10 Best Things to Do in Abu Dhabi

The Corniche is Abu Dhabi’s iconic 8-km stretch of waterfront where you can bike and stroll along manicured paths as well as enjoy various beach activities. Among the best things to do in Abu Dhabi, here you can take a dip in the calm waters off a white and sandy artificial shoreline, against the high-rise skyline of the UAE’s capital. 

The whole length of the Corniche is dotted with soccer fields, volleyball courts, and parks that make good use of the seaside setting. We recommend finding a sun-soaked bar terrace to view gorgeous sunsets. If you visit during certain times of the year like Eid and New Year, you’ll also get to witness some spectacular firework displays.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the must-see landmarks in the UAE capital with its massive scale, 82 domes, and towering minarets. The complex was completed in 2007, named in honor of the UAE’s late president and the mosque’s brainchild, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

The mosque’s design blends diverse Islamic architectural elements. Inside, check out its series of 24-karat-gold gilded chandeliers with Swarovski crystals: the largest measures 10 meters wide and 15 meters tall. It also features the world's largest hand-knotted carpet, made with New Zealand and Iranian wool. As with any mosque visit, respectful conduct and attire is a must.

The 18th-century Al-Hosn Fort and Palace is a historical Abu Dhabi landmark that the city was built around. Also known as Qasr al-Hosn or “Palace Fort,” it was built in 1761 as a watchtower to defend the only freshwater well on the island. It later became the permanent residence of ruling sheikhs and emirs.

Today, the palace-fort features a museum where you can learn more about Abu Dhabi’s past through various artifacts and exhibits. The vast grounds also host the multi-day cultural event, the Qasr al-Hosn Festival, that usually takes place in early December. But no matter the time of year you visit, you can always celebrate Abu Dhabi’s culture and heritage here through crafts, music, and workshops.

The best beaches of Abu Dhabi offer sandy seaside fun and spectacular sunsets, all backed by incredible city skylines. Corniche Beach tops the list for most visitors, especially families, with its calm, clean, and swimmable waters bordered by several parks and promenades. 

Al Bateen Beach is a leisurely retreat with water sports to enjoy, including kayaks, jet skis, and pedalos. It also has picnic spots overlooking Hudayriat Island and its long white bridge that stretches over the waters. For pristine nature, head to Saadiyat Beach. This well-preserved strip of white sand is home to protected dunes and turtle nesting sites. It’s accessible via a wooden boardwalk on the north-western shore of the namesake island.

Ferrari World on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island is a must for all fans of the famous Italian supercar maker, along with those with a need for speed. Almost everything at this massive indoor theme park features the Prancing Horse logo and the signature Ferrari Red: rosso corsa. 

Among the many rides, there’s Formula Rossa, the “fastest in the world” rollercoaster that takes you from 0 to 149 mph in 4.9 seconds. To combine crazy speeds with dizzying heights, try Flying Aces, which reaches 63-meters-high at speeds of up to 74 mph. Smaller ones can ride the Formula Rossa Junior or the Flying Wings, or they can even feel like Schumacher behind the wheel of scaled-down Formula 1 cars.

Yas Island in Abu Dhabi is a destination on its own, being home to some of the UAE capital’s most popular attractions. Firstly, it’s a mecca for lovers of exotic automobiles and motor racing enthusiasts, who come for Ferrari World and the Yas Marina Circuit where the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is held.

When you’re not riding on the world’s fastest rollercoaster or cheering on your favorite F1 drivers, there’s plenty of other leisurely fun to be had, like splashing with the whole family at the Emirati-themed Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi. The water park features 45 rides and slides as well as seasonal events and shows. For shopping, dining, and even more entertainment, there’s Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi’s largest.

The best museums in Abu Dhabi come in a huge variety, each offering a unique set of treasures to admire. Art lovers can check out the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the largest art museum on the Arabian Peninsula. It showcases works from multiple French museums, including Paris’ own Louvre.

At the Emirates Heritage Village, you can go back in time and learn about traditional Emirati life through a fascinating reconstructed desert village. Fast-forwarding to modernity, you can visit Manarat Al Saadiyat, with its high-tech and interactive exhibits. For automobile lovers, the Emirates National Auto Museum showcases over 200 vehicles from the private collection of Sheikh Hamad Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, aka “The Rainbow Sheikh.”

Plan a visit to Emirates Heritage Village for a journey back in time to learn more about Emirati life in a reconstructed desert village. Inside this walled complex run by the Emirates Heritage Club, you’ll find traditional barasti houses as well as a mosque and a street souq market.

Stroll along the stone paths by manicured gardens from one desert home to another. You can drop by each to watch craftspeople demonstrating traditional techniques in creating pottery and even glassblowing. The different exhibitions, market stalls, and special events help keep the visit interesting. This cultural oasis is a pleasant escape from Abu Dhabi’s modern high-rise cityscapes.

Mangrove Marine National Park is where you can trade the UAE capital’s bustling, modern cityscape for lush and soothing nature. The protected ecological jewel just outside Abu Dhabi’s city center is home to rich birdlife, and the mangrove forests and saltmarshes offer outdoor adventures for the whole family.

On a kayaking trip, you’re likely to spot herons and flamingos, while marine mammals like dugongs and dolphins also occasionally navigate the channels. Make sure you take your camera for memorable photos, and lots of snacks and water to keep you fueled during your walk. Many hotels and tour agencies offer fantastic guided tours and activities if you’d like to explore this natural wonder with some expert knowledge.

Observation Deck at 300 is where you can take in uninterrupted bird's-eye views of the capital of the United Arab Emirates. You can find the cool chillout spot on the 74th floor of the prestigious Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers' second tower. At 300 meters, it’s deemed the city’s highest vantage point.

It’s the ideal spot for Instagram-worthy shots of the modern Abu Dhabi skyline. Stay on for the amazing sunsets over the Corniche and the Arabian Gulf. Afternoon high tea and happy hour deals from 5 pm to 7 pm are other good reasons to visit the Observation Deck at 300. Enjoy servings of fine teas, coffees, and mocktails paired with tasty morsels alongside the memorable view.