Top 20 Attractions in Abu Dhabi
Every capital in the world has something special about it, with some standing out due to their natural landscapes, others for their cultural and historical landmarks, and some for their stunning beaches. Additionally, there are those renowned for their deserts and golden sands. However, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi, has it all, combined into a beautiful masterpiece that caters to all tastes. If you're a fan of natural scenery, the parks and gardens of Abu Dhabi will make you feel like you're in a paradise oasis. If you're passionate about culture and civilization, there are plenty of archaeological sites, as well as the towering skyscrapers in Abu Dhabi that offer you breathtaking views of the city. In this article, we present the top 20 tourist attractions in Abu Dhabi.
1. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the fourth largest mosque in the world and can accommodate around 40,000 worshippers. Imagine, this mosque took 20 years to build! Let's begin with the vast exterior courtyard surrounding the mosque, where you'll see a large area with water basins and decorative columns that captivate the eye. As you move forward, the four towering minarets and the 82 domes of the mosque will catch your attention.
Upon entering the mosque, you'll encounter the largest handmade carpet in the world, with Quranic verses intricately decorated throughout the mosque. If you look up, you'll be mesmerized by the beauty and enormity of the golden chandeliers, including the largest chandelier in the world. The mosque also houses a practical library, rich in books.
Operating hours: 09:00 - 22:00
2. Heritage Village
The Heritage Village is located away from the noise of the city, on one of Abu Dhabi's beautiful beaches. This village represents the traditional lifestyle and cultural heritage of the region. The village was opened in 1996 and spans an area of 16,800 square meters. It includes museums, shops, and old workshops where traditional crafts and industries are displayed. A heritage festival is held in the village every weekend, offering a variety of performances and activities.
Operating hours: 09:00 - 16:00
3. Louvre Museum
If you haven't visited the Louvre Museum in France, don't worry, the Louvre Museum on Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi is a similar version. Designed by the famous French architect Jean Nouvel, the museum is a magnificent masterpiece. The exhibition combines the past and the present by showcasing paintings, drawings, artworks, documents, and manuscripts from both ancient and modern times from all around the world. The exhibition is covered by a silver dome composed of 8,000 stars. The museum also hosts numerous exhibitions throughout the year.
Operating hours: 10:00 - 18:30
Entrance fee: 63 AED (around 17 USD)
4. Ferrari World
For theme park enthusiasts, Ferrari World on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi offers a unique experience. Ferrari World is a Ferrari-themed amusement park covering an area of 200,000 square meters, making it the largest indoor theme park in the world. The park features a variety of amazing rides, starting with the G-Force, one of the fastest roller coasters in the world, followed by simulation games and ending with car racing tracks. There is also a Ferrari store where you can purchase souvenirs, as well as a Ferrari exhibit where you can learn about the history of this iconic brand.
Operating hours: 12:00 - 20:00
Entrance fee: 345 AED (around 93 USD)
5. Qasr Al Hosn
When exploring Abu Dhabi, don't forget to visit Qasr Al Hosn, the oldest building in the city. The palace was built in 1793 and was originally used as the residence of the ruling family and the seat of government. Later, it was converted into a museum displaying ancient artifacts. Qasr Al Hosn consists of a large fort, an inner palace, and a watchtower, surrounded by many shopping centers. The palace hosts various exhibitions and shows that explain the cultural history of the UAE.
Operating hours: 09:00 - 22:00
Entrance fee: 30 AED (around 8 USD)
6. Abu Dhabi Corniche
The Abu Dhabi Corniche is a place where both adults and children, men and women alike, gather. It stretches over 8 kilometers and offers a stunning view of the Arabian Gulf. Whatever your hobby, you will find it at this beach. There is a walking path and a cycling track along the beach, as well as designated areas for children's games. While walking along the beach, you'll encounter many plants and flowers that add beautiful colors to the sea under the soft sunlight. There are also many cafés and restaurants offering delicious food. You can swim and sunbathe in the designated swimming area or engage in water sports.
7. Capital Gate (Leaning Tower of Abu Dhabi)
Have you ever seen a leaning skyscraper? Abu Dhabi allows you to witness this sight, perhaps for the first time in your life. The Leaning Tower of Abu Dhabi is a 35-story skyscraper with a height of 160 meters. It is located next to the National Exhibition Center and is considered one of the first buildings in Abu Dhabi. The tower tilts 18 degrees to the west, which is four degrees less than the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. The tower was designed by RMJM and built by Al Habtoor Construction.
8. Abu Dhabi Maritime Museum
The Maritime Museum, also known as the Water Museum, takes you on a journey through the UAE's maritime history. Designed by the Japanese architect Tadao Ando, this museum is wonderfully crafted, with light casting a soft glow on the water's color, creating a scene that makes you feel as though you're at the deepest depths of the ocean. At this museum, you can learn about the significance of the sea to the Emirati people in ancient times, how they built boats, fished, and dove deep into the sea to collect pearls. The museum features many types of fish and marine creatures that live in the Arabian Gulf.
Operating hours: 15:00 - 23:00
9. Abu Dhabi Safari Tours
Desert enthusiasts also have their share of fun in Abu Dhabi. The Liwa Desert or the Rub' al Khali (Empty Quarter) Desert is the perfect destination for desert lovers and camping enthusiasts. This desert covers an area of 600,000 square kilometers, making it the second-largest desert in the world. The desert is known for its sand dunes and golden sands and offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Liwa Desert offers many activities, such as photography, filmmaking, or even dune surfing. You can also set up your tent, enjoy the desert atmosphere, try camel riding, and watch shows held in the desert.
Operating hours: 06:00 - 23:00
10. Emirates Park Zoo
Emirates Park Zoo is one of the best tourist attractions in Abu Dhabi for families, as it is home to around 1,700 different animal species, including rare ones like the white tiger and the Siberian bear. The zoo is known for its entertainment shows, such as circus elephant performances and dolphin shows, where you can swim with and feed the dolphins. The zoo also features the Emirates Park Resort, which offers luxurious chalets right in the heart of the park.
Operating hours: 09:00 - 20:00
Entrance fee: 50 AED (around 14 USD)
11. Saadiyat Island Lighthouse
Saadiyat Island Lighthouse, located on Saadiyat Island, attracts culture and art lovers, as it houses art exhibitions, workshops, and performance shows. It also features open spaces dedicated to art studios. The lighthouse includes several excellent facilities, such as a terrace for outdoor events, a restaurant and café, three galleries for art exhibitions, a theater with a capacity of around 100 people, and a meeting hall that accommodates 250 people. Additionally, the lighthouse has a shopping center and a restaurant called "Al Fanar," which serves delicious local and international dishes.
Operating hours: 10:00 - 20:00
12. Yas Island
Yas Island is one of the most beautiful islands in Abu Dhabi, offering a wide range of entertainment and cultural activities, in addition to its stunning beaches. The island is an ideal destination for families, featuring a variety of exciting attractions such as the famous Formula 1 race track, Warner Bros. World, Ferrari World, and Yas Waterworld. With all these fantastic events, you’ll never want to leave Yas Island. It’s a wonderful destination filled with endless entertainment!
13. Yas Waterworld
Yas Waterworld is one of the most amazing amusement parks in Abu Dhabi. This entertainment city offers an incredible range of activities, such as twisting water slides, surfing, and the experience of the longest suspended roller coaster in the Middle East. Additionally, Yas Waterworld includes the Fun Castle and the Lazy River, both popular destinations for families. The park also features fast-food restaurants throughout this fantastic entertainment venue.
Operating hours: 10:00 - 19:00
Entrance fee: 295 AED for adults (around 80 USD), 225 AED for children (around 61 USD)
14. Qasr Al Watan
Qasr Al Watan is part of the UAE Presidential Palace complex and is a magnificent cultural landmark that attracts tourists to explore the rich heritage and traditions that shaped the nation. The palace celebrates Arabic heritage and arts, with its majestic architecture and stunning design highlighting the importance of its exhibitions and the rooms found in its corridors. The palace also hosts a 3D show that narrates the journey of the UAE’s development through three remarkable works of art.
Operating hours: 11:00 - 18:30
Entrance fee: 65 AED (around 18 USD) for adults, 30 AED for children (around 8 USD)
15. Yas Mall
Yas Mall is the largest shopping center in Abu Dhabi, covering an area of approximately 2.5 million square feet across three floors. The mall features nearly 370 stores, offering famous local and international brands in fashion, footwear, handbags, perfumes, jewelry, and home accessories. Not only that, but Yas Mall also includes a dedicated entertainment area for children's games, a large cinema hall, and many restaurants and cafes.
Operating hours: 10:00 - 22:00
16. Cultural Complex
The Cultural Complex is a prominent cultural and artistic center located in the heart of Abu Dhabi, UAE. Since its establishment, it has been one of the oldest and most important cultural facilities in the region. The complex includes several facilities and sections that reflect cultural and artistic diversity, including:
- Theater: The complex hosts theatrical, musical, and literary performances from around the world. The theater has seen many outstanding performances and artistic events.
- Art Exhibitions: The complex hosts various art exhibitions showcasing works by both local and international artists, contributing to the enhancement of visual arts.
- Workshops and Educational Courses: The complex offers visitors the opportunity to participate in workshops and educational courses focused on arts and culture.
- Library: The library holds a rich cultural and literary collection, including books, magazines, and cultural materials.
- Cafes and Restaurants: Inside the complex, there are cafes and restaurants where visitors can enjoy food, drinks, and cultural discussions.
17. Al Wathba Wetland Reserve
The Al Wathba Wetland Reserve is one of the prominent natural reserves in Abu Dhabi, UAE. This reserve spans over 5 square kilometers and is home to a wide variety of wildlife and aquatic creatures. Al Wathba Lake and its surrounding wetlands are an important destination for migratory birds during the winter, with over 250 different species of birds spotted here during this time, making it one of the top bird-watching sites.
Visitors can explore the reserve via various walking and cycling trails, and the educational center within the reserve provides valuable information about the local environment and its inhabitants. The area also features comfortable amenities, such as observation areas and viewing platforms, where visitors can enjoy the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife.
18. Al Reem Central Park
Al Reem Central Park is a charming green space located on Reem Island in Abu Dhabi, UAE. This beautiful public park, which opened in 2018, quickly became a popular destination for both locals and visitors. Al Reem Central Park features expansive green areas, walking and jogging paths, and picnic spots, making it an ideal place to spend a day outdoors while enjoying sports activities.
The park also includes children’s play areas, BBQ facilities, and small lakes that add a sense of tranquility and beauty to the environment. Additionally, Al Reem Park hosts various cultural and social events throughout the year, such as musical performances, art exhibitions, and local markets, enhancing its appeal as an entertainment hub for families and friends.
19. Jubail Mangrove Park
The Jubail Mangrove Park is located on Jubail Island and is the first standalone educational, natural, and recreational destination in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. The island lies between Yas Island and Saadiyat Island, in the capital of the UAE. The park offers the opportunity to explore a sanctuary for native bird and marine species, with a focus on raising awareness, appreciation, and understanding of the environmental importance of mangrove habitats, promoting the protection of Abu Dhabi’s coastlines, and supporting biodiversity. The winding trail through the mangrove trees provides an exciting chance to discover the true beauty of Abu Dhabi.
Note: Tickets are available for various activities at the park, such as cycling and boating.
Operating hours: Daily from 07:00 to 21:00
20. Wahat Al Karama
Wahat Al Karama is a memorial site in Abu Dhabi, UAE, dedicated to honoring the martyrs of the UAE who sacrificed their lives in service to the country. Officially opened in 2016, it features a stunning design with 31 large, tilted panels covered in aluminum. Wahat Al Karama is a place of respect and reflection, where visitors can pay tribute to the sacrifices of the nation’s heroes and renew their loyalty.
Note: Guided tours are available in both English and Arabic, with the last tour at 18:00 daily. Regular shuttle buses are available to and from the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, with pedestrian access via a bridge, making it easy for visitors to reach this memorial site.
Operating hours: Open to the public daily from 09:00 to 22:00
In conclusion, it's not an exaggeration to say that Abu Dhabi is one of the most complete and enjoyable capitals, offering something special for everyone. Words might not be enough to describe the charm of this amazing city, so make sure to book your flight to Abu Dhabi on WINGIE and visit these exceptional tourist sites.
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