mouthwatering bites.
Location: Ilios Beach Club, Surf Abu Dhabi
Date: Saturday, 20 December
Time: 5pm onwards
Price: For ladies – AED 99 – unlimited selected drinks from 6pm to 8pm
For gents – AED 200 – unlimited selected drinks or 8 malt beverages from 6pm to 8pm
Booking: WhatsApp https://wa.link/tfwhxf
Email reservations@iliosbeachclubuae.com
Phone 02 419 8508
Surf Social: Christmas Edition (Xmas Festive Edition)
Surf Social meets the Christmas spirit with a family-friendly celebration featuring a festive brunch served indoors, outdoors and by the pool. Kids can transform simple materials into lasting holiday memories in the Christmas handicrafts corner while adults relax and soak up the surf atmosphere with all-day pool access. In addition, little guests visiting on 25 December get treated to a special appearance by Surfing Santa, handing out Nalu and Surf Abu Dhabi gifts and sweets.
From December 25th to 27th, Nalu will host a family-oriented, holiday-inspired brunch served indoors, outdoors, and by the pool.
On December 27th, in collaboration with Surf Abu Dhabi, we will transform Surf Social into a Christmas Edition. This full-day, family-friendly celebration will feature a festive brunch served across all areas. Kids can enjoy handcrafted activities, while adults relax and soak up the relaxed surf atmosphere.
Location: Nalu Restaurant & Lounge, Surf Abu Dhabi
Date: 25 to 27 December (Thursday to Saturday)
Time: Noon to 6pm
Price: Soft package – AED 350
Brunch-Style House package – AED 450
All-day Pool access included
Booking: WhatsApp https://wa.link/tfwhxf
Email reservations@nalusurfclubuae.com
Phone 02 419 8509
Kids Entertainment
- Kids’ Corner: A supervised, cozy space where little ones can fully immerse themselves in the festive spirit. Through handcrafted Christmas-themed activities, children transform simple materials into lasting holiday memories.
- Meet Santa: A warm and cheerful seasonal welcome where both kids and adults can meet our Surfing Santa.
- Gift Distribution: Special Nalu and Surf Abu Dhabi gifts, accompanied by candies.
Notes:
- Santa will be visiting us exclusively on Thursday, December 27th, for the Meet & Greet and gift distribution for kids.
Jingle Waves
For a Christmas celebration with a playful twist, Ilios transforms into Santa’s relaxed coastal holiday retreat with a brunch by the pool in a warm, festive atmosphere. On 25 December, kids can meet the jolly man in red handing out Ilios gifts and sweets from his sun lounger, drop their wishes in a festive letterbox and learn how to decorate gingerbread cookies. All-day pool access included.
Location: Ilios Beach Club, Surf Abu Dhabi
Date: 25 December (Thursday)
Time: 1pm to 4pm
Price: Soft package – AED 325
House package – AED 450
Booking: https://www.sevenrooms.com/experiences/Ilios/ilios-christmas-brunch-5783109824954368
NYE Celebration: Ilios Gala Dinner
Usher in 2026 under the sparkling Ilios sky with a spectacular gala dinner that brings the elegance of Hellenic heritage to New Year’s Eve, inspired by the legends of the Greek isles. Embodying the warmth, beauty and celebratory spirit of the Mediterranean, the evening blends refined dining, live entertainment and a family-friendly atmosphere in a celestial-style celebration. Kids can enjoy themselves safely in a dedicated area, featuring a magician, glitter tattoos, face painting and neon bracelets.
Location: Ilios Beach Club, Surf Abu Dhabi
Date: Wednesday, 31 December
Time: Doors open at 8pm
Dinner until midnight
Party until 3am
Price: For adults – three-course set menu with free-flowing beverages
Soft package – AED 625
House package – AED 750
Beverage extension package from midnight until 2am – AED 220
Curated champagne selection available as a supplement
For kids 12 years and above
Three-course set menu with free-flowing beverages – AED 450
For kids below 12 years
Complimentary special menu
Early-bird offer: For table bookings with a 100% deposit before 15 December
Soft package – AED 500
House package – AED 600
Booking: https://www.sevenrooms.com/experiences/Ilios/ilios-gala-dinner-new-year-s-eve-celebration-4928454841614336
