Top Things to Do in Abu Dhabi for Tourists

Discover the Best of Abu Dhabi: Top 20 Things to Do

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is a city that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, offering a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, stunning landmarks, and vibrant entertainment. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for another adventure, this guide will help you explore the top 20 things to do in Abu Dhabi.

Landmarks

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

What It Is: The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the world’s largest mosques and a masterpiece of Islamic architecture.

Why It’s Special: With its 82 domes, over 1,000 columns, and gold-plated chandeliers, this mosque is a stunning fusion of Mameluke, Ottoman, and Fatimid design elements. It can accommodate over 40,000 worshippers.

Location: Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street, Abu Dhabi
Cost: Free entry
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds
Insider Tip: Dress modestly. Women should bring a headscarf, and men should avoid wearing shorts. Complimentary abayas and kanduras are available for visitors.

Qasr Al Watan

What It Is: A working presidential palace that offers insight into the governance and culture of the UAE.

Why It’s Special: This opulent palace showcases Arabian craftsmanship and features exhibitions on the country’s rich heritage.

Location: Al Ras Al Akhdar, Abu Dhabi
Cost: AED 60 (approximately $16 USD) for adults
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon to enjoy the light show that illuminates the palace
Insider Tip: Don’t miss the “Palace in Motion” light show, held in the evening, which tells the story of the UAE’s journey.

Culture

Louvre Abu Dhabi

What It Is: A stunning art and civilization museum located on Saadiyat Island.

Why It’s Special: The Louvre Abu Dhabi showcases artworks from around the world, bridging the gap between Eastern and Western art.

Location: Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
Cost: AED 63 (approximately $17 USD) for adults
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid the weekend rush
Insider Tip: Allocate at least 3-4 hours to explore the museum fully, and don’t miss the spectacular rain of light effect in the museum’s dome.

Heritage Village

What It Is: A reconstructed traditional village that offers a glimpse into the UAE’s past.

Why It’s Special: This living museum features everything from a souk and a mosque to workshops where artisans demonstrate traditional skills.

Location: Near Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi
Cost: Free entry
Best Time to Visit: Mornings when demonstrations are more frequent
Insider Tip: Visit the small museum within the village to see a collection of historical artifacts and photographs.

Food

Emirates Palace Afternoon Tea

What It Is: A luxurious afternoon tea experience at one of the world’s most opulent hotels.

Why It’s Special: Known for its grandeur, the Emirates Palace offers a lavish setting for indulging in fine teas and pastries.

Location: West Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi
Cost: AED 310 (approximately $84 USD) per person
Best Time to Visit: Afternoon to enjoy the full tea service
Insider Tip: Reserve in advance, and while you’re there, explore the hotel’s stunning lobby and grounds.

Al Maryah Island Dining

What It Is: A hub for high-end dining with numerous international cuisines.

Why It’s Special: From waterfront dining to rooftop lounges, Al Maryah Island offers an array of culinary experiences.

Location: Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
Cost: Varies by restaurant; expect to pay AED 150-500 per meal ($40-$136 USD)
Best Time to Visit: Evening for dinner
Insider Tip: Try Zuma for Japanese cuisine or Coya for Peruvian flavors, both offering exceptional views and service.

Nature

Mangrove National Park

What It Is: A protected area that offers a unique natural habitat for marine life and bird species.

Why It’s Special: This ecological treasure allows visitors to explore mangrove forests by kayak or boat, offering a tranquil escape from the city.

Location: Eastern Mangrove Lagoon National Park, Abu Dhabi
Cost: Kayak rental from AED 80 (approximately $22 USD)
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat
Insider Tip: Book a guided kayak tour to learn more about the ecosystem and spot wildlife like flamingos and herons.

Al Ain Oasis

What It Is: A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring a lush oasis in the desert city of Al Ain.

Why It’s Special: The oasis covers 1,200 hectares and showcases traditional falaj irrigation systems, offering a green respite in the desert.

Location: Al Ain, Abu Dhabi
Cost: Free entry
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for cooler weather
Insider Tip: Use the shaded pathways for a more comfortable exploration, and visit the nearby Al Ain National Museum for historical context.

Entertainment

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

What It Is: The world’s first Ferrari-themed park offering thrilling rides and attractions.

Why It’s Special: Home to the world’s fastest roller coaster, Formula Rossa, this park is a dream destination for thrill-seekers.

Location: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Cost: AED 295 (approximately $80 USD) for adults
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid long lines
Insider Tip: Arrive early to beat the crowds and experience the most popular rides without long waits.

Yas Waterworld

What It Is: An Emirati-themed water park with over 40 rides, slides, and attractions.

Why It’s Special: Known for its adrenaline-pumping rides as well as more relaxed attractions, it’s perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike.

Location: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Cost: AED 270 (approximately $73 USD) for adults
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays and cooler months for a more pleasant experience
Insider Tip: Bring sunscreen and water shoes, as the ground can get hot in the sun.

Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi

What It Is: An indoor theme park featuring Warner Bros. characters and animations.

Why It’s Special: With six immersive lands and numerous rides, it’s one of the largest indoor theme parks in the world.

Location: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Cost: AED 295 (approximately $80 USD) for adults
Best Time to Visit: Early in the day to maximize your time in the park
Insider Tip: Download the park app to check ride wait times and show schedules.

Shopping

Yas Mall

What It Is: Abu Dhabi’s largest shopping mall, offering a mix of luxury and high-street brands.

Why It’s Special: Besides shopping, Yas Mall offers a variety of dining options and entertainment venues, including a cinema.

Location: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Cost: Free entry; shopping costs vary
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid crowds
Insider Tip: Take advantage of the mall’s concierge service for assistance with shopping and dining reservations.

Souk Central Market

What It Is: A modern twist on a traditional souk, offering a vibrant shopping experience.

Why It’s Special: Featuring a mix of traditional and contemporary shops, it’s a great place to buy unique souvenirs.

Location: Zayed the First Street, Abu Dhabi
Cost: Free entry; prices vary by vendor
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon or evening for a lively atmosphere
Insider Tip: Don’t be afraid to haggle for a better price, especially in the traditional stalls.

Conclusion

Abu Dhabi offers a rich array of experiences that cater to every type of traveler. From exploring the grandeur of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to thrilling rides at Ferrari World, the city is a blend of cultural richness and modern excitement. Whether you’re dining at a luxurious hotel, exploring natural wonders, or shopping in vibrant markets, Abu Dhabi promises an unforgettable journey. Plan your itinerary well, and you’ll discover why this city is a jewel of the UAE.