Things to do in Abu Dhabi
Key takeaways
When talking about the United Arab Emirates, most tourists will remember Dubai. However, the capital of the UAE, Abu Dhabi, can also give many impressions, architectural wonders, and natural beauty. Here, the future is combined with the traditions of the past, and green parks are adjacent to skyscrapers of bizarre shapes. So, let’s explore the most interesting things to do in Abu Dhabi!
In order to explore the largest emirate and its capital, you will simply need a car. And since Abu Dhabi is also the richest emirate, you will definitely want to fit into the local picture with a luxury car. Trinity Rental will help you with this because you do not have to buy premium cars, but you can make a piece of luxury yours for the trip.
Imagine yourself driving an amazing Maybach or an exclusive Ferrari, you won't be able to tell it apart from a local sheikh. And with a personal driver service — even more so. You don't have to rent a car in Abu Dhabi for this, because if your trip starts in Dubai, the road will take you only 1 hour 20 minutes. You can rent a car there and travel around the Emirates as much as you want. Especially with such a great deal.
Trinity Rental Boutique offers you:
- a choice of more than 80 exclusive models, all with low mileage and in first-class condition, there are even 2024 models;
- a deposit for rent is not charged;
- toll roads are included in the price;
- VAT and full insurance are also included in the price;
- a full tank of gas as a gift to each client;
- you can pick up the car at any point you specify;
- payment is accepted in any way convenient for you: by card, cash, or even crypto;
- increased mileage — 300 km per day;
- you are assigned a personal manager, always ready to help.
Booking a car is easy and fast, so pack your bags and head to the capital. And what to do in Abu Dhabi, read on.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
If you don’t know what to do in Abu Dhabi, start with the main attraction, which is, without a doubt, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. It is truly amazing — 82 domes, 4 minarets 107 m high, that is, more than three nine-story buildings, the largest hand-made carpet in the world, one of the largest chandeliers in the world, which, among other things, is decorated with Swarovski crystals and covered with gold leaf... Non-Muslims can enter this mosque, and this is good news for all tourists.
Location: Al Rawdah — W54
Opening Hours: Sat-Thur 9 am-10 pm, Fri 9 am-12 pm, 3 pm-10 pm
Price: free
Louvre Abu Dhabi
Everyone knows the French Louvre, but what about the Arabic one? The Louvre in Abu Dhabi is an art gallery with over 300 exhibits. Here you can see amazing works by Leonardo da Vinci, Claude Monet, and Van Gogh. It was opened in 2017 and has already become an interesting and popular attraction in the city. The white stone building is located on the water, which creates a feeling of the merging of the elements and you slightly lose the sense of reality.
Location: Saadiyat
Opening Hours: Fri-Sun 10 am-12 am, last admission 11 pm, Mon — closed
Price: 65 AED; under 18 and above 60, members of the museum plus one, ICOM/ICOMOS card holders, journalists, and people with determination plus one companion — free
Theme parks: Ferrari World and Warner Bros
The best activities in Abu Dhabi are undoubtedly thrilling theme parks! Perhaps the most popular entertainment is the Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and its fastest roller coaster in the world, Formula Rossa. In 4.9 seconds, you will accelerate to a speed of 240 km per hour, and if this is not enough, there are 20 more slides where you can get a degree of extreme. If you are a true fan of extreme sports and Formula 1, a unique racing track with 21 turns and a straight track, 1173 m long, awaits you. Here you can accelerate to a speed of 360 km per hour.
Location: Yas Island — YS1
Opening Hours: 11 am-8 pm (timing is subject to change, better check on the official website)
Price: from 310.5 AED
Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi amusement park — the name of the park speaks for itself. On a huge territory of 150 thousand square meters, there are attractions and entertainment for the whole family dedicated to the characters of films and cartoons of the world-famous studio. The complex is divided into several thematic zones, which will be interesting for visitors of any age.
Location: Yas Island — YS4
Opening Hours: 11 am-8 pm (timing is subject to change as well)
Price: from 310.5 AED
Yas Marina Circuit
The Yas Marina Circuit is famous for hosting the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, one of the most prestigious events on the Formula 1 calendar. Although the circuit is known for its racing, it also offers a variety of activities for visitors. One of the most popular activities in Abu Dhabi is a tour of the circuit about its design, history, and the technology behind the world's fastest cars. The circuit also offers opportunities to walk, run, or cycle around the track during certain hours.
Location: Yas Central — Yas Leisure Dr
Opening Hours: 9 am-11 pm
Price: from 85 AED to 635 AED
Clymb Abu Dhabi
One of the most extreme things to do in Abu Dhabi is to climb the world’s tallest indoor climbing wall (42 m) at Clymb. Truly fun filled adventure! Clymb Abu Dhabi is home to the world’s largest indoor skydiving flight chamber, measuring 10 meters wide and 32 meters high, as well as 5 climbing walls. A stand-alone facility in a geometrically designed building, Clymb Abu Dhabi also includes a sporting goods and merchandise retail area, a dedicated events space, and two restaurants.
Location: Yas Dr — Yas Island — YS1
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 1 pm-9 pm, Sat-Sun 11 am-9 pm
Price: from 120 AED (depending on the experience)
Corniche
What to do in Abu Dhabi if you are tired of active entertainment? Take a rest on the Corniche embankment. Here you will find a beautiful promenade with palm trees on one side and the Persian Gulf on the other, many cafes and restaurants with open terraces, an excellent beach where you can have an evening picnic, and if you take a bun with you, you can feed the noisy, but very graceful seagulls that scurry around in search of generous tourists.
Location: Al Danah — Zone 1
Opening Hours: 24/7
Price: free
Beaches
Al Bateen Beach is considered the top free beach in Abu Dhabi and one of the most affordable things to do in Abu Dhabi. Situated just 11 km from the city center, it offers a perfect spot for a relaxing day of sunbathing and swimming in the clear waters. The beach is equipped with essential facilities such as changing rooms, showers, and toilets; however, sun loungers and umbrellas are not provided, so bringing your own shade and seating is recommended. Nearby, you'll find a selection of cafes and shops, along with designated areas for children and sports activities, making it a great destination for all visitors.
Location: 92 Al Ihtiraf St — Yas Island
Opening Hours:10 am-7 pm
Price: Mon-Thur 80 AED, Fri-Sun & public holidays from 150 AED with 50 AED redeemable, children under 12 — free
The best free beach in Abu Dhabi is called Al Bateen. It is located 11 km from the city center, and here you can spend a wonderful day sunbathing and swimming in the sea. Al Bateen Beach has changing cabins, showers, and toilets but no sun loungers or umbrellas, so it is better to bring your own umbrella and blanket. There are cafes and shops near the beach, as well as children's and sports grounds.
Location: Khalifa Al Mubarak St — Al Qurm
Opening Hours: 8 am to sunset
Price: free
Shopping Spree
Your shopping trip to Abu Dhabi is not complete without visiting its amazing malls. Yas Mall is the largest shopping destination in Abu Dhabi, with a huge area of 2.5 million square feet. It is located on Yas Island and offers a great selection, including over 370 international brands. With 56 places to eat, it is a great day for shopping and dining. The mall also has entertainment options, such as the VOX Max cinema. It is the perfect place to relax after a long day of shopping.
Location: Yas Island
Opening Hours: 10 am-10 pm
After exploring the modern shops in Abu Dhabi, immerse yourself in the city’s cultural heritage at its traditional souks. These souks are vibrant places that showcase local craftsmanship. They provide a unique cultural insight into Emirati life. The Central Souk is a must-see. It combines high-end boutiques with traditional stalls. You will find a wide range of products, from aromatic spices to handcrafted lamps. And trading with locals is one of the most essential things to do in Abu Dhabi.
Location: Liwa St — Al Danah
Opening Hours: 8 am-12 am
Abu Dhabi is a true museum of history and culture, where ancient traditions merge with modernity. Going here, you will immerse yourself in the world of Arabian hospitality and learn about the incredible development of this wonderful city. Here you can find a balance between the luxury of a beach holiday and an urban jungle that inspires and enchants. And, with Trinity Rental you can explore Abu Dhabi with chic and comfort.
FAQ
Is Abu Dhabi worth visiting?
Abu Dhabi is called the cultural capital of the Middle East. Indeed, the number of museums and galleries that you can visit here is off the charts. However, this city is worth going to for any type of vacation — educational, relaxing, and extreme. You will definitely find things to do in Abu Dhabi for any taste.
Is 3 days enough for Abu Dhabi?
The minimum number of days to spend in the capital is 2 days, but if you have some spare time, then stay for a few days, for example, 3-4 days.
Is Abu Dhabi safe for tourists?
Indeed, Abu Dhabi is the world's safest city. It has held the title for nine years in a row, according to reports from the Economist Intelligence Unit and Numbeo. Abu Dhabi is also considered the best place to live in the Middle East and North Africa.
What is Abu Dhabi best known for?
Home to a wealth of attractions and cultural sites, Abu Dhabi is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. Whether you're here for a stopover or a longer holiday, there's plenty to see and do. Major attractions include Yas Island and more. But perhaps the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is Abu Dhabi's top attraction. Here, religion meets fabulous opulence and grandeur.
Is Abu Dhabi a party city?
Abu Dhabi has gained recognition for its vibrant nightlife scene over the last ten years. Abu Dhabi has it all, from tiny pubs to opulent clubs. The city has plenty to offer, whether you're searching for a relaxed atmosphere, opulent lounges, or lively discotheques.
Can people drink alcohol in Abu Dhabi?
Tourists can buy alcohol in the Emirates of Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Fujairah, Umm al-Quwain and Ras al-Khaimah without any restrictions other than age. In Abu Dhabi, alcoholic drinks are freely available in many supermarkets. Restaurants and bars in hotels offer a variety of drinks.