11 Must Visit Attractions In Abu Dhabi

Renowned for its growing global cultural presence and heritage appeal, Abu Dhabi is a destination for fun and luxury. Now home to the first Louvre Museum outside of France, the emirate boasts plenty of experiences that will have you talking long after the holiday is done.

Abu Dhabi, while considered a more conservative emirate, is as much a desert playground as its neighbour Dubai. But it’s the diversity of the UAE capital’s offerings that make it an attractive destination for tourists. The city’s must-see attractions are far-reaching, with everything from traditional heritage experiences, theme parks and historic landmarks, to animal encounters and nature activities.

# Warner Bros World

The first indoor entertainment venue of its kind in the world, Warner Bros World is one of the newest attractions. The Yas Island park boasts six immersive lands: Bedrock, Dynamite Gulch, Cartoon Junction, Gotham City, Metropolis and Warner Bros Plaza. Among the plethora of activities available, it gives visitors the opportunity to meet and get photographs with well-known characters such as Batman, Superman, Bugs Bunny, Scooby-Doo and Tom & Jerry. This is one of the area’s most popular attractions, so get your tickets in advance.

# Eastern Mangroves Promenade

Hidden behind the main road that links Abu Dhabi and Dubai, you’ll find a treasure trove of walking paths, cafés, restaurants and water-based activities. Catch some of the best sunsets as you wander the promenade, or hire a solar-powered eco-donut boat and take a spin around the mangroves. Rent a kayak, join a stand-up paddleboard tour, or book yourself a seat on the Abu Dhabi Pearl Tour. If this seems like too much activity for one day however, just pull up a seat at one of the nearby cafés and restaurants and soak up the serenity.

# Yellow Boats experience

For a unique look at the city get out on the water. Yellow Boats offer a choice of two tours in the capital – the Grand Mosque tour and Corniche tour. Not only will you get to share the Gulf waters with the resident dolphins, you’ll also get a front-row seat to spectacular views of the city skyline and some of its most notable landmarks including Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Sheikh Zayed Bridge, and the Corniche promenade. Join either a 60-minute or 90-minute set tour, or work with the organisers to put together a customised visit.

# Mina Fish Market

Fishing has long been a part of the culture in Abu Dhabi and a visit to the Al Mina Fish Market, one of the country’s oldest fish markets, is a must. In days gone by, Emiratis relied heavily on fishing, and while that is not so much the case today, the local market continues to offer the community a bounty of seafood. The best part is you can buy your preferred seafood and have it scaled, gutted and cooked in one location.

# Qasr Al Watan

Heritage and design are the biggest calling cards at this Presidential complex. At home on the western end of the Corniche, Qasr Al Watan allows tourists to explore exhibitions that celebrate Arab customs and marvel at the elaborate design that reflects the region’s landscape. Featuring grandiose white domes, landscaped gardens and decked out in brilliant chandeliers, there is plenty to admire. Make sure to visit the Grand Hall, the House of Knowledge, the Presidential Banquet room and the 50,000-book library.

# Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

This popular religious landmark is as impressive on the inside as it is elaborate on the outside, with a unique lighting set-up that’s driven by the moon only adding to the experience. Home to the largest crystal chandelier on the planet and the world’s longest hand-knotted piece of carpet, the grandiose mosque was named after the UAE’s founding father Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Visitors are reminded to be respectful and cover up when visiting the mosque and women are required to cover their hair. Revealing clothes are not permitted.

# Sir Bani Yas Island

Originally the Arabian Peninsula’s largest wildlife reserve, Sir Bani Yas Island is 170km (106 miles) southwest of Abu Dhabi. Established in 1977 by the UAE founding father, the reserve is now home to thousands of free-roaming animals, including giraffe, oryx and gazelle. Catch the ferry from Dalma Island and stay at one of three Anantara properties: Desert Island Resort, Sahel Resort and Al Yamm Resort. During your visit, be sure to seek out one of the island’s oldest sites, the Nestorian Christian monastery that dates back to 600BCE.

# Emirates Palace

The place to go for gold, Emirates Palace is dripping in the precious metal and offers guests everything from gold cappuccinos and ice creams to gold-leaf facials. Next door to the Royal Palace, this luxury hotel is the epitome of grandeur, even employing a gold-leaf specialist to keep the interiors looking rich and regal year round. Wander the confines at your leisure and admire the splendour over coffee and cake, or live it up as an in-house guest. Who knows, you might even see some famous faces.

# Heritage Village

Get a glimpse into the past at this reconstructed traditional oasis village on the Corniche Breakwaters. Study historical artefacts and line up for a first-hand look at how pottery is made, glass is blown and fabric is woven on a loom. Run by the Emirates Heritage Club, you may even get the chance to try your hand at these traditional skills that have long been a part of Arab culture. Afterwards, head to the little spice shop and check out the range of dried herbs, handmade soaps or purchase a souvenir. You’ll find Heritage Village just a short walk from Marina Mall.

# Souk Central Market

A trading port for centuries, Souk Central Market acts today as the Emirate’s central trading and shopping port, taking over from the Old Central Market, which burned down in 2003. The modern souk is more like a shopping mall than a heritage market; head here to buy traditional goods, electronic items, garments, perfumes, antiques, gold and precious stones. There are a variety of local and international foods available here too.

# Ferrari World

Satisfy your need for speed at the city’s motor-themed fun park. Simulate a drive in a Formula 1 racing car, test-drive the world’s fastest Formula Rossi roller coaster, or try your hand at the park’s Tyre Change Challenge or Khalil’s Car Wash. Situated within the Yas Island entertainment precinct, Ferrari World is about 25 minutes by car from Abu Dhabi.