UAE

20 Cool Tourist Places to Visit and Things to Do in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is the perfect blend of Emirati culture, advanced modern infrastructure, and rich extravagance. Depending on when you visit Abu Dhabi or which place you are visiting in Abu Dhabi, you will come across each of these elements. It is the capital city and the largest province in UAE. Abu Dhabi is the living and breathing example of all that is UAE, past, present, and future. The ruler of Abu Dhabi is also the president of the 7 emirates. So if you wish to experience the entire UAE in one city, the you should visit Abu Dhabi.

Before you seek the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi, know that it is not just a city; Abu Dhabi is a province. There are plenty of places to go in Abu Dhabi and even plenty more things to do in Abu Dhabi. The province consists of the capital city of Abu Dhabi, desert, mountains, smaller towns, other cities, and several islands. Abu Dhabi literally translates as “Father of Gazelle”. The name originates from the story of Sheikh Shakhbut bin Dhiyab Al Nahyan, one of the rulers of Abu Dhabi and the founder of the Qasr Al-Hosn Fort. The history of Abu Dhabi begins with the settlement of descendants of the Bani Yas tribe near the Liwa Oasis, which still a fascinating place to visit in Abu Dhabi and one its most important historical destination. When you visit Abu Dhabi, and especially if you are a history nerd, you will be pleasantly surprised as to how well the best places in Abu Dhabi which are of historical or cultural significance are preserved. An Abu Dhabi travel guide will have to be quite extensive and should cater to tourist desires of a variety of people. There is so much to be seen and experienced during an Abu Dhabi trip. From the incredible infrastructure and skyline of incredible architecture to the Abu Dhabi desert tour. You will have something new to do and something new to see each day in Abu Dhabi. And with the explosive expansion of tourist destinations in Abu Dhabi, you might not be able to see it all in one trip.

Like many other ports of UAE, Abu Dhabi too was an important trading port between east and west. At the same time, it was a popular hub for pearl divers. Prior to independence, Abu Dhabi along with other ports of UAE, signed truce with the British empire and hence were called crucial coasts. Post independence, the ruler of Abu Dhabi utilized the wealth from oil trade to establish an incredible city. The idea was to develop a city of the future while preserving and cherishing the rich history, culture, and heritage of the land and its people. Thus, Abu Dhabi as it is today was born. Besides imprints of mankind, the natural destinations are ample and beautiful in the province of Abu Dhabi. You can enjoy islands, deserts, waterfalls and oasis to be some of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi. Some of these places are known for numerous adventure sports and thrilling experiences, especially the Abu Dhabi desert tour.

The Best 20 Tourist Places to Visit in Abu Dhabi in 5 Days (Trip Itinerary)

Day 1

1. Sheikh Zayed Mosque

This grand mosque is an architectural marvel and included among finest mosques in the world. It is inspired by Persian, Turkish, Mughal and Indo-Islamic elements of design. In the evening and especially on the weekends the mosque is beautifully lit up. This one of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi at night as well as the day. You would need about an hour or so for this mosque.

Sheikh Zayed Mosque

2. Umm al Emarat Park

One of the best places to see in Abu Dhabi travel is this huge public park. The park has gardens, sports facilities, entertainment venues, picnic spots and more. It also hosts many events and festivals. You would need about an hour to explore it.

Umm al Emarat Park

3. Observation Deck at 300

This observation deck is situated on the 74th floor of the Etihad Towers, which are among top Abu Dhabi tourist attractions. You can easily spend half an hour or so at the observation deck.

Observation Deck at 300

4. Emirates Heritage Village

This heritage museum recreates an ancient oasis village. It is one of the best places to go in Abu Dhabi to learn about the Emirati culture. You would need about an hour for this museum.

Emirates Heritage Village

5. Qasr al-Hosn

This building was built in 1760 and is the oldest stone building in the city. It was built to protect a freshwater source in the city. You would need 2 hours during Abu Dhabi trip for this historical building.

Qasr al-Hosn

6. Louvre Abu Dhabi

This art gallery and historical museum is one the biggest highlights of Abu Dhabi vacation for art admirers. It holds works of art from various periods of time as well as contemporary art. You would need at least 2 hours for Louvre Abu Dhabi.

Louvre Abu Dhabi

Day 2

1. Emirates Park Zoo

This zoo houses more than 1700 animals brought in from several countries across the globe. It is a must visit attraction on the Abu Dhabi travel guide for the sheer size of it. You would need 2 to 3 hours for this large zoo.

Emirates Park Zoo

2. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

This top tourist destination in Abu Dhabi is known for housing world’s fastest roller coaster ride and for being the largest indoor theme park in the world. There is too much to see and do here to be described in brief. You can easily spend north of 3 hours at Ferrari World when you visit Abu Dhabi.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

3. Sheikh Zayed Bridge

This bridge is considered an architectural wonder and you are likely to come across it as you head towards Abu Dhabi desert tour. Though you won’t need more than 20 to 30 minutes for this attraction.

Sheikh Zayed Bridge

4. Corniche Beach

One of the most popular and most accessible Abu Dhabi beaches, it is divided into 3 segments for single people, groups and families. There is a lot to do at this beach including watersports, dining, clubbing, picnic and so on. You can easily spend a couple of hours at this beach.

Corniche Beach

Day 3

1. Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital

This falcon hospital is a welfare center for these predator birds. It is one of the best Abu Dhabi tourist places to learn about falconry. You would need about an hour for this place.

Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital

2. Emirates National Auto Museum

This museum exhibits more than 200 vintage vehicles from the collection of HH Sheikh Hamad Al Nahyan. You would need an hour from Abu Dhabi travel to explore this museum.

Emirates National Auto Museum

3. Al Jahili Fort

Situated in Al Ain region, quite close to the city, this ancient fort is one of the finest historical buildings in the region. It is one of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi desert tour.

Al Jahili Fort

4. Green Mubazzarah

This large community area of sorts is among the most unique places to go in Abu Dhabi. It has nature trails, hot springs, camp sites, picnic spots, horse riding trails and more. You can easily spend a couple of hours at his place.

Green Mubazzarah

Day 4

1. Mangrove National Park

This wonderful mangrove forest sits in the middle of the city. It is home to several amazing species of birds and several other reptiles and mammals. It is also a best venues for outdoor things to do in Abu Dhabi. You would need about 3 to 4 hours to explore this wilderness.

Eastern Mangrove National Park

2. Etihad Modern Art Gallery

This fine art gallery focuses on modern and contemporary artworks. You would need about 2 hours for this gallery.

3. Zayed Heritage Center

This museum is dedicated to the life, work and rule of Sheikh Zayad al Nahyan, the founder of the Abu Dhabi Emirate. You would need about an hour or so to explore it.

Zayed Heritage Center

Day 5

1. Waner Bros. World Abu Dhabi

This gigantic amusement is among the top tourist destination in Abu Dhabi. It has everything related to Warner Brothers films, cartoons, games, characters and so on. You can easily spend half a day or more that this place.

Waner Bros. World Abu Dhabi

2. Yas Waterworld

Another great amusement park with so much to do and enjoy that a short description won’t do it justice. There are rides, games, shopping venues, dining options, themed sections and much more. The place too can easily take up half a day at least.

Yas Waterworld

3. Desert Safari

Abu Dhabi desert tour is among the most well known experience for tourists. This experience takes you exploring the desert and even living in tents at night after enjoying a traditional dance and music show. This experience usually requires at least a day’s time.

Desert Safari in Abu Dhabi

If you are looking for more things to do in Abu Dhabi vacation, check out the sections below.

Things to do in Abu Dhabi

Historical Places, Monuments & Museums to Visit in Abu Dhabi

  1. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
  2. Louvre Abu Dhabi
  3. Qasr Al-Hosn Fort
  4. Heritage Village
  5. Emirates National Auto Museum
  6. Al Jahili Fort
  7. Zayed Heritage Centre
  8. Wahat Al Karama
  9. Miraj Islamic Art Center
  10. Etihad Antique Gallery
  11. Etihad Modern Art Gallery
  12. Qasr Al Watan
  13. Qasr Al Muwaji
  14. The Founder’s Memorial
  15. Cultural Foundation
  16. Mamsha Al Khair
  17. Jebel Hafeet Tombs
  18. Hili Archeological Garden
  19. Jahili Mosque
  20. UAE Currency Museum
  21. Bait Al Oud
  22. Al Ain Palace Museum / Qasr al-Ain
  23. Dhafeer Fort
  24. Al Qattara Oasis
  25. Al Hili Oasis
  26. Al Jimi Oasis

Nature & Wildlife Tourist Spots to Visit in Abu Dhabi

  1. Eastern Mangrove National Park
  2. Sir Bani Yas Island
  3. Arabian Wildlife Park
  4. Al Ain Oasis
  5. Al Wathba Wetland Reserve

Entertainment & Leisure Tourist Spots in Abu Dhabi

  1. Ferrari World
  2. Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital
  3. Warner Bros World
  4. Yas Water World
  5. Yas Island
  6. Emirates Park Zoo
  7. Mushrif Central Park
  8. Marina Eye
  9. Warehouse 421
  10. Emirates Palace
  11. Hili Fun City
  12. Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort
  13. Arabian Saluki Center
  14. Al Ain Zoo
  15. Wadi Abu Dhabi
  16. CLYMB
  17. Bounce Abu Dhabi
  18. Aqua Fun Park
  19. Abu Dhabi Children Library
  20. Al Ain Camel Market / Camel Souk
  21. Al Ain Heritage & Culture Village
  22. Al Reef Handicrafts Training Center
  23. Qaryat Al Torath Heritage Village

Shopping in Abu Dhabi

  1. Yas Mall
  2. Marina Mall
  3. Abu Dhabi Mall
  4. Souk al Zafrana
  5. Souq al Qattara
  6. Al Ain Souk
  7. Souk al Bawadi
  8. Women’s Handicraft Center
  9. World Trade Centre Souq & Mall
  10. The Gallery Al Maryah Island
  11. Nation Galleria
  12. Avenue at Etihad Towers
  13. Souk Qaryat Al Beri
  14. The Collection
  15. Dalma Mall
  16. Mushrif Mall
  17. Al Raha Shopping Mall
  18. Deerfields Mall
  19. Khalidiyah Mall
  20. Al Wahda Mall
  21. Bawabat Al Sharq Mall
  22. Al Ain Mall
  23. Al Jimi Mall
  24. Bawadi Mall
  25. Wahat Hili Mall
  26. Foah Mall
  27. Mazyad Mall
  28. Liwa Centre
  29. Hamed Centre

Beaches in Abu Dhabi

  1. Saadiyat Public Beach
  2. Abu Dhabi Corniche
  3. Yas Beach
  4. Al Bahar Beach
  5. Jazeerat Nurai Beach, Nurai Island

Offbeat Places & Adventure Things to Do in Abu Dhabi

  1. Abu Dhabi Boat Tours
  2. Desert Safari
  3. Liwa Oasis
  4. Empty Quarter Desert / Rub Al Khali
  5. Arabian Nights Village
  6. Jebel Hafit Desert Park
  7. Liwa Desert Safari
  8. Al Wathba Cycle Track
  9. Al Badeyah Eyes Tourism
  10. Abu Dhabi Pearl Journey
  11. Eastern Mangrove Kayaking
  12. Dune Bashing
  13. Off Roading
  14. Sand Boarding
  15. Falconry
  16. Camel Trekking

Sightseeing in Abu Dhabi

  1. Observation Deck at 300, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers
  2. Capital Gate
  3. Venetian Village
  4. Etihad Tower
  5. W Abu Dhabi
  6. Masdar City
  7. Sheikh Zayed Bridge
  8. Al Bahar Towers
  9. Al Ain Raceway
  10. Zayed Sports City
  11. Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium
  12. Aldar HQ
  13. Manarat Al Sadiyaat

Food, Dining, Restaurants, & Street Food in Abu Dhabi

  1. Villa Toscana
  2. Meylas
  3. Punjab Grill
  4. Coya
  5. Byblos ur Mer
  6. Bonna Annee
  7. The Terrace
  8. BBQ Al Qasr
  9. Zuma
  10. Bord Eau
  11. Li Beirut
  12. Salt
  13. Boa Steakhouse
  14. The Meat Co.
  15. Hakkasan
  16. Saudi Kitchen
  17. Chamas
  18. Catch
  19. Tamba
  20. Bu Tafish

How to Reach Abu Dhabi?

By Air

The province of Abu Dhabi has 2 international airports and many private airports as well. Your best bet to reach Abu Dhabi directly is the Abu Dhabi International Airport. The Airport welcomes direct flights from many countries.

The second option is the Al Ain International Airport, which is located in the province of Abu Dhabi itself. Further, you can also get local flights to Abu Dhabi from Dubai International Airport, Sharjah International Airport, Al Maktoum International Airport, and Fujairah International Airport.

Sir Bani Yas Island has an airport of its own, with flights coming in from Abu Dhabi International Airport and Dubai International Airport

By Road

Road connectivity in UAE is excellent. You will get buses and intercity cabs going to Abu Dhabi from any city in UAE.

By Water

Abu Dhabi has a long coastline with multiple ports. Abu Dhabi is also a popular cruise stop destination and many cruises would get you to one of many Abu Dhabi ports. You can also get boat rides and cruise tour to Abu Dhabi from Dubai.


Image Reference

Mustafa Natalwala

Mustafa is a content writer and digital marketing expert at WideWorldTrips.com His mainly interests are into travelling, photography, film-making

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