Abu Dhabi is a beautiful city full of exciting sights and activities. Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s famous landmarks, find a relaxing retreat, or experience the unique culture and cuisine of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi has something to offer everyone.
From the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to the incredible Ferrari World, there are plenty of attractions to explore. For those looking to get outdoors, the city has numerous parks and beaches to explore. Shopping enthusiasts will also find plenty to love, with luxury malls, traditional markets, and even camel markets. With its rich culture, diverse attractions, and stunning architecture, Abu Dhabi is a destination not to be missed.
From exploring the city’s ancient forts to taking a trip to the desert, here are some of the best sights and things to do in Abu Dhabi.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, draped in white marble, is the biggest and most visited sightseeing spot in Abu Dhabi. The building is a remarkable combination of Mameluke, Ottoman, and Fatimid design, with marvellous glasswork, mosaic tiling, and carvings used to decorate the exterior and interior. It was inaugurated in 2007 after almost two decades of construction and can accommodate 40,000 worshipers.
It is dedicated to the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al-Nahyan, just like the second-largest mosque in UAE – the Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Fujairah. Even non-Muslims are allowed to enter every area of the mosque, including the vast library and the mosque provides complimentary guided tours.
Address: Al Khaleej al Arabi Street, Abu Dhabi.
Qasr Al Watan
Qasr Al Watan, the Presidential Palace of the UAE, has become a must-see attraction for those looking to get a better understanding of the UAE’s culture, history, and architecture. Its grand interiors, including the Great Hall and Presidential Banqueting Hall, are adorned with beautiful chandeliers, domes, arches, marble, and detailed mosaic and muqarna.
Additionally, visitors can explore the House of Knowledge, which provides an extensive and carefully organized selection of information about the Arab world’s contributions to the fields of science, literature, and art. Additionally, the palace provides a display of presents given by world leaders to the UAE. Not to mention, its library contains an extensive collection of books, periodicals, and articles, all related to the UAE’s history.
Address: Al Riyadh Street, Abu Dhabi.
Louvre Abu Dhabi
Louvre Abu Dhabi, the most remarkable museum in the Middle East, showcases the entire scope of artistic accomplishments by humans, from the prehistoric period to the present day. From Egyptian sculptures to Picasso’s famous works, the range and quality of the art is incredible, and the museum’s modern design of galleries sheltered by a grand silver dome is an attraction by itself. The permanent show occupies twelve galleries while several important temporary shows are organized annually.
Louvre Abu Dhabi is the first of the three big museums to be opened on Saadiyat Island, which is expected to be the cultural hub of Abu Dhabi in the forthcoming years. The other two, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and Zayed National Museum, are still in the planning stages.
Address: Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi.
Qasr Al Hosn
Recently, the Al-Hosn Fort, which is also known as the Old Fort or the White Fort, was renovated and it is the most ancient construction in Abu Dhabi as well as one of its main historic spots of interest. The palace was constructed in 1793 to serve as the family home of the ruling power and the government’s headquarters.
The inside of the Al Hosn Fort has been brought up to modern standards and is now used as a museum which chronicles the history and culture of Abu Dhabi, with oral narrations and many historical photos on display.
The courtyard and the remarkable tile artwork on the primary northern entrance are noteworthy components.
Address: Hamdan bin Mohammed Street, Abu Dhabi.
Etihad Towers Observation Deck
Abu Dhabi has a response to the Burj Khalifa in Dubai which is an observation deck. This location offers the highest point of sight in the city, located on the 74th floor of the Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers hotel (which is 300 meters above sea level).
For those who are not staying at the hotel, there is an entrance fee, but this cost is redeemable for food and drinks from the observation deck’s eatery which offers snacks and light bites; soft drinks; and a popular high tea experience.
High tea at this level is a pleasurable way to take in the incredible view, which stretches across the coastline and the city with the arid desert plains in the distance.
Address: Address: Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi.
Desert Safari
Enjoy an evening of adventure in the desert on this six-hour safari. Leave Abu Dhabi and explore the stunning landscapes as you make your way to a Bedouin-style camp tucked in the sand dunes. Speed down the rolling hills with 4x4s, sandboard at breakneck speeds, get atop a camel for a unique ride, and even hire a quad bike (additional cost).
The package includes round-trip hotel transport, henna painting, sheesha smoking, and a belly dancing show, as well as a delicious BBQ dinner with other travellers.
Ferrari World
If you have a passion for fast cars, then Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is the ultimate destination for you! It has the world’s quickest rollercoaster, the highest loop ride, the most elevated space-frame structure ever constructed on the planet, and more than 40 record-breaking attractions.
Furthermore, you can take part in the Driving Experience and feel the excitement of driving a Ferrari around Yas Island roads with the help of a Ferrari-trained instructor. Or you can go for the Passenger Experience to ride around the island and enjoy a luxurious experience in a Ferrari with the assistance of a Ferrari-trained instructor.
Address: Yas Leisure Dr, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.
Yas Marina Circuit
Explore the thrilling world of Formula 1 racing with an in-depth guided tour of the modern Yas Marina Circuit on Yas Island Abu Dhabi. This guided tour (which lasts somewhere between 90 and 120 minutes) is now open to the general public and offers a must-see experience for all visitors to Abu Dhabi, as well as motorsports fans.
You’ll journey to the various points of interest by air-conditioned bus, beginning at Yas Central, where the Yas Racing School is located. You’ll learn about the different race cars at Yas Marina Circuit, including the most recent F1 model. Then you’ll visit the North Grandstand to get a firsthand view of the Du Arena.
If no events are taking place, you’ll board the bus for a tour of the race track, passing the Drag Strip, Kartzone, Shams Tower and Yas Marina View. You’ll also get a closer look at the F1 team pits and garages to get a better understanding of what it takes to host a successful F1 race.
At the end of the tour, you’ll even have the chance to take a photo on the podium with a race trophy in hand!
Address: Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Central, Abu Dhabi.
Mangrove National Park
Far from the tall buildings and the lively evening life of Abu Dhabi is a tranquil place that can give you a feeling of being re-energized. This park of beauty and biodiversity is called the Mangrove National Park. If you want to tell your kids about the environment, taking a stroll in this modest park is the ideal way to accomplish that.
Supported by the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi (EAD), this remarkable park makes up 75% of the entire mangrove woodland in the UAE. This hotspot for biodiversity includes salt marshes, mudflats, and algal societies. Whether you are visiting with companions, as a family, or on your own – you will leave with a sense of recognition as you observe the water channel, the thick trees, the wildlife, and more – that nature is truly beautiful.
Address: Eastern Mangrove National Park, Abu Dhabi.
Heritage Village
Situated on a scenic beach section of Abu Dhabi, the Heritage Village offers travelers an insight into what life was like for Emiratis before the oil industry boomed. Guests can view various displays and exhibitions of traditional everyday items, and watch skilled artisans demonstrate the techniques of weaving and metalwork. They can also discover the past economies of the region, such as pearl diving and agriculture.
Although the heritage village has seen better days, it is still one of the only places in the city to learn about the traditional Emirati lifestyle.
Address: Breakwater Road, Abu Dhabi.
Top 10 things to see & do in Abu Dhabi
Let’s summarize this guide. These are the must-visit sights and best things to do in Abu Dhabi:
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
- Louvre Abu Dhabi
- Qasr Al Watan
- Etihad Towers Observation Deck
- Qasr Al Hosn
- Ferrari World
- Yas Marina Circuit
- Mangrove National Park
- Heritage Village
- Desert Safari
Day trips and tours from Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is a vibrant and modern city. But it’s also surrounded by some of the world’s most iconic desert landscapes and stunning coastal views. With so much to explore, it’s no wonder why many travelers choose to venture out of the city center for a day trip.
Dubai Sightseeing Day Trip from Abu Dhabi
Get to know one of the pearls of the UAE on this tour from Abu Dhabi to Dubai. Climb aboard an air-conditioned vehicle and have your tour guide give you some insight into the area’s background and culture.
Marvel at iconic places such as the Palm Jumeirah, Burj Al-Arab, and the awe-inspiring Burj Khalifah. Glide across the Dubai Creek in a wooden water taxi and shop till you drop into the vibrant gold and spice markets. Get to know the city’s success story at the Dubai Museum, and make the most of some free time for lunch at Dubai Mall.
Al Ain Day Trip from Abu Dhabi
Take a day trip to the stunning city of Al Ain from Abu Dhabi. As you make your way through the desert, you will be able to witness the captivating Hajar Mountains, which frame the city also known as the “Garden City.”
Learn about the history of the city at the Al Ain National Museum and the Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum. In addition, behold the water canals, which provide irrigation for the palm groves. Get an understanding of traditional life by exploring the markets and camel racing circuit.
Appreciate the beautiful views of the city from Jebel Hafeet mountain, then take a dip in one of the springs of Al Ain. End your trip with a buffet lunch included.
From exploring the city’s iconic landmarks, to taking in the stunning desert landscape, there’s something for everyone when it comes to day trips from Abu Dhabi. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for the day trip of a lifetime!
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