Abu Dhabi may be overshadowed by its more dazzling equivalent. However, this amazing capital city of the UAE has plenty to entice and excite you at its every corner. Better yet, this list of the top things to do in Abu Dhabi can give an experience of a lifetime.
Striking cultural treasures, futuristic cityscape, fascinating museums, traditional souks, untouched mangroves, and vibrant Corniche region all make Abu Dhabi a memorable break. Just check out the following things to do in Abu Dhabi, and you’ll for sure be convinced about it.
As a matter of fact, Abu Dhabi is only around 139.4 km driving from Dubai, so you only need to drive about 1 hour and 19 minutes. Therefore, you can plan a road trip to visit both. If this is the case, you can visit our guide on the top things to do in Dubai, traveling to the island of the world, and helipad tour in Dubai.
Top Things To Do In Abu Dhabi:
Abu Dhabi, the vibrant capital city of the United Arab Emirates, is an awe-inspiring blend of traditional Arabian charm and futuristic dynamism. This city offers an incredible array of family-friendly activities catering to various tastes and interests, promising enriching and unforgettable experiences on your Abu Dhabi tour.
From amusement parks to beautiful beaches, educational museums, and natural attractions, there is something for everyone in this jewel of the Middle East. Therefore, stick around to find out more about the best things to do in Abu Dhabi.
1. Go Inside Sheik Zayed Mosque:
It’s one of the top things to do in Abu Dhabi for all types of visitors. So do visit here no matter you’re a culture buff, history lover, an Uber adventurist, or even a suave type. You can’t help but lose yourself in the enormously awe-inspiring and tranquil ambiance of this colossal white structure.
Entry is free, and you can spend here as much time you want, exploring its exquisite Islamic architectural style, placid pools. And It is imposingly opulent installations including the world’s largest hand-made carpet plus the biggest of its kind chandelier studded with millions of Swarovski crystals. It’s open for non-Muslims as well.
2. Head up to Observation Deck at 300:
This is one of the best vantage points to get terrific views over the marvelous skyline of Abu Dhabi. Find this on the 74th floor of Jumeirah at Etihad Hotel. Besides catching up with the region’s fabulous structures, you’ll be able to take in the astonishing sights of the Corniche region as well as the Arabian Gulf. You can further pair this gorgeous sightseeing experience with an extravagant culinary session at one of its many dining venues
3. Tour Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum:
It’s undoubtedly the focal point of Abu Dhabi’s exclusive Saadiyat Island Cultural District which is also home to other distinct museums such as the Guggenheim Museum and the Zayed National Museum. Its legendary name says it all, but it’s more than your expectations. It’s a universal art museum and is further the largest of its kind in the Arabian Peninsula.
Beyond its hundreds of original and timeless pieces of artwork by geniuses like Picasso and Leonardo da Vinci, Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum is alone worth a trip for its marvelous look and majestic ambiance along the water. The structure is definite to take your breath away for its massive dome; it not only recalls the region’s ancient way of roofing but also creates a stunning rain of light effect.
4. Take a Mangrove Tour:
Abu Dhabi may be a cosmopolitan metropolis with all high-end attractions and comforts imaginable. That said, it’s never away from nature and serenity.
All it takes to retreat from the concrete mess and venture to the region’s otherworldly Abu Dhabi Mangrove National Park is just a 10 to 12 minutes drive from the city center.
One of the best ways to experience its unspoiled and lush grandeur is to take a thrilling kayaking tour. This promises you an up-close and detailed look at the region’s awe-inspiring biodiversity.
5. Indulge At Yas Island’s Cool Attractions:
Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island is synonymous with endless fun, leisure, and entertainment. Yes, it’s where you can easily take to the rides, attractions, and games of brands you’re most passionate about.
Visit the world’s first theme park dedicated to Ferrari (Ferrari World Abu Dhabi), check out the cool cartoon and superhero-based zones at Warner Bros Abu Dhabi, and most of all, drop into Yas Waterworld – the region’s biggest water park. We will talk in depth about it below.
There is also the stylish Yas Marina Circuit, kids’ favorite KidZania, and the newest CLYMB Abu Dhabi where you can experience the world’s tallest climbing wall and largest skydiving chamber.
6. Enjoy a look at Heritage Village:
Amble through Heritage Village and get yourself transported to a bonafide traditional Bedouin settlement bursting with ancient-style dwellings made of palm and mud, souks selling beautiful souvenirs, spices….etc. It gives you a glimpse into the Emirati lifestyle before the discovery of oil and its subsequent boom.
It further allows you to know about the region’s traditional irrigation system (known as the falaj system) and even discover the local art and crafts (including pottery, spinning….etc). This remarkably recreated Arabian village is located in the Corniche area and is adjacent to Marina Mall.
7. Desert Safari:
The part adventure tour, part cultural experience, a desert safari trip introduces you to the breathtaking Arabian Desert like no other. You can expect to take part in a flurry of actions on this off-road activity, mainly dune bash in a 4X4 vehicle, sandboarding, quad biking, camel ride ….etc.
It also offers an abundance of activities that promise you a generous dose of the Arabian culture and heritage. Smoke shisha, try henna tattooing, and get a photographic chance to click pictures dressed in Emirati attires. You can further pick from morning or evening desert safari with BBQ dining and traditional performances like belly dance and Tanura show.
8. Hit Abu Dhabi Corniche:
This fine stretch of beach along the region’s sparkling waters is one of the city’s most picturesque settings. It’s spotless and justifiably comes with the Blue Flag status, making it a favorite of locals and tourists alike.
And the best thing is that it’s rife with an extensive array of leisure and recreational experiences, thanks to its many options such as football fields, volleyball courts, dedicated cycling tracks, and kid-specific play areas. It’s also a major draw for watersport lovers with facilities for jet skiing and speed boat tours, among others.
9. Revisit Emirati Past at Qasr Al Hosn:
This is another must-visit place in Abu Dhabi to get your culture and a history fix. After all, it’s one of the city’s oldest UNESCO Worlds heritage site. From a defensive structure to a palace and later the seat of the Emirati government, it has taken many guises throughout its more than 230 years of existence.
You’ll get to see here many intriguing art and artifacts dating back to 6000 BC plus several fascinating sections such as the region’s oldest of its kind watchtower and ancient palace that has been reinstated to its ancient glory.
10. Get A Glimpse Of All On A Sightseeing Tour:
If you don’t have enough time to check out the above attractions or looking for expert help to guide you on your sightseeing, make sure that you take a comprehensive city out of Abu Dhabi.
It guarantees you a perfect overview of the capital city while ensuring that you don’t miss out on any of the region’s top architectural treasures, cultural landmarks, and even hidden gems.
You’ll tour Sheik Zayed Mosque, the fantastical Emirates Palace hotel, Heritage Village, Qasr Al Watan, the Corniche area, and the region’s top shopping attractions like Marina Mall and the traditional Date Market.
11. Yas Waterworld:
One of the top family-friendly attractions in Abu Dhabi is Yas Waterworld. Spread over 15 hectares. This Emirati-themed water park offers more than 40 rides, slides, and attractions that will delight children and adults.
Highlights include the thrilling “Dawwama” the world’s first hydro-magnetic tornado water rafting ride, and “Marah Fortress” a massive water play structure with a giant dumping bucket. There’s the “Tot’s Playground” for younger visitors, a dedicated area for toddlers with mini slides, water cannons, and a dumping bucket.
12. Ferrari World:
Next on the itinerary is Ferrari World, an amusement park dedicated to the famous Italian sports car brand. It’s an exciting place for families, offering a variety of experiences such as the Formula Rossa, the world’s fastest roller coaster reaching speeds up to 240 km/h, and the Fiorano GT Challenge, where you can race against your family in a Ferrari F430 Spider.
The park has gentle rides and experiences for younger children, like Khalil’s Car Wash and Junior Training Camp. It is definitely should be on your top list of the best things to do in Abu Dhabi.
13. Emirates Park Zoo:
Emirates Park Zoo is a fantastic destination for families. With over 1700 animals, including rare white tigers, giraffes, zebras, and a family of Siberian bears, there’s plenty to see and do. It is definitely one of the best things to do in Abu Dhabi.
The zoo also offers educational animal encounters and interactive experiences such as giraffe feeding, bird shows, and a petting zoo, making it an engaging and fun outing for children and adults alike. It is also an optimal place for landscape and wildlife photography.
14. Al Ain Oasis:
A short drive from Abu Dhabi takes you to Al Ain Oasis, the UAE’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. This vast expanse of palm plantations provides a cool, shaded retreat from the city bustle.
Here, you can explore the traditional “Falaj” irrigation system, visit an eco-center to learn about the oasis’s history, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk along peaceful pathways, soaking in the tranquility.
15. Saadiyat Public Beach:
Abu Dhabi’s coastline is blessed with several beautiful beaches, and Saadiyat Public Beach is one of them. This pristine beach offers calm, warm waters and soft white sand, making it ideal for a family day out.
Kids can build sandcastles while adults soak up the sun or enjoy a good book. The beach also offers water sports facilities for the more adventurous, and lifeguards are always on duty, ensuring your family’s safety.
16. Yas Marina Circuit:
Yas Marina Circuit is the place to be if your family thrives on adrenaline. This world-class racing venue offers a variety of motorsport activities and track day experiences, including karting.
The KartZone is suitable for all levels of experience, allowing families with children aged 8 and above to race each other around a mini version of the Yas Marina Circuit. This experience is not just about speed.
It’s about skill and timing, making it an engaging and exciting activity for the whole family, which is why it is one of the best things to do in Abu Dhabi for the whole family.
17. Umm Al Emarat Park:
Umm Al Emarat Park, formerly known as Mushrif Central Park, is one of Abu Dhabi’s largest and oldest parks. It’s an ideal spot for family picnics, leisurely walks, and fun outdoor activities.
The park features several attractions, including a large playground, a petting zoo, botanical gardens, and an amphitheater. The children’s garden encourages young ones to connect with nature and learn about the environment in a fun, interactive way.
18. Al Wathba Wetland Reserve:
For families who enjoy bird watching and nature, the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve is a must-visit. This natural reserve is home to over 250 species of birds, including the spectacular flamingos that can be seen during the winter months.
The reserve also features walking trails and bird hides, where you can observe the wildlife in their natural habitat. It is a fun experience for the whole family to enjoy and top things to do in Abu Dhabi.
Conclusion:
I hope you enjoy the list of the top things to do in Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi, precisely, is full of sights that make you fall in love with it at the first sight itself. So don’t skip this unique capital city during your UAE trip.
It has some incredible places of interest which would surely add to your Dubai or UAE vacation. And with your UAE tourist visa, you can travel to any part of the country including Abu Dhabi (without any restriction).
For those residing in or visiting nearby cities like Dubai, considering a van rental from Dubai can be an excellent choice to explore Abu Dhabi. It offers the flexibility to move at your own pace and provides ample space to accommodate families and friends, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination.
So pack your bags, gather your loved ones, rent a comfortable van, and get ready to explore the richness of this amazing city, creating family memories that will last a lifetime. The shared laughs, the awe- inspired moments, and the discoveries await you on your Abu Dhabi adventure!
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