Umm Al Emarat Park’s New Season Is Here: Cinema, Markets, Wellness & Family Activities in Abu Dhabi
The cooler months are returning to Abu Dhabi, and so are some of the city’s favourite outdoor experiences. Umm Al Emarat Park has launched its new 2026-27 season, with a packed calendar covering outdoor cinema, weekend markets, wellness initiatives, art, educational experiences and plenty of activities for families.
October gets the season off to a particularly busy start, with Cinema in the Park, The Park Market, BOUNCE, an Animal Barn pop-up, community health initiatives and a Guggenheim Abu Dhabi Pop-Up all part of the programme.
If you’re looking for outdoor things to do in Abu Dhabi this month, here are the experiences to have on your radar.
Cinema in the Park Returns – From 2 October
One of Umm Al Emarat Park’s popular cooler-season experiences, Cinema in the Park, returns from 2 October.
Family-friendly movies will be screened outdoors every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 6 PM to 9 PM, giving families and friends an easy weekend evening plan as Abu Dhabi’s weather becomes more outdoor-friendly.
When: Friday, Saturday & Sunday
Time: 6 PM – 9 PM
From: 2 October 2026
The Park Market Returns on 23 October
Another seasonal favourite, The Park Market, returns from 23 October.
Taking place every Friday and Saturday from 4 PM to 10 PM, the market brings together homegrown businesses, food concepts and independent brands in an outdoor community setting.
October’s market will also spotlight Kindness & Giving, encouraging visitors and participating businesses to engage with initiatives centred around giving back to the community.
SMEs and entrepreneurs can also apply to participate as paid vendors during the season.
When: Every Friday & Saturday
Time: 4 PM – 10 PM
From: 23 October 2026
SMEs can register their interest here.
Health and Wellness Events Throughout October
Community wellbeing is another major focus this season.
On 9 October, Umm Al Emarat Park will host a public blood donation drive in collaboration with SEHA and Al Rahba Hospital, running from 4 PM to 9 PM.
For Pinktober, Burjeel Holdings will bring a mammogram truck to the Park on 23 and 24 October, alongside free health check-ups.
Then on 30 October, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City will host another community health activation featuring a mammogram truck, walkathon, giveaways and health-focused activities.
These initiatives add a meaningful community element to the Park’s October calendar while making selected health services and awareness programmes more accessible.
Guggenheim Abu Dhabi Pop-Up Comes to the Park
Art and culture join the programme from 30 October to 1 November with a first-of-its-kind Guggenheim Abu Dhabi Pop-Up at Shade House Lawn.
The three-day programme will introduce visitors to Emirati artist Mohammed Kazem and his Directions series.
Expect talks exploring Kazem’s practice, interactive activities around place and perception, a hands-on mapping workshop inspired by geographical data, a public pop quiz and giveaways.
It’s an interesting addition for anyone wanting to experience Abu Dhabi’s growing arts scene in a more informal outdoor environment.
Dates: 30 October- 1 November 2026
Time: 11 AM – 8 PM daily
Location: Shade House Lawn, Umm Al Emarat Park
The Animal Barn Is Back
For younger visitors, the Animal Barn pop-up is returning for another season.
Children can meet and interact with friendly animals, speak with their keepers and take part in feeding sessions.
Animal feeding: AED 10
Pony rides: AED 15
Camel rides: AED 15
It’s an easy addition to a family day at the Park, particularly for children who enjoy animal and nature-based experiences.
BOUNCE Returns From 1 October
Children looking for something a little more energetic can head to BOUNCE, which returns to Umm Al Emarat Park from 1 October.
The outdoor experience includes the BOUNCE Vibe Tribe and a giant inflatable airbag where children can practise jumps and learn new tricks with guidance from BOUNCE team members.
They’ll also have the chance to meet BINC, the BOUNCE mascot and Progression Master.
Outdoor Learning for the 2026-27 School Year
Umm Al Emarat Park is also bringing back its educational programmes for schools.
Designed for different age groups, the experiences take learning outside the classroom and explore subjects including nature, sustainability, Emirati heritage and the environment.
Previous programmes have covered animal and desert life, ecosystems, sustainability and the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
An Outdoor Season Worth Adding to Your Abu Dhabi Calendar
What makes Umm Al Emarat Park’s new season particularly useful is that you don’t necessarily need to plan around one major event.
You can visit for a weekend movie, browse The Park Market, bring children to see the animals or combine a regular day in the Park with one of its cultural, educational or community programmes.
And with many of these activities continuing throughout the cooler months, there will be plenty of reasons to return beyond October.
Umm Al Emarat Park – Visitor Details
Purchase your ticket here: https://ummalemaratpark.ae/en/Tickets-and-Loyalty-Programs
Location: Umm Al Emarat Park, Abu Dhabi
Opening Hours: Daily, 8 AM -12 midnight
Last Entry: 11 PM
Park Entry: AED 10
Cinema in the Park: From 2 October, Friday-Sunday, 6 PM-9 PM
The Park Market: From 23 October, Friday-Saturday, 4 PM-10 PM
Guggenheim Abu Dhabi Pop-Up: 30 October – 1 November, 11 AM-8 PM
Animal Feeding: AED 10
Pony & Camel Rides: AED 15 each
Instagram: @ummalemaratpark
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