Abu Dhabi, a city often recognized as a business destination has all the attributes of a top holiday destination in the world. With no shortage of playtime activities and guided tours of some of the most jaw-dropping architectural marvels, there are numerous things to do in Abu Dhabi that compel travelers to visit here on a holiday.
Be it the tours of historical mosques or a walk in the underrated parks, there's something for everyone in Abu Dhabi. So, here are some of the top things that you should try while on a vacation in the city.
Best 8 Things To Do In Abu Dhabi
Here are some of the top things that one should try while on vacation in Abu Dhabi.
1. Take A Walk Around The Corniche
A five-mile stretch that features small beaches, playgrounds and so much more, the Corniche at Abu Dhabi is a fine spot for a soothing walk with friends and family. Considered one of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi, the Corniche offers gardens, and art installations much to the delight of visitors.
In fact, this is a place where one can not only experience the best of walks but can also enjoy the beach. Worried about the views or facilities? Well, the beaches at the Corniche like Corniche Public Beach, and Al Bahar feature amongst the best in the city and offer everything one possibly expects, be it views or facilities.
Location - The Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Timings - 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM (For the beach)
Entry Fee - AED 10 (Adults) & AED 5 (Children) for the beach
2. Take A Tour Of The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
One of the top things to do in the UAE is to take a tour of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Renowned for being the largest mosque in Abu Dhabi, the mosque carries immense importance and can hold up to 40,000 worshippers at a time. In fact, if you're wondering what are the best things to do in Abu Dhabi today, well, the Grand Mosque and its guided tour await you. With one of the largest chandeliers in the world and an architecture inspired by the Persian, Mughal, and the Moorish, the place allows visitors to learn more about Islam. However, anyone visiting the Grand Mosque is required to dress modestly considering this is the Islamic place of worship.
Location - Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street، - 5th St - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Timings -
Saturday to Thursday: 9 AM to 10 PM
Friday: 4:30 PM to 10 PM
Entry Fee - N/A
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3. Spend Time At The Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum
Now here's a thought, if a guided tour of the Grand Mosque is worth your time, then the Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum is set to be the same. It is amongst those free things to do in Abu Dhabi that travelers should definitely consider trying. Why? Well, the reason behind this is simple. This billion-dollar establishment features a huge gallery space that features artworks from prehistoric times to contemporary art. One can find the likes of Leonardo Da Vinci and Pablo Picasso represented here. So, what's the delay? Visit Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum and spend time wandering this waterfront building.
Location - Saadiyat - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Timings - Tuesday to Sunday: 10 AM to 6:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Entry Fee - AED 31 to 63
4. Visit The Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
Another top place to visit in Abu Dhabi is the Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. Nestled on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi and opened in 2010, the amusement park is dedicated solely to Ferrari and features the world's fastest roller-coaster by the name Formula Rossa. Offering the famous Ferrari driving experience and the world's tallest non-inverting loop, the park has been designed with specially children in mind and is a place perfect for speed enthusiasts. In fact, a ride on Formula Rossa is one of the most fun things to do in Abu Dhabi today. What's more? The Ferrari World Abu Dhabi features a number of other attractions that visitors can't possibly afford to miss.
Location - Yas Island - Yas Leisure Dr - Yas IslandYas West - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Timings - Tuesday to Saturday: 12 PM to 8 PM (Closed on Sunday and Monday)
Entry Fee -
AED 695 for an individual (Weekday only annual pass)
AED 1990 (Adult premium annual pass)
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5. Explore The Liwa Forts
Amongst the many things to do in Abu Dhabi, trying out any Abu Dhabi adventure activity is something every traveler should look forward to. While there are numerous such activities that travelers get, exploring the Liwa forts has to be one of the top ones. Nestled on the edge of a 60-mile expanse of greenery, the forts offer 360-degree views of the date palm plantation while one can even discover the rolling dunes beyond.
There are seven watchtowers as part of the forts. As history has it, each tower once protected the water sources in the area and history buffs today can take a tour of the same without any sense of hesitation.
Location - Northern part of the Liwa Oasis
Timings - Travelers are advised to confirm the timings with the concerned authorities
Entry Fee - N/A
6. Savor The Best Of Italian Flavors At Villa Toscana
If not the best restaurant in Abu Dhabi then certainly one of the finest, Villa Toscana is the place where one can experience the true Italian flavors. Savoring a nice meal here is one of the top things to do in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Nestled in the heart of Seogwipo in Jeju Villa, the restaurant is widely popular for serving authentic delicacies. One can get the pure feel of entering into an Italian noble here as the chef welcomes you. The best part about Villa Toscana is that the restaurant keeps changing the menu. Hence, there's something new to taste every now and then. Each dish is handcrafted and offers the true authentic taste of Italy in Abu Dhabi.
Location - National Towers-Corniche Rd W- Abu Dhabi
Timings - 12 PM to 3 PM & 7 PM to 11 PM
Entry Fee - N/A
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7. Shop At The Marina Mall
Well, shipping may not be one of the free things to do in Abu Dhabi but it's definitely worth every moment. There are many top malls in Abu Dhabi that are renowned for their amazing options in dining, shopping, and entertainment but the Marina Mall has to be a top pick for many travelers. Renowned for its amazing entertainment options, the mall features more than 400 stores in total and is located in close proximity to the Heritage Village in the southwest corner of Abu Dhabi.
Visitors coming here can find an ice rink, a movie theatre, a bowling alley, and an amusement center all in one place.
As for the culinary experience? There are a variety of restaurants and cafés in addition to the amazing food court at the mall. Hence, as far as food options are concerned, the Marina Mall has more options than one can possibly need. So, what's the delay? Visit here and spend your day enjoying the various activities. Shop from your favorite store or head to the amusement park for a fun time with your loved ones.
Location - Al Marina - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Timings -
Saturday to Wednesday: 10 AM to 10 PM
Thursdays 10 AM to 11 PM
Fridays: 2 PM to 11 PM
Entry Fee - N/A
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8. Spend Time At The Mangrove National Park
Another notable wonder in UAE is the Mangrove National Park. Home to a staggering 60 species of birds, scenic waterways and so much more, the park has everything that a naturalist can dream for. In fact, one can enjoy kayaking here while catching a glimpse of the 15 feet high mangroves which themselves are an attraction.
Need more? Well, how about snorkeling in the saltwater here? One can witness the root systems up close while snorkeling. Interestingly, there are a number of local tour operators present in the area who have the license and can make sure your experience at the park isn't hampered. So, why ponder over things when there are natural wonders awaiting you? Visit the Mangrove National Park in Abu Dhabi and spend your time close to nature.
Location - Anantara Hotel - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Timings - Monday to Sunday: 10 AM to 12 AM
Entry Fee - Travelers are advised to check the entry fee with the concerned authorities
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A city that offers multiple wonders to visitors, Abu Dhabi a lot to be admired for. From natural wonders to eye-catching architectural marvels, the city offers so much more than one can ever imagine. Besides, there are numerous things to do in Abu Dhabi for an all-together fascinating holiday experience. One can not only explore the various forts and national parks here but can also get to savor the best of meals at the restaurants around the city. So, what’s the delay? Book your Abu Dhabi flight today and come witness the serene wonders of the city.
FAQs
Although there are many top things to do on a vacation in Abu Dhabi, a visit to the Corniche has to be a top priority. A five-mile stretch that features small beaches, playgrounds and so much more, the Corniche at Abu Dhabi is a fine spot for a soothing walk with friends and family.
Yes, Abu Dhabi is a safe city as far as travel destinations are concerned. The police in the city are always on alert and ready for help. Besides, UAE rarely gets into any kind of dispute. Hence, travelers can expect the best of time without worrying too much about their safety in Abu Dhabi.
Yes, one of the top things to do in the UAE is to take a tour of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Renowned for being the largest mosque in Abu Dhabi, the mosque carries immense importance and can hold up to 40,000 worshippers at a time.
If not the best restaurant in Abu Dhabi then certainly one of the finest, Villa Toscana is the place where one can experience the true Italian flavors. Nestled in the heart of Seogwipo in Jeju Villa, the restaurant is widely popular for serving authentic delicacies.
There are many top malls in Abu Dhabi that are renowned for their amazing options in dining, shopping, and entertainment but the Marina Mall has to be a top pick for many travelers. Renowned for its amazing entertainment options, the mall features more than 400 stores in total and is located in close proximity to the Heritage Village.
Nestled on the edge of a 60-mile expanse of greenery, the forts offer 360-degree views of the date palm plantation while one can even discover the rolling dunes beyond. As history has it, each tower once protected the water sources in the area and history buffs today can take a tour of the same without any sense of hesitation.
Although it clearly depends on the choices of travelers as to how long one wishes to stay in the city, an ideal trip still takes about 2-3 days in Abu Dhabi.
Yes, another notable wonder in UAE is the Mangrove National Park. Home to a staggering 60 species of birds, scenic waterways and so much more, the park has everything that a naturalist can dream for. In fact, one can enjoy kayaking here while catching a glimpse of the 15 feet high mangroves which themselves are an attraction.
