20 Cool Tourist Places to Visit and Things to Do in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is the perfect blend of Emirati culture, advanced modern infrastructure, and rich extravagance. Depending on when you visit Abu Dhabi or which place you are visiting in Abu Dhabi, you will come across each of these elements. It is the capital city and the largest province in UAE. Abu Dhabi is the living and breathing example of all that is UAE, past, present, and future. The ruler of Abu Dhabi is also the president of the 7 emirates. So if you wish to experience the entire UAE in one city, the you should visit Abu Dhabi.
Before you seek the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi, know that it is not just a city; Abu Dhabi is a province. There are plenty of places to go in Abu Dhabi and even plenty more things to do in Abu Dhabi. The province consists of the capital city of Abu Dhabi, desert, mountains, smaller towns, other cities, and several islands. Abu Dhabi literally translates as “Father of Gazelle”. The name originates from the story of Sheikh Shakhbut bin Dhiyab Al Nahyan, one of the rulers of Abu Dhabi and the founder of the Qasr Al-Hosn Fort. The history of Abu Dhabi begins with the settlement of descendants of the Bani Yas tribe near the Liwa Oasis, which still a fascinating place to visit in Abu Dhabi and one its most important historical destination. When you visit Abu Dhabi, and especially if you are a history nerd, you will be pleasantly surprised as to how well the best places in Abu Dhabi which are of historical or cultural significance are preserved. An Abu Dhabi travel guide will have to be quite extensive and should cater to tourist desires of a variety of people. There is so much to be seen and experienced during an Abu Dhabi trip. From the incredible infrastructure and skyline of incredible architecture to the Abu Dhabi desert tour. You will have something new to do and something new to see each day in Abu Dhabi. And with the explosive expansion of tourist destinations in Abu Dhabi, you might not be able to see it all in one trip.
Like many other ports of UAE, Abu Dhabi too was an important trading port between east and west. At the same time, it was a popular hub for pearl divers. Prior to independence, Abu Dhabi along with other ports of UAE, signed truce with the British empire and hence were called crucial coasts. Post independence, the ruler of Abu Dhabi utilized the wealth from oil trade to establish an incredible city. The idea was to develop a city of the future while preserving and cherishing the rich history, culture, and heritage of the land and its people. Thus, Abu Dhabi as it is today was born. Besides imprints of mankind, the natural destinations are ample and beautiful in the province of Abu Dhabi. You can enjoy islands, deserts, waterfalls and oasis to be some of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi. Some of these places are known for numerous adventure sports and thrilling experiences, especially the Abu Dhabi desert tour.
Table of Contents
The Best 20 Tourist Places to Visit in Abu Dhabi in 5 Days (Trip Itinerary)
Day 1
1. Sheikh Zayed Mosque
This grand mosque is an architectural marvel and included among finest mosques in the world. It is inspired by Persian, Turkish, Mughal and Indo-Islamic elements of design. In the evening and especially on the weekends the mosque is beautifully lit up. This one of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi at night as well as the day. You would need about an hour or so for this mosque.
2. Umm al Emarat Park
One of the best places to see in Abu Dhabi travel is this huge public park. The park has gardens, sports facilities, entertainment venues, picnic spots and more. It also hosts many events and festivals. You would need about an hour to explore it.
3. Observation Deck at 300
This observation deck is situated on the 74th floor of the Etihad Towers, which are among top Abu Dhabi tourist attractions. You can easily spend half an hour or so at the observation deck.
4. Emirates Heritage Village
This heritage museum recreates an ancient oasis village. It is one of the best places to go in Abu Dhabi to learn about the Emirati culture. You would need about an hour for this museum.
5. Qasr al-Hosn
This building was built in 1760 and is the oldest stone building in the city. It was built to protect a freshwater source in the city. You would need 2 hours during Abu Dhabi trip for this historical building.
6. Louvre Abu Dhabi
This art gallery and historical museum is one the biggest highlights of Abu Dhabi vacation for art admirers. It holds works of art from various periods of time as well as contemporary art. You would need at least 2 hours for Louvre Abu Dhabi.
Day 2
1. Emirates Park Zoo
This zoo houses more than 1700 animals brought in from several countries across the globe. It is a must visit attraction on the Abu Dhabi travel guide for the sheer size of it. You would need 2 to 3 hours for this large zoo.
2. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
This top tourist destination in Abu Dhabi is known for housing world’s fastest roller coaster ride and for being the largest indoor theme park in the world. There is too much to see and do here to be described in brief. You can easily spend north of 3 hours at Ferrari World when you visit Abu Dhabi.
3. Sheikh Zayed Bridge
This bridge is considered an architectural wonder and you are likely to come across it as you head towards Abu Dhabi desert tour. Though you won’t need more than 20 to 30 minutes for this attraction.
4. Corniche Beach
One of the most popular and most accessible Abu Dhabi beaches, it is divided into 3 segments for single people, groups and families. There is a lot to do at this beach including watersports, dining, clubbing, picnic and so on. You can easily spend a couple of hours at this beach.
Day 3
1. Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital
This falcon hospital is a welfare center for these predator birds. It is one of the best Abu Dhabi tourist places to learn about falconry. You would need about an hour for this place.
2. Emirates National Auto Museum
This museum exhibits more than 200 vintage vehicles from the collection of HH Sheikh Hamad Al Nahyan. You would need an hour from Abu Dhabi travel to explore this museum.
3. Al Jahili Fort
Situated in Al Ain region, quite close to the city, this ancient fort is one of the finest historical buildings in the region. It is one of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi desert tour.
4. Green Mubazzarah
This large community area of sorts is among the most unique places to go in Abu Dhabi. It has nature trails, hot springs, camp sites, picnic spots, horse riding trails and more. You can easily spend a couple of hours at his place.
Day 4
1. Mangrove National Park
This wonderful mangrove forest sits in the middle of the city. It is home to several amazing species of birds and several other reptiles and mammals. It is also a best venues for outdoor things to do in Abu Dhabi. You would need about 3 to 4 hours to explore this wilderness.
2. Etihad Modern Art Gallery
This fine art gallery focuses on modern and contemporary artworks. You would need about 2 hours for this gallery.
3. Zayed Heritage Center
This museum is dedicated to the life, work and rule of Sheikh Zayad al Nahyan, the founder of the Abu Dhabi Emirate. You would need about an hour or so to explore it.
Day 5
1. Waner Bros. World Abu Dhabi
This gigantic amusement is among the top tourist destination in Abu Dhabi. It has everything related to Warner Brothers films, cartoons, games, characters and so on. You can easily spend half a day or more that this place.
2. Yas Waterworld
Another great amusement park with so much to do and enjoy that a short description won’t do it justice. There are rides, games, shopping venues, dining options, themed sections and much more. The place too can easily take up half a day at least.
3. Desert Safari
Abu Dhabi desert tour is among the most well known experience for tourists. This experience takes you exploring the desert and even living in tents at night after enjoying a traditional dance and music show. This experience usually requires at least a day’s time.
If you are looking for more things to do in Abu Dhabi vacation, check out the sections below.
Things to do in Abu Dhabi
Historical Places, Monuments & Museums to Visit in Abu Dhabi
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
- Louvre Abu Dhabi
- Qasr Al-Hosn Fort
- Heritage Village
- Emirates National Auto Museum
- Al Jahili Fort
- Zayed Heritage Centre
- Wahat Al Karama
- Miraj Islamic Art Center
- Etihad Antique Gallery
- Etihad Modern Art Gallery
- Qasr Al Watan
- Qasr Al Muwaji
- The Founder’s Memorial
- Cultural Foundation
- Mamsha Al Khair
- Jebel Hafeet Tombs
- Hili Archeological Garden
- Jahili Mosque
- UAE Currency Museum
- Bait Al Oud
- Al Ain Palace Museum / Qasr al-Ain
- Dhafeer Fort
- Al Qattara Oasis
- Al Hili Oasis
- Al Jimi Oasis
Nature & Wildlife Tourist Spots to Visit in Abu Dhabi
- Eastern Mangrove National Park
- Sir Bani Yas Island
- Arabian Wildlife Park
- Al Ain Oasis
- Al Wathba Wetland Reserve
Entertainment & Leisure Tourist Spots in Abu Dhabi
- Ferrari World
- Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital
- Warner Bros World
- Yas Water World
- Yas Island
- Emirates Park Zoo
- Mushrif Central Park
- Marina Eye
- Warehouse 421
- Emirates Palace
- Hili Fun City
- Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort
- Arabian Saluki Center
- Al Ain Zoo
- Wadi Abu Dhabi
- CLYMB
- Bounce Abu Dhabi
- Aqua Fun Park
- Abu Dhabi Children Library
- Al Ain Camel Market / Camel Souk
- Al Ain Heritage & Culture Village
- Al Reef Handicrafts Training Center
- Qaryat Al Torath Heritage Village
Shopping in Abu Dhabi
- Yas Mall
- Marina Mall
- Abu Dhabi Mall
- Souk al Zafrana
- Souq al Qattara
- Al Ain Souk
- Souk al Bawadi
- Women’s Handicraft Center
- World Trade Centre Souq & Mall
- The Gallery Al Maryah Island
- Nation Galleria
- Avenue at Etihad Towers
- Souk Qaryat Al Beri
- The Collection
- Dalma Mall
- Mushrif Mall
- Al Raha Shopping Mall
- Deerfields Mall
- Khalidiyah Mall
- Al Wahda Mall
- Bawabat Al Sharq Mall
- Al Ain Mall
- Al Jimi Mall
- Bawadi Mall
- Wahat Hili Mall
- Foah Mall
- Mazyad Mall
- Liwa Centre
- Hamed Centre
Beaches in Abu Dhabi
- Saadiyat Public Beach
- Abu Dhabi Corniche
- Yas Beach
- Al Bahar Beach
- Jazeerat Nurai Beach, Nurai Island
Offbeat Places & Adventure Things to Do in Abu Dhabi
- Abu Dhabi Boat Tours
- Desert Safari
- Liwa Oasis
- Empty Quarter Desert / Rub Al Khali
- Arabian Nights Village
- Jebel Hafit Desert Park
- Liwa Desert Safari
- Al Wathba Cycle Track
- Al Badeyah Eyes Tourism
- Abu Dhabi Pearl Journey
- Eastern Mangrove Kayaking
- Dune Bashing
- Off Roading
- Sand Boarding
- Falconry
- Camel Trekking
Sightseeing in Abu Dhabi
- Observation Deck at 300, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers
- Capital Gate
- Venetian Village
- Etihad Tower
- W Abu Dhabi
- Masdar City
- Sheikh Zayed Bridge
- Al Bahar Towers
- Al Ain Raceway
- Zayed Sports City
- Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium
- Aldar HQ
- Manarat Al Sadiyaat
Food, Dining, Restaurants, & Street Food in Abu Dhabi
- Villa Toscana
- Meylas
- Punjab Grill
- Coya
- Byblos ur Mer
- Bonna Annee
- The Terrace
- BBQ Al Qasr
- Zuma
- Bord Eau
- Li Beirut
- Salt
- Boa Steakhouse
- The Meat Co.
- Hakkasan
- Saudi Kitchen
- Chamas
- Catch
- Tamba
- Bu Tafish
How to Reach Abu Dhabi?
By Air
The province of Abu Dhabi has 2 international airports and many private airports as well. Your best bet to reach Abu Dhabi directly is the Abu Dhabi International Airport. The Airport welcomes direct flights from many countries.
The second option is the Al Ain International Airport, which is located in the province of Abu Dhabi itself. Further, you can also get local flights to Abu Dhabi from Dubai International Airport, Sharjah International Airport, Al Maktoum International Airport, and Fujairah International Airport.
Sir Bani Yas Island has an airport of its own, with flights coming in from Abu Dhabi International Airport and Dubai International Airport
By Road
Road connectivity in UAE is excellent. You will get buses and intercity cabs going to Abu Dhabi from any city in UAE.
By Water
Abu Dhabi has a long coastline with multiple ports. Abu Dhabi is also a popular cruise stop destination and many cruises would get you to one of many Abu Dhabi ports. You can also get boat rides and cruise tour to Abu Dhabi from Dubai.
Image Reference
- Sheikh Zayed Mosque – Jussi Toivanen / Flickr
- Umm Al Emarat Park – Abdulla Al Muhairi / Flickr
- Observation Deck at 300 – Jim Hoffman / Flickr
- Emirates Heritage Club Heritage Village – Abdulla Al Muhairi / Flickr
- Qasr al-Hosn – Peturrunar / Wikimedia Commons
- Louvre Abu Dhabi – John Campbell / Flickr
- Emirates Park Zoo – shankar s. / Flickr
- Ferrari World Abu Dhabi – fli138 / PixaBay
- Sheikh Zayed Bridge – amits22345 / PxHere
- Corniche Beach – Paolo Rosa / Flickr
- Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital – Alex Keshavjee / Flickr
- Emirates National Auto Museum – Abdulla Al Muhairi / Flickr
- Al Jahili Fort – kristofarndt / Flickr
- Green Mubazzarah – Nepenthes / Wikimedia Commons
- Mangrove National Park –
- Etihad Modern Art Gallery –
- Zayed Heritage Center – Jim Hoffman / Flickr
- Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi – Ankur Panchbudhe / Flickr
- Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi – Jeremy Thompson / Flickr
