About the author: Neha Singh is a postgraduate in Mass Communications, who loves everything about life. Traveling is extremely close to her heart and writing came to her naturally. An avid trekker & explorer, who often takes off some time from her busy life for mountaineering. She loves meeting new people & gets attached to their culture very easily. Her ambition is to explore as many places as she can in her life. She strongly believes in Gandhian principle – “simple living high thinking”.
The UAE’s capital city has a charm of its own, which caters to both well-planned and impromptu holidays. From enriching historical and cultural attractions to untouched mangroves and islands to astonishing contemporary sights and unparalleled leisure and shopping options. Abu Dhabi has something to satisfy every age and preference. If you are looking to plan a perfect itinerary for your upcoming holiday. Continue scrolling through this post on the top things to do in Abu Dhabi.
Start at Sheikh Zayed Mosque
It is primarily a must for those traveling to Abu Dhabi for the first time. Sheikh Zayed Mosque is fondly called the Grand Mosque. It is an Islamic architectural masterpiece that deftly fuses the elements of the religion’s diverse schools. It is so sprawling and captivating that a visit here is sure to treat your eyes.
The elegant, all-white structure is a sanctuary of peace. Where you can immerse yourself in its tranquility. Get lost in its striking hallways and prayer rooms. And be in awe at its attention-to-detail décor. Featuring 24-karat gold chandeliers studded with Swarovski crystal and the largest of its kind carpet (hand-knotted). With a capacity to accommodate up to 40,000 worshippers, the best thing is that it invites both Muslims and non-Muslims.
Reserve a Full Day for Fun and Thrill at Yas Island
Did you know that Abu Dhabi has an island exclusively created for amusement and entertainment? Head to Yas Island to experience it all! One of the definite visits for action-and-thrill-seekers is the first-of-its-kind Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, whose entire rides, games, and attractions are inspired by the iconic Ferrari automotive brand. Yas Waterworld is another attraction that this island is famous for, especially among enthusiasts of water rides and slides.
More enthralling attractions await you at CLYMB Abu Dhabi, with one of the tallest indoor climbing walls and the world’s largest indoor skydiving chamber. If you fancy driving a supercar, there is Yas Marina Circuit to make your wish come true. Joined by little ones? Let them enjoy the adult world and professions within the safe settings of KidZania Abu Dhabi.
Step into Louvre Abu Dhabi
It allows you to feel the art and culture in its entire grandeur! Formed out of a partnership between the UAE and French governments, it lives up to its name, being the only Louvre Museum outside of Paris. Glance into various cultures and civilizations representing diverse eras as you stroll around the themed galleries and classic artworks that occupy this 25,000-square-meter museum. Besides its celebrated exhibits, the museum shines for its breathtaking architecture (supported by the rain of light phenomenon) and strategic location on Saadiyat Island.
Visit Sir Bani Yas Island
If you didn’t imagine Abu Dhabi or the UAE as a wildlife destination, a day at Sir Bani Yas Island will change your perception. It boasts the Arabian Wildlife Park, with over 17,000 animals; they are mainly indigenous to the region, and all freely roam here. It makes it one of the Arabian world’s biggest wildlife reserves. See inhabitants as mighty and unique as Arabian oryx, cheetahs, gazelles, and hyenas, to name a few. You can have an up-close encounter with them on a 4×4 safari in a dedicated, safe vehicle. It is also a historic place, the abode of the remnants of a one-of-a-kind Christian monastery believed to have built in 600 AD.
Revisit the Emirati Past at Qasr Al Hosn
Abu Dhabi is more than just the country’s capital; it epitomizes Emirati history and remains a beacon of unity and knowledge. You can feel it for yourself as you enter Qasr Al Hosn, one of the region’s most historically significant structures. It was once the residence of the ruling family and the seat of the National Consultative Council. It got its present status as a museum recently, following extensive renovation works. Apart from a staggering collection of art and artifacts, you can see the House of Artisans, Bait Al Gahwa, and, mostly, the city’s oldest-of-its-kind structure here.
Go on an Abu Dhabi Desert Safari
No Abu Dhabi tours are complete without indulging in a desert safari. It is mostly a guided off-road excursion that leads you to the isolated but compelling Arabian sands, where the time stands still. Adventurists embark on this safari for its heart-racing dune bash session, while culture buffs are attracted to activities offering a glimpse into the fascinating Bedouin culture, such as camel rides, henna tattooing, falconry, and Shisha smoking. You can also look forward to feasting your senses with a BBQ dinner and live traditional shows (like belly dance and Tanura performances) on an evening or overnight desert safari (with camping facilities).
Experience Snow and Icy Winter in the Desert City
Do you wonder what to do in Abu Dhabi when summer peaks and the heat becomes intense? Simply drop into Snow Abu Dhabi within Reem Mall. True to its name, it allows for an unforgettable arctic retreat with tons of snow and a freezing temperature maintained at a constant -2 degrees Celsius. The 10,000-square-meter facility recreates an enchanted forest, featuring an array of rides that complement its unbeatable snowy ambiance. Enjoy the Polar Express Train ride, take to the Flight of the Snowy Owl, and climb Snow Hare’s Bunny Hill, among others. So be sure to get your Snow Abu Dhabi tickets, which include access to these rides, plus all accessories like boots, fleece gloves, and jackets.
Explore the Region’s First of its Kind Marina Life Theme Park
Abu Dhabi’s latest attraction on Yas Island, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, is no ordinary aquarium. It is the country’s first marine life theme park. Wander eight themed realms spread over 180,000 square meters and prepare for the enchanting moments at One Ocean, the biggest-of-its-kind aquarium, which shelters over 68,000 marine creatures in its 58-million-liter tank. You can hit the fantastic rides, meet live characters, admire 100-plus shows, and even check out the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Yas Island.
See the Best of Abu Dhabi on a Guided Tour
Abu Dhabi is the UAE’s largest emirate, with a lot of things to see and do. If you don’t want to miss its legendary sights and activities, it is always recommended to take a fully guided city tour. Such as a Big Bus Tour or a sightseeing excursion arranged by an expert service provider. Depending on your preferences, it mostly covers the city’s surefire sights with photo ops at the Abu Dhabi Corniche, Emirates Palace, Qasr Al Watan, and Yas Island. You can also consider going on a mangrove kayaking tour.
Escape to Al Ain
If sights around you become too touristy or you don’t know what to see in Abu Dhabi, make a beeline to Al Ain. It may be just a 90-kilometer drive from the city center. But it is a world away from its artificial sparkle and splendor. Rightly so, Al Ain is dubbed the UAE’s garden city, with its lush scenery and green parks (all around). Visit the Al Ain Oasis to learn about the region’s ancient falaj irrigation system. And see about 150,000 date palms and hundreds of plant species that thrive here. It also holds the distinction of being the country’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Conclusion
Whether you want to spend more time outdoors, curl up indoors, have a laidback getaway or even an adventure of a life. Abu Dhabi never fails to astound you, as it offers exciting and inspiring options in all categories. As we have made the hard task of compiling the best attractions and activities easier for you. Now it is your turn to add the above Abu Dhabi experiences to your itinerary and tick them off.
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