Being the capital and second-most populous city (after Dubai) of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi, is the tourist attractions’ pinnacle. Famous for its Arab cuisines, blissful beaches, deserts and historic sites, this metropolis soars high with millions of tourists every year.
If you’re wondering where to go in Abu Dhabi, look no further. Whether it’s for a day, the weekend or a more extended stay, there are numerous fun-filled activities and marvelous sights that will make your trip worthwhile. This article will give you an insight into the top six city destinations to visit in the capital.
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Grand in every way, the capital prides itself in the largest mosque in the United Arab Emirates, welcoming up to 55,000 worshippers and visitors daily. Like the Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Fujairah, this massive architectural work of art is dedicated to the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al-Nahyan.
After nearly two decades of construction, the absolutely mammoth Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque was officially opened in 2007. It celebrates modern Islamic architecture in the intricate carvings, mosaic tiling, and glass-work, creating a spectacular masterpiece as a whole. Clad in Macedonian marble, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque features 82 domes, over 1,000 columns, 24-carat gold gilded chandeliers and the world’s largest hand-woven carpet.
This landmark building is by far the most popular sightseeing attraction in the city. Also, it embodies Islam’s central message of peace and tolerance by encouraging guided tours for all visitors (including non-Muslims) in all areas of the mosque, as well as its vast library.
- Louvre Museum
This cultural hotspot is one of the most famous tourist destinations in the UAE. The iconic Louvre is the first universal museum in the Arab world, located on the Saadiyat Island Cultural District. The museum’s primary focus and masterpieces bridge the gap between Eastern and Western art.
Exquisite artworks are showcased around the 24,000 square meter museum, with about 8,000 square meters of galleries. Some of the artefacts exhibited include never-seen-before artworks by Picasso, the Bronze Age terracotta statue from Cyprus, among others.
The monument’s outstanding feature is that its dome structure and mesmerizing architecture is as much of a spectacle as the artefacts and artworks it homes. If you love history, heritage and timeless masterpieces, then you know exactly where to go in Abu Dhabi.
After your 2 hour tour, you are free to grab a bite from the local cafés while you explore the area, or better yet, go for a round of kayaking!
- Desert Tours
UAE is famous for its deserts, a must-do adventure for every tourist in the capital. Like the endless dunes, the Desert Safari options are limitless; the scenic Liwa Oasis, the Al Khatim Desert near Al In, and so much more.
This once in a lifetime adventure includes taking in the magnanimous and shimmering deserts, drives and stops to watch the luxurious sunset, majestic camel rides, sandboarding, and savoring Arabic cuisines under the stars. If you love adventure, then the dunes are fantastic playing grounds for off-road endless buggy rides. Furthermore, most trips include stops to a camel farm, belly dancing entertainment and after dark desert camping.
Be sure to carry some sunglasses for the sandy winds and an Arafat sun hat to blend in with the desert life tradition quintessentially. You most probably don’t own an Arafat sun hat; not to worry, online shopping before your trip will save the day. While at it, take advantage of the great deals by keying in any coupon code or voucher codes that come with it.
- Ferrari World
If you are a thrill-seeker, then Ferrari World is the place for you. Moreover, it is the only Ferrari themed park in the world. Located on Yas Island in the capital, this branded theme park is the ultimate treat to a Formula One racing experience.
Ferrari World is a mostly indoor amusement park with Ferrari inspired shows, leisure dining, and family-friendly action like the Junior G Track for the kids to test out their driving skills. For the adrenaline junkies, buckle up and ride for your life on the Flying Aces roller coaster with speeds of up to 120 kilometers per hour on the 52-meter, world’s tallest inverted loop.
Formula Rossa, the world’s fastest rollercoaster, is also located in Ferrari World. With speeds of up to 240 kilometers per hour in just 4.9 seconds, this is simply the epitome of thrill.
Ensure you carry some closed shoes or sneakers to avoid shoes falling off on the roller coasters. You can get these from various online stores that offer great deals or even qualify for a coupon code for a discount.
- Yas Waterworld
Cool off the UAE heat in a splashdown with some exhilarating water-based activities at Yas Waterworld in Yas Island.
The park is home to forty-three rides, water slides and numerous one of a kind water ride escapades. Try out the world’s first hydro-magnetic tornado water rafting or the Bubble’s Barrel, the world’s largest surfable sheet wave. Also, there’s the Bandit Bomber, the longest suspended roller coaster in the Middle East at 550 meters long and the free-fall speed water slide, the Jebel Drop.
For gentler pursuits and quality family time, opt for the dedicated water play areas for kids and restaurants and cafés for meals.
Be sure to pack your swimsuits for the Yas Waterworld; you will need them. If you don’t have one, opt for online shopping for convenience. To sweeten the bargain, you may land on some great deals and online coupons to knock off some coins.
- Observation Deck at 300
This is one of the most satisfying city destinations in the UAE. Located on the 74th floor of Jumeirah at Etihad Towers hotel, the Observation Deck at 300 is the city’s highest point. The skyline views of the city from this angle are simply breathtaking.
There is an entry fee for the hotel’s non-guests. Fortunately, you can redeem the ticket for food, drinks or snacks from the observation deck’s restaurant.
This deck magnificently summarizes your daytime city tours, all from a skyline view. Bring a camera with you because this is definitely a splendid sight to capture!
There are a million and one things to do in Abu Dhabi. Plan a trip and have an out of this world experience; it’s definitely worth it!