Abu Dhabi is a genuine natural gem, a land of breathtaking beauty, gentle sand dunes, and vibrant culture. Choosing from the top attractions in Abu Dhabi can be quite difficult because this contemporary metropolis is endowed with both the tranquil spirit of the past and an urbanized atmosphere.
The United Arab Emirates’ capital city provides the ideal balance of luxury and adventure, allowing you to enjoy the exhilaration of off-roading. This affluent gulf city has kept its heritage and culture intact everywhere.
Leading Tourist Destinations In the UAE
Abu Dhabi brings you the royalty and culture of Arab under one sky. Every city attraction has a unique story that you have to discover and embrace. Take a trip to this captivating modern city on the Gulf and experience the glamour of both modernity and history. This is a list of the top attractions in Abu Dhabi that should not be missed by any traveler.
1. Al-Hosn, Qasr
Qasr Al-Hosn, a living memorial that tells the story of the city, is a popular tourist destination in Abu Dhabi. One of the earliest permanent buildings, it was created in 1761 and was designed by Mohammed Al Bastaki.
Qasr Al-Hosn is home to two recognizable buildings: the Inner Fort and the Outer Palace. Over time, this historic building was converted into a residence for the ruling families, but it is now one of the top attractions in Abu Dhabi. Originally intended to overlook the trading route and monitor the island’s expanding settlement, the landmark was constructed.
See the Al Hosn Fort, which has been restored and turned into a museum to preserve Abu Dhabi’s past.
Location: Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum Street, Qasr Al Hosn. Al-Hossein
Time:9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Sunday through Thursday
Saturday through Friday: 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
2. Island of Yas
One of the greatest family destinations in Abu Dhabi is Yas Island, which offers both excitement and entertainment, which are essential elements of any vacation. Yas Island, which is close to the Abu Dhabi International Airport and has a racetrack, marina, and a few upscale hotels nearby, is a well-known adventure destination in the city. The Ferrari World Abu Dhabi indoor theme park is the main draw for tourists visiting the island.
With over 20 exhilarating rides and amazing experiences, the theme park is a must-visit for any family visiting the city. Another feature of Abu Dhabi that elevates the YAS to the top of the UAE is Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi.
Location: Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina Circuit
Known For:
Seaside Shopping Centers
opulent hotels
Golf Course
indoor amusement park
Parks with Water
Activities:
Theme park adventure
Shop at the opulent malls
dinners with the family
Fun and adventure in the water
3. The Grand Mosque of Sheikh Zayed
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a breathtaking sight that combines serene spiritual aura with exquisite architectural design. When the mosque first opened in 2007, it could accommodate over 40,000 people.
One of Abu Dhabi’s most well-known sites, the building showcases the splendor of Mameluke, Ottoman, and Fatimid elements in its contemporary Islamic architecture. You can see how deftly glasswork, carvings, and some mosaic tiling have been used to enhance the mosque’s remarkable beauty in every area.
The mosque welcomes all guests, including non-Muslims and devotees, and has a sizable library with a vast collection of all religious and historical books. The mosque, which honors Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al-Nahyan, is a captivating work of marble art and is regarded as one of the top tourist destinations in Abu Dhabi.
Location: Abu Dhabi’s Al Khaleej al Arabi Street
Time:9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Saturday through Thursday.
4.30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Friday
4. 300 Observation Deck
Get a bird’s-eye perspective of Abu Dhabi’s top attractions from the Observation Deck at 300. At a relative height of 300 meters, this striking and recognizable landmark has been added to the list of tourist attractions in Abu Dhabi. It offers a panoramic view of the entire city.
Some of the greatest cafes and restaurants with a special menu to satisfy your appetite are housed in this architectural wonder. Watching the sun set while enjoying the most refreshing tea of the evening.
The observation deck, which is situated on the 74th floor of the Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, provides a 360-degree panoramic view of the Arabian Gulf, the Corniche, and other surrounding landmarks. For every visitor in the city, amenities like wheelchair accessibility and valet parking make it ideal.
Location: Abu Dhabi’s Corniche Road
Time:Monday through Saturday from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Sundays off
5. The Louvre in Abu Dhabi
The iconic Louvre Abu Dhabi is a must-see tourist destination in Abu Dhabi and one of the most magnificent tourist destinations. The museum has a vast array of artwork and cultural artifacts, including paintings by well-known artists like Pablo Picasso and a variety of other objects. The Louvre Abu Dhabi’s architecture presents itself as a breathtaking work of art that makes use of modern materials and design.
The museum is committed to showcasing contemporary and cultural art, which makes it a home for all ardent art enthusiasts. More than 120 works of art will be on display, telling the tales of human creativity and artistic ability. To your list of things to do in the United Arab Emirates, you can include a tour of the museum.
Location: Saadiyat, United Arab Emirates; Abu Dhabi
Time:Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Mondays are closed.
Visitors need to be aware that the last time to enter is at 5:30 p.m. and that they must leave by 6:30 p.m.
6. Zoo Emirates Park
Families in Abu Dhabi should plan a day trip to one of the city’s most fascinating attractions for their children. The Emirates Park Zoo is a fun area with entertaining rides that is only thirty minutes away from the city center. Children can explore a vast array of wildlife, including migratory birds and primates. Wild animals like lions, monkeys, zebras, bears, and more can be found in the zoo.
Even though Abu Dhabi is among the greatest vacation spots in the Middle East, the city is a great place for kids to go because of Emirates Park and the zoo. Your child will be occupied with games, entertaining shows, feeding times, and other activities throughout the day.
Location: United Arab Emirates, Al Bahyah, Abu Dhabi
Time:Wednesday through Sunday: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
From Thursday through Saturday, from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm
7. The Village of Heritage
Explore Abu Dhabi’s pre-oil past at its Heritage village, one of the city’s top tourist destinations. There are components that have turned it into a beautiful, abandoned location where you can explore every historical detail of this Gulf City.
Situated near the coast, the village is home to a thriving artistic community that includes Emirati metalworks among other things. Workshops are arranged to help guests gain a deeper understanding of the history and culture. Discover the background of pearl diving in the city by taking a stroll through the village. Traditional forts, mosques, souqs, and other locations can transport you back in time.
The traditional houseboats in the heritage village, along with the palm fringes and other culturally significant features.
Location: Close to Abu Dhabi Theatre Road, Marina Mall, and Breakwater Road
Activities:
At those Bedouin tents, unwind.
Try your hand at traditional retail.
Examine the past
8. The Abu Dhabi Corniche
The eight-kilometer-long Abu Dhabi Corniche is one of the most amazing free tourist destinations in Abu Dhabi. The Corniche, with its breathtaking waterfront and views of Abu Dhabi’s most beautiful beaches, is a great place to spend an evening.
One can sample the most enticing cuisines from the variety of cafes and restaurants in the area. Along the beachfront are pedestrian walkways for strolling or cycling, as well as jogging paths. Enjoy some vintage vibes along the Corniche by visiting the sheesha cafes. You can enjoy your favorite coffee while watching the sunset, which will enhance your experience.
Location: Abu Dhabi’s Corniche Road
Actions to take:
Explore the promenade on the corniche.
Dine at the top cafes
Take pleasure in cycling and other sports.
9. World of Ferrari
I have a question for you now: are you a fan of Formula One? Do you want to see the Formula One world? Ferrari World is the place to be, then. Ferrari World, one of the best tourist destinations in Abu Dhabi, is a theme park that offers all the excitement and fun associated with Formula One racing.
There are lots of things to do in this park for adventure seekers and families alike. The Flying Aces Roller Coaster and driving tests to put your newly acquired driving skills to the test—The Ferrari World has it all.
Indeed, the Flying Aces Roller coaster is the fastest in the world right now, reaching speeds of up to 120 km/h on a 52-meter loop. What’s more? Models from 1947 are included in the impressive collection of Ferrari automobiles at the Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi. The factory can be toured in its entirety, and visitors are drawn in by the Ferrari knowledge games that are available at the park.
Location: Deira, Dubai, United Arab Emirates; 101B Abu Hail Road
Schedule: Monday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
10. Falcon Hospital & Museum in Abu Dhabi
Are you trying to figure out what Abu Dhabi has to offer? By all means, going to the Abu Dhabi Falcon isn’t a bad decision. In addition to offering guided tours of the hospital’s many amenities, this fully operational facility for sick and injured falcons also houses a museum that immerses visitors in the background of falconry in the Arab world.
Actually, the tour of the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital offers guests an excellent opportunity to interact closely and even hold and feed these raptors up close in the wards.
Nonetheless, the majority of the attractions showcased here rely on the tasks carried out by the veterinarians during the tour. Therefore, guests are urged to consider the best times to visit the hospital.
Location: Sweihan Road St., Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, close to the Abu Dhabi International Airport
Schedules:Sunday through Thursday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday: 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Which Abu Dhabi attractions are the best?
Abu Dhabi Yas Island Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Q2, Yas Island, Emirates Park, and Zoo. Does Abu Dhabi have any beaches?
Abu Dhabi is one of the most incredible vacation spots for beach lovers because it is home to the majority of the country’s best beaches. Consider the following when planning a beach visit:
Al Sahil Beach
Q3, Corniche Beach, Saadiyat Public Beach, and Family Beach. Which Abu Dhabi attractions are the best for kids?
Families can take their children and plan a day trip to Abu Dhabi to explore the top Yas Islands attractions, such as:
Abu Dhabi Ferrari World
Yas Island Water Park
Abu Dhabi’s Warner Bros. World
Formula One Abu Dhabi
Q4. Yas Island is located where?
The drive to Yas Island from Abu Dhabi International Airport takes about fifteen minutes. The Island is a well-known adventure featuring a marina, racetrack, and a few opulent hotels. It is the greatest in the city thanks to attractions like Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, an indoor theme park.
5. What are the top lodging options close to Abu Dhabi Corniche?
If you intend to stay close to the Corniche, the following hotels are recommended:
Holiday Inn Dubai Al-Maktoum Airport Lapita, Dubai Parks and Resorts, Autograph Collection
Q6, Staybridge Suites Dubai Al-Maktoum Airport Rove at The Park Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa. Abu Dhabi Heritage Village: What is it?
One of the most well-known tourist destinations in Abu Dhabi is the Heritage Village, which preserves every aspect of the city’s pre-oil past. Discover traditional homes and other cultural landmarks.
7. Is the Zoo and Emirates Park open all day?
The Emirates Park and Zoo is open seven days a week from the following times:
Wednesday through Sunday: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
From Thursday through Saturday, from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm
Q8. Which historical sites in Abu Dhabi are well-known?
The two most well-known historical tourist destinations in Abu Dhabi are the heritage village and the Qasr Al Hosn Fort.
Q9. Is it worthwhile to visit Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi?
Indeed, Ferrari World is a theme park that offers all the excitement and fun associated with Formula One racing. There are lots of things to do in this park for adventure seekers and families alike.
The Flying Aces Roller Coaster and driving tests to put your newly acquired driving skills to the test—The Ferrari World has it all.
Q10. Does Abu Dhabi have a wildlife reserve?
Yes, the Sir Bani Yas Island wildlife reserve in Abu Dhabi was founded by Sheikh Zayed and is home to a variety of free-roaming species, including the critically endangered Arabian Oryx, giraffes, leopards, and more. Indeed, the wildlife reserve encompasses the entire interior region of Sir Bani Yas Island.