Abu Dhabi boasts of a true Emirati elegance amongst its varied hues of contemporary flavours. The capital city of the United Arab Emirates is continuously recreating and rediscovering its mojo and has lined-up plenty of attractions to shower on the travellers. There are world class hotels, magical resorts, timeless Dhow boats, adventurous desert safaris, exotic dining experiences, scenic drives, heritage buildings and plenty of theme parks and artificial islands! To make it easier, we at HolidayMe, have listed the Top-10 things to do in Abu Dhabi. So, the next time you are there, don’t miss out on these wonders:
Abu Dhabi Corniche
The Corniche is a redeveloped water front with stunning effects. The stretch of this stylish and urbane project features elegant walkways, cycle tracks, parks, beaches, alfresco restaurants and cafes and stylish picnic areas.
Qasr Al Hosn Palace and Emirates Palace Hotel
The Qasr Al Hosn Palace is also known as “The White Fort” due to the gleaming white paint used in its construction and served as the seat of government till 1966. Today, the palace offers a glimpse into the stunning transformation of Abu Dhabi. The Emirates Palace Hotel is one of the premier hotels around the world and is managed by the Kempinski Group, Europe’s oldest luxury hotel group. This opulent and magnificent hotel has fabulously designed rooms and suites. The lobby area features a dome with a stunning façade and interiors.
Abu Dhabi Heritage Village
The Heritage Village is a reconstruction of a traditional oasis village which provides an interesting glimpse into the traditional life of Abu Dhabi. The Heritage Village has plenty of workshops where craftsmen demonstrate their skills of metal works, pottery and many more in a charming set-up.
Saadiyat Islands
The Saadiyat Island is a low-lying island off the coast of Abu Dhabi and is being redeveloped with a stylish waterfront, high rises offices and branch museums of the famous Louvre and Guggenheim and The Zayed National Museum.
Sheikh Zayed Mosque
The Sheikh Zayed Mosque is the largest mosque in UAE and is an architectural marvel. Its magnificent intricate interiors make it one of the pioneering architectures of the Islamic world. It took about 12 years to complete this spectacular monument. Look out for the single largest Iranian carpets, a chandelier built in Germany, intricate floor tiles, a pristine pool, intricate pillars and ornate calligraphy.
Gold and Carpets Souks
The Madinat Zayed Gold Center is the best place to indulge in the purchase of gold, silver and other gem stones. Another place to shop for gold is the Hamdan Street, which is a high-street styled road filled with gold shops on either sides. For ethnic rugs and carpets, visit the Al Meena Road. The carpet souk is also known as the Afghan souk and has a variety of carpets. You can also shop for stylish Arabic cushions and other accessories here.
Desert safari and Arabian Nights Village
The desert safari is a must do activity in Abu Dhabi which will provide you an authentic experience of the stunning desert landscape of the UAE and the unique life and culture of the Emirates. A drive in a 4×4 vehicle or a camel ride will provide you a great thrill in the stunning desert landscape. You can also enjoy an overnight stay in the middle of desert under the clear starlit sky while savouring the delectable cuisine. The Arabian Nights Village is a traditional village recreated to resemble an oasis and traditional settlements. The interiors have all the modern comforts while retaining an old world charm surrounded by vast desert. One can enjoy wide range of activities like quad biking, desert safaris or simply can enjoy in the oasis pool. The in-house restaurant offers an authentic dining experience in a traditional Arabic setting and live entertainment.
Dhow Cruise, Scuba Diving and Falconry
The dhow cruise is a must-do activity in Abu Dhabi as it offers an amazing experience of sailing in a traditional dhow boat under a starry night or during the sunset twilight time. While cruising in a dhow, enjoy gastronomic cuisine and live entertainment. Try scuba diving in the Al Mahara and admire the beautiful coral reefs which are unspoilt. Learn about the precious marine ecology and the conservation efforts of the UAE. Enjoy falconry, a traditional art which has become the national pastime. Watch the unique bond between the trainer and a falcon and admire the flight of the majestic flacons.
Ferrari World and Emirates National Auto Museum
The Ferrari World is an amusement park located on the Yas Island and claims to be the largest indoor theme park. Try out the exhilarating Formula Rossa which is a rollercoaster and reaches upto a maximum speed of 240kmph! Enjoy F1 racing simulators and a drag race featuring Ferrari models as rollercoaster rides. Visit the Emirates National Auto Museum, a popular attraction of Abu Dhabi where you can get a glimpse of the auto collection of Hamad bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, member of the Abu Dhabi royal family. It includes a large model of Willys jeep, a part of the Guinness Book of world Records. Check out the military vehicles, fast cars and luxury vehicles here.
Yas Waterworld
Yas Waterworld is famous for its 43 rides, slides & attractions, and is spread in an area spanning 15 football fields. Enjoy various exhilarating rides and have a great fun day with your family and kids. Try the 283-metre long tornado waterslide or enjoy flowboards and bodyboards in the Bubble’s Barrel and Bandit Bomber and many more rides and activities.
