Abu Dhabi, UAE’s capital city is a mash-up of contemporary and traditional experiences. Apart from that, there is abundance of leisure options, including Yas Water World and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi available for visitors and tourist alike. For an impressive Middle Eastern experience, Abu Dhabi is worth a visit for couples, friends, and families. On a visit, you should check out these experiences for sure!
Visit the biggest mosque in the UAE
If you are in Abu Dhabi, you must visit Sheikh Zayed Mosque to see Islamic architecture at its finest. Most Abu Dhabi Tours include Sheikh Zayed Mosque, the largest mosque in the UAE and one of the few places that non-Muslims can visit. With its monumental white domes, gilded calligraphy, shimmering chandeliers, and majestic pillars, this mosque is designed with architectural inspiration from several Islamic countries. The location looks splendidly beautiful during sunset in Abu Dhabi.
Beat the heat at Yas Water World
Yas Water World is one of the finest water park in the Middle East with an amazing array of water rides and attractions, including wave pools and splash area. This Emirati-themed water park is the perfect place to relax and have a splashy time. Located on Yas Island, Yas Water World enthralls you with over 40 water rides and exciting thrills. Traveling with kids? This is one of the best things to do in Abu Dhabi with your family.
Take a tour of the Louvre Abu Dhabi
Discover one of the UAE’s most iconic architectural structures. The first ever Louvre Museum outside France sits proudly at Saadiyat Island. With a seaside setting, the stunning architecture is the work of award-winning, renowned architect Jean Nouvel. A dazzling dome composed of more than 7000 stars-like trellises will awe you even before you view the art galleries. This ‘rain of light’ gives the impression of walking through a space filtered with sunlight through leaves.
Go on a Shopping Spree
A trip to Abu Dhabi is not complete without shopping in its traditional souks and modern malls. For an opulent shopping experience, visit Marina Mall, The Galleria, and Yas Mall. You can pick up amazingly affordable souvenirs and merchandise at Liwa Centre. Many souks, such as Al Ain Souk, Souk Al Zafrana, Souk Al Bawadi, and Souk Al Qaws, offer a wide range of merchandise for bargain prices.
Have fun at Warner Bros Abu Dhabi
A popular Abu Dhabi thing to do for visitors is to spend a couple of days at Yas Island. Besides Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and Yas Water World, visitors can also explore Warner Bros Abu Dhabi, the first Warner Bros. theme park in the Middle East. Featuring your favourite fantasy stars such as Batman, Superman, Flintstones, Jetsons, Tom and Jerry, and much more, it has 6 fascinating zones for you to explore. Don’t forget to keep some time for a shopping and dining experience which the whole family will enjoy.
Enjoy a Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner.
Don’t miss a visit to Abu Dhabi’s desert expanses. UAE’s capital emirate has some of the highest dunes, making dune bashing in Abu Dhabi desert an adventure of a lifetime. Additionally, the deserts of Abu Dhabi provide a tranquil ambience and an opportunity to see Arabian folklore, falconry shows, and enjoy traditional BBQ meals. An Abu Dhabi desert safari is best enjoyed in Empty Quarters and Al Khaznah, which offer sprawling undulating dunes. You can also choose an early morning safari or overnight desert safari if you’re not fond of desert heat.
Connect with nature at Al Ain Oasis
Find yourself in the greenest oasis of the UAE – Al Ain Oasis. Through centuries-old irrigation systems called falaj, the place stays hydrated and verdant. Walking through sand-colored alleyways flanked by over 140,000 date palms and other trees instantly relaxes you. Just a one-and-a-half-hour drive from Abu Dhabi, Al Ain Oasis is a perfect place for some Instagram-worthy snaps and a break from modern life.
Get adventurous at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is the place to go if you enjoy high-speed experiences or admire fiery red Italian supercars. Drive real supercars at high speeds and even take a Ferrari for a spin to fuel your inner racer. At Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, you can also ride the fastest rollercoaster in the world, peaking at 240 km/h in less than five seconds! There is even a miniature version of the world’s fastest roller coaster designed to delight younger visitors. Combining this attraction with the F1 Grand Prix season will give you the ultimate rush.
Explore the Jubail Mangrove Park
For refreshing vistas of green mangroves and blue waters, check out Jubail Mangrove Park. Jubail Island is a small island sandwiched between Yas and Saadiyat islands, surrounded by a dense canopy of mangrove trees. The two-kilometer-long boardwalk that weaves through the mangroves lets you take pleasant strolls and enjoy the views of the verdant surroundings. Kayaking is the best way to add a little adventure to your trip so that you can enjoy gliding through the mangroves. There is no doubt that whatever activity you choose, you will have a wonderful experience and it will most definitely be one of the most memorable moments of your trip to Abu Dhabi.
Take a break at Abu Dhabi Corniche
A visit to the Abu Dhabi Corniche is perfect for those looking to relax and spend quality time with their loved ones. You can enjoy some outstanding views of the shoreline and the skyline from this spot located on the western side of Abu Dhabi city. There are manicured gardens and paths connected to this magnificent stretch of sandy beach, making this an ideal spot to unwind while taking in the beautiful sea views. It is also one of the best sites to take beautiful pictures of the city and the sea, soak in the sunshine, and go swimming in the warm waters.
Conclusion
Experiences abound in Abu Dhabi. While the emirate is steeped in cultural landmarks, it has kept up with modern times, hosting some of the world’s top theme parks and attractions. The city also has a touch of verdant nature to balance out the manmade ambience, making it one of the best places for a blissful vacation. If you are planning a UAE vacation, Abu Dhabi is a must-see!