20 Best Places to Visit in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi exudes opulence in every breath of its being and has aptly earned its title as the capital city of one of the most developed nations in the world – the UAE. From its magnificent desert to its lush green oasis, from its stunning skyline to its historical sites, the city encompasses everything you need to make the perfect travel, recreational, and leisure destination.
So, it does not matter if you are a tourist making a trip to this fantastic city for the first time or if you have been a resident of it for years. We have an eclectic list of exciting things to do in Abu Dhabi that will ensure you never have a dull moment in the city.
Exciting Things to Do in Abu Dhabi That You Cannot Miss Out
To ensure this list caters to a wide range of demographics, we have included a diverse set of activities and places for you to check out. So, whether you want to indulge in luxury shopping or partake in a traditional experience, get a boost of adrenaline or grasp the natural habitat of the emirate, you will find something or the other in it.
Mangrove National Park
Yes, Abu Dhabi is famous for its extravagant skyscrapers and bustling city nightlife, but there are avenues of serenity in its biodiversity as well. Nature lovers will absolutely fall in love with the Mangrove National Park, which makes up for around 75% of the total mangrove forest area not only in Abu Dhabi but the entire UAE. Included in this enthralling reserve are mudflats, salt marshes, and algal communities along with dense trees and a captivating water channel, along with stunning wildlife.
The trees play a vital role in protecting the region against tidal surges and purifying the surrounding water while eliminating carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. You will get to encounter herons, foxes, dugongs, turtles, crabs, flamingos, dolphins, and a plethora of fish. With stalks reaching up to 15 ft in height, this national park offers an ideal exploration journey for friends, families, as well as solo travellers.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Having the distinction of being the largest mosque in the UAE, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque was built over a period of 11 years by 3,000 workers and 38 contracting companies. With a capacity to hold 50,000 people, the construction and design of the mosque showcase the union of the world as it represents craftsmen, artisans, and materials from numerous nations including India, Morocco, Turkey, China, Germany, Italy, Greece, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and of course, the UAE.
The late H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan built this mosque to convey the Islamic message of tolerance, diversity, and peace. Throughout the day, certified Quran reciters take turns reciting the Quran 24/7 at the mausoleum. Along with recognising Dubai as a popular travel destination, TripAdvisor's 'Travellers Choice Awards’ has continuously recognised the mosque among the top popular attractions in the world.
Sir Bani Yas Island
If you are a fan of wilderness, then you need to take a trip to Sir Bani Yas Island, which is one of the eight desert islands of Al Dhafra. Encompassing five-star boutique hotels, family-friendly adventure activities, purpose-built stables, historical sites, luxury villas, and a stunning range of wildlife, Sir Bani Yas Island has everything in your corner to make a memorable weekend.
The Arabian Wildlife Park is the largest wildlife reserve on the island and has more than 17,000 free-roaming animals such as hyenas, gazelles, giraffes, cheetahs, and Arabian oryx.
Ferrari World
Abu Dhabi has no dearth of options for those who want to get a pump of adrenaline in their blood, and nothing beats the Ferrari World in this regard. One of the most sought-after theme parks of the emirate, it houses more than 40 record-breaking attractions. It also has the honour of having the tallest space-frame structure in the world.
Whether it is the Flying Aces ride offering you the experience of enjoying the highest roller-coaster loop or the Bell'Italia that lets you enjoy mini Italy, the options for you to have a memorable day trip are endless.
Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi
The Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi stands on a whopping 1.65 million square foot park and offers 29 jaw-dropping rides. With interactive live entertainment and family-friendly attractions ready to pump your day through irrespective of whether you are five or 50, there is never a dull moment in this enthralling indoor park.
Spot the legendary characters of Wonder Woman, Superman, and Fred Flintstone, among others, while you wander through the magical worlds of Cartoon Junction, Metropolis, Gotham City, Bedrock, and Dynamite Gulch, among others.
Louvre Abu Dhabi
Standing as a new cultural beacon, the Louvre Abu Dhabi brings diverse cultures together and shines a fresh light upon the most revered stories of humankind. It champions the achievements of varied timelines, dating back to prehistory to the present day. It does not discriminate against geographical boundaries and promotes curiosity, learning, respect, and self-reflection.
This not-to-miss attraction offers you stories that transcend civilizations and time. Celebrating art and bringing together varied artistic expressions from different places, you will come across the most breathtaking sculptures, paintings, archaeological objects, and contemporary installations here.
Qasr Al Watan
Former president of the UAE, the late H.H. Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, opened the Qasr Al Watan, the official presidential palace, in 2019 to the public as a tourism site. Since then, it has provided the public with the option to explore the captivating history and grandeur of the presidential palace through its audio-guided tour available in five languages.
Offering a riveting interactive journey, it allows the public to appreciate the craftsmanship, knowledge, and governance of the site. It illuminates light on the bright future of the region along with its rich heritage.
Yas Bay Waterfront
Touted as one of the most prolific holiday destinations of Abu Dhabi, Yas Bay Waterfront offers you the ultimate leisure, dining, and nightlife options for an extravagant time. Enjoy the culinary delights at the top-notch restaurants in this world-class hotel for a delightful global gastronomical experience.
This is the perfect place to unwind with your friends after work as it provides the fusion of serendipity and pleasure together. Go bar-hopping and indulge in mouthwatering delicacies in this electrifying outdoors as you overlook the pristine waters of the Arabian Gulf in this day-to-night entertainment epicentre of Yas Island.
Saadiyat Island
Saadiyat Island is where calmness and culture intertwine to create a serene paradise. This island showcases the top creations of Pritzker Architecture Prize winners and takes you on an awe-inspiring journey of history, culture, and art. Pristine white silky smooth sands and pockets of greenery make this beach a truly one-of-a-kind, and houses critically endangered species.
Relax in the Saadiyat Beach Club while sipping on refreshing cocktails, explore the artistic excellence of Manarat Al Saadiyat, or unwind by partaking in the region’s first ocean golf course. Not to mention, the scintillating cafés and captivating stores on the island will give you plenty of options for culinary and artefact delights.
Al Ain Zoo
Home to over 4,000 animals, the Al Ain Zoo is known for its well-respected breeding and conservation programmes that are designed to preserve and protect rare fauna from extinction. The transparent enclosures in the zoo provide habitat to exotic and indigenous species, including lions, tigers, rhinos, big-horned Barbary sheep, and Arabian oryx, among others.
Engage yourself in a giraffe feeding experience, indulge in a picnic or enthral yourself in a train tour of the wildlife. Covering an impressive area of 217 hectares along the base of the mesmerizing Jebel Hafit mountain range, this zoo has paved the way for future conservation projects in the region and is a must-visit for all animal lovers.
Snow Abu Dhabi
Snow is something that people usually do not associate with Abu Dhabi, but Snow Abu Dhabi brings the ultimate ice fantasy to reality with its 17 captivating attractions and 12 exhilarating rides. Spread over an area of 10,000 square feet, it is undoubtedly the ‘coolest’ destination of the emirate and functions as the icy playground entertainment zone of the city.
Take a trip on the Polar Express train, conquer the Grauppel’s Summit, and brave the Ice and Floes Toboggan Race. In between, crave your hunger with the drool-worthy dishes of the Lodge Restaurant, Enchanted Café, and the Chocolate Cart. With chilling minus 2°C and 500 mm of powdery snow, this is a heavenly paradise.
Yas Island
Yas Island is the tree that branches out into various modes of entertainment zones. It is the ultimate hub of majestic experiences. A haven for thrill seekers, Yas Island houses many top-rated theme parks mentioned in this list, such as Yas Waterworld, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, and Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi, among others.
Meet your favourite characters from movies and TV series, hop on jaw-dropping rides, explore interactive exhibits, or treat yourself to retail therapy. When you are on Yas Island, the sky is your limit. This is the apt weekend gateway destination and stands just 30 minutes away from the Abu Dhabi City Centre.
Yas Marina Circuit
Yas Marina Circuit is the country’s most epic motorsports venue and has been hosting the iconic and much-awaited Formula 1™ Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix since 2009. Bringing fans from across the globe, audiences get a first-hand view of the on-track dramas and overtakes along with the swooping corners and super-fast straight lanes.
Apart from the racing giants, it also provides training programmes for walking, running, and cycling, along with racing. It is heavily regarded as the most technologically advanced facility in the country and thrives as a bustling community event-hosting zone.
Yas Mall
Explore the retail dominance of the UAE at Yas Mall, which is the biggest mall in Abu Dhabi and overall the second-largest in the nation. Operating a 20-screen cinema experience and an eclectic array of global retailers and eateries, the light-drenched three-level mall boasts a 55,000-square-foot scaled replica of a real city.
It also houses an award-winning edutainment concept zone, a family entertainment zone, 40 role-playing activities for children and teenagers, 370 stores, and more than 60 indoor and outdoor cafes and restaurants. Not to forget, it also has the only Apple Store in the capital.
CLYMB™
CLYMB™ is the fascinating adventure hub of the city and has the distinction of being the world’s tallest indoor skydiving flight chamber, along with the world’s tallest indoor climbing walls. Many would opine that this is the coolest indoor adventure experience that you can have in the city. It doesn’t matter whether you are an expert skydiver or a first-time flyer as young as three years old, this place gives you a safe flying indoor experience.
Under the strict supervision of trained professionals, you get to soar high in the air and race up against the walls as well as your component. Besides, there are varied dining and shopping zones to keep you fed and entertained in between your air-high experiences.
The Empty Quarter
The Empty Quarter denotes the magical Rub' al Khali which is the largest uninterrupted sand mass in the world. The red and golden sand shifts and moves with the winds to form dunes that stand tall and high. This is one of the most authentic Arab immersive experiences that you can have of the desert.
Covering an area of 250,000 square miles (650,000 square km), it is also one of the driest regions in the world. You can explore the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort, the Aldhafra Resort, and Tel Moreeb, also known as the Scary Mountain. Do not forget to partake in stargazing, falcon shows, and witnessing sand artistry.
Jebel Hafit Desert Park
Camping enthusiasts should not miss out on the opportunity to explore the Jebel Hafit Desert Park, which occupies a 9 km stretch at the base of the Jebel Hafit mountain, the tallest peak of the emirate. There are avenues to explore the natural surroundings on a mountain bike, witnessing breathtaking views on the illustrious hiking journey, and discovering the fascinating historical and archaeological remains.
This park was recognised by UNESCO as a vital component of the World Heritage Site of Al Ain in 2011. Apart from preserving the rich history of the area, it also protects the unique biodiversity of the desert and encourages visitors to experience the vibrant landscape up and close.
Pearl Cultivation Journey
The pearl cultivation journey of Abu Dhabi provides tourists with an authentic picture of the highly revered pearling industry of the country. Pearl cultivation played a pivotal role in the economic growth of the nation and it dates back to thousands of years. It also showcases one of the earliest flourishing of trade as pearls from the area were exported to Sir Lanka, India, Venice, and Rome.
During the pearl cultivation journey, you will be embarked on a tour that begins with climbing aboard a Jalboot, a traditional pearling dhow, and setting off on a leisurely cruise along the channel between Hudayriat Island and Abu Dhabi. Guides will explain how their forefather dived for pearls and made pieces of jewellery out of them. Additionally, you will be served with on-theme snacks as crew members captivate you with traditional Emirati sea-faring songs.
Horse Racing in Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club
The Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club offers a comprehensive experience in horsemanship along with a premium equestrian experience. Allow qualified coaches to train you in varied techniques ranging from show jumping to dressage. Witness thriving national and international show-jumping events and see with your eyes as the grace of Purebred Arabian and Thoroughbred horses compete with vigour and zeal.
Established in 1976, the club features well-maintained stables, versatile equestrian arenas, a championship turf racetrack, and a sand training track. It has a seating capacity of 5,000 guests and, with its recent renovation in 2023, stands as a beacon of equestrian excellence. The Riding School of the Club is accredited by the British Horse Society (BHS) and provides quality equestrian training and education.
SeaWorld
SeaWorld is the largest indoor marine life theme park in the world and offers you over 100 animal experiences and presentations. The eight immersive realms take you on an unbelievable journey from the tropics to the poles. Furthermore, the 35 interactive experiences and rides, 17 dining options, 13 retail outlets, and numerous live characters and performances check your entertainment quotient efficiently.
Explore the colourful underwater world in MicroOcean and discover the beautiful hidden cove set in Rocky Point. Go through the Research Vessel in the Arctic and mesmerize yourself with the 360-degree media experience in One Ocean for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity here.
To Conclude
Abu Dhabi is the ultimate holiday destination offering wholesome experiences for people of all backgrounds and ages. Whether you want the tranquillity of the grand mosques of the city or enjoy the serenity of the national parks, the emirate has everything in your corner. Not to mention, the endless options of adrenaline-pumping theme parks and pearl cultivation journeys keep you engaged and captivated throughout the time you spend in the city. So, come and explore the magnificent offerings of this futuristic city.
FAQs
Commonly Asked Questions about Abu Dhabi Attractions
How far is Abu Dhabi from Dubai?
Abu Dhabi is roughly 140 km away from Dubai, and you can travel from one city to another through public as well as private transport.
Is Abu Dhabi worth visiting?
Yes, Abu Dhabi is worth visiting. Not only will you get to explore the historical and cultural sites, but also get adrenaline-pumping experiences in the theme parks, snow parks, marine parks, and desert parks.
When is the best time to visit Abu Dhabi?
The best time to visit Abu Dhabi is from December to March as the weather is very comfortable and allows you to explore the outdoors with ease. The spring season from March to April also offers pleasant weather.
What are the top 10 places to visit in Abu Dhabi?
Abu Dhabi has a plethora of options to visit. If there are ten places that you cannot miss visiting in Abu Dhabi, we would recommend Mangrove National Park, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Sir Bani Yas Island, Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Qasr Al Watan, Yas Bay Waterfront, Saadiyat Island, and Al Ain Zoo.
What are the best things to do in Abu Dhabi at night?
At night, you can visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and explore it in its illuminated glory, walk through Yas Marina, go for thrills at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, watch the city sparkle from the Observation Deck, and walk around Saadiyat Island.
What are the new attractions in Abu Dhabi?
The new attractions in Abu Dhabi are the Aquarium Abu Dhabi, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, and the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, among others.
What are the free things to do in Abu Dhabi?
The free things to do in Abu Dhabi include exploring Al Jahili Fort, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Hudayriyat Island, Corniche Beach, and Green Mubazzarah, among others.