City guides
United Arab Emirates
Things to do in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is not typically considered to be a tourist destination, but there's a whole lot more to see and do here than shopping or business meetings. More good news is that many of Abu Dhabi's quality attractions are free. Travellers should take note that getting around the city by foot isn't much of an option due to the extreme heat, and the best time of year for sightseeing in is between October and May.
Famed for its amazing shopping opportunities, many visitors might choose to scrap any sightseeing and spend their time wandering the seemingly endless malls and districts. For those less interested in shopping, a good place to start is the Corniche, Abu Dhabi's spectacular waterfront that stretches for miles. Holidaymakers can stroll along the walkway, stop on one of the sandy beaches or take the kids to the playgrounds or go-karting track. The Sheikh Zayed Mosque is the largest mosque in the United Arab Emirates and a must-see for visitors to the city.
Most of Abu Dhabi's hotels have their own beaches, and swimming or simply lazing in the sun is a popular pastime for weary travellers looking to get their feet up.
Ferrari World
Ferrari World opened on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, in November 2010 and is the world's largest indoor theme park, with a roof spanning over 2 million square feet. Highlights include th…
Ferrari World
Ferrari World opened on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, in November 2010 and is the world's largest indoor theme park, with a roof spanning over 2 million square feet. Highlights include the world's fastest roller coaster, Formula Rossa, state-of-the-art racing simulators, and attractions such as the Speed of Magic 4D experience and Bell'Italia, a miniature tour of Italy. The park also houses the largest Ferrari gallery outside Maranello. Its striking red-domed roof, featuring the world's largest Ferrari logo, was inspired by a Ferrari GT's curves and has earned multiple architectural award nominations.
Website www.ferrariworldabudhabi.com
Al Hosn Palace (White Fort)
The oldest building in young Abu Dhabi is Al Hosn Palace, colloquially known as the White Fort. It was constructed in 1761 as a conical watchtower to defend the only freshwater wel…
Al Hosn Palace (White Fort)
The oldest building in young Abu Dhabi is Al Hosn Palace, colloquially known as the White Fort. It was constructed in 1761 as a conical watchtower to defend the only freshwater well on Abu Dhabi Island. In 1793, it was expanded into a small fort by the then ruler, Shakhbut bin Dhiyab Al Nahyan, and became the permanent residence of the ruling Sheikh. The tower took its present shape after a major extension in the late 1930s, aided by revenues from the first oil license granted in Abu Dhabi. It remained the emir's palace and seat of government until 1966. The fort underwent extensive renovations between 1976 and 1983, during which it was painted white, earning it the nickname 'White Fort'. Today, it houses the Cultural Foundation, featuring a museum of traditional artefacts and historical photographs. The palace is renowned for the magnificent tilework over its main gate.
Website qasralhosn.ae
Heritage Village
Heritage Village in Abu Dhabi, located on the Corniche Breakwater, is a reconstructed oasis village offering a glimpse into traditional Bedouin life. It features mud-brick houses w…
Heritage Village
Heritage Village in Abu Dhabi, located on the Corniche Breakwater, is a reconstructed oasis village offering a glimpse into traditional Bedouin life. It features mud-brick houses with wind towers, a mosque, a souk, and an ancient falaj irrigation system. Visitors can explore a museum of Emirati artefacts and watch artisans demonstrate traditional crafts such as pottery, weaving, and metalwork. The village also includes workshops hosted by the Emirates Heritage Club. A small spice shop sells dried herbs, handmade soaps, and souvenirs. Entry is free, with daily opening hours, making it a popular cultural attraction in the capital.
Website visitabudhabi.ae/en/see.and.do/attractions.and.landmarks/cultural.attractions/heritage.village.aspx
Liwa Oasis
Several tour operators in Abu Dhabi offer trips to the Liwa Oasis, located approximately a three-hour drive along a modern highway. This verdant agricultural strip at the edge of t…
Liwa Oasis
Several tour operators in Abu Dhabi offer trips to the Liwa Oasis, located approximately a three-hour drive along a modern highway. This verdant agricultural strip at the edge of the Rub' al Khali (Empty Quarter) is surrounded by desolate desert, with farms abutting towering sand dunes. Visitors can enjoy overnight camel trips to camp in the desert. The oasis, comprising a string of small towns and villages, is resplendent with pools of fresh water and date plantations. It is also the ancestral home of the Bani Yas tribe, from which Abu Dhabi's ruling family descends.
Al Ain
Al Ain, approximately 160 km east of Abu Dhabi, is a captivating blend of ancient heritage and modern development. Known as the 'Garden City of the Gulf', it boasts tree-lined boul…
Al Ain
Al Ain, approximately 160 km east of Abu Dhabi, is a captivating blend of ancient heritage and modern development. Known as the 'Garden City of the Gulf', it boasts tree-lined boulevards, lush public spaces, and is encircled by red sand dunes and the vast Hajar Mountains. The city's rich history is evident in the bustling camel market near the Mezyad border crossing, where traders engage with visitors. Al Ain Museum, established in 1969, showcases artefacts from the region's past, including flint tools and arrowheads dating back to the sixth millennium BCE. Nearby, the Al Ain Palace Museum, once the residence of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, offers insights into the UAE's royal history.
Marina Mall Fun City
Fun City at Marina Mall is a popular indoor amusement centre catering to children aged one to 12. It offers a variety of attractions, including arcade games, bumper cars, and rides…
Marina Mall Fun City
Fun City at Marina Mall is a popular indoor amusement centre catering to children aged one to 12. It offers a variety of attractions, including arcade games, bumper cars, and rides such as the 'Extreme Shock' machine. The facility also features a soft play area for younger children and hosts themed events such as dress-up sessions. Visitors can purchase play packages using a reloadable Powercard, with rides and games priced between AED 8 and AED 12 each. Special promotions, such as 'Funday Tuesday', offer discounted rates on games and rides.
Erth
Kids in Abu Dhabi will enjoy honing their skills at Erth, where they can engage in various activities. The facility boasts an Olympic-sized swimming pool, ideal for swimmers of all…
Erth
Kids in Abu Dhabi will enjoy honing their skills at Erth, where they can engage in various activities. The facility boasts an Olympic-sized swimming pool, ideal for swimmers of all levels. For those interested in other sports, Erth offers facilities for tennis, squash, volleyball and jiu-jitsu. After all that action, kids can cool off in the expansive outdoor pool area.
Erth also features a dedicated Ladies' Wellness Hub, providing a comprehensive wellness experience. This area includes a private swimming pool, massage services, steam bath, sauna, and gym, catering exclusively to women of all ages and fitness levels.
Website erth.ae
Hili Fun City
Hili Fun City in Al Ain is a long-standing family favourite and one of the UAE's oldest theme parks. Fully refurbished in 2009, the park features a wide range of attractions includ…
Hili Fun City
Hili Fun City in Al Ain is a long-standing family favourite and one of the UAE's oldest theme parks. Fully refurbished in 2009, the park features a wide range of attractions including a roller coaster, sky-flyer, ice skating rink, 5D cinema experience, and a mini train ride. Visitors can also enjoy well-maintained gardens and designated picnic areas, making it a relaxing and fun day out for families with young children.
Hiltonia Beach Club
Belonging to the Hilton Abu Dhabi Hotel, Hiltonia Beach Club is an exclusive beach offering excellent facilities. Open to non-guests on weekdays for a fee, the beach provides loung…
Hiltonia Beach Club
Belonging to the Hilton Abu Dhabi Hotel, Hiltonia Beach Club is an exclusive beach offering excellent facilities. Open to non-guests on weekdays for a fee, the beach provides lounge chairs and umbrellas in the sand. Guests can enjoy various water sports such as sailing, snorkelling, fishing, windsurfing, water skiing, kayaking, and jet-skiing right off the beach. Bicycling along the Corniche is also available. The club features a café and cocktail bar serving sumptuous international cuisine. There are also three swimming pools with water slides, live music and a vibrant atmosphere.