Abu Dhabi is a tourist hub that draws in millions of visitors a year to see attractions, performances and historical sites.
From cultural attractions, world-class facilities and tourist spots for all budgets and interests there is plenty to see.
Check out our round-up of some of the most famous places in Abu Dhabi to visit today, tomorrow and beyond.
Abu Dhabi Corniche
Attractions come and go, but the corniche will always be one of the most famous places in Abu Dhabi. The 8km stretch of road is a thriving piece of street theatre, people-watching paradise, foodie hub and public walkway all rolled into one. From public beach zone to bicycle hire location you will never tire of visiting the street. Even amid the rollercoasters, luxury hotels and world-class attractions a simple street where you can walk freely in the Emirates sunshine is a stand-out way to spend any day of the year.
For more things to do in Corniche, click here.
Corniche.
Emirates Palace
More than 15 years since first opening it is still Abu Dhabi’s most iconic and storied hotel. The low-rise Arabian-style property has been the host to royalty, Governments, celebrities and discerning travellers from around the world and is known for the luxury of rooms, gardens and fine-dining restaurants.
To read more about the Emirates Palace, click here.
Emirates Palace, West Corniche Road, mandarinoriental.com (02 690 888).
Ferrari World
A Ferrari-themed park, which is home to the Formula Rossa – the world’s fastest rollercoaster. Strap in and zoom off at speeds up to 240kmph on a track climbing 52m high.
Car lovers and Ferrari enthusiasts will love the motoring attractions that include VIP motoring, a fleet of rides and a celebration of all things to do with the famed car brand.
To read more about Ferrari World, click here.
Ferrari World, Yas Island, ferrariworldabudhabi.com (600 511115).
Heritage Village
This recreation of a traditional Emirati village is a snapshot of how life used to be in the UAE. Stroll the palm tree-lined grounds and you can observe craftspeople at work demonstrating metalwork, weaving and pottery skills. You can also see a traditional souk, explore a fort and buy handmade souvenirs.
For more information on how to get to Heritage Village, click here.
Heritage Village, near marina Mall, Abu Dhabi Corniche, torath.gov.ae (02 681 4455).
Jubail Mangroves
Arguably the best place to walk in the UAE, this serene parkland is an area of outstanding natural beauty. A series of meandering boardwalks let you criss-cross the mangroves and see herons, flamingos, turtles, deer and more animals in their natural habitat. A gorgeous getaway that shows off a different side to the country. Stunning.
To find out how to get to the Jubail Mangroves, click here.
Jubail Mangroves, Al Jubail Island, jubailisland.ae (02 546 8341).
Louvre Abu Dhabi
The largest and most visited art gallery and museum in the Arab world is a partner of the famed Paris attraction of the same name. An ambitious acquisition and curation spree sees it attract famous works from Europe and Arabia and its collection makes it a jewel of the art world. As well as the breath-taking exhibitions merely visiting, not to mention kayaking around or taking a yoga lesson inside, are experiences never to be forgotten.
For things to do and see at the Louvre, click here.
Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Cultural District, louvreabudhabi.ae (600 565 566).
Mamsha Al Saadiyat
This beachfront development on “Happiness Island” is known for its ocean views and superb dining. If al fresco food and family-friendly ambience alongside the sea sound good to you then you need to explore. Casual dining and easy-going bites are the order of the day.
For more things to see on Saadiyat Island, click here.
Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Jacques Chirac St, Saadiyat Island, aldar.com (056 888 9808).
National Aquarium
46,000 animals, 330 species, ten thematic zones – there is an entire other world to explore at the Middle East’s largest aquarium. Sharks, stingrays, birds, reptiles and much more besides can be seen, studied and adored at this attraction that puts education and conservation at the heart of everything it does. Through animal encounters and an aquarium journey, visitors can learn more about our planet and the creatures we share it with.
For more information on the National Aquarium, click here.
National Aquarium, Rabdan, Al Qana, thenationalaquarium.ae (02 418 6666).
Nurai Island
There’s a getaway and then there’s hopping on a private boat to take a 15-minute trip to a secluded private island. A boutique resort without comparison in Abu Dhabi, it is an international award-winner with stunning beachside and water villas. Wellness is a particular highlight with a stunning spa and yoga pavilion on the island.
To discover more of Abu Dhabi’s private islands, click here.
Zaya, Nurai Island, zayanuraiisland.com (02 506 6222).
Qasr Al Watan
A presidential palace that visitors can explore in detail and learn more about the cultural heritage of Abu Dhabi and the UAE. While the exteriors seem traditional, it was actually constructed in 2017 and opened to the public a couple of years later. The incredible building and it interiors make for one of the world’s great palace attractions, and one of the most famous places in Abu Dhabi. Plus there are regular light, sound and cultural performances to enjoy.
For more popular attractions in Abu Dhabi, click here.
Qasr Al Watan, Al Ras Al Akhdar, qasralwatan.ae (600 544 442).
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
The largest mosque in the UAE and an active place of worship for thousands of people. The architectural masterpiece is a stunning sight to behold, and work began under the leadership and instruction of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan as a haven to inspire people of all backgrounds. It now accepts visitors who want to learn more about Islam and culture in the UAE.
For everything you need to know before you plan your visit, click here.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street, szgmc.gov.ae (02 419 1919).
The Galleria Al Maryah Island
Don’t call this a mall. It is one of the few boutique lifestyle destinations that really deserves the name. Yes, there are stores from leading fashion houses such as Louis Vuitton, Fendi, Prada and more, but there is so much besides. Fine dining in the shape of Zuma, La Petit Maison and more, for starters.
For more things to do on Al Maryah Island, click here.
The Galleria Al Maryah Island, thegalleria.ae (02 493 7400).
Venetian Village/Grand Canal
A cool dining neighbourhood inside the grounds of the Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal. Stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the ambience of waterside dining at some of the city’s hippest restaurants. From trendy Barfly by Buddha Bar to the celebrity chef-inspired Todd English’s Olives there is an excellent variety with Indian and Japanese joints thrown in for good measure.
For more new restaurants in Abu Dhabi, click here.
Venetian Village, within the Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, Al Rawdah, venetianvillage.ae (056 177 7557).
Warner Bros. Hotel
Time Outers have literally dreamed about staying at hotels like this their whole lives. Not only is it next door to the world’s largest theme park, around the corner from a water park and just up the road to the world’s fastest rollercoaster – it is also the world’s first Warner Bros-themed hotel. Or, to put it another way – if Superman came to Abu Dhabi on holiday this is where he would stay. Movie-themed rooms, loads of real props and all sorts of memorabilia and movie magic to enjoy.
For more things to do on Yas Island, click here.
WB Abu Dhabi, Yas Bay, Yas Island, hilton.com (02 815 0000).
Warner Bros. World
Dozens of rides and attractions are divided into themed zones specialising in Batman, Superman, the Flintstones and all manner of Warner Bros cartoons such as Scooby Doo, Tom and Jerry, Daffy Duck and more. As well as all the rides there are live shows and chances to meet beloved characters and a few villains, too.
For more family-friendly fun in Abu Dhabi, click here.
Warner Bros. World, Yas Island, wbworldabudhabi.com (02 496 8000).
Yas Bay Waterfront
It only took a few short months for Abu Dhabi’s Dhs12 billion waterfront destination to become the talk of the town. Down by the water’s edge you’ll find the impressive Etihad Arena and all the headline concerts that come with it, plus cool restaurants such as Buddah Bar, The Lighthouse, Asia Asia, and many more.
For where to eat at Yas Bay Waterfront, click here.
Yas Bay, Yas Island, yasbay.ae (800 927 229).
Yas Mall
Abu Dhabi is particularly good at shopping malls, but even in this crowded market Yas Island’s megamall stands out. The numbers alone are impressive – 2.5million square feet, 370 international brands, nearly 70 places to eat and drink, a 24-screen cinema. The whole experience is just as rewarding with lots of space for leisure including a climbing centre and play centres.
To find out more about the kids-go-free deal on Yas Island this summer, click here.
Yas Mall, Yas Island, yasmall.ae (800 927 6255).
Yas Marina Circuit
If Abu Dhabi’s incredible motorsport circuit was only open for one weekend a year, to host the annual grand prix and F1 spectacular it would still be worthy of this list. But there is so much more besides, including driving experiences, karting and drifting event and regular fitness events where you can get on the track for walks, jogs, and even bike rides.
For more things to do at Yas Marina Circuit, click here.
Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Island, yasmarinacircuit.com (800 927).
Yas Waterworld
The little touches make all the difference on a day out. Like making the excite chute on a waterslide look like a hissing snake’s fanged mouth – it just makes an already exciting ride all the more thrilling. Not that adrenaline junkies need much more convincing. The 45 slides, for all ages and thrill requirements, make this one of the best days out in Abu Dhabi and a must for aquatic thrill seekers. Especially if you dare ride the Jebel Drop – the region’s highest vertical drop slide.
For more information on Yas Waterworld, click here.
Yas Waterworld, Yas Island, yaswaterworld.com (600 511 115).
