Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is a bustling metropolis that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. From awe-inspiring architecture to serene natural landscapes, the city offers a plethora of attractions that cater to all kinds of travelers. Plan your stay with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Abu Dhabi.
Key Takeaways
- Visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque for its stunning architecture and spiritual ambiance.
- Explore the Louvre Abu Dhabi to admire a diverse collection of global art and culture.
- Kayak through the serene Eastern Mangroves for a unique natural experience.
- Relax on the sandy shores of Saadiyat Island.
- Get your adrenaline pumping at Ferrari World, home to thrilling rides and attractions.
1. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a must-see attraction in Abu Dhabi, known for its stunning white marble architecture and grandeur. Constructed between 1996 and 2007, this mosque is a symbol of Islamic culture and heritage.
Architectural Marvel
- Features 82 domes and over 1,000 columns
- White and gold color scheme
- Fuses Mameluke, Ottoman, and Fatimid design elements
Visitor Experience
- Free entry
- Ideal visit duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Popular for sightseeing and religious visits
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Cultural Significance
- Built at the request of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder and first president of the UAE
- Celebrates Islamic architecture and modern design
2. Louvre Abu Dhabi
Opened in 2017, Louvre Abu Dhabi is an exquisite museum of Art and Civilisation situated in Saadiyat Island Cultural District. This largest museum in the Arabian Peninsula showcases artwork from across the globe. The museum also has a very impressive architecture consisting of a web-patterned dome designed to give the ‘rain of light’ effect.
Permanent Collection
The permanent collection runs over 12 galleries, featuring a diverse range of artworks from different cultures and periods.
Temporary Exhibitions
Several major temporary exhibitions are staged each year, featuring international artists and site-specific commissions until January 2024.
Architectural Marvel
Designed by Pritzker Prize–winning architect Jean Nouvel, the museum’s architecture is a sight to behold, with its iconic dome and intricate design.
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3. Eastern Mangroves
Discover the lush green mangroves in the heart of Abu Dhabi, a biologically rich part of the UAE. This serene escape offers a beautiful landscape and wildlife, all away from the crazy busy life.
Activities
- Kayaking: Choose from a variety of kayaking tours, such as a sunrise tour, a sunset tour, and a night tour.
- Birdwatching: Observe and photograph over 60 bird species, including herons, egrets, kingfishers, and flamingos.
- Boardwalk: Explore the mangroves across a suspended boardwalk.
Accommodation
- Spend a luxurious few nights at the Anantara Eastern Mangroves, a deluxe resort located along a stretch of the Mangrove National Park.
A visit to the Eastern Mangroves is an amazing place in the heart of nature, offering quietness and a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
4. Saadiyat Island
Saadiyat Island is one of Abu Dhabi’s top sun-seeker destinations. Saadiyat Beach is a long strip of white sand on the island’s western shore, with a small admission fee for beachgoers. It has excellent facilities, including on-duty lifeguards, a café for refreshments, and plenty of sun loungers and shades.
Saadiyat Beach Club
If you want a more luxurious day on the sand, head farther north along Saadiyat Island’s coast to the private Saadiyat Beach Club. A day pass grants you access to this exclusive beach strip with all its facilities, including a pool, restaurants, and various lounge areas.
Manarat Al Saadiyat
Manarat Al Saadiyat is Saadiyat Island’s art, cultural activity, and community events centre. The centre’s calendar is always packed with free exhibitions and talks, as well as opportunities to create your own art.
For active sun-seekers, you can rent kayaks and windsurfing equipment on the beach.
Cultural District
Culture seekers can visit this pristine island for its gorgeous views of the sunset. Manarat Al Saadiyat and UAE Pavilion often exhibit works by world-renowned photographers, artists, and painters. This island also has a cultural center and three art galleries running all year long.
5. Qasr Al Watan
Qasr Al Watan is an incredible, new and unique landmark in the United Arab Emirates. Recently opened to the public, this Presidential Palace has quickly become a must-see attraction for anyone interested in the culture, history, and architecture of the UAE.
Explore the Palace
Tour the majestic halls and marvel at the intricate designs that reflect the rich heritage of the region. The palace is brimming with knowledge, offering the world a glimpse into the UAE’s governance and traditions.
Visit the Library
Qasr Al Watan’s library is a working public library with an impressive collection of books, periodicals, research articles, and rare manuscripts. It focuses on the UAE’s history, heritage, culture, social and political developments, and geography. Casual visitors are welcome to explore this treasure trove of information.
Guided Tours
Guided tours are available, as well as audio guides if you prefer to tour independently. These tours provide deeper insights into the significance of the palace and its various sections.
A visit to Qasr Al Watan is not just a tour; it’s an educational journey through the UAE’s past and present.
6. Ferrari World
Ferrari World is a must-visit for thrill seekers and car lovers. Located on Yas Island, it is the biggest indoor amusement park in the world. The park is home to the Formula Rossa, the world’s fastest roller coaster, and the Flying Aces Roller Coaster, which reaches speeds of 120 kilometers per hour on a 52-meter loop.
Attractions
- Formula Rossa: The world’s fastest roller coaster.
- Flying Aces Roller Coaster: Speed of 120 km/h on a 52-meter loop.
- Junior GT Track: Perfect for small children to test their driving skills.
- Ferrari Gallery: Showcases a unique collection of Ferrari car models dating back to 1947.
- Ferrari Factory Tour: A behind-the-scenes look at how Ferraris are made.
- Ferrari Knowledge Game Show: Test your Ferrari knowledge.
Dining and Shopping
Ferrari World is also known for hosting various events and has a number of top-notch eateries and restaurants. The grand shopping space offers a vast array of Ferrari products.
A trip to Ferrari World is an ideal spot for friends and family to hang out together. The location serves as a perfect blend of adventure and leisure.
7. Yas Island
Yas Island is one of Abu Dhabi’s top luxury hotel destinations, with stretches of sandy beach that are perfect for spending the day sunbathing. This area is also home to the Yas Marina Circuit, which is where Abu Dhabi’s Formula One racing takes place every year. Sun seekers should beeline straight to Yas Beach; and shoppers should head straight to Yas Mall, the city’s premier shopping destination. If the heat is grinding you down, head to Yas Waterworld which is a water theme park featuring over 40 rides.
Yas Beach
A surprisingly low-key corner of this high-tech island, Yas Beach is a lovely place to relax and enjoy the sea views, dabble in some water sports or simply unwind.
Yas Marina Circuit
Yas Marina Circuit is not just for racing enthusiasts. If you just want to walk, run, or cycle on the track, every Tuesday and Saturday night the circuit is opened up for anyone who wants to use the track for exercise, and entry is free.
Yas Mall
Yas Mall is the city’s premier shopping destination, offering a wide range of retail options, dining experiences, and entertainment facilities.
Yas Waterworld
Yas Waterworld is a water theme park featuring over 40 rides and attractions, making it a perfect spot for family fun and adventure.
8. Warner Bros World
VIP Experience
For a truly unforgettable visit, head off on a 5-hour guided experience with a VIP host. Gain unlimited immediate access to all attractions, bypassing the queues. Enjoy complimentary soft drinks and snacks throughout your visit.
Rides and Attractions
Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi features 29 rides, live interactive shows, and action-packed activities. Some must-try family-friendly rides include:
- The Flintstones Bedrock River Adventure
- Scooby-Doo: The Museum of Mysteries
- The Joker Funhouse
- Superman 360
Every division of Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi takes visitors on replicated experiences utilizing high-end technology such as virtual reality, robotics, and artificial intelligence.
Themed Zones
The park is designed with six themed zones:
- Bedrock
- Dynamite Gulch
- Metropolis
- Cartoon Junction
- Warner Bros. Plaza
- Gotham City
Each zone offers unique attractions and experiences, making it an exciting destination for all ages.
9. Yas Marina Circuit
One of the world’s most technologically innovative racing venues, the Yas Marina Circuit hosts Grand Prix and Formula 1 races. When the professionals aren’t burning rubber, visitors are welcome to test out the track. Here, you have your choice of racing a variety of vehicles, including go-karts, Mercedes-Benz vehicles, and even Aston Martins.
Experience the Thrill
- Race a variety of vehicles
- Go-karts, Mercedes-Benz, Aston Martins
Guided Tours
If you’re not all that interested in getting behind the wheel, you can explore the facility on a tour. Guides will take you all around the circuit, providing insights into its history and operations.
Travelers with a need for speed need only look to the Yas Marina Circuit for their fill of fast cars.
10. Qasr Al-Hosn
Qasr Al-Hosn is the oldest building in Abu Dhabi, built in the 18th century. This recently restored fort, also known as the Old Fort or the White Fort, offers a permanent exhibition that provides insights into the culture and history of Abu Dhabi through photographs and oral testimonies. In a city full of futuristic buildings, Qasr Al-Hosn strikes a beautiful contrast.
- Timings:
- Saturday-Thursday: 10am–9pm
- Friday: 2pm–10pm
- Price: 24 – 35 AED
- Location: Zayed The First Street, Abu Dhabi
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Conclusion
Abu Dhabi is a city that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, offering a diverse array of attractions that cater to all types of travelers. From the awe-inspiring architecture of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to the thrilling rides at Ferrari World, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun on Yas Island, explore the rich cultural heritage at Qasr Al Watan, or enjoy a serene kayak trip through the Eastern Mangroves, Abu Dhabi promises an unforgettable experience. Plan your stay with our list of top attractions and make the most of your visit to this dynamic and captivating destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Abu Dhabi?
The best time to visit Abu Dhabi is from November to March when the weather is cooler and more pleasant for outdoor activities.
Is there a dress code for visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque?
Yes, visitors to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque are required to dress modestly. Women must wear a headscarf and cover their arms and legs, while men should wear long pants and avoid sleeveless shirts.
How do I get to Saadiyat Island?
Saadiyat Island is easily accessible by car and taxi from Abu Dhabi city center. It is approximately a 15-minute drive from the city.
Are there any entrance fees for the Louvre Abu Dhabi?
Yes, there is an entrance fee for the Louvre Abu Dhabi. Ticket prices vary for adults, children, and families. It is recommended to check the official website for the most up-to-date pricing.
Can I take a guided tour of Qasr Al Watan?
Yes, guided tours are available at Qasr Al Watan. These tours provide in-depth information about the palace’s architecture, history, and cultural significance.
What are the operating hours for Ferrari World?
Ferrari World is typically open from 11 AM to 8 PM. However, operating hours can vary, so it is advisable to check the official website before planning your visit.
