7 Places to Visit in Abu Dhabi for the Best Trip Possible
Planning a trip to Abu Dhabi is no easy feat, mainly because there are so many different things for you to do. However, no matter what your budget or travel style, you are guaranteed to have the experience of a lifetime while in this world-renowned Emirate.
To help you plan your dream itinerary, read on for seven places to visit in Abu Dhabi for the best trip possible.
1. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Undoubtedly one of the most visited attractions in Abu Dhabi, the awe-inspiring Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. This white marble building combines Ottoman, Mameluke, and Fatimid design elements and features mosaic tiling, intricate carvings, and elaborate glasswork.
Dedicated to the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al-Nahyan, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the biggest in the UAE and can hold 40,000 worshippers. Non-Muslims are able to visit all parts of the mosque and see for themselves how spectacular this building is – both on the inside and the outside.
Address: Al Khaleej al Arabi Street, Abu Dhabi
2. Heritage Village
During your time in Abu Dhabi, you will see (very clearly) how the city is continuously evolving and expanding. However, it is also essential to learn about and reflect on the city's roots, and there is nowhere better to do this than at the living museum, Heritage Village.
When you visit Heritage Village, you will be able to spend time exploring a representation of the fishing village that was once located in this spot. If you want to get a deeper understanding of what life was like in the Emirates, this is where you need to go. You can spend your afternoon strolling past Bedouin tents, watching weaving and metal-working demonstrations, and purchasing local crafts and spices.
In addition, this attraction doesn't charge admission, making it a budget-friendly activity for the whole family. Heritage Village is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday through Thursday and from 3:30 to 9 p.m. on Fridays. You can find Heritage Village close to Marina Mall.
Address: Abu Dhabi Theatre Rd, Corniche - Breakwater Rd, Abu Dhabi
3. Louvre Abu Dhabi
The first international outpost of the world-famous Parisian museum, the Louvre Abu Dhabi is a treat for any visitor to the city. Inside the museum, you can see art from the entire history of humanity, starting with the Neolithic era and continuing up until the present day. No matter what type of art you enjoy, you are guaranteed to be blown away by the Louvre Abu Dhabi's collection.
The museum's permanent collection is contained in 12 galleries. Some highlights of the collection include:
An Amphora Showing Heracles Battling the Nemean Lion (ca. 520 BCE) attributed to Antimenes (painter-potter in Athens)
The Bezique Game (1800) by Gustave Caillebotte
Japanese Ceremonial Armour (16th-19th century) by Iwai Schichirobei Munesuke, École de Joshu Myochin
Pasha and Bedouin (1858) by Roger Fenton
Not only are the pieces inside the museum incredible, but the Louvre Abu Dhabi's contemporary architecture is a wonder by itself. While you are visiting, you may also be able to catch one of the many temporary exhibitions staged each year.
Address: Saadiyat, Abu Dhabi - the Louvre Abu Dhabi is located on Saadiyat Island, which is the growing cultural heartbeat of Abu Dhabi.
4. Yas Beach
No trip will be complete without spending some time on the best beach in Abu Dhabi. And, when it comes to the best beach, nothing can compare to Yas Beach on Yas Island Abu Dhabi. Whether you are looking to thoroughly relax for a few hours or want an active day in the water, this beach has all the amenities and activities that you and your travel companions need for a full day at the beach.
This luxury beach club offers visitors a large swimming pool area with cabanas for rent, an elegant infinity pool, private chalets and several bars and restaurants. Additionally, you can take advantage of their water sports offerings, including kayaks and other rental equipment.
The water here is beautiful, the vibes are tranquil, and the staff are friendly. In other words, what more could you possibly want from your Abu Dhabi beach experience?
Address: Yas Island - Yas West, Abu Dhabi
5. Desert Dunes
Every trip to Abu Dhabi needs to include some time spent in the desert. Generally, most visitors head to either Liwa Oasis or Al Khatim Desert, both of which are located in the south of the Emirate. Both of these options are fantastic choices, and there are desert safari companies that can organize the excursion of your dreams.
In both of these deserts, you can ride dune buggies, go camel trekking, enjoy a traditional meal and entertainment, spend time looking up at the stars, and many other additional experiences.
If you have time in your itinerary, it is highly recommended that you opt to stay a minimum of one night in the desert, as this will allow you to experience the wonder of the region fully. In addition, for many visitors, watching the sunrise over the desert dunes is a significant highlight of their travels.
6. Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital
The Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital is a world-leading veterinary clinic that treats over 10,000 ill and injured falcons annually. It is also one of Abu Dhabi's most popular visitor attractions as it offers visitors the opportunity to have a guided tour of its facilities.
When you choose to take a tour around the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, you can see these magnificent birds of prey up close while also learning about the history and culture of falconry. For those interested, you can also choose to hold one of the falcons or even feed them!
If you are interested in doing a tour of the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital and learning more about traditional Emirati culture, make sure you book in advance. These tours are available daily from Sunday to Thursday.
Address: Sweihan Road, Abu Dhabi
7. Emirates Palace
In between all your sightseeing and cultural learning, you also want to make sure you are taking the time to enjoy the food and drink scene in Abu Dhabi. While there is a wide array of cuisines available, as well as meals suitable for different budgets, one of the must-visit places is Emirates Palace.
This iconic hotel is extremely expensive to stay in; however, you can walk in and explore the property without being a guest. Emirates Palace is breathtaking thanks to its floor to ceiling marble and gold.
Once you are finished admiring the interior of the hotel, head to the lobby to have a Palace cappuccino in Le Cafe. This is not like any other cappuccino you will have ever tasted before. In fact, this one is topped with 23 karat gold flakes! For 60 dirhams, you can experience the finer things in life in the unique style of Abu Dhabi.
Honorable Mention: Yas Theme Park
Considered one of the best entertainment hubs in the Middle Eastern region, Yas Island is home to three major amusement parks that attract most of the guests to this side of Abu Dhabi:
Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi
There is no shortage of adventure and fun times at these three amusement parks!
Final Thoughts
Are you currently planning a trip to Abu Dhabi? If so, which of these places are you planning on visiting?
What else are you excited to do in the city? If you have already travelled there, where would you highly recommend people go?
Let us know your thoughts and any additional suggestions in the comments below!
