Written By Arabiers Digital & Reviewed by Robeena Brown
13 Novbmber 2024 | 13 min read
Many would wonder what attracts them to Abu Dhabi. In simple terms, the mix of cultural splendour, fascinatingly diverse landscapes, museums, superb architecture, inviting cuisines, and welcoming residents make Abu Dhabi a much-loved destination.
Its unhurried living style, where people greet, chat, and care for each other, will also impress. Abu Dhabi is a place where visitors feel safe. Even walking around late at night causes no tension.
Abu Dhabi is the largest emirate in the UAE and spread over 67,340 sq km. It is home to the Rub al Khali (Empty Quarter), the world’s largest continuous sand desert that is 3 hours’ drive from the city. Then, rugged mountains, a 700 km-long coastline, and nearly 200 islands are offering diverse experiences for a fulfilling itinerary.
There are sites for all tastes: Abu Dhabi has museums, shopping malls, skyscrapers, theme parks, and mangroves, and the emirate is home to Al Ain, where fortresses, oases, ancient tombs, and mountains offer a classic glimpse of the UAE. If you are pining for an enriching tour that adds varied layers of experience, then Abu Dhabi is for you.
To visit Abu Dhabi, the most recommended period is from November to early April. The winter season transforms Abu Dhabi into a most happening place, with fun and cheer as so many exciting events and culturally enriching places welcome visitors.
There are plenty of seasonal outdoor events and many sunshine hours to enjoy with pleasant weather. January has the coolest time, and the average temperature starts rising in February. The coolest daily high can hit a pleasant 23°C, and the night temperature will be somewhere around 18°C.
The arrival of winter is conveyed when the Park Market returns to Umm Al Emarat Park and Flag Day event festivities. The Dhabi Grand Prix and the much-awaited National Day celebrations in early December. The busy winter festivities period and spectacular New Year’s celebrations follow. The hot weather conditions set in by April.
There are lots of things to explore and enjoy in Abu Dhabi. They can be classified as belonging to various categories such as nature, wild life, amusement, leisure moments, fine dining, adventure, nightlife, shopping, cultural quest, etc.
Heritage Village is the perfect destination for those who want to experience a slice of traditional UAE life. The village has shops and markets, wildlife, pottery lessons with artisans making authentic pieces on site, and glass-blown objects made by the locals. The public workshops educate visitors on traditional crafts like metalwork, pottery, weaving, etc. It is at Al Alam Road near Marina Mall.
Here you can immerse in the desert beauty and explore Al Ain city nearby. Covering one million square meters (10 thousand acres), the oasis can be reached from Abu Dhabi City Center after a 90-minute drive. Entry is free, and visitors can get up close with things such as a traditional falaj and the ancient irrigation systems still in use for the local grasslands, date palms, and fruit trees.
Experience the fossil dunes in Abu Dhabi. These amazing natural structures are breathtaking and a mix of nature’s natural elements. These unique sculptures appearing in a regular series are made up of encrusted sand deposits moulded by the wind over time. It is some 70 km south of Abu Dhabi beyond Mohammed Bin Zayed City on Al Ain Truck Road. The ideal time for a visit is October to February.
Make a trip t into the Al Wathba region. The ‘lakes’ one on either side show big emerald pools encapsulated with snow-white salt crust banks make you feel as if you are watching a view on Mars. The mystery is created by the large, dense salt pad features used as stepping stones throughout the channel. To enjoy the beauty in all its forms, visit the place at Sunrise.
Once a coastal salt flat, Al Wathba Wetland Reserve has evolved into a mix of natural and man-made lakes that make local species thrive. The reserve is protected by law. Housing hundreds of birds, 37 plant species, and a wide range of sea life, the wetland attracts thousands of visitors. You can see thousands of flamingos in the reserve during autumn and spring. Take the walking trails for strolls and admire the fauna and flora with birdwatching. The best time to visit the place is the September to November and March to May windows.
Spread on 3,000 hectares southwest of Abu Dhabi, Al Hudayriat Island boasts an extensive list of amenities for visitors. Both nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts will love this spot. The island has a large, sweeping bridge connecting to the mainland. The free public beach has parasols and loungers to soak up the striking beauty. The best sporting facilities are also provided, such as tennis courts, basketball courts, padel courts, football pitches, athletic tracks, high ropes park cycling tracks, skate park, BMX park, and the OCR park.
Go to Yas Bay Waterfront for high-end sightseeing opportunities for activities that entertain and indulge in your delicious food and refreshing drinks. Night is the best time for the place when the waterfront promenade is lit up with super glitz and glam. The experience of the best restaurants, beach clubs, the Hilton Hotel, and Yas Creative Hub make this island part one of the most exciting spots in the UAE.
Soul Beach is the latest lovely addition to Saadiyat Island and a great place to see in Abu Dhabi. It is at the Louvre Abu Dhabi, offering easy shopping and dining out while listening to music at one of Berklee’s stages.
9. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque:
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the popular places to visit in Abu Dhabi. As one of the largest mosques, it is a must-see in Abu Dhabi. The Founder of the UAE, ‘Abdul’ Aziz bin Sultan Al-Nahyan, established this grand mosque. The stellar attractions of the structure include the edifice of Qutr al-Marah, amethyst and jasper embedded columns, and 82 white marble domes with reflective pools underneath. Visitors have to follow a dress code during the visit.
At this super tourist attraction in Abu Dhabi, you will see the iconic Emirates Palace offering luxurious experience right from the moment they arrive. Positioned at a private white sand beach, the palace welcomes all with open arms into its world of indulgence. The lobbies and exhibitions of this glam hotel are free to visit. But the gardens and the private beach are restricted to guests of the hotel.
Abu Dhabi’s famous Corniche Beach is a great tourist spot and one of the best places to soak up the city’s sunshine. Turquoise water and soft white sand are its charm, plus an elegant seaside boardwalk covers the entire stretch of the promenade. The boardwalk is linked to manicured gardens with beautiful flowers along with gorgeous views of the picturesque Arabian Gulf coastline. Try the Al Sahil Gate for singles as well as groups.
In the desert safari, guests can visit most exotic animals; drive 2–4-seater sand buggies around a designated area of the desert. You can take turns to ride around with family or friends or even do a race. Some make shift stalls or shops around the camel and buggy area will help buy some traditional gifts too.
13. Mangroves Jubail Board Walk:
Explore Abu Dhabi’s beautiful Jubail Mangrove Park walking trails as a refreshing escape from city life, offering and delighting at the lush greenery and tranquil sounds of the swirling tides. The pathways wind through the mangroves, allowing visitors to explore the natural landscape and wildlife in the waterways below. It is open from 8 a.m. to 6.30 p.m. daily.
Qasr Al Watan is more than a palace but an interactive journey offering the opportunity to learn about Abu Dhabi and UAE culture through history from local and international perspectives. It explains how governance works on every level in the Emirate, including protocols for meeting with dignitaries. The spectacular building’s arabesque design and architecture will hold all in awe. Qasar Al Watan also offers visitors a palace-in-motion experience with a light and sound show.
Pixoul has a lovely gaming complex that combines world-class eSports and virtual reality games. The captivating neon-illuminated chambers of Pixoul wow you with the gaming universe, offering immersive equipment, VR adventures, and stunning visual spectacle throughout the visit. Located in the newly developed Al Qana, Pixoul is the region’s inaugural certified eSports academy, emphasizing responsible gaming.
Reem Mall in Abu Dhabi has Snow fun as the indoor park recreates sub-zero temperatures for visitors to enjoy. The vast facility is situated on the mall’s second level and is run by Majid Al Futtaim, the known managing Ski Dubai at the Mall of the Emirates. It offers an array of 20 rides and attractions, with a number of dining outlets in tow. Guests have to wear winter attire while going inside the park to bear the chilly -2°C temperature. There are distinct sections for various experiences, housing the captivating Crystal Carousel, and the Polar Express Train rides. There are so many daily entertainments shows too.
Head to the newly opened marine theme park, Sea World, and explore captivating interactive experiences of more than 15 types plus rides. Remarkable animal experiences and up-close interactions will immerse you in the world of more than 20 lively characters and performances. There are at least 17 dining options on site and many roaming entertainments in each themed area. Close to the Marine Park is Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue, aiming for local and worldwide conservation initiatives.
The Emirates National Auto Museum is a great experience and home to over 200 vehicles owned by His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan. The collections also comprise off-road trucks and classic American cars, as well as many unique vehicles. Emirates National Auto Museum is located about 45-minutes’ drive from central Abu Dhabi but could be combined with a trip to the Salt Lakes nearby.
19. Prison Island Abu Dhabi Mall:
Experience the exotic thrills of adventure at Prison Island in the Abu Dhabi mall, where teams like families, couples, and friends work together to solve tricky challenges with mind games. The indoor adventure center poses 26 challenges, testing brainpower as you solve the mysteries and challenges. The rewards will be in coveted points.
Located on Saadiyat Island, the cultural district of Abu Dhabi Louvre Abu Dhabi is a cultural wonder in association with the famous Louvre in Paris. The world-class museum will transport you to a futuristic landscape where visitors will view masterpieces from around the globe. There is stunning architecture and captivating artwork on display in galleries spanning centuries. Constructed over parts of the sea, the center can also be explored in a kayak.
Warner Bros. World on Yas Island is a must-see item for a fun-filled day with the whole family. It is a rare world of excitement where you can experience 29 state-of-the-art exhilarating rides and interactive attractions that will make a never-ending entertainment thrill lasting many hours. Thus, you will be seamlessly transported into childhood favourite lands like Gotham City, Bedrock, Cartoon Junction, and Metropolis. The themed rides include Fast and Furry-ous, Tom and Jerry Swiss Cheese Spin, and Scooby-Doo Museum of Mysteries.
Housing over 4,000 animals. The Al Ain Zoo lets you see them up close, like the giraffe feeding experience in transparent enclosures. You can also explore the park on foot or by train, and the breathtaking experience peaks as you see animals come into full view during feeding time.
Velocity Slide is a huge thrill you can experience as you wander through the World Trade Center Mall. There are offers to accommodate larger groups and bespoke packages for special occasions such as weddings or birthdays. You can have options in the 68-meter and 54-meter slides gaining speeds of up to 2–3 mph. The transparent venues at this megastructure will make everyone see the super slide while zooming down 4 floors at rocket speed. This is popular among the kids and adults scouting for fun and thrills in the mall.
This is one of the oldest parks in Abu Dhabi. Called Mushrif Park, it has seen extensive renovations, and new structures like Shade House in partnership with Emirates Park Zoo are attracting lots of visitors. This structure houses plants grown under artificial sunlight and includes two upper-level decks with picturesque views. Amphitheatre, children’s garden, botanical garden, animal barn and petting zoo, and wisdom garden are other attractions.
The Sports Resort offers a range of fun activities for all ages, including toddlers and teens. Here, sports enthusiasts will find a huge choice of activities. Covering an area of 1.6 square kilometers with a range of sports activities, restaurants, and club facilities, it is a hub of world-standard facilities for shooting, equestrian pursuits, motorsports, wakeboarding, water skiing, and archery. You can see padel courts, karate studios, football pitches, tennis courts, basketball courts, a 25-meter swimming pool, and more. Those interested in sports and fitness will find this place very interesting.
Skydiving is a thrill beyond words and is different from any other experience. The excitement that comes with skydiving is unmatched, especially when surrounded by beautiful blue skies on an adventurous journey into unknown territory!
Parasailing is best for families or couples who want to enjoy stunning cityscape views from up high. Visitors can enjoy the rush of adrenaline as they soar through the air. It is safe for the enthusiasts as experienced instructors provide full guidance and care as they enjoy every moment of this one-of-a-kind experience.
It is high on the bucket list of things to do in Abu Dhabi; be it an exhilarating waterslide or some family time together, this water park is amazing with its wider options. Enjoy the sunshine, and rush down water slides and eran the sun-kissed happy glow day splashing up a storm. It is one of the city’s most incredible attractions. It is just a 20-minute drive from Abu Dhabi city, with an area covering 15 football pitches. The waterpark has an Emirati theme and is based on a young local girl who goes on a quest searching for a legendary pearl. Visitors have so many dining options at Chubby’s Kitchen, Dana’s Diner, Salma’s Snack Shack etc.
For non-stop, heart-racing fun, look no further. Visit Ferrari World, home to over 40 record-breaking attractions and coasters will make anyone’s head spin. Riders must wear a pair of goggles to protect the eyes when riding at high speeds. Riders can expect a surge of 4.8 Gs, and the train blasts to a speed of 240 km/h in just 4.9 seconds. Others include the Flying Aces with the highest loop in the world, and Turbo Track shoots riders up through the roof of the theme park before a zero-gravity fall back down in reverse.
You too will agree that the Eastern Mangrove National Park is an absolute must-see for a nature lover where multispecies birds, inhabit and a vibrant ecosystem of wildlife and food sources thrive. Visitors can watch marine mammals as well as turtles living in the mangroves’ waters. Paddle south on one of the kayaks at the park and be mesmerized by the beauty of this mangrove, offering too many photo opportunities.
Survey the fabulous Eastern Mangroves with a boat trip. This takes visitors through the national park and lets them closely examine the plant life and sea life and creatures lurking around the water. The mangroves regulate water levels in coastal areas capturing sediments from water channels using deep roots. The boat ride will be hilarious with all the amenities in place including areas to freshen up and changing plus new towels.
More than shopping, you can call it a cultural experience. Not only international brands, but high-end luxury boutiques, also adorn it. Then there are amazing cafes and restaurants, roof-top parks, and indoor entertainment facilities. The rooftop lounges provide views of both the skyline and the desert sunset to the waterside cafes and restaurants overlooking the bay.
It offers a completely different shopping experience. The high-end gold souq and fabrics outlets are a treasure trove for bargains while shopping for souvenirs.
Yas Mall is UAE’s second-largest shopping center, where 360 stores and 60 restaurants are open. There are amenities suiting all ages, from international retailers like H&M, Gucci to local cuisine major under one roof.
This fascinating, unique waterfront development is more than an architectural marvel but a hot spot for the best foodies. It is very popular with locals for an evening promenade and to indulge in the modern Emirati atmosphere.
Do not miss Abu Dhabi’s bendy tower, Capital Gate. The engineering marvel has been conceptualized on a theme of desert whirlwind and houses the famous Andaz Hotel. Having some good moments with friends and drinks at the 18th-floor terrace is highly recommended to experience this incredible building and its tremendous views
There is a great experience to etch the Emirati memories in your mind. Watching the sunset over the Arabian Gulf will also show the changes along side-- water turning from a deep blue to a rich golden hue and the sky in pink and orange also making a great transformation.
You can choose Corniche as one of the most popular spots to watch the sunset. Another great option for families is Yas Island Beach with its shallow, calm waters for swimming and splashing around.
Abu Dhabi is synonymous with luxury and opulence, and this is reflected in its brunch scene as well. Families can enjoy a leisurely meal at high-end restaurants that offer lavish buffet spreads with everything from seafood to French dish foie gras.
Brunch in Abu Dhabi is also a great occasion for socializing and enjoying the company of friends. If there is a modest budget, the Aquarium on Yas Island offers a seafood brunch from 1 pm to 5 pm with unlimited fresh fish with many options for vegetarians too.
Cafe Arabia offers you the best caffeine fix, bold or sweet. The diverse menu offers world-famous lattes, and even non-coffee drinkers love that ambiance. The craving for an ethnic touch in coffee will be answered by this popular café. Those seeking hot drinks in wintertime, warm cups of frothy cappuccinos are readily available. There are too many options, including Spanish coffee with condensed milk, plus so many exotic flavors including coconut matcha tea.
The Art House Cafe in Abu Dhabi is too colorful. This creative haven in the middle of the old city has welcoming sculptures that draw guests to the creative shop where coffee enthusiasts rejoice with Turkish coffees, espressos, and macchiatos.
Located in Marina Mall, Bounce Abu Dhabi is a must-visit place for airborne adventures including manoeuvres, slam-dunking, wall running, and dodgeball warfare. The facility has hundreds of intertwined trampolines housed in huge, vibrant spaces set by circus-grade sponge, giant airbags, and springs. In Bounce style, a zip line with a dorsal harness will make you do a Superman-style sprint. Try out Quick Drop and Infinity Wall if you love wall running. There are also party rooms to have fervour of birthdays and parties. The indoor adrenaline paradise is best for family outings and makes kids giggle, enjoy play, and mirth while enjoying fun in a safe environment.
A camel trek ought to be an essential experience in the Abu Dhabi schedule. From the hotel, go to the golden desert, awaiting thrill moments. Climb onto the camel for a wonderful 30-minute trek. Do not forget to enjoy the golden sands and touch of the cool desert breeze. Wind up the trek with nice snacks and beverages before heading back to the hotel.
This fort houses the oldest stone building in Abu Dhabi. As Abu Dhabi evolved fast, a peek into the premises of Qasr AlHosn will be educative to get an idea of what Abu Dhabi looked like in the past. So, it is a living narrator of Abu Dhabi’s history. The larger historic complex also houses the National Consultative Council building and the Cultural Foundation.
If you are visiting Abu Dhabi for the first time, then visiting the highest vantage point in the city called the Observation Deck at 300 must be a ritual-like thing with urgency. Located on the 74th floor of the Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, the deck offers prime views of the city, including the landmark Emirates Palace, Qasr Al Watan, and the colorful skyline.
In this vibrant creative space at Saadiyat Island, there are live shows of artists, including exhibitions like the Emirati Comics Exhibition, featuring illustrated characters from Gulf culture, and other themes. You can catch a live concert here. There are superb live performances to watch and common on the weekends. From morning 10am to 8pm, it is a hectic place with activities and visitors.
The spectacular artwork featuring the 3D portrait of the late Sheikh Zayed at the Corniche calls for a close visit. At the Founder’s Memorial, you can view the constellation very closely and also enjoy a stroll on the sanctuary and heritage garden. The ingenious architectural brilliance and its aesthetic appeal will be greatly appealing.
If you want to taste variety food, then go and enjoy the booming food trucks at Hudayriat Island. Hop from truck to truck and grab your favourite burgers, snacks, and ice creams. No foodie should miss this and add it as a priority in the list of best things to do in Abu Dhabi.
Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Island campus has a nice art gallery where numerous exhibitions are hosted. Museum exhibitions at the main gallery and other projects in the project space offer a good choice. It attracts big crowds in the winter months, and GCC artists also hold exhibitions here.
This is a super play center for kids in the age group of one to 12 years. Fun City is a great platform for children in hastening social interactions and honing playing skills in a safe and secure location. Fun City beckons all with the motto Come and Play. It is in level 3, Abu Dhabi Mall.
Two days will be sufficient to experience the highlights of Abu Dhabi. However, some may find the schedule excessively busy.
A whole-day guided tour around the city's main attractions, including the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Corniche, and the Heritage Village, will give a vibrant overview. Ideally, a third day may help you relax at a beach club or heritage sites like Al Ain with its fortresses, and oases.
The famous thing about Abu Dhabi is undoubtedly the Corniche. The iconic 8-km stretch of waterfront is a visitor’s paradise where you can bike and stroll along manicured paths and indulge in various beach activities. Here you can enjoy the calm waters built around an artificial shoreline facing the capital city’s skyline. During festive times such as Eid and New Year, spectacular fireworks will be another attraction.
It depends on the personal taste of the visitor. There are lots of ways to enjoy the time in Abu Dhabi. They can include visiting theme parks, shopping, or exploring the outdoors. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is a top-notch theme park, or World Abu Dhabi to explore.
You can go on a shopping binge at the popular Marina Mall, Yas Mall, Souq Al Qattara, or Galleria Al Maryah Island.
Among the outdoor actions are desert driving on the self-drive trails, kayaking in the Eastern Mangroves District during sun set, or heading to Louvre Abu Dhabi.
With smart planning, the Abu Dhabi tour can be made budget-friendly. The best way is to choose the shoulder season for your Abu Dhabi tour precisely from March to April or September to October.
You can leverage the manageable weather, limited crowds, and modest hotel rates to tour the city within rational costs.
There are many ways to save costs; free visits are open at many cultural and natural landmarks, and you can also look for deals and discounts in theme parks and beach clubs.
A night safari at Al Ain Zoo is an option where so many animals, including Arabian wolves and birds, can be watched. The zoo has a special nighttime safari where you can spot African wildlife animals, including White Rhino, Giraffe, and African Lion. The safari time is around 7pm, and separate packages are open for those who want to experience Dinner with lions.
At the Arabian Nights Village, you can spend a night watching stars in the traditional Arabic atmosphere amidst desert dunes. Enjoy the Emirati Camel Farm and dip into a traditional feast with the cuisine that will be taking you on a trip through time. Wind up the special night with a coffee in hand, around a fire pit.
You can catch the UAE’s best comedian show with Abu Dhabi’s Yalla Laughs. The popular events are available at many venues in the city, making even the serious guys laugh until their sides hurt.
Explore museums, parks, natural wonders, and the city’s most popular landmarks free of charge. Travel to hotspots for free and take the Visit Abu Dhabi shuttle bus for free rides.
Entry to cultural places under knowledgeable Emirati guides is free of charge. Seek fitness tips at Hudayriyat Island, where fitness enthusiasts work out and cycle down the tracks or play hard
tennis. Hudayriyat Island caters to a diverse range of sports activists with state-of-the art facilities.
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