Have you been to the dazzling jewel of the Middle East? A city where modernity and tradition seamlessly coexist and where opulence knows no bounds. We’re talking about none other than Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates.
If you’re planning a visit to this enchanting desert oasis, you’re in for a treat, as we’ve curated the ultimate blog on places to visit in Abu Dhabi that will sweep you off your feet.
Abu Dhabi offers a mesmerising blend of experiences that cater to every traveller’s desires. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history enthusiast, a foodie, or someone yearning for a luxurious getaway, this guide has something special for you.
Best Things to Do and Places to Visit in Abu Dhabi
Louvre
Address: Saadiyat – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Hours: 10 AM- 8:30 PM
Phone: +971 600 565566
The Louvre in the United Arab Emirates is a remarkable testament to the preservation and appreciation of culture. This cultural landmark stands as the first of its kind in the country, forming an integral part of the Saadiyat Cultural District.
The museum is a captivating architectural masterpiece designed by renowned French architect Jean Nouvel. It features a striking silvery dome of 7,850 stars of varying sizes and angles, constructed with four layers of stainless steel and four aluminium. The dome gives the impression of floating above the surrounding buildings. This architectural marvel draws inspiration from the cupola features found in Arabian architecture.
Things to Do at Louvre:
Visitors to the Louvre can admire over six hundred masterpieces from around the globe, each with its unique narrative. Notable pieces include Leonardo da Vinci’s “La Belle Ferronnière” (1490), Vincent Van Gogh’s “Self-portrait” (1887), Jacques-Louis David’s “Napoleon Crossing the Alps” (1803), Claude Monet’s “La gare Saint-Lazare” (1877), Osman Hamdi Bey’s “A Young Emir Studying” (1878), and “Portrait of Fayoum, Egypt, Antinoopolis” (225-250 A.D.).
Beyond the incredible art on display, the museum comprises 23 gallery buildings, offering a unique opportunity to explore various artistic experiences while enjoying picturesque views of the Abu Dhabi skyline. Additionally, the Louvre hosts four temporary exhibitions each year, organised in collaboration with various museum partners.
Observation Deck at 300
Address: Tower 2, Level 74, Etihad Towers – Corniche W St – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Hours: 12 PM- 8 PM
Phone: +971 2 811 5666
The Observation Deck at 300 in Abu Dhabi offers a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic city view. This enchanting vantage point, located 300 meters above ground, affords visitors a truly unique bird’s eye perspective of the Abu Dhabi skyline, the picturesque Corniche, and the expansive Arabian Gulf.
Perched on the 74th floor of Tower Two within the Jumeirah at Etihad Towers complex, the Observation Deck at 300 enjoys a prime seafront location. Whether dressed in smart or business casual attire, you’ll feel at home here.
Accessibility is a priority, as the deck is wheelchair-friendly, and valet parking services are readily available for visitors’ convenience. The opportunity to capture these unforgettable moments is encouraged, so be sure to bring your camera to freeze-frame the extraordinary views.
Things to Do at Observation Deck at 300:
Activities at the Observation Deck at 300 offers a delightful addition to your visit. For instance, you can indulge in Afternoon High Tea at the coffee shop, a true sensory treat. The exclusive menu features a delightful assortment of sweet and savoury treats on a three-tiered tray.
You can savour traditional teas or special blends, a variety of coffees, refreshing mocktails, and light snacks, including scones, pastries, and gourmet sandwiches, all while taking in the breathtaking surroundings.
Ferrari World
Address: Yas Island – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Hours: 12 pm- 8 PM
Phone: +971 600 511115
This unique amusement park is the first of its kind, offering visitors a pulse-pounding array of one-of-a-kind rides and attractions. Beyond the heart-pounding thrills, you can explore state-of-the-art simulators, enjoy live performances, spin electric go-karts, and even acquire authentic Ferrari racing memorabilia.
Perched on Yas Island, Ferrari World is the world’s first Ferrari-themed park and the largest indoor theme park globally, boasting a stunning array of Ferrari-inspired rides and attractions. You can also find the largest Ferrari store on the premises, brimming with iconic Ferrari merchandise.
And for food enthusiasts, a tempting selection of authentic Italian restaurants awaits your palate. This unfolds under the iconic bright red roof that houses some of the world’s most thrilling rides.
Things to Do at Ferrari World:
For those seeking an unforgettable experience at Ferrari World, here are the top picks of must-try rides:
- The Formula Rossa: Embark on a mind-boggling journey on the world’s fastest roller coaster, reaching up to 240 km/h speeds—the same speed as a Ferrari. Get ready for the ride of a lifetime.
- The Flying Aces: Brace yourself for the highest roller coaster spiral in the world. As you’re propelled to the ride’s peak at a breathtaking 63 meters in the blink of an eye, prepare for a 35-meter-long thrill ride with a heart-pounding 51-degree incline, taking you upside down.
- The Fiorano GT Challenge: Experience the true essence of Formula 1 racing with this exhilarating ride. Designed to mimic the F1 racecourse, it offers riders an authentic taste of competing in an F1 kart.‘
The Dhow Cruises
Address: Marina Mall – Al Kasir – Al Marina – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Hours: Thu- Sun- 4 PM- 10 PM, Mon-Wed – Closed
Phone: +971 56 713 3703
Dhows, the traditional wooden boats once utilised by pearl hunters and fishermen, take centre stage in Abu Dhabi’s maritime heritage. The Dhow cruises in Abu Dhabi predominantly set sail from two key areas: the dock near Marina Mall and the Yas Island docks.
These captivating cruises typically span anywhere from a leisurely 45 minutes to a more extensive three-hour experience. In today’s context, these dhow cruises seek to recreate the spirit of the bygone era but with a contemporary and convenient twist.
With breathtaking views and captivating moments, having a good camera on hand will allow you to capture the essence of your journey. Beware, purchasing beverages on board tends to be priced at a premium. Staying hydrated is essential, but consider bringing your refreshments for a cost-effective option.
Things to Do at The Dhow Cruises:
While on board, passengers can savour a delectable buffet, often featuring various Indian, Arabic, and Continental cuisines. To enhance the experience, upscale tour operators also provide live music and a range of entertainment options, including mesmerising belly dancing and tannoura dance performances.
On most shows, the lower deck offers a refreshing air-conditioned environment, while the upper deck provides open-roof views of the picturesque surroundings.
Warner Bros. World, Abu Dhabi
Address: Yas Island – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Hours: 11 AM- 7 PM
Phone: +971 600 511115
Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi is an extraordinary, fully air-conditioned indoor amusement park, representing a remarkable USD 1 billion investment. It’s a realm where the magic of Warner Bros. entertainment comes to life, featuring 29 thrilling rides, top-tier dining at 7-star restaurants, a wide array of shops, and captivating shows, all inhabited by beloved Warner Bros. characters.
Situated on Yas Island, alongside Ferrari World and Yas Waterpark, it ranks globally as the third Warner Bros. theme park, following Oxenford and Bottrop.
The park is ingeniously divided into six immersive theme areas, each with its unique charm:
- Gotham City and Metropolis: Step into the fictional worlds of DC characters like Spiderman and Batman, with cityscapes that mirror the comic book settings.
- Cartoon Junction and Dynamite Gulch: Dive into the world of classic cartoons, housing beloved characters from Looney Tunes and Hanna-Barbera.
- Bedrock: A charming area themed around the Flintstones, where you can relive the Stone Age alongside Fred and Wilma.
- Warner Bros. Plaza: Designed to transport you back to the golden era of Hollywood, showcasing the allure of yesteryears.
Things to Do at Warner Bros. World:
- The Flintstones Bedrock River Adventure: Embark on a boat tour of Bedrock, joining Fred and Wilma in a prehistoric adventure filled with sights and sounds.
- Fast and Furry-ous: Get ready for a wild ride on this inverted roller coaster, rocketing above sandy dunes and rushing up and down hills.
- The Jetsons Cosmic Orbiter: Take a high-energy spin in your spacecraft, land at The Jetsons’ site, and experience whimsical robotic contraptions along with space sound effects.
- Tom and Jerry Swiss Cheese Spin: Relive your childhood as you chase down Tom and quick-witted Jerry, navigating twists, turns, and obstacles.
- Scooby-Doo: The Museum of Mysteries: Unearth the mysteries alongside Scooby-Doo and the gang as you traverse eerie corridors and hidden passageways.
- Tweety Wild Wockets: Soar through the air, avoiding Sylvester as you spin around on this aerial ride.
- Batman Knight Fight: Brace yourself for high-speed, high-octane thrills with breathtaking climbs, rolls, and spins.
- Teen Titans Training Academy: Designed for kids, this ride tests agility, skill, and perseverance through various physical activities.
- The Joker Funhouse: Prepare for physical and mental challenges as the Clown Prince devises a twisted interactive experience filled with tricks, tests, and surprises.
In addition to these exhilarating rides and attractions, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi offers a captivating array of shows and live entertainment, including “ACME Beats,” “Meet Bugs! (And Daffy),” “Warner Bros. Cinema Spectacular,” “The Joker Surprise Party,” and “DC Super Heroes in Training.”
Visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Address: Al Rawdah – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Hours: 9 AM- 10 PM
Phone: +971 2 419 1919
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a truly majestic architectural wonder, stands as an exquisite gem amidst meticulously landscaped gardens in Abu Dhabi. This awe-inspiring mosque ranks among the world’s largest, inviting Muslims and non-Muslims to explore its beauty through informative guided tours, available in both English and Arabic, lasting between 45 to 60 minutes.
The mosque’s construction was undertaken as a tribute by Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan to his father, resulting in a remarkable example of modern Islamic architecture.
It boasts 82 domes crafted from an astonishing 100,000 tons of white Greek and Macedonian marble, leaving a resplendent impression visible even from the bridges connecting Abu Dhabi to the mainland. The intricate floral inlay work is adorned with semi-precious stones such as lapis lazuli, red agate, amethyst, abalone, jasper, and mother-of-pearl.
The prayer hall’s interior is further enhanced by dazzling brass, gold, and crystal chandeliers, casting vivid primary colours illuminating the entire structure.
Just remember that women visitors are requested to cover their heads with a headscarf. Should you need further coverage, abayas are available for rent outside the mosque.
Yas Island
Address: Yas Island, HQ Building, Abu Dhabi, UAE, P.O. Box: 128717
Phone: Within UAE 600 511115, Outside UAE (+971) 2 496 8000
Hours: 10 AM- 6 PM
Yas Island, a sprawling 2,500-hectare artificial island in Abu Dhabi, stands as a magnificent testament to modern engineering and ranks among the UAE’s most prominent tourist attractions. This incredible creation offers a diverse array of experiences, from luxurious hotels to vibrant shopping centres.
Yas Island’s claim to fame includes being the home of the renowned Ferrari World and the Yas Marina Circuit, where the Formula One Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has been hosted annually since 2009.
Things to Do at Yas Island:
The island boasts an expansive golf course known as ‘Yas Links’ and the idyllic Yas Beach, providing opportunities for leisure and relaxation. Regarding live entertainment, Yas Island takes the spotlight with the impressive du Arena, recognised as the largest open-air concert venue in the Middle East, and the du Forum, managed by the entertainment platform ‘Du Live!’.
The flagship hotel on the island, Yas Viceroy, is a prestigious five-star establishment situated on Yas Marina and is the first hotel ever built over an F1 circuit.
For those seeking memorable experiences on Yas Island, one standout activity to consider is the world’s Fastest Roller Coaster at Ferrari World, as we have presented above. You can also visit the Cool Off at Yas Waterworld. A waterpark that offers enjoyment for visitors of all ages. It promises a splashing good time with over 45 slides, rides, and attractions. Moreover, it is renowned for hosting the world’s largest surfable sheet wave.
Sky Dive in Abu Dhabi
Address: Lane 1325 – Khalifa Industrial – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Hours: 8 AM- 3 PM
Phone: +971 50 313 3192
If you’re seeking an exhilarating adventure, look no further than skydiving in Abu Dhabi, an experience that promises to set your heart racing. You’ll have the opportunity to leap from a staggering height of 13,000 feet, taking in breathtaking views of Abu Dhabi from the skies. Skydiving is a globally cherished adventure sport, and Abu Dhabi offers a remarkable backdrop for such a daring endeavour.
As you free-fall at a thrilling speed of 200 km/hr, this unforgettable experience typically lasts 4 to 5 minutes. Safety is paramount; only licensed and experienced instructors can accompany you on this gravity-defying journey. For those keen on capturing this momentous adventure, you can request pictures and videos of your dive.
It’s important to note that while this experience is a thrill-seeker’s dream, certain basic safety rules must be diligently followed. Booking your skydiving experience in advance is strongly recommended to ensure a seamless and memorable adventure in the skies above Abu Dhabi.
Conclusion
An excursion to Abu Dhabi promises an extraordinary blend of rich culture, modern marvels, and thrilling adventures. With our ultimate itinerary, you can explore the opulent grandeur of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, get your heart racing with a skydiving experience like no other, dive into the world of legendary Ferrari racing at Ferrari World, and unwind on the pristine shores of Yas Beach. Embrace the captivating charm of Yas Island and its enthralling attractions, including the world’s fastest roller coaster.
Whether you’re drawn to history, adventure, or simply relaxation, Abu Dhabi has it all. So, pack your bags, embrace the extraordinary, and prepare to be enchanted by the wonders of this remarkable city.
