Let’s be honest: “Happy Friendship Day” hits differently when it’s celebrated with a proper plan—not just a screenshot of a meme and a half-hearted “let’s catch up soon.” Whether you’ve got a best friend, a ride-or-die, or a chaotic good soulmate who finishes your sentences (and fries), it’s time to give your friendship the celebration it deserves.
And lucky for you, Abu Dhabi is basically a playground of fun—with eats, adventures, and even places where you can legally break stuff (because what else are friends for, if not smashing things together?). Whether you’re planning a chill evening or an all-day escapade, we’ve rounded up 8 friendship-fueled experiences you’ll both love.
1. Feast Like Fire-Kissed Royalty at Hunter & Barrel
Sharing is caring. Especially when it comes with wagyu and wings.
Start your day of bonding with a table full of grilled goodness. Hunter & Barrel is built for sharing—grab the Hunter’s Sharing Platter to get things started (think spicy prawns, chilli wings, cheesy dip). Hungry for more? The “Feast for Two” brings out the big guns: wagyu rump, lamb cutlets, and charcoal chicken skewers with all the sides. Wrap it all up with dessert so fancy it deserves its own Instagram post.
- Where: Yas Bay Waterfront
- When: Open daily
- Price: Around AED 290 for the Feast for Two
2. Catch a Flick at VOX Cinemas
Popcorn, plot twists, and your personal movie critic.
If your friendship is based on quoting movies and judging trailers like pros, this one’s a no-brainer. VOX Cinemas brings all the movie magic with plush seats, crisp visuals, and all the popcorn you could possibly spill mid-jump scare. And knowing some of these blockbusters were filmed in Abu Dhabi? Instant bragging rights.
- Where: Multiple locations
- When: Anytime—it’s movie time
- Price: Tickets from AED 36
3. Say It Sweetly With Swiss Chocolate from Läderach
Chocolate = the love language of best friends.
Want to keep things simple but meaningful? A sleek box of Läderach’s handcrafted Swiss chocolates does the trick. Whether it’s pralines, truffles, or bars that look like edible art, this treat delivers serious “you matter to me” vibes—no sentimental caption needed.
- Where: Yas Mall, Galleria Al Maryah Island, WTC and more
- When: Year-round sweetness
- Price: From AED 60
4. Get a Deal and a Diagnosis at 1885 Auto Garage
Because friends who maintain together, remain together.
It’s not your usual hangout spot—but hear us out. At 1885 Auto Garage, bring a buddy and you both save money. There’s a 20% discount on labour when you show up as a duo, or 10% if you go solo. Tesla drivers even get a free EV check-up. Functional and thoughtful? Win-win.
- Where: Musaffah M14
- When: July 28 – August 11
- Price: 20% off with your friend, 10% solo
5. Raise a Toast at Ishtar Hour, Yas Marina
Cocktails, waterfront sunsets, and uninterrupted catch-ups.
For laid-back luxury, head to Ishtar at Yas Marina during its golden-hour happy hour. Sip on Middle Eastern-inspired cocktails, munch on mezze, and watch the sun melt into the sea. It’s giving “main character energy” for besties who deserve it.
- Where: Yas Marina
- When: Sundays, 4 pm – 8 pm
- Price: Cocktails from AED 35
6. Sunset Goals at Al Wathba Fossil Dunes
Nature’s way of saying “let’s vibe in silence for a bit.”
Want to escape the city and soak up something surreal? Drive out to Al Wathba Fossil Dunes and wander through otherworldly rock formations that look like Mother Nature’s abstract art. Come during golden hour, bring snacks and a playlist, and just let the calm take over.
- Where: About 45 mins from city
- When: Best during sunset
- Price: Free (and priceless)
7. Smash the Stress at The Smash Room Abu Dhabi
Rage rooms: because retail therapy doesn’t let you break printers.
Got some pent-up stress—or just want to feel like a rockstar in slow motion? Book a session at The Smash Room. Choose your weapons, gear up, and smash away to your favourite playlist. It’s chaotic, cathartic, and totally unforgettable.
- Where: Temporary Abu Dhabi location (booking required)
- When: Open daily
- Price: Packages from AED 199 for two
8. Get Creative at Warehouse421
Paint, sketch, film-watch, repeat.
Art meets friendship at Warehouse421, a cool cultural hub tucked in Mina Zayed. Explore exhibits, sign up for creative workshops like pottery or zine-making, or catch a quirky film screening. It’s the perfect spot to switch things up and discover something new—together.
- Where: Warehouse421, Mina Zayed
- When: Check online for event timings
- Price: Many activities are free or affordable
Final Word: Make It Count
Whether you’re honouring a lifelong bond or celebrating a newfound connection, Abu Dhabi’s full of ways to say “you matter to me”—with food, fun, and a little bit of fabulous chaos.
Try one, try three, try them all (we won’t tell). Just don’t let this Friendship Day pass like any other Sunday. Because the people who laugh at your worst jokes and show up when you need them most? They deserve a day that’s all about you two.
