Best Things To Do in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is one of the richest cities on the planet, with a wide variety of services based on exclusivity and abundance. The capital of the United Arab Emirates, one of the most famous islands in the Persian Gulf, is one of the most enigmatic and fascinating destinations in the Arab world, so if you plan to visit you can find many different alternatives.

Some of the best things to do in Abu Dhabi include visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, hiking in the surrounding desert, visiting the Ferrari World theme park, visiting the local branch of the Louvre Museum, touring the SeaWorld water park, seeing the Qasr Al Watan Royal Palace and taking in the panoramic views from the observation decks at Etihad Towers.

Abu Dhabi is one of the most luxurious and opulent destinations in the Persian Gulf, but it's also part of a country that professes the Muslim religion. That's why the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the epicentre of religious celebration in the city and a monument that fuses the grandeur of Islamic art with the modern vision of the United Arab Emirates.

This majestic mosque, named after the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, is a tribute to the country's rich cultural and spiritual heritage. Its white and gold architecture rises out of the landscape, creating a view that can be admired from miles away.

In this mosque you can immerse yourself in an atmosphere of serenity and splendour. The courtyard of the building has 82 white domes and more than 1,000 columns adorned with intricate floral details. The main prayer hall, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture, features a handmade carpet, considered one of the largest in the world, as well as crystal chandeliers highlighting national wealth.

Often included in the tours of the best Abu Dhabi tours, you can also explore the surrounding galleries, which display a collection of religious artefacts and Islamic art.

One of the best things to do in Abu Dhabi is touring the surrounding desert. On these tours you can experience the golden dunes and landscapes that form an integral part of the UAE's identity. By venturing out on this experience, you will embark on a journey full of excitement and discovery.

The desert tour usually includes off-road vehicle rides, traversing the dunes and experiencing the unrelenting resistance of the sand. Along the way, you can discover the vastness of the desert and take pictures of the horizon stretching as far as the eye can see. Some tours also offer strategic stops to allow visitors to enjoy the panoramic views and sandboarding.

Another highlight of these tours is the chance to take part in a camel safari, allowing you to soak up the ancient tradition of camel trekking in the desert. In addition, some of the best desert tours in Abu Dhabi will give you an authentic Bedouin experience, with live entertainment, traditional cuisine and the chance to watch the desert sunset.

The Abu Dhabi desert tour is a unique opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the natural environment, in a place that is uniquely suited to this activity and offers a striking contrast between urban development and the typical customs of the ancient people who conquered the dunes in the past.

For one of the most thrilling experiences in Abu Dhabi, you can't miss Ferrari World theme park, a unique destination that combines a passion for luxury cars with the fun and adrenaline of a world-class amusement park. This site, dedicated to the iconic Italian car manufacturer, is considered one of the best theme parks in the world.

One of the highlights is the Formula Rossa roller coaster, the fastest roller coaster in the world. With speeds in excess of 240 kilometres per hour, this experience will immerse you in a speed worthy of a Formula 1 driver. For racing enthusiasts, the Scuderia Challenge racing simulator offers the opportunity to feel the adrenaline rush of driving a Ferrari on a virtual circuit.

The park also hosts interactive experiences, such as the Ferrari Museum, where you can explore the rich history of the brand and admire an extensive collection of classic and contemporary cars. In addition, for children, the park features themed attractions and play areas designed to provide fun for the whole family.

Ferrari World is not only one of the best theme parks in Abu Dhabi, but also a passionate celebration of Ferrari's legacy.

If you enjoy quality museums, Abu Dhabi's Louvre Museum Abu Dhabi is a cultural gem that reflects the cosmopolitan vision of the United Arab Emirates and is a unique blend of art, culture and architecture.

Created in collaboration with the Louvre in Paris, the museum offers visitors an unrivalled artistic experience, housing a collection that spans from antiquity to the present day. As you enter its corridors, you will find yourself immersed in a journey through human creativity over the centuries.

The Louvre Abu Dhabi, located on Saadiyat Island, stands out for its innovative approach that goes beyond the traditional viewing of masterpieces that characterises its Parisian twin, and also offers an interactive tour of the works of art in an immersive experience unparalleled in other museums around the world.

In addition to the permanent exhibitions, the museum hosts temporary exhibitions highlighting various artistic and cultural expressions. There you can explore rooms dedicated to Islamic civilisation, highlighting the richness and diversity of the region's heritage.

Visit the Qasr Al Watan Royal Palace and discover the majesty of Arab culture and architecture. This masterpiece fuses tradition with the modern vision of the UAE in a palace, located on the island of Al Ras Al Akhdar, which not only serves as the official residence of the country's president, but has also become a cultural destination open to the public, allowing visitors to explore the rich history and detailed craftsmanship of the region.

Upon entering Qasr Al Watan you will be able to contemplate the opulence of its ornate halls and luxurious corridors. The architectural design reflects Islamic and Arabic aesthetics, with exquisite detailing including intricate geometric patterns and Arabic calligraphy adorning the walls and domes. The Great Dome, one of the most prominent features, offers a panoramic view of the city of Abu Dhabi.

During the tour visitors will also be able to see the different rooms of the palace, such as the Jewellery Room, which displays historical treasures and official gifts received by the leaders of the UAE. In addition, the Presidential Library, with its valuable collection of books and manuscripts, is another highlight of the country's commitment to education and culture.

Qasr Al Watan also has beautiful gardens and outdoor areas that provide a relaxing environment for visitors.

One of the best ways to experience Abu Dhabi is through its panoramic views, and the Etihad Towers observation deck is ideal for this activity. This iconic skyscraper offers a unique perspective of the city and the skyline from its 305-metre high 74th floor.

From the top of Etihad Towers you can admire the futuristic architecture of the city, as well as the contrasts between the modern structures and the coastal landscapes. The azure waters of the Persian Gulf and the endless coastline will create an ideal backdrop to discover the essence of Abu Dhabi's natural and urban beauty.

The Etihad Towers observation deck offers not only exceptional views, but also an immersive experience with luxurious facilities and services. There you can enjoy a gourmet meal at one of the restaurants at the top of the tower.

And with its strategic location and elegant design, the Etihad Towers observation deck has become an essential landmark for those who want to see Abu Dhabi from above. It can be reached by car or by the city's hop-on-hop-off sightseeing bus.

Abu Dhabi's population and economy exploded with the oil development of the 1970s, but its history is much older than that, as evidenced by the Qasr Al-Hosn Fort, a historic fortress that stands as the oldest and most iconic symbol of the destination. Built in 1760, this fort has witnessed the evolution of the UAE's capital from a small fishing settlement to the modern metropolis it is today.

At Qasr Al-Hosn Fort you can take an imaginary journey through time to admire the traditional architecture of the region, with its thick adobe walls and defensive towers. The fort has been meticulously restored to preserve its authenticity and now houses the Qasr Al-Hosn Cultural Centre, which offers an educational experience through interactive exhibits, displays and cultural programmes.

QasrAl-Hosn, also known as the White Fort, is a testament to the cultural heritage and resilience of the region, and its interior museum retraces the daily life of the early inhabitants. In addition, the fort houses the House of Arts, a space dedicated to preserving and promoting local arts and crafts traditions.

With its historic walls, captivating architecture and pivotal role in the history of the Persian Gulf, this fort is a cultural gem that invites visitors to explore and understand the unique identity of the city and its people.

Warner Bros. World in Abu Dhabi is a magical theme park that will allow you to discover the universe of the company's favourite characters and films. This attraction, located on Yas Island, offers a unique experience that combines nostalgia with innovation, taking visitors through the iconic stories and worlds created by Warner Bros. over the years.

Warner Bros. World features themed areas dedicated to legendary characters such as Batman, Superman, Bugs Bunny and Scooby-Doo. Each area recreates in detail the sets and sets from the films and TV shows, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the world of Hollywood. From gothic Gotham City to the bustling world of Looney Tunes, the park offers an immersive journey through the ages.

The attractions at Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi are varied and exciting, ranging from state-of-the-art roller coasters and simulators to live shows that bring favourite characters to life. In addition, the park features themed restaurants offering culinary delights inspired by the films and series, creating a dining experience that perfectly complements the magical atmosphere.

Whether exploring the back alleys of Diagon Alley with Harry Potter or joining in the fun and mischief of the Looney Tunes, this theme park will provide a captivating escape into the world of Warner Bros. imagination and creativity.

Al Ain, located approximately 150 kilometres from Abu Dhabi, is an oasis in the middle of the desert with a rich history and natural beauty. Known as the Garden of the Emirates, it offers a perfect getaway for those looking to explore the authenticity and tradition of the region.

One of the best ways to discover this destination is to take a full day tour from Abu Dhabi. On these experiences you will get to see the Al Ain Palace, also known as Sheikh Zayed Palace. This historic palace, built in 1937, reflects the traditional Islamic architecture of the Persian Gulf and offers visitors a glimpse into the life of royalty in the past.

Another point of interest is the Al Ain National Museum, where you can find archaeological exhibits and artefacts that tell the story of the city's development.

Finally, these tours usually also include a visit to the Al Ain Oasis, where you can stroll through traditional palm plantations and explore the historic tributaries that have sustained life in this region for generations.

The man-made island of Yas is one of Abu Dhabi's biggest attractions, not only because it's home to some of the city's most luxurious buildings and the Yas Marina circuit where one of the races on the annual Formula 1 calendar is held, but also because it's home to the Yas Waterworld water park. This site has 45 rides, including giant water slides.

Yas Waterworld is also a theme park, as all the rides are inspired by the history of the United Arab Emirates, so you can discover references to local folklore and culture along the way. It's also one of the best places to visit with kids in Abu Dhabi.

From the Adrenaline Rush waterslide rollercoaster to the moderate wave pool known as Young Fun, at Yas Waterworld you'll find adrenaline-fuelled rides as well as tranquil alternatives.

SeaWorld Abu Dhabi is a theme park that will immerse you in a fascinating world of marine life and aquatic entertainment. Located on the luxurious man-made island of Yas, the park is a unique combination of conservation, education and fun, offering interactive experiences that highlight the beauty and importance of the oceans and their inhabitants.

SeaWorld Abu Dhabi features a variety of exhibits and attractions that allow you to explore the diversity of the marine world. From vast aquariums to live shows featuring dolphins, sea lions and killer whales, every corner of the park is designed to inspire awe and respect for the oceans and their wildlife.

In addition, one of the highlights is the One Ocean, a stellar aquatic show starring killer whales that delight spectators with their skills. Considered one of the best theme parks in Abu Dhabi, the site also features a circuit of water rides and interactive areas for children, offering fun for the whole family.