Walking around Abu Dhabi is one of the best ways to get to know the different nooks, crannies and neighborhoods of the capital, as well as getting your steps in for the day.
More of a hiker? Check these UAE trails out.
Prefer a gentle stroll? Read on.
Al Raha Beach
Swap the hustle and bustle of the city for a scenic wander (or jog) along this canal-side route. You can enjoy a respectable 6km from Waitrose in Al Zeina to the Al Raha Beach Hotel, with the iconic Aldar headquarters providing the perfect backdrop.
Pit stop: Stop off at Al Raha Beach Hotel for a sundowner and rest your feet.
Al Raha Beach.
All Wathba Wetland Reserve
In a city surrounded by dry desert, it can be easy to forget that exotic wildlife actually lives around these parts – and in this case, practically in the middle of the city. Al Wathba has a pleasant three-kilometre hike through flamingo-dotted wetlands, plus it’s easy enough to attempt with kids or a large group of visiting relatives in tow.
Pit stop: It’s best to pack supplies for this one, to stave off hanger…
Open Thu & Sat 8am-4pm, last entry 2pm. Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, www.ead.ae.
Eastern Mangroves
Abu Dhabi’s Eastern Mangroves are a beautiful sight and even if you’re not getting in a kayak you can enjoy the views from terra firma. Head to the promenade and you can stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the view. New paths are also being made for cycling and walking so you’ll soon be able to mean-der even further towards the city.
Pit stop: Stop for a coffee or a bite at venues including Carluccio’s and more.
Eastern Mangroves Promenade, Salam Street.
Fossil Dunes
First thing’s first, please don’t walk on the dunes themselves, they’re very fragile. We know you’ve seen people doing it on Instagram but they can break and that’s not cool. Looking to enjoy a desert stroll? The Fossil Dunes are a cool natural landmark to check out and you can walk around the site to take them in or pose for a few pics. After a short drive out to Al Wathba you can wonder at the natural beauty and stretch your legs at the same time. Winner.
Pit stop: Crack open your snack pack.
Coordinates to type in are 24°10’16.4”N 54°34’39.1”E.
Jubail Mangrove Walk
This is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city and it’s easy to see why. Pull on your shoes, it’s time to go. There are three pathways to walk, the longest covers a distance of 2km and the shortest is 1km. The paths allow you to take a stroll through the mangroves, explore the natural land-scape and go wildlife spotting. A floating platform with netting is also on site where visitors can take a look at the marine life underwater.
Pit stop: Take a break at the onsite coffee shop once you’ve taken lots of snaps.
Dhs15 (adults), Dhs10 (children). Open daily 8am-6pm. Booking essential, park.jubailisland.ae.
Louvre Abu Dhabi
While there’s loads to see inside the museum there are lots of places to walk around the Cultural Dis-trict as well. There are long stretches of path around the Cultural District and The Dock, all with great views of the iconic museum to enjoy. Plus, on Wednesday nights from 6.30pm to 9pm the museum opens to allow you to walk beneath the dome for free, to stare up at that fantastic roof.
Pit stop: The café is ace, grab a cake and chill.
Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island.
The Corniche
With an 8km stretch of paths by the beach The Corniche is one of the most inviting places to take a stroll. Wandering by the water you can gaze out over the immense Arabian Gulf or take a look in the other direction and enjoy the sights of the Abu Dhabi skyline. Start from the east side of The Corniche and you can walk all the way round to the marina – perfect if you’re after for a hike with fantastic views. Bike and e-scooter hire is available, too.
Pit stop: There are a bunch of cafés and restaurants on the way if you want to stop off.
The Corniche, Abu Dhabi.
