Abu Dhabi was first inhabited by a nomadic tribe named Bani Yas in the year 1760. Until the oil was discovered in Abu Dhabi, till then it was just a fishing village. The revenue that generated from oil business helped in transforming a small fishing village to a modern megapolis, over the period of time.
Today, Abu Dhabi is a well ordered and industrious city that is bustling with tourists from different parts of the world who are attracted to the amazing man made wonders. The capital city of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a paradise of luxury that offers you amusement parks, waterparks, gardens and big shopping complexes.
Abu Dhabi offers you a traditional Emirati experience that will help you enjoy your stay throughout your trip. There are a number of tourist attractions where you can visit and spend your time leisurely.
Here is the list of 20 places that you can visit on your trip to Abu Dhabi. These destinations will make your trip memorable as both the man made and natural wonders will mesmerize you.
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
- Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
- Yas Marina Circuit
- Desert Safari
- Emirates Park Zoo
- Boat Tours in Abu Dhabi
- Warner Bros World
- Skydive Abu Dhabi
- Avenue at Etihad Towers
- Yas Water World
- Observation Deck at 300
- I Battle
- Camel Safari
- Marina Eye
- Heritage Village
- Wadi Adventure
- Mushrif Mall
- Madinat Zayed Gold Center
- Sheikh Zayed Bridge
- Women’s Handicrafts Centre
Table of Contents
Places to Visit in Abu Dhabi
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is an impressive landmark of Abu Dhabi and is one of the largest mosques in the world. A tour of this mosque is an essential part in every trip of Abu Dhabi, as it expresses the design elements of Fatimid, Ottoman and Mameluke, which together creates a modern and harmonious structure and forms the Islamic structure.
This grand mosque was opened after 20 years of construction in 2007. This mosque is the biggest mosque in all the UAE which has 82 domes and the intricate use of delicate carvings on the floors and walls, mosaic and glass work enhances the beauty of the mosque.
This mosque can house up to 20,000 people at a time and also has the world’s largest loomed carpet in one of the prayer halls that was completed by 1200 artisan for a time period of 2 years. This marvel was built by Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan in the memory of his father.
Address: Al Rawdah – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Timing: Saturday to Thursday (9 AM to 10 PM) and Friday (9 AM to 12 PM)
Price: Free
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
Ferrari world is the world’s first themed park that offers its visitors an adrenaline pumping experience with its unique concepts of rides. Apart from the thrilling rides you can also witness the driving electric go-karts, live performances, state of the art stimulators as well as purchase authentic Ferrari racing memorabilia. Adventure seekers and car lovers will be fascinated with this theme park and it is also an ideal spot to spend time with your friends and family members.
There is a ride named Flying Aces Roller Coaster that will offer you a thrilling experience at a height of 52 meters and this roller coaster is the tallest in the world and there is also Formula Rossa, which is the world’s fastest roller coaster that clocks a speed of 120 km per hour. Moreover, as the name goes, this park also houses the Ferrari models starting from the year 1947. You can also enjoy authentic Italian restaurants within the premises of the theme park.
Address: Yas Island – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Timing: Monday to Sunday ; 11 AM to 8 PM
Price: AED 345
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Yas Marina Circuit
Yas Marina Circuit is Abu Dhabi’s lavish Grand Prix, which is situated on Yas island. Beside the tracks, visitors can also explore a water park, a theme park, beaches, hotels and a residential area. This circuit offers the F1 racers a lifetime experience and was designed by Hermann Tike, who himself was a racer.
The race track has 21 corner twists that pass through the view of Marina and Yas Hotel. Moreover, this circuit has 5 grandstands along with a VIP tower, Dragster track, media center and team building. Arriving in Abu Dhabi at the time of the Annual Grand Prix, will help you witness the racing phenomenon in your own eyes.
One can also sign-up for the Drive Yas experience, where the visitor will be offered a supercar to drive along the race tracks and gain the ultimate driving experience as of a real racer. At times, there are also go-kart races held at Yas Marina, where you can participate to gain a thrill and exciting experience.
Address: Yas Marina Circuit – Yas Island – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Timing: Monday to Sunday ; 9 AM to 12 AM
Price: AED 525
Desert Safari
Around Abu Dhabi, there are many experiences that you can gather, but among them desert safari is a must, or else your trip will remain incomplete. In this desert safari, you can experience traveling across golden sands and admiring the stunning sand dunes and endless stretches of sands around you. You can also enjoy ATV rides and camel rides in this desert safari, which will offer you a lifelong memory.
Besides, you can also enjoy sandboarding, watch belly dancing and enjoy camping under the stars. The long stretches of desert will help you drive through the desert and enjoy the sports without raising the chance of any mishaps. It is recommended to spend an overnight at the desert that will help you experience various traditional experiences and gain a better insight on the desert life in Abu Dhabi.
Address: Khalidiya Tower – khalidiya Tower Mezzanine Floor Room No. 32 – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Timing: Monday to Sunday ; 3:30 PM to 9 PM
Price: AED 90 (May vary based on package)
Emirates Park Zoo
Emirates Park Zoo is a popular tourist attraction of Abu Dhabi that consists of over 1400 species of animals that includes mammals, reptiles, birds and other wildlife that was established back in the year 2008 and was the first private zoo of the UAE. This zoo remains open to the public on all 365 days of the year and is an ideal destination for families and children to spend their time within the premises of the zoo.
This zoo also highlights the concept of edutainment, where education is mixed with entertainment and one can indulge into fun activities as well as learn new things. You can also arrange for meals watching animals from a close proximity, such as giraffes, elephants and leopards.
You can also get personal and close to birds like parrots, eagles and falcons at the Bird park. The zoo also offers accommodation facilities as one can stay at the luxurious cottages within the premises of the zoo offering a splendid experience amidst the wildlife.
Address: 12th Street, Al Bahyah, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Timing: Monday to Thursday (9 AM to 8 PM) and Friday to Sunday (9 AM to 9 PM)
Price: AED 50
Boat Tours in Abu Dhabi
If you are visiting Abu dhabi then you must definitely opt for boat tours, for Abu Dhabi in the past was a fishermen village. You can enjoy boat tours at Dhows, which are traditional wooden boats that are used by fishermen to hunt fish and pearls. The Dhow cruise in Abu Dhabi operates mainly in two areas, namely, Yas Island docks and Marina Mall.
A boat tour may vary between 45 minutes to 3 hours. The Dhow cruises also offers the visitors a chance to understand Abu Dhabi and the buffet served at the cruise are mainly Continental, Arabic and Indian cuisines, which is accompanied by live music as well as other entertainment options like tannoura dance, belly dancing and more.
Majority of the dhows are two storey, the lower deck offers air conditioned space, whereas the upper deck offers view of the surroundings under an open roof.
Address: Dubai Marina Walk, Marina Gate Next to The Coffee Club – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Timing: Monday to Sunday ; 8 AM to 8 PM
Price: AED 149 (May vary based on location and packages)
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Warner Bros World
Warner Bros World is an indoor theme park that attracts families, big groups and especially kids. This park covers characters from Looney Tunes to DC Comics. The collection of this park comprises various items and characters that are associated with the Warner Bros creation.
This indoor theme park is spread over an expanse of 1.65 million square meters and has 269 enthralling rides and has become the first and largest indoor theme park across the globe. When you step into this park, you are bound to return to your childhood days and spend your day interacting with the cartoon and comic characters and many more.
The use of high end technology like artificial intelligence, robotics and virtual reality has helped in replicating experiences to offer the visitors an immersive experience of the comic and cartoon world. There are 6 immersive areas within the Warner Bros World namely, Dynamite Gulch, Bedrock, Cartoon Junction, Metropolis and Gotham City.
There are also a number of renowned cafeterias and restaurants from Hollywood such as Starlight, Celebrity Scoop, Trattoria and many more.
Address: Yas Island – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Timing: Monday to Sunday ; 10 AM to 10 PM
Price: AED 345
Skydive Abu Dhabi
Skydive Abu Dhabi is a popular activity that attracts many adventure and thrill seekers, as you will be diving from a height of 13000 feet and can feel the adrenaline pump while falling from the sky at a speed of 200 km per hour. You will be accompanied by a licensed instructor to ensure your safety and will take about 4 to 5 minutes to touchdown at the ground.
If you are interested in skydiving, then you must book for your spot in advance and must oblige the safety directions that will ensure your safety. You can also take photos or record videos on request, while diving down the sky that will help you capture a lifetime memorable experience. Moreover, the safety standards followed while skydiving at Abu Dhabi as per the 2023 report shows the fatality rate to be 0.27 out of 100,000 skydives.
Address: Al Samih – Ext 381, Shk. Maktoom Bin Rashed Street, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Timing: Monday to Sunday ; 8 AM to 5 PM
Price: AED 80
Avenue at Etihad Towers
The Etihad Towers colossal consists of five majestic towers that characterizes the skyline. Avenue at Etihad Towers is one of the world’s most exclusive and expensive boutique shops collection. It is a one stop shop for all of the fashion needs, as you can find 34 luxury fashion brands that will be offering you the latest collections from around the globe such as Versace, Roberto Cavalli, Tom Ford, Canali and many more.
Starting from shoes, fashion accessories, fragrances to watches, you will find things to satisfy your rich taste along with experiencing an extravagant experience. Moreover, you can also experience premium dining from the outlets, restaurants and cafes that are present here offering you mouthwatering foods and beverages.
Address: Avenue at Etihad Towers, West Corniche, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Timing: Saturday to Thursday (10 AM to 10 PM) and Friday (3 PM to 11 PM)
Price: AED 95
Yas Water World
Yas Water World is another popular tourist destination in Abu Dhabi, which is rated as one of the top 12 waterparks around the world. This waterpark has over 40 water rides and slides along with five other attractions, which will guarantee to keep you entertained throughout your day at the waterpark.
It is the first mega park of the United Arab Emirates and is spread over an area of 37 hectares of land. Some of the popular water rides present in this park are Dawwama, Bubble’s Barrel, Jebel Dana, The Bandit Bomber, Wave pools, Legend of the Lost park, Liwa Loop, Yadi yas and Lazy river.
The Bandit Bomber is the longest suspended water roller coaster in the entire Middle East. On the other hand, Bubble’s Barrel is the largest sheet surf present in the whole world. Dawwama is the world’s first tornado water slide that is hydromagnetic powered.
There is also an option for purchasing appropriate swimwear inside the waterpark from different shops located within the premises. There are also places to eat within the park that offer quality foods and beverages, such as Al Wa’ha Cabanas, Chubby’s Kitchen, Dana’s Diner, Yas Berry, Farah Flavours and many more.
Address: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Timing: Monday to Saturday; 10 AM to 6 PM
Price: AED 192
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Observation Deck at 300
The Observation Deck at 300 is located on the 74th floor of the Etihad Towers. This place offers you a 360 degree panoramic view of the entire city of Abu Dhabi. There are binoculars placed at the place that will help you get a closer view as well as a bird eye view of the skyline, the Arabian Gulf and the Corniche.
As the name suggests, the observation deck is located at an elevation of 300 meters from the ground level, making it the highest vantage point in the city. When visiting this deck, you need to ensure wearing either business casual or smart casual.
One can also enjoy at the High tea, which is a coffee shop, offering a wide array of sweet and savory options such as scones, gourmet sandwiches, pastries, mocktails, coffees, traditional teas or special blends and many more. However, it is recommended that you make reservations at High Tea a day in advance to your visit.
Also ensure taking photographs of the stunning scenery, as photography is allowed, offering you the chance to capture wonderful memories of your visit to the highest tower during the Abu Dhabi trip.
Address: Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, Tower 2, Level 74, Etihad Towers, Corniche W Street, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Timing: Monday to Sunday ; 12 PM to 8 PM
Price: AED 48
I Battle
I Battle is one of the UAE’s leading airsoft and paintball facilities that is suitable for having fun with friends, team buildings, family catch-ups and birthday parties. The battle park is spread over an expanse of 46500 square meters, which consist of 7 different themed fields, which makes it the largest airsoft and paintball field in the Middle East.
This battle park can accommodate up to 100 players at a time and the park also offers discounts and special packages to groups of 20 people or more. There is also a canteen present at the premises of the battle park that will help you replenish your energy after hiding, running and shooting.
This battle park offers you paintball rounds, coveralls, neck and chest protectors , upgraded masks, unlimited CO2 and upgraded guns, which will help you level up your gaming experience. The interactive game scenario at I Battle will offer you both adventure and an enthralling experience by combining narratives and technology to create a real life battle scene.
Address: 203 Al Maktab Building, Al Barsha 1, Dubai, UAE
Timing: Monday to Sunday ; 8:00 AM – 11:45 AM
Price: AED 50
Qasr Al Hosn
Qasr Al Hosn is the home of the royal family Al Nahyan and is the symbolic heart of Abu Dhabi. This has been the seat to the ruling family, a national archive, a consultative council, seat of government. Now, Qasr Al Hosn stands as a testimony and narrator to the history of Abu Dhabi.
It is also a part of a larger historic complex, which comprises the Cultural Foundation and the National Consultative Council building. Qasr Al Hosn was constructed back in the year 1790, after which two major iconic buildings were built, first, the Inner Fort (built in the year 1795) and second, Outer Palace (constructed between 1939-1945). In the year 2018, this palace was transformed into a museum after an intensive restoration and conservation work.
Being the oldest stone building from the 18th century, which is also called the White Fort by the locals, sets a spectacular example of the traditional architecture of Abu Dhabi.
Address: Qasr Al Hosn, Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum Street. Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi
Timing: Saturday to Thursday (9 AM to 8 PM) and Friday (2 PM to 8 PM)
Price: AED 30
Marina Eye
Marina Eye is a giant Ferris wheel that is situated in Corniche and is visible from every corner of the city. This giant wheel has 42 capsules that offer a comfortable ride along with a thrilling experience which will take about 5 minutes. You can get breathtaking views of the city from the top of the ride and during the daytime, you can get a clear view of the coastline along with sparkling blue waters.
This giant wheel was established back in the year 2015 and enhances the beauty of Marina Mall, which is situated right in front of this giant wheel. This eye-catching attraction looks more vibrant when the sun goes down and the lights are turned on. There are also VIP capsules offering the comfort of air conditioning glass boxes that offers you a luxurious feeling and goes up to a height of 60 meters while rotating.
Address: Parking lot, Al Kasir, Al Marina, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Timing: Sunday to Wednesday (10 AM to 11 PM) and Thursday to Saturday (11 AM to 1 AM)
Price: AED 50
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Heritage Village
Heritage Village is a marvelous Arab village that helps in highlighting the life of Emiratis, before discovering oil in the nation. This village showcases the Bedouin lifestyle with displays of the Falaj irrigation system, traditional tents made of goat’s hair, campfire and coffee.
One can also learn and experience the traditional gulf lifestyle of the local people by learning of various techniques that are being used in the day to day life. Some of the traditional skills include customary skills by the artisans like metalwork, pottery, weaving and spinning.
You can also spot local shops selling clothes, silver jewelry, dried herbs, handmade soaps and many more. While touring the rustic roads of the Heritage village, you can also pay your respect at the mosque that is situated at the heart of the village.
Address: Emirates Heritage Village, Near Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi Theatre Rd, Corniche, Breakwater Rd, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Timing: Saturday to Thursday (9 AM to 4 PM) and Friday (7:30 AM to 12 PM and 3 PM to 9 PM)
Price: Free
Al Ain Adventure Park
Al Ain Adventure Park is located at the base of Jebel Hafeet Mountain in Al Ain that offers the facilities of surfing, kayaking, rafting, wall climbing, zipline and airpark. You will not witness such man made marvel in the entire Middle East, which is one of its kind. You can enjoy the high intensity sports under one roof that will keep your adrenaline rushing and stay active throughout the day, while enjoying the different activities within this adventure park.
The activities in this adventure park offer unparalleled thrilling experience in a comfortable and safe environment. You can also paddle through Middle East’s longest whitewater channels that stretches over 1100 meters in length. Moreover, there is also a floating obstacle course in this aquatic adventure park, where you need to conquer 21 challenging and exhilarating obstacles.
There are water activities for both beginners as well as professionals that makes it a favorite hotspot in terms of both land and water sports.
Address: Ain Al Fayda – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Timing: Monday to Sunday ; 11 AM to 7 PM
Price: AED 149
Umm Al Emarat Park
Umm Al Emarat Park is an ideal place for nature lovers as well as one of the most favorite tourist spots. Umm Al Emarat Park is also known as Mushrif Central Park, which is one of the largest and oldest parks in the city. This park covers an area of 14.5 hectares of land and throughout the park, one can witness a range of recreational and educational activities.
This park was built in the memory of the late President Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan to continue his legacy as he loved nature and strongly focused upon the conservation of the environment. Sometimes, this park is also addressed as People’s Park and offers something for all ages.
You can witness the Islamic design carved within the building architecture that makes it look more attractive such as in the pavilions and shades.
Address: 15th Street, Mushrif Area – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Timing: Monday to Sunday, ; 8 AM to12 AM
Price: AED 10 (Prices may vary depending on the activities and packages)
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Madinat Zayed Gold Center
Madinat Zayed Gold Center is located in Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre that is situated at the heart of the city and offers you with a number of gold brands that offers visitors with a wide array of gold jewelry options.
Beside gold shopping, one can also find international brands offering them high end fashion apparels and accessories, perfumes, electronics, groceries, household goods and many more. Some of the popular gold brands that are present at the mall are Al Ahram Jewellery WLL, Al Amin Jewellery, Al Ansari Jewellery, Al Awadhi Jewellery, Al Esteghlal Jewellery LLC, Al Iman Jewellery and many more.
Address: Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre and Gold Centre, P.O. Box 4048, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
Timing: Monday to Thursday (9 AM to 11 PM) and Friday to Sunday (9 AM to 12 AM)
Price: Free
Sheikh Zayed Bridge
Sheikh Zayed Bridge is one of the most sophisticated architecture of Abu Dhabi that was inaugurated back on November 28th, 2010. This complex bride is 64 meters high and 842 meters long, which is a truly wonderful sight to witness. This bridge is the fourth bridge that connects Abu Dhabi with the mainland and is present over the Maqta channel.
This bridge was designed by Zaha Hadid, as well as the first woman architect to win the Pritzker Architecture prize. This bridge has been designed in such a way that it can withstand both high and low temperatures, high wind speeds along with different natural disasters and can be estimated to stay strong up to 120 years.
The dynamic lighting present on the bridge has over 2000 cells on the deck and road that illuminates the bridge. The design of the bridge has been inspired by the sand dunes of the desert of the United Arab Emirates, offering it the curvy arches.
Address: Sas Al Nakhl, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Timing: Monday to Sunday ; 24 hours
Price: Free
Wahat Al Karama
Wahat Al Karama is a memorial place where visitors come to pay respect to those who gave their lives for the greater good of the UAE. The site pays tribute to the soldiers who gave their lives since the year 1971, The name “Wahat Al Karama” means the Oasis of Dignity, which helps in representing the significance of this memorial site.
Wahat Al Karama was also the first place in UAE that has the permanent monument for the commemoration of the armed forces. This memorial park is spread over an expanse of over 46000 square meters, present on the east of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. This memorial park houses an amphitheater, a Pool of Reflection, the Memorial plaza, the Pavillion of Honor and the Memorial.
Address: 3rd street Khor, Al Mushrif, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Timing: Monday to Sunday ; 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Price: Free
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Frequently Asked Question
What are the famous places in Abu Dhabi?
Abu Dhabi has a number of famous places that attract visitors such as Yas Waterworld, Ferrari World, Yas Mall and Sheikh Zayed Mosque.
Is 2 days enough for Abu Dhabi?
Spending 2 days at Abu Dhabi is a brilliant way to explore the eye catching places and also the tourist hotspots.
Is Abu Dhabi cheap or expensive?
Abu Dhabi is generally considered expensive, as the costs to entertainment, dining, accommodation costs are high, as it reflects the high status and high end standard of living.
Is Dubai or Abu Dhabi better for tourists?
Both Abu Dhabi and Dubai offer a splendid experience to the tourists. However, if you are seeking a conservative and traditional experience, then Abu Dhabi will be a better choice.
Is food expensive in Abu Dhabi?
Yes, the cost of food in Abu Dhabi is high, as the cost of an average meal may cost $45.
Do I need cash in Abu Dhabi?
Debit and credit cards are widely accepted in Abu Dhabi and you don’t always need to carry cash with you.