As the capital of the UAE, Abu Dhabi is a popular destination for residents and tourists. With Dubai being in the forefront, you’d be surprised to know that Abu Dhabi has a lot to offer as well with endless entertainment and activities for all.
From visiting world-famous cultural spots to relaxing by crystal-clear beaches, Property Finder gathered for you the top things to do in Abu Dhabi.
1. Take a Stroll Along the Corniche
You can’t be in Abu Dhabi and not notice its vast stretch of Corniche, one of the most popular spots on the island-city. A great way to discover it all is simply by walking and it’s also a cool place to jog everyday.
You will definitely fall in love with having the blue water on one side and the city on the other; talk about peace of mind! Walking the picturesque Corniche is a classic activity in Abu Dhabi you will no doubt enjoy.
Location
The 8km-long Corniche is stretched on Corniche Rd., Abu Dhabi.
Activities
- Walking
- Jogging
- Renting a bike
- Dining
- Having a picnic
- Hitting one of the beaches.
2. Discover Royal Life at Emirates Palace
Emirates Palace is to Abu Dhabi what Burj Al Arab is to Dubai—you have to see it. The iconic ultra-luxurious hotel has become a must-visit tourist attraction in Abu Dhabi and for good reason.
You don’t have to stay there to appreciate its beauty, which is a reminder in design of world architectural wonders such as India’s Taj Mahal. One of the fun things to do in Abu Dhabi is gathering up your friends and spending a day there; a photoshoot is totally called for too!
Location
Emirates Palace is located on Corniche Rd., Abu Dhabi.
Hours
Emirates Palace is open 24/7.
Activities
- Explore the palace’s gardens
- Take amazing photos
- Experience world-class dining.
3. Empty Your Wallet at Marina Mall
Dubai may be the shopping center of the world, but you can find grandiose malls in Abu Dhabi as well. Head over to Marina Mall, the capital’s most exclusive shopping destination.
Marina Mall has just over 400 stores to shop till you drop, ranging from fashion to household items and everything in between. In addition, there are many activities for entertainment so it’s the ultimate thing to do in Abu Dhabi with family and the little ones.
Location
Marina Mall is located right on the Corniche next to Emirates Palace on Corniche Rd., Abu Dhabi.
Hours
The mall is open from 10 am to 10 pm on weekdays and until 12 am on weekends.
Activities
- Shopping
- Bowling
- Dining
- Going to the cinema
- Skating on the ice rink
- Playing games at the amusement center.
4. Cool Off at Al Ain Oasis
Al Ain Oasis is one of the most surreal things to see in Abu Dhabi, where you can explore the beautiful date palm trees in the shaded pathways.
The oasis is home to more than 150,000 palm trees and is a well-known source of traditional dates in the UAE. At Al Ain Oasis, you can find out all about the irrigation technique called Falaj, used for watering various types of trees.
Also, you should know that this place is a haven for photography enthusiasts since you can spot the views of the green areas with the vast desert behind it.
And while you’re there, you can check off these amazing things to do in Al Ain before you head back.
Location
The oasis is located in the centre of Al Ain just about an hour and a half drive from Downtown Abu Dhabi.
Hours
Al Ain Oasis is open every day from 9 am to 5 pm.
Activities
- Walking
- Biking
- Exploring Arabian heritage.
5. Travel Back in Time at Heritage Village
If you’re interested to find out the beginnings of the Emirati capital, there’s no better place than Heritage Village. It is considered the fishing village of the city that started out long ago and it’s among the free things to do in Abu Dhabi.
Many workshops and small shops are scattered all around for lovely souvenirs. It’s a popular spot for sightseeing in Abu Dhabi, where you can discover local Bedouins and how they go by their daily life.
Location
Heritage Village is located just opposite the Corniche’s Dhow Harbour in Abu Dhabi.
Hours
Heritage Village is open every day from 11 am to 11 pm.
Activities
- Discovering pre-modern Abu Dhabi
- Dining local delicacies
- Shopping for antiques and memorables.
6. Get Lost in a Maze at Umm Al Emarat Park
Looking for outdoor activities in Abu Dhabi? Well, there’s no shortage of great parks in Abu Dhabi, but if you had to choose one then it’s Umm Al Emarat. Translating to “Mother of the Emirates,” it’s among the largest parks in the city.
It’s main highlight is its huge maze to get lost in! It’s a truly interesting activity. This maze is actually the largest mobile maze in the world.
Additionally, you can only expect wide open spaces to pretty much do everything that comes to mind. Playing there is one of the best things to do with kids in Abu Dhabi, since they will simply have so much fun!
Location
Umm Al Emarat is located on 15 St. in the Mushrif area of Abu Dhabi.
Hours
You can head to the park everyday from 8 am to 12 am.
Activities
- Enjoying the play areas
- Exploring the animal barn
- Playing games in the wide maze
- Dancing to a show in the amphitheatre
- Dining in the amazing food court
- Playing yoga in the wide green spaces.
7. Experience Speed at Ferrari World
Let’s get you adrenaline pumping at Ferrari World, one of the most iconic theme parks ever. It’s perfect if you’re on the lookout for great things to do in Abu Dhabi with friends. You’ll have memories to die for.
Don’t be afraid to ride the fastest rollercoaster in the world, the Formula Rossa, which goes from speed zero to 240 km/hr in only 5 seconds! Imagine the thrill!
Location
Ferrari World is located at Yas Leisure Drive on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.
Hours
The park is open from Tuesday to Thursday from 1 pm to 8 pm.
Activities
- Riding the fastest roller coaster on the planet
- Checking out different Ferrari-themed games
- Buying souvenirs.
8. Find Wonder at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Among the most popular attractions in Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a true wonder that will have your jaw dropping in awe.
This relatively new attraction in Abu Dhabi is considered among the largest ever built, featuring 82 domes in a white and gold design. Head over there to witness an architectural marvel like few others, reminiscent of Disney’s Aladdin palace!
There are guided tours available to understand the beauty behind the contemporary Islamic architecture of the mosque. Furthermore, Muslims should enter the praying area and experience what it feels like to pray in such magnificent surroundings.
Location
The mosque is located on Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed St. in Abu Dhabi.
Hours
It is open everyday from 9 am to 10 pm except Fridays, 3 pm to 10 pm, for tourists.
Activities
- Marvel at the architecture
- Learn about the history of Islamic designs
- Catch amazing shots for your Instagram account.
9. Hit Saadiyat Beach
Being an island, Abu Dhabi has its fair share of some of the most amazing beaches you can find in the country. So, if you’re a fan of lying in peace with the sound of the waves as your company, Saadiyat Beach is a great option.
The beautiful stretch is ideal as a family activity in Abu Dhabi as it has a range of activities to take on from water sports to beach volleyball.
It’s most surreal highlight though, which will be a huge success with the little ones, is the turtle ground! Yes, Hawksbill turtles live on the beach and they are amazing to look at.
Location
Saadiyat Beach is located on the stunning Saadiyat Island about 20 minutes away from the city’s downtown area in Abu Dhabi.
Hours
The beach is open for visitors from 8 am to 6 pm on a daily basis.
Activities
- Turtle sighting
- Playing water activities
- Playing volleyball
- Trying beach yoga
- Swimming.
10. Discover Culture at the Louvre
If you’re getting annoyed at the heat and on the lookout for indoor activities in Abu Dhabi, how about embracing some culture? The Louvre Abu Dhabi is the perfect place for it. Tucked away on Saadiyat Island, it’s one of the most amazing places to visit in the UAE.
At the Louvre, there are endless galleries to explore spread over an area of 8,000 sq.m. Additionally, many interesting exhibitions take place on a daily basis so you are bound to find ones that speak to you.
Aside from what the museum offers, the exterior is a true marvel of architecture so don’t miss it, especially around sunset.
Location
The Louvre Abu Dhabi is located in the cultural district on Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi.
Hours
The museum is open everyday from 10 am to 6:30 pm, except Mondays which are off.
Activities
- Marvelling at different galleries
- Attending exhibitions.
11. Splash Around at Yas Waterworld
All hail the largest waterpark in Abu Dhabi where you can have many many fun water fights. Yas Waterworld is one of the best things to do in Abu Dhabi with friends and family, especially during the scorching summer months.
This gem has over 40 slides with amazing twists and turns to keep your adrenaline pumping and awaken your sense of adventure.
Don’t forget to check out all the great things to do on Yas Island as well while you’re at it!
Location
The grand water park is located on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.
Hours
The exhilarating water adventure park is open on a daily basis from 10 am to 6 pm.
Activities
- Ride water slides
- Swim with family and friends
- Enjoy many games.
Abu Dhabi is a great destination to call home. It has a more peaceful vibe than Dubai if that’s what you’re after with many different things to do to suit all needs.
So, check out all these amazing properties for rent in Abu Dhabi and move there now; you will not regret it!
