The top things to do in Abu Dhabi include visiting cultural attractions, having fun at the amusement parks, and admiring the natural beauty of the emirate. Here are some of the best things to do in Abu Dhabi.
Abu Dhabi – the capital of the United Arab Emirates – was once the second choice for people visiting the country. Most tourists planned a one-day trip to Abu Dhabi, during their holiday in Dubai, which is located just two hours away from the capital. But over the years, Abu Dhabi has been able to stand up on its own as a popular tourist destination. Right from cultural landmarks to architectural marvels and entertainment avenues, you will find several interesting things to see and do in Abu Dhabi. Moreover, the capital has tried its best to protect and preserve its natural habitats, giving you the chance to enjoy the natural landscapes of this emirate. Here are some of the best things to do in Abu Dhabi.
Embrace Thrill and Adventure at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
A part of Abu Dhabi’s leisure and entertainment island, Yas Island, Ferrari World is an indoor theme park, inspired by Formula One. Spanning 86,000 square meters, Ferrari World is home to over 25 thrilling rides, each known for its amazing heart-racing speed and unexpected twists, turns, and loops. The park is divided into several zones, including The Welcome Plaza, Racing Zone, Italian Zone, and Adventure Zone. The star attraction here is undoubtedly the Formula Rossa, the world’s fastest rollercoaster, running at the speed of 240 km/hour. Mission Ferrari, Turbo Track, Turbo Tower, Flying Aces, Fiorani FT Challenge, Flying Wings, etc., are some of the rides you will enjoy here once you get your Ferrari World tickets.
Soak in World Culture and Art at Louvre Abu Dhabi
The name ‘Louvre’ has a certain standard and reputation, and Louvre Abu Dhabi has been able to conserve them. Located within Saadiyat Island’s Saadiyat Cultural District, Louvre Abu Dubai exhibits art and artifacts of cultural, sociological, and historical importance, right from the ancient times to the modern times. Spread around an area of 9200 square meters, the museum has a vast collection of exhibits, with few renowned works loaned from prestigious museums of France like Louvre Paris, Centre Pompidou, and Musee d’Orsay. While the museum exhibits are phenomenal, the architecture of Louvre Abu Dhabi is worth the visit as well. Surrounded by water with a silvery dome adorning its top, you can spend a few hours admiring the amazing architecture of the place.
See, Meet, and Interact with Animals at Emirates Park Zoo
If you are visiting Abu Dhabi with children, merely sightseeing would not be enough. One of the best things to do here is visit the Emirates Park Zoo. A short drive from Yas Island would take you to this zoo, which is home to more than 1500 animals, including wild animals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and more. The zoo has around 200 species of animals, including several endangered ones. The African Lion, Amur Tiger, Indian Elephant, Jaguar, Marmoset, Squirrel Monkey, Zebra, Giraffe, Hippopotamus, etc., are some of the popular animals you can see here. You can also enjoy some special experiences like Breakfast with Giraffe, Dinner with Elephants, Lunch with Big Cats, and Breakfast with Sea Lion here.
Walk Through the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
If you need to pinpoint one most important cultural landmark in Abu Dhabi, it must be the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. This is also the reason why it is a part of most Abu Dhabi tours. This massive, yet elegant structure made entirely with white Italian marble, is the largest mosque in the UAE. It has the capacity to hold more than 40,000 worshippers at a time. This is also one of the few mosques where non-Muslims can enter. Apart from its size, several other things add to the beauty and specialty of the Grand Mosque. The structure is made of 82 domes and more than 1000 columns with intricate designs. Large crystal chandeliers hang up from the ceiling, while the floor of the mosque is adorned by the largest handmade carpet in the world. Gold panels, precious jewels, and glittering pools are some of the other special features of this mosque.
Splash with Your Loved Ones at Yas Waterworld
Yas Waterworld is another popular gem located on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island. The waterpark has an Emirati theme and has more than 45 rides, slides, and attractions. The place has something for everyone, right from the fun and water loving toddlers to adventure loving adults. From speeding down the long and windy slides to surfing in the surfing pools and from getting drenched in the artificial rain to floating in the lazy rivers, there is so much to do here. A few of the popular slides and attractions here are Yadi Yas, Liwa Loop, Dawwama, Slither’s Slides, Jebel Drop, Bandit Bomber, Water Wars, etc. If you are looking for something more special, you can also enjoy a pearl diving experience here.
Learn about the Emirati Culture and Heritage at Abu Dhabi Heritage Village
Wouldn’t it be cool to know how the Emirates looked before the discovery of oil? If you agree with us, head straight to Abu Dhabi Heritage Village, where you will get first-hand experience of UAE’s rich history, traditional culture, and heritage. An entire Bedouin-style village has been reconstructed here, complete with an ancient fort, palm-leaf houses, stone huts, souks, Bedouin tents, an ox-drawn well, falaj or the ancient irrigation system, and more. As you walk through the village, you will get a glimpse of life in the older times. You will also get to see artisans practicing their specialized skills like pottery, tannery, glassblowing, and more. Do not forget to visit the souk, where you can buy herbs, spices, and dates.
Explore the Mangrove National Park
If after all the sightseeing and adventure you want to relax in a serene place, the Mangrove National Park is the one for you. Covering an area of 19 square kilometers, the Mangrove National Park includes almost 75% of the UAE’s total mangrove forest area. Mangroves play an important role in the ecosystem, as it prevents tidal surges and boosts biodiversity. You will see the presence of a huge number of fishes, birds, and coastal critters in this area. The best way of exploring the mangrove is by kayak. If you visit during the months between April and July, you will get to see birds like western reef heron, flamingo, and more here.
Apart from the things mentioned above, exploring Qasr Al Watan (the Presidential Palace), strolling along the Abu Dhabi Corniche, visiting Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, shopping at the Marina Mall are a few other interesting things to do in Abu Dhabi.
