25 Places To Visit In Abu Dhabi, UAE For Discovering Its Incredible Beauty

Abu Dhabi, a land of incredible beauty, soft sand dunes, and cultural vibrancy is a true treasure of nature. This modern cosmopolitan is blessed with an urbanized aura and the soothing soul of the past, where choosing among the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi can be a real task. The capital city of the United Arab Emirates offers a perfect blend of luxury and adventure where you can experience the thrill of off-roading. This rich city of the gulf has preserved the culture and heritage in every corner.

Top 25 Tourist Attractions In Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi brings you the royalty and culture of Arab under one sky. Every attraction in the city has a tale of its own that you must explore and embrace. Plan your vacation to this enthralling modern city in the Gulf and discover the glitz of modernity and heritage. Here is a list of top attraction that makes Abu Dhabi, a must visit attraction for every traveler.

1. Qasr Al-Hosn

A living memorial in Abu Dhabi, Qasr Al-Hosn is a major attraction for tourists that narrates the history of the city. It is among the first permanently built structure that was designed by Mohammed Al Bastaki and build later, in the year 1761.

There are two iconic structures in Qasr Al-Hosn, the Inner Fort and the Outer Palace. This historical structure had become a residing place for the ruling families over the period of time but today, it is among the best places to see in Abu Dhabi. The landmark was initially built to overlook the trading route and keep an eye on the growing settlement on the island.

Visit the Al Hosn Fort that has been modified and transformed into a museum, preserving the history of Abu Dhabi.

Location: Qasr Al Hosn, Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum Street. Al Hosn

Timings:

• Sunday to Thursday: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
• Friday to Saturday: 12:00 PM-10:00 PM

Entry Fees: 7 USD

Built-In: 1761

2. Yas Island

Entertainment and thrill can never be missed on holiday, and offering you both, Yas Island is one of the best family places to go in Abu Dhabi. Located within a short distance from the Abu Dhabi International Airport, Yas Island is a famous adventure hub in the city where there is a race track, marina, and some luxury hotels to plan a stay. What makes the island famous among travelers is the Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, an indoor theme park in the city.

With more than 20 thrilling rides and breathtaking adventures to enjoy, the theme park makes a pit stop for every family in the city. Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi is another attraction in Abu Dhabi that makes the YAS, the best island in the UAE.

Location: Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi

Famous For:

• Beachfront
• Malls
• Luxury Hotels
• Golf Course
• Indoor theme park
• Water Parks

Things To Do:

• Adventure at the theme parks
• Shop from the extravagant malls
• Family dinners
• Water adventure and fun

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3. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is an absolute wonder to visit that is exhibiting the beauty of architecture a calm spiritual aura. Opened in the year 2007, the mosque can allot space to more than 40,000 people at the time. The structure beholds the beauty of Mameluke, Ottoman, and Fatimid elements in its modern Islamic architecture, making it one of Abu Dhabi's famous places. You can observe the intricate use of glass-work, carvings, and some mosaic tiling that will add spectacular beauty to every corner of the mosque.

Open to every visitor, from the devotees to the Non-Muslims, the mosque houses a vast library with a collection of every religious and historical book. Dedicated to Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al-Nahyan, the mosque stands as an alluring piece of marble art that is marked as one of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi for every traveler.

Location: Al Khaleej al Arabi Street, Abu Dhabi

Timings:

• Saturday to Thursday: 9:00 am to 10:00 pm
• Friday: 4.30 pm to 10:00 pm

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4. Observation Deck at 300

Discover a birds-eye view of the best attractions in UAE, Abu Dhabi from the Observation Deck at 300. This is an impressive and iconic landmark added to the list of Abu Dhabi tourist spots that overlooks the entire city from a relative height of 300 meters. This architecture houses some of the best cafes and restaurants with an exclusive menu to relish your appetite. You can sip the most refreshing tea of the evening while witnessing the sunset.

Located on the 74th floor of the Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, the observation deck offers a 360-degree panoramic view of attractions like Corniche, the Arabian Gulf, and other nearby landmarks. Facilities like Valet parking and wheelchair accessibility make it perfect for every guest in the city.

Location: Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi

Timings:

• Monday to Saturday: 12:00 pm to 08:00 pm
• Closed on Sunday

Entry Fees: 25.86 USD per person (additional charges for refreshments and activities)

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5. Louvre Abu Dhabi

One of the most spectacular tourist attractions in Abu Dhabi, Louvre Abu Dhabi is an iconic museum in the city to visit. The museum houses a huge diversity of art and heritage where you can see the paintings of famous artisans like Picasso, and a collection of other artifacts. The architecture of Louvre Abu Dhabi exhibits itself as a stunning piece of art with contemporary use of elements and design.

The museum is dedicated to bringing up the cultural and contemporary art that makes it a diverse house for every dedicated art enthusiast. There will be more than 120 masterpieces that are bringing the stories of human art and creativity under one roof. You can add a tour of the museum to your list of things to do in UAE.

Location: Saadiyat - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates

Timings:

• Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 am to 6.30 pm
• Closed on Mondays.
• Visitors must know that the last entry time slot is 5:30 pm and the visitors must depart by 6:30pm.

Entry Fees:

• For adults: US$ 17
• From 13 to 22 years: US$ 9

6. Emirates Park Zoo

Families in Abu Dhabi can surely plan a day out with kids at one of the most exciting places to visit in Abu Dhabi. Located at a distance of just 30 minutes from the city center, the Emirates Park Zoo is an entertainment zone where there are amusing rides. Kids here can discover a huge diversity of wildlife with primates and migratory birds. The zoo is home to wilds such as lions, monkeys, zebra, bears, and more.

While Abu Dhabi is one of the best holiday places to visit in the Middle East, Emirates Park and zoo has made the city an ideal escape for kids. There are fun games and fun shows, feeding sessions, and other activities that will keep your child engaged for the day.

Location: Al Bahyah - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates

Timings:

• Sunday to Wednesday: 09:00 am to 09:00 pm
• Thursday to Saturday: 09:00 am to 08:00 pm

Entry Fees: 10.89 USD

7. Heritage Village

Discover the pre-oil history of Abu Dhabi at its Heritage village that is one of the best places to see in Abu Dhabi. There are elements that have made it a ruined yet most beautiful place for discovering every ancient detail of this Gulf City.

Lying close to the coastal region, the village houses vibrancy of art where you can find the Emirati metalworks and more. Workshops are organized for the visitors to better understand the heritage and culture. Wander around the village to learn about the history of pearl diving in the city. There are traditional forts and Souqs, mosque, and other sites that will let take you back in the ear.

The heritage village boats of traditional houses, palm fringes, and other culturally sound elements.

Location: Near Marina Mall - Abu Dhabi Theatre Rd, Corniche - Breakwater Rd

Things To Do:

• Relax at those Bedouin tents
• Try traditional shopping
• Explore the history

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8. Abu Dhabi Corniche

Stretching to an area of 8 km, the Abu Dhabi Corniche is one of the spectacular places to visit in Abu Dhabi for free. Boasting of some stunning waterfront and the view of the most magnificent beaches in Abu Dhabi, the Corniche is an ideal spot to spend the evening.

With an array of cafes and restaurants around, one can try out the most tempting cuisines. There are pathways and pedestrians for walking along the beachfront or there are pathways for cycling and jogging. Don’t miss out on the sheesha cafes for some vintage vibes along the Corniche. Adding on to your experience, you can witness the sunset sipping your favorite coffee.

Location: Corniche Road Abu Dhabi

Things to do:

• Walk along the corniche promenade
• Eat from the best cafes
• Enjoy bicycling and other activities

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9. Ferrari World

Now here's a question for you, are you a Formula One fan? Want to witness the world of Formula One? Well, Ferrari world is the place for you. One of the finest places to go in Abu Dhabi, Ferrari World is a theme park that brings all the fun and thrill that one can associate with the Formula One. This is a park that offers multiple attractions for both families and adventure seekers. Be it testing your newly learned driving skills or riding the Flying Aces Roller coaster, The Ferrari World offers it all.

In fact, the Flying Aces Roller coaster clocks up to a speed of 120 kilometers per hour on a 52 meter loop which is the tallest in the world today. What's more? The Ferrari World at Abu Dhabi even has a fine collection of Ferrari's cars with models dating back to 1947. One can take a whole tour of the factory while there are Ferrari knowledge games offered at the park too which are a serious attraction amongst visitors.

Location - 101B Abu Hail Road - Deira - Dubai - United Arab Emirates

Timings - Monday to Sunday: 11 AM to 8 PM

Entry Fee - INR 5800 for a single day (approximate amount)  

10. Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital & Museum

Wondering about the top things to do in Abu Dhabi? Well, a visit to the Abu Dhabi Falcon isn't a bad choice by any means. A fully functional hospital for ill and injured falcons, this is a place where interested visitors can take a guided tour of the various facilities here while there is a museum at the hospital as well that takes visitors up close to the history of falconry in the Arab world.

In fact, the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital tour is a great chance for visitors to get up close and personal with these birds of prey in the wards while also getting a chance to hold one of the birds and feed one as well.

However, most of the attractions presented here depend upon the activities that are performed by the vets at the time of the tour. Hence, visitors are advised to take a due note of the right timings to visit the hospital.

Location - Near the Abu Dhabi International Airport - Sweihan Rd St - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates

Timings -

Sunday to Thursday: 8 AM to 6:30 PM

Saturday: 9 AM to 1 PM

Closed on Fridays

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11. Warner Bros World

One of the finest places to visit when discovering the United Arab Emirates, the Warner Bros World is one of the latest additions to the island and is a theme park that is dedicated to the Warner Bros cartoons, movies, comics, and books heroes, villains, etc. There are various rides here that are based on these characters. One can find all the six lands of Warner Bros movies under one roof while the whole place is air-conditioned.

Besides, as far as rides are concerned, one can find rides that are perfectly adept for both tots and teens coming here. Some of the notable ones include Bedrock and Cartoon Junction that have been specially set up for the little ones.

So, are you a fan of the Batman Series? Well, Gotham City awaits you at the Warner Bros World in Abu Dhabi. Visitors can even find Metropolis here which is home to some of the finest rides.

Interestingly, Warner Bros World is the only place one can combine the thrill of 4D interactive content with roller coaster thrills. So, why not visit here to spend some fun time with your family and friends?

Location - Yas Island - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates

Timings - Monday to Sunday: 11 AM to 7 PM

Entry Fee - AED 295.00 for Adults & AED 230.00 for Children

Opened In - 25 July 2018

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12. Sir Bani Yas Island

There are many islands in Abu Dhabi and the Sir Bani Yas Island is one of them. With more than enough attractions for the fascination of travelers, this is one of those places in Abu Dhabi that has it all and more. One can find Indigenous Arabian Wildlife here such as gazelles, endangered Arabian Oryx and so many more.

First established by Sheikh Zayed, the wildlife reserve here features the endangered Arabian Oryx, Giraffes, leopards, and so on that roam around freely at the reserve. In fact, the whole interior sector of Sir Bani Yas Island is covered by the wildlife reserve.

Visitors coming here can opt for various types of safaris like the 4x4 safari, horse-riding tours, walking safaris, and so much more which are as good as the desert safari in Abu Dhabi. Likewise, there are other activities that one can enjoy on the island as well like hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and so much more. So, there are ample opportunities for fun at the Sir Bani Yas Island in Abu Dhabi.

Location - Just off the coast of Abu Dhabi

Famous For -

• Indigenous Arabian Wildlife

Things To Do -

• 4x4 safari
• Horse-riding tours
• Walking safaris
• Hiking
• Mountain biking
• Kayaking

13. Emirates Palace

When one thinks of Emirates Palace, the phrase lushness of the Arab world comes to mind. The seven star hotel offers the most stunning view of the private bay of Abu Dhabi. The palace is worth a visit for its luxurious green water surroundings and blue waters of the bay. The architecture of the hotel complex is sprawled over 100 acres of land. People should treat themselves to some of the various cuisines served at the restaurants. With a breathing attraction like this, it is one of the best places to visit any time of the year in the world.

Location: West Corniche road, Abu Dhabi

Famous For:  View of the Private Bay of Abu Dhabi and Restaurants

Things To Do:

• Eat the restaurants
• Explore the architecture of the hotel complex

14. Yas Water World

If one wants to escape the heat, then Yas water world is the best place to visit in Abu Dhabi. With over 40 rides, slides and attractions, it is one of the most fun and thrilling water world people of all ages can visit. Tourists can even go shopping and dinning inside the waterpark itself.  Swimming, laughing and making memories is what people often look forward to when on vacation. It is one of the most ideal places to see and enjoy away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Location: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

Famous For: 40 rides, slides and attractions

Timings: 10 am- 7 pm

Entry fees: AED 210 per person

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15. Etihad Towers

When one thinks of human imagination and ability, Eithad Towers comes to mind, with its towers that pierce the sky. The towers are Sadi to gleam of sunshine and artificial lights that reflect upon the city’s extravagance. Some of the main attractions of the towers are the workplaces, the restaurants, hotels, shopping centres, entertainment areas and much more.  Tourists can enjoy the breath-taking view of the unending horizons of the sea. It is one of the most stunning places to visit in the Middle East. What more can you ask for when it comes to having the best time of your life in UAE with your family and friends?

Location: Corniche West Street, Abu Dhabi

Famous for: workplaces, the restaurants, hotels, shopping centres, entertainment areas

Timings: 24 hours

Entry fees: AED 81

16. Al Ain Palace Museum

Have you been to the Al Ain Palace Museum yet? The historical fort converted into a museum, Al Ain Palace Museum is also known as Qasr Al Ain, built in 1937. It was once home to the late Sheikh Zayed and his family and now is one of the most famous tourist places in Abu Dhabi, open to the world since 2001.  Tourists can explore the traditional architecture and learn about the royal family’s lifestyle and political reformations of the 20th century. The museum is a fascinating place to visit and so, people should put in on their bucket list.

Location: Al Mutawwa Al Ain, Abu Dhabi Al Mutawwa, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi

Timings: 8:30 am- 7 pm

Entry Fees: Free

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17. Sheikh Zayed Mosque

A perfect blend of art and architecture, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the largest Mosque in the world and one of the most iconic attractions in Abu Dhabi. Built by the founder of The United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque holds a special vision for everyone. This is the only Mosque that brings every culture together with Islam.

What’s so unique and special about the design of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the art that has influenced its appearance. While the designs are inspired by the ideas from Pakistan, Morocco, Turkey, and Egypt, the architecture reflects an Emirati, Italian and British touch.

The vast area of the Mosque can welcome 55,000 worshippers in a day. There is a presence of luxury and lavishness in every bit of its designing while the spiritual vibes make it the most precious gem of Abu Dhabi.

Location: 5 Street, Fifth Street & Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street, Abu Dhabi

Timing:

• Sunday to Thursday: 9 am to 10 pm
• Friday: 4:30 pm to 10:00 pm

Entry Fees: No entry fee

18. Women’s Handicraft Centre

A small museum that is dedicated to preserving the art and heritage of UAE, and offers women a platform to showcase the local art, Women’s Handicraft Centre is a must visit attraction in Abu Dhabi. This place is open to everyone who loves appreciating art and are keen to learn about the rich handicraft.

This center was established by the Abu Dhabi Women's Association where the local women of the city could learn and enhance their local art and craft. Discover the excellence of artists' handiwork that includes silver thread work, incense, handmade souvenirs, weaving, and more. Every artwork created by the women here is exhibited to the visitors. You can buy souvenirs, get some heena art and take photographs if they permit.

Location: Al Karamah, St Women's Association Complex

Timing: Sundays to Thursday: 7 am to 3 pm

Entry Fees: AED 5

19. Al Jahili Fort

Al Jahili Fort was built in the 1890s by Sheikh Zayed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, but it was opened to the public in 2008. Set amidst the tranquil settings and the captivating beauty of green lush gardens of Al Ain, the fort is an integral part of the Emirati heritage. It is one of the largest forts in the city that is the major tourist attraction in Abu Dhabi for travelers who are drawn by its beauty and magnificence.

The fort was restored for a public visit in 2007 and 2008 by the cultural and tourism department. It won a Terra Award for Internal Design and Layout in 2016 for its beauty and excellent architecture.

While the fort was once a residential place of Zayed the First, it proved to be a center of attraction for many. There are temporary exhibitions hosted, occasionally but one can book a tour of Al Jahili fort anytime for a historical visit.

Location: Sultan Bin Zayed Al Aw'wal Street, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi

Timing: 9 am to 5 pm

Entry Fees: AED 1

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20. Khalifa Park

You are on a vacation with your family and kids and wondering which place to visit in Abu Dhabi for entertainment and fun! Well, Khalifa Park is the best attraction that welcomes every family for a day filled with adventure and thrill.

Opened in the year 2007, the park is a weekend hub for the locals while tourists on a holiday can be seen here any time of the week. Khalifa Park is a one-stop destination where there is cultural experience, fun, and adventure. The Maritime Museum in Khalifa Park is the best place to learn and teach your kids the history of Abu Dhabi. Activities like a train ride and Murjan Splash Park are the major attractions you can visit while spending your time in Khalifa Park.

Location: Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Street, Abu Dhabi

Timings:

• Sunday to Wednesday: 10:00am- 10:00pm
• Thursday to Saturday: 10:00am-11:00pm

Entry Fees: AED 1

21. Al Lulu Island

Among the top islands in UAE, Al Lulu Island is a major attraction where you can relax and rejuvenate. This manmade island is a pristine piece of land that is visible from the Corniche. There are ferries and boats operating from the nearby ports to reach the island. While entry to the island has now been shut, you can enjoy a boat tour to Al Lulu Island while you are on a holiday.

Spreading to an area of 1,050-acre, Al LuLu Island is covering a scenic stretch of Breakwater to Mina Zayed.

Location: Al Lulu Island, Abu Dhabi

22. Capital Gates

One of the finest architectural marvels in the world, Capital Gates is a fine example of the architectural brilliance in Abu Dhabi. This is a leaning tower that scrapes the sky and has features that will leave you awe-inspired. If you're someone who likes to know about architectural marvels around the world, the Capital Gates is a building that you've got to see in Abu Dhabi.

In fact, a major feature that makes Capital Gates a true marvel is its lean towards one side. The building leans 18 degrees to the west which is awarded by Guinness World Records as the world’s farthest leaning manmade building in the world. Surprised? Well, Capital Gates is about 540 feet in height and the design of the building represents a spiral of sand and a splashing wave.

Location - Near Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, Abu Dhabi

Timings - Open 24 hours

Entry Fee - AED 40

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23. Sheikh Zayed Bridge

There's a big reason why the Sheikh Zayed Bridge is regarded as the galaxy of futuristic architecture. This is a destination that features the most intricate and sophisticated architectural marvels, and one such example of it is the Sheikh Zayed Bridge. Although the bridge was recently inaugurated, it has gained immense fame and is regarded as one of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi today. The length of the bridge is about 2762 feet. It has been designed by the famous Iraqi-British architect, Zaha Hadid, and is one of the most beautiful places to visit in this part of the world. But hang on, what is that one thing that makes the bridge even more appealing? Well, the curved arches of the bridge are illuminated in different shades at night which adds to the overall beauty of the bridge. So, what's the delay? Come and witness the amazing Sheikh Zayed Bridge in Abu Dhabi.

Location - Maqta Channel, Abu Dhabi

Timings - Open 24 hours

Entry Fee - N/A

24. Al-Ain Zoo And Aquarium

Located near Jebel Hafeet Base, Al-Ain Zoo and Aquarium is the best place to see with your family and friends. This massive zoo is spread over an area of 400 hectares of land. Housing over 4000 among which 30 percent are endangered species. You get to see the wilderness and exotic wildlife. Al-Ain Zoo and Aquarium is home to a reptile house, monkey compounds, an aviary, monkey compounds, and a big cat house. Heard of the rare Nubian Giraffe? It is a very rare and exotic animal and is not seen in many zoos, but here you get a chance to see very rare species. There are several activities that you can enjoy, apart from mesmerizing the wildlife, you can feed giraffes, opt for camel riding and you can also pet the zoo.

Location: Nahyan The First St - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates

Entry Fee: AED 10 – AED 60; Safari- AED 200- AED 1150

Timings: Opens at 9 AM and closes at 8 PM (October to May)

4 PM to 10 PM (June to September)

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25. Marina Eye

Marina Eye is one of the most eye-catching features of Abu Dhabi. It is a gigantic wheel and has been the most visited place or Abu Dhabi since the day it opened. Marina Eye gives you an opportunity to look at the panoramic view of Abu Dhabi and lets you soak in the charming canvas-like landscape of the province. Catering to an unparalleled view of the capital, Marina Eye dominates the skyline. Sitting in front of Abu Dhabi's favorite shopping mall, Marina Mall, this giant wheel allows you to sit in a glass capsule, and then the wheel rotates. It is about 196 feet tall. For about 5 minutes, you get to take in the alluring view of the city letting all your stress into the arms of the wind.

Location: Marina Island, Abu Dhabi.

Timings: Saturday- Wednesday, 10 AM to 11 PM ; Thursday- Friday, 10 AM to 1 AM

Entry Fee: AED 50 per head

Abu Dhabi, the most stunning city in the United Arab Emirates is among the most popular holiday destinations. With the listed places to visit in Abu Dhabi, you can now plan a vacation without any hassle. The city houses every point of tourist interest, from adventure parks to islands and museums. Being culturally rich, Abu Dhabi is popular among history buffs, and the desert makes the city ideal for some thrill. Book your UAE flights and discover more of its attraction by planning a holiday soon.

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