14 Best Things to do in Abu Dhabi

The capital of the UAE (United Arab Emirates), Abu Dhabi, is a perfect mix of tradition, culture, and modernity, with ancient forts and heritage villages on one side and vibrant rooftop bars and world-class theme parks on the other.

Abu Dhabi things to do include tasting authentic Gulf cuisines such as Besbas Yemeni Mandi, hopping around rooftop bars, relaxing on the beach, catching a bird’s eye view of the city from the observation deck at Etihad Towers, going on a shopping spree while exploring the malls, and indulging in thrilling sports like whitewater rafting.

From kayaking trips in the Eastern mangrove to dune bashing in the Liwa oasis or exploring the heritage Village to enjoying a rejuvenating spa session in a luxurious resort, there are plenty of things to do in Abu Dhabi.Let us look at a few of them.

1) Be in Awe of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the UAE, is a marvel of modern Islamic architecture built by Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan in remembrance of his father.

This majestic mosque, with white marble cladding, featuring 82 domes and 96 columns, houses beautiful chandeliers studded with Swarovski crystals. The world’s largest loomed carpet, completed in two years by about 1200 workers, is a prominent element of the mosque.

2) Enjoy Thrilling Rides at Ferrari World

Ferrari World, the first themed park based on Ferrari cars, offers adrenaline pumping experience to its visitors. Nestled under a red roof, the park houses two world-famous rides – The Flying Aces (the highest roller coaster) and Formula Rossa (the world’s fastest roller coaster).

Apart from the exhilarating Ferrari-themed attractions, guests can also explore the state-of-the-art simulators and electric go-karts, see live performances, and purchase authentic Ferrari souvenirs. Purchase Ferrari World tickets in advance to ensure a fun-filled day.

3) Warner Bros. World, Abu Dhabi

Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi is an indoor amusement park with 29 rides, food and shopping outlets, and live interactive events.

The park’s six themed zones – Dynamite Gulch, Bedrock, Metropolis, Warner Bros. Plaza, Cartoon Junction, and Gotham City offer immersive experiences that replicate the atmosphere from popular cartoon characters such as Tom and Jerry, The Looney Tunes Show, and Batman, where you get a chance to ride on a bat mobile.

4) Experience Formula 1 Racing at Yas Marina Circuit

Race with your family and friends and get your heart rate pumping as you experience the kart rushing at high speed through the track. The track has a great layout, with 21 corners and twists, throwing exciting challenges to Formula 1 riders. Held at Yas Marina Circuit, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is a once-in-a-lifetime experience where you can don the racing overalls and zoom off along the 2.4 km South Circuit.

5) Spend an Evening at the Emirates Palace

The Emirates Palace is an ultra-luxurious hotel spanning an area of 85 hectares. Each room furnished with the highest level of comfort provides stunning views, 24-hour butler service, eight dining venues serving a variety of cuisine by world-renowned chefs, a lavish spa, a kids club, two temperature-controlled swimming pools, landscaped gardens, and a private marina. This grand structure redefines royalty showcasing Arabian hospitality at its best.

6) Admire the Art Collections at the Louvre Museum

The Louvre Museum opened in 2017 in the Saadiyat Island Cultural District, is a must-visit destination for culture, architecture, and art enthusiasts visiting Abu Dhabi to discover its many facets.

The museum has an impressive web-patterned dome, surrounded by water, spread across an area of 24,000 square meters, with 8,000 square meters devoted exclusively to galleries dedicated to the diversity of art on display, from ancient Egyptian art items to paintings by Picasso and other notable artists of today.

7) Abu Dhabi Desert Safari Tour

One of the best experiences in Abu Dhabi is the Al Khatim desert safari on the 4X4 land cruiser. This forty-five minutes’ drive takes you across the beautiful dunes where you can enjoy the thrill of desert activities like camel riding, sand boarding, dune bashing, quad biking, etc.

Camping in the middle of the desert, watching belly dancing performances by artists, and enjoying a scrumptious Arabic barbeque dinner are like a cherry on the cake. If you want to find best safaris, you can check the desert safari abu dhabi packages here.

8) See the City from the Waters on a Dhow Cruise

Dhows are well-equipped traditional wooden boats once used by fishermen to hunt pearls and fish. Enjoy the vibrant sights, lovely atmosphere, delicious dinner comprising a buffet spread of Continental, Arabic, and Indian cuisine, and live music and performances by Tanoura dance and belly dance artists as you cruise along the waters crossing all the famous landmarks of the city.

9) Cool off at Yas Water World

Yas Waterworld, an incredible water theme park in Abu Dhabi, providing refuge from the blistering heat of Abu Dhabi with over 40 rides, slides, and attractions for an ultimate adrenaline rush is one of the best things to do in Abu Dhabi. It is a delightful destination for travelers visiting with their families.

Some noteworthy attractions include Bubbles Barrel, Rush Rider, Cannon Point, and Tot’s Playground. Moreover, one of the suggested activities in Abu Dhabi is to visit Cineflash, the world’s first water cinema in the Gulf.

10) Emirates Park Zoo

At the Emirates Park Zoo in Abu Dhabi, visitors can encounter beautiful wildlife. Guests can indulge in fun activities such as having breakfast with parrots and giraffes and lunch with leopards. An opportunity to share your dining table with an unchained leopard provides adventure seekers with an adrenaline rush.

The entire session is monitored by park officials and rangers, allowing you to experience the thrill and take photos without being terrified by the ferocious beast.

11) Emirates National Auto Museum

The Emirates National Auto Museum, built inside a pyramid-shaped edifice, is a museum dedicated to Sheikh Hamad Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan’s collection of two hundred automobiles. The museum houses a wide range of vehicles, from off-road vehicles and customized cars to military vehicles and trucks. The Sheikh’s Mercedes Rainbow collection is the museum’s most prominent attraction.

12) Soak up the Sun at The Corniche

The Corniche, a five-mile stretch of waterfront promenade dotted with white beaches, art installations, playgrounds, landscaped gardens, five-star restaurants, and high-end cafes, is a must-visit. People flock during the sunset to see the sky turn orange over the emerald waters. Corniche Public Beach is a newly developed stretch of beach awarded the ‘blue flag’ status.

13) Explore the Heritage Village

Visit the Heritage Village to catch a glimpse of the typical Emirati life of the people before the oil boom. The village complex houses a souq for goat trading, a fort, and a mosque. Learn about the history of Arab traditions with attractions, including a spice shop, pottery, carpet weaving, metal workshops, a goat’s hair tent, a campfire with coffee pots, and a falaj irrigation system.

14) Ride the Marina Eye Ferris Wheel

A ride on The Marina Eye, a giant Ferris wheel, provides stunning views of Abu Dhabi city and the sparkling blue waters of the Gulf waters. The ride is enjoyed in air-conditioned glass capsules that touch a height of 60 meters. There are 42 capsules, and each capsule can accommodate around eight persons. Listen to a guided live commentary explaining the famous landmarks visible from inside the capsule.

The attractions of Abu Dhabi offer never-ending fun, catering to all age groups. Select a well-planned tour package to explore the city of Abu Dhabi for the memorable experience of a lifetime.

What More You Can Do in Abu Dhabi?

1) Visit Yas Island

Yas Island, a 25 sq. km paradise packed with entertainment and leisure experiences, is one of the top places to visit in Abu Dhabi. Enjoy the magic of Yas Island with its four award-winning theme parks, an array of incredible attractions, Abu Dhabi’s largest mall – Yas Mall, over 165 superb dining options, 10 world-class hotels, breathtaking golf courses, indoor and outdoor concert venues and a year-round calendar of exciting events. From the moment you set foot on Yas Island, you won’t have a single second to spare.

2) Lounge on Saadiyat Island’s Pristine Beaches

Nothing says vacation like unwinding on a beautiful beach, and Saadiyat Island is home to the best beaches in Abu Dhabi. Experience the bliss of expansive stretches of soft, white sand, sparkling azure waters, and breathtaking vistas that will leave you in awe. Golf lovers can also tee off to their hearts’ desire at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, while nature enthusiasts can take in a few sightings of Hawksbill turtles and Arabian gazelles roaming freely along the shoreline.

3) Discover the UAE’s Rich Legacy at Qasr Al Watan

Immerse yourself in the UAE’s rich heritage at Qasr Al Watan, one of the most iconic palaces in Abu Dhabi. This architectural masterpiece reflects the best of Arabian craftsmanship. Within it, you’ll find the Qasr Al Watan Library, where you can explore a vast collection of books, manuscripts and more to learn about the country’s history. An absolute must-see on your visit is the Palace In Motion event—a light and sound show that unfolds the UAE’s journey in three breathtaking acts.

4) Conquer New Heights at CLYMB Abu Dhabi

Push your boundaries at CLYMB on Yas Island, the Guinness World Records holder for the highest indoor skydiving flight chamber (32 ft wide, 104 ft high). It also houses the region’s tallest climbing wall, standing at an impressive 138 feet. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced adventurer, you’re in for an action-packed day as you float in mid-air one moment and challenge your climbing skills the next. Make sure not to miss out on CLYMB’s discounts and skydiving offers.

5) Dive into the Marine World at SeaWorld Abu Dhabi

On to the latest and most exciting addition to Yas Island’s thrilling theme parks: SeaWorld Abu Dhabi. Explore eight majestic realms that take you on a journey from the tropics to the icy Antarctic. Here, you can view over 100,000 marine creatures, discover 35 interactive experiences and rides, enjoy live performances by beloved characters, indulge in delicious dining options and shop at 13 retail outlets. Remember to snag a Seaworld annual pass for unlimited access all year round.

Read Also: 

Unforgettable Abu Dhabi City Tour Adventure

How To Add Some Romance To Your Travel Plan

Know About the Different Desert Safari Dubai Mysteries