The victim, who was also 28, was assaulted by two men on Union Street at about 05:30 on Saturday. Police said they were still trying to trace a second man.
The attack happened between St Nicholas Street and Broad Street.
Police have asked anyone who witnessed the attack to come forward.
The arrested man is expected to appear at Aberdeen Sheriff Court on Tuesday.
After the incident part of Union Street was closed to pedestrians while police carried out inquiries.
Det Insp Norman Stevenson, who is leading the inquiry, said: "It was necessary as part of our investigation to close a small section of Union Street and I fully recognise the disruption this caused to some businesses and the general public frequenting the area.
"I would like to take this opportunity to thank those affected for their patience whilst we carried out this necessary work."
A 28-year-old man has been charged after another man was left in a critical condition after being attacked in the centre of Aberdeen.