Abu Dhabi has always existed on the side of its more glitzy counterpart, Dubai. However, one thing must be understood: the capital of the UAE is no less of a miracle, too. The grand mosques, desert safaris, futuristic museums, and peaceful islands can only make the most experienced traveller surprised when it comes to the best things to do in Abu Dhabi.
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I had a 4-day stopover in Abu Dhabi and didn’t have too many expectations. However, towards the end, I was envisaging my going back. The following is an edited list, not one conceived by a guidebook, but rather by experience, of the 11 best things to do in Abu Dhabi.
Table of Contents
- 1. Be Awed in the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
- 2. Experience the fastest roller coaster in the World, Ferrari World
- 3. The Mangrove National Park has been where escapes are made.
- 4. Get Lost in the Louvre Abu Dhabi
- 5. Go on the Sunset Dhow Cruise of the Corniche
- 6. A 4 x 4 Go desert Dining
- 7. Day on Saadiyat Island
- 8. Taste some Local Emirati Food at the Al Fanar
- 9. Take tours at Qasr Al Watan – The Presidential Palace
- 10. Watch a Match or Concert in Yas Island
- 11. Yas Mall Shop and Stroll
- Concluding Notes: Abu Dhabi Is Not Just a Place of a Stopover
1. Be Awed in the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
This is something that will put you on your feet, even if you’re not a big fan of architecture. Imagine ivory domes, lavish chandeliers, mirrored pools, and a calmness that could hardly be found in places of tourist attraction.
Tip: Make sure to go before sunset. Look at the gold light striking the white marble and understand why it is one of the most desirable things to enjoy in Abu Dhabi.
2. Experience the fastest roller coaster in the World, Ferrari World
I am not so much a fan of Ferrari, but after riding on the Formula Rossa, I became one.
This is a sheer speed of 240 km/h that gives you adrenaline. The experience is well worth it, even when it comes to theme parks that you are not into.
Suggestion: Put on the goggles given to you; otherwise, tears will go everywhere!
3. The Mangrove National Park has been where escapes are made.
Abu Dhabi also has mangroves…. Within a few minutes, there is a chance to kayak through winding channels and be surrounded by lush green features and flamingos. It is quiet, strangely relaxing, and the type of nature getaway nobody ever imagines in a desert town.
4. Get Lost in the Louvre Abu Dhabi
You can not copy it, it is an entire mood. The museum is floating in the water with a lattice dome resembling a space station that is a perfect blend of both the East and the West.
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You may not be an art enthusiast, but the artworks and structures make it one of the finest things to do in Abu Dhabi.
5. Go on the Sunset Dhow Cruise of the Corniche
Imagine your background or scenery consisting of the slow breeze, traditional Arabic music, and the glittering skyscraper. The Corniche looks beautiful when viewed on land, but on a wooden dhow boat, it becomes cinematic. Bonus: In the majority of cruises, one will find traditional snacks and Arabic coffee.
6. A 4 x 4 Go desert Dining
A visit to Abu Dhabi cannot be complete without a desert safari. There is dune bashing, which is exciting (and a little bit scary!), then there is more dinner with BBQ, desert camel rides, and entertainment under the stars.
Is it the night silence in the desert? Magical.
7. Day on Saadiyat Island
Saadiyat is home to the cleanest beaches, top-quality resorts, and wonder to all who seek a combination of nature and luxury. I suggest the beach on the shore because of the transparent waters and the free spirit. And to top it all, Calanipus’s (sea turtle) also nests here!
8. Taste some Local Emirati Food at the Al Fanar
Al Fanar is where you go to eat like a local. Its ambience is old Dubai, and its menu is loaded with traditional dishes such as Harees and Machboos. It is not part of the tourism industry – it is experiential.
After trying one single bite of Luqaimat (local sweet dumplings), I was addicted.
9. Take tours at Qasr Al Watan – The Presidential Palace
This palace is more than politics; it is a living library of Islamic learning, art, and heritage of the UAE. The interiors are eye-dropping – gold, mosaics, and marble all over.
It is arguably one of the best things to do in Abu Dhabi among lovers of architecture and history.
10. Watch a Match or Concert in Yas Island
New Yas Island is not only meant to have F1 enthusiasts. It is the center of entertainment, concerts, beach clubs, and even events. It could be a Dua Lipa concert and UFC night, whatever is going on in town, chances are they are here. Before you travel there, check their event schedule.
11. Yas Mall Shop and Stroll
Abu Dhabi malls cannot be treated merely as a shopping center but as a destination. Yas Mall becomes a combination of retail with restaurants, cinema, and even an indoor adventure park.
It is ideal in a heat wave afternoon, where all you need is some aircon and a quality dose of karak chai.
Concluding Notes: Abu Dhabi Is Not Just a Place of a Stopover
And in case you considered Abu Dhabi as a less-spoke-of cousin of Dubai, you are mistaken. It is the setting of tradition meeting innovation, calmness meeting thrill, all combined with the Emirati hospitality.
Abu Dhabi does not offer the best things to do as would be the case with ticking off the tourist venues, but simply indulge in a feeling of grandiosity, but more on an earthly level. I went there with the thought of skyscrapers and malls. My journal was saturated with moments, and I have become obsessed with dates and Arabic coffee.
Assuming that you have an opportunity to go, you should do it. And do not forget to kayak in the mangroves.