Abu Dhabi’s event calendar just scored a big family win. The ADQ Community Carnival is back at Khalifa Park, and it’s built for easy smiles, messy hands, and full afternoons. Think inflatables, picnic spots, food trucks, kids workshops and an open-air cinema all in one place.
ADQ Community Carnival 2026 Returns
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Running from January 30 to February 8, the 2026 edition marks the third year of the carnival and lines up with the UAE’s Year of Family theme. It’s designed as a feel-good community space where parents relax, and kids stay busy.
According to a report by the ADQ website, this year’s carnival also puts a strong focus on learning through play, with interactive zones run by major national companies.
A Proper Family Day Out At Khalifa Park
This is not a “walk around for a few minutes and leave” setup. The layout encourages families to stay, sit, snack and settle in. Picnic areas give parents breathing room while children jump straight into activity mode.
Food trucks serve crowd favourites, so nobody goes hungry or cranky. Operating hours run from 4:30 pm onward, closing at 11 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 10 pm on weekdays.
Inflatables, Roller Rinks And Outdoor Movies
Kids can indulge inflatable obstacle course that handles the high-energy crowd. Roller DXB brings a rollerblading zone for adventurous ones. The open-air cinema turns the park into a relaxed movie zone. Families can sit back, snack, and enjoy a film under the night sky. Expect hands-on stations too. Slime making, puzzle building, Craft workshops.
Learning Made Fun With Big Abu Dhabi Names
This carnival doesn’t just entertain, it also teaches, without sounding like a classroom. Seventeen ADQ portfolio companies take part this year with interactive exhibits.
Visitors get bite-sized insights into aviation, energy, food security, recycling, healthcare and transport. The approach stays playful and visual, so kids understand what these sectors do and why they matter. Participating names include Tadweer Group, Etihad Airways, TAQA, Etihad Rail, Agthia Group, PureHealth and Abu Dhabi Airports.
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Tickets, Timing And Why It’s Worth It
Entry costs just AED10. That alone makes it one of the better value family events in Abu Dhabi right now. Forget complicated bookings. Just show up and enjoy the fresh air, movement and low-stress fun. Khalifa Park is the place to be over these ten days.
Cover Image Courtesy: ADQ Community/Website
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE. First Published: January 30, 2026 6:13 PM