Index Of The Blog
Things to do in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is often overshadowed by the shine and glamour of Dubai. However, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates should not be taken casually. Home to plenty of historical, cultural and entertaining attractions, Abu Dhabi offers plenty of things to do that can get anyone hooked. While you can easily spend a few weeks in Abu Dhabi without getting bored, we offer you a list of 7 best things to do in Abu Dhabi, if you are on-going on a short holiday to this Emirate.
Visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
An epitome of modern Islamic architecture, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the largest mosque in the UAE. Moreover, it is one of the few mosques in the country that is open to non-Muslims, making it a place that you must visit when in Abu Dhabi. Made completely in white marble, the gold embellishments give it a majestic look. Apart from this, more than 40 domes can be found over the mosque, with the largest one being more than 100 feet in diameter.
Another unique feature of this mosque is that the main prayer hall is covered with the largest handmade carpet on earth. Also, do not miss to check out the crystal chandeliers that adorn the ceiling. Although the mosque is open to everyone, it is important to dress modestly while visiting the place. It is mandatory for women to wear an abaya (available on rent for free) before entering the mosque
Timings: 9 AM to 10 PM (Saturday to Thursday) and 4:30 PM to 10 PM (Friday) 9 AM to 10 PM (Saturday to Thursday) and 4:30 PM to 10 PM (Friday)
Duration: 1-2 hours
Location: Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed St.
Tickets: Free
Check Out Abu Dhabi Heritage Village
Although today Abu Dhabi is a modern city with unique buildings and skyscrapers adorning its skyline, not long ago it was a simple village that thrived on fishing and pearl diving. If you are interested in knowing how the city looked in the yesteryears, the Abu Dhabi Heritage Village is a place to visit. Located opposite the Abu Dhabi Corniche, the Heritage Village recreates a typical Bedouin village with wooden houses and tents. You can also watch artisans conducting workshops that showcase their metal work, pottery and weaving skills. They may also give you the chance to do the same. The heritage village also has a small beach area where you can relax and enjoy the view. Do visit the stores where you can buy local handicrafts and spices. This is a must visit place if you want to dwell into the past of the city.
Timings: 9 AM to 4 PM (Saturday to Thursday) and 3:30 PM to 9 PM (Friday)
Duration: 1 hour
Location: Near Marina Mall
Tickets: Free
Have Fun at Ferrari World
Adventure lovers and fans of Formula One racing can rejoice, as Abu Dhabi is home to Ferrari World, the first F1-based theme park in the Middle East. Located on Yas Island, one of the biggest highlights of the place is that it houses the fastest rollercoaster in the world. Running at the speed of 240 km/hour, the Formula Rossa is not for the faint-hearted. Moreover, for once, you can also sit behind the wheels of a racing car and go for the Fiorano GT Challenge with your family and friends. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a F1 racing experience without actually driving, you can go for the Scuderia Challenge, which offers you state-of-the-art racing simulators. The Ferrari World also has a retail store where you can buy F1 related goods and gifts.
Timings: 11 AM to 8 PM
Duration: 10 hours
Location: Yas Island
Tickets: AED 295
Revisit History at Qasr Al-Hosn
Although Abu Dhabi has many modern buildings that would impress you with its design and style, nothing can beat the rawness of Qasr Al-Hosn, the oldest building in the city. Known as the Old Fort or the White Fort, Qasr Al-Hosn was built for protecting the settlement from attackers. Years later, it also became the residence of the royal family of Abu Dhabi and was also the seat of government. Today, it has been restored, and you can check out the place including its courtyard and brilliant tile work. It has also been converted into a museum that gives you a glimpse into the history of the area. Through various photographs and oral histories, you would get to know more about the history and heritage of Abu Dhabi, making it a must-visit place in the city.
Timings: 9 AM to 7 PM (Saturday to Thursday) and 12 PM to 10 PM (Friday)
Duration: 2 hours
Location: Rashid Bin Saeed Maktoum St.
Tickets: AED 25 (approximate)
Enjoy Desert Safari Adventures
A trip to Abu Dhabi or anywhere in the UAE, for that matter, would not be complete without a visit to the desert. Moreover, Abu Dhabi is located near the Liwa Oasis, which is a part of the Empty Quarter. One of the best ways of exploring the desert is to go on a desert safari. There are plenty of options available, including morning desert safari, evening desert safari and overnight desert safari. Whichever you choose, you would get to enjoy some amazing adventures like dune bashing, camel riding, dune buggy riding, sandboarding and quad biking. The more adventurous ones can also go for hot air balloon ride over the vast desert of Abu Dhabi. To get the best experience, ensure that you choose only a reputed tour operator or tour company for organizing your Abu Dhabi desert safari tour.
Timings: 3 PM to 9 PM
Duration: 5-6 hours
Location: Liwa Oasis
Tickets: AED 300
Tour the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital
One of the unique things that you would find here is the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital. The falcons were used for hunting in the past. Although they are no longer user for this purpose, the birds still hold importance in the hearts of the Arabs. Hence, it is not surprising to find a hospital dedicated to these birds of prey here. This top aviation hospital in the world has successfully treated more than 110,000 falcons, since its inception in 1999. Visitors are welcome to tour the hospital and even meet some its residents. You would get to see doctors performing surgeries on the birds, if you are lucky. Other than this, you would also get the chance to hold and feed these birds at the falcon hospital. Moreover, a tour guide would give you all the information about falcons and the history of falconry.
Timings: 8 AM to 3 PM (Friday Closed)
Duration: 2 hours
Location: Sweihan Road St. (Near Abu Dhabi International Airport)
Tickets: AED 170 (10 years and above) and AED 60 (5-9 years)
Go on a Fun Ride at Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi
If you are visiting Abu Dhabi with your family, especially children, you would need to do a little more than sightseeing. Another attraction of Yas Island, Warner Bros. World is one of the best family-friendly attractions to visit in Abu Dhabi. This theme park gives you the chance you to meet the characters of your favorite characters from movies and shows made by Warner Bros. This Warner Bros World theme park in Abu Dhabi has six zones: Warner Bros. Plaza, Bedrock, Dynamite Gulch, Cartoon Junction, Gotham City, and Metropolis. While the plaza is the perfect place to shop and dine, each of the other plazas offers interesting rides, shows, and attractions for the entire family. In short, get ready for the time of your life at Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi.
Timings: 10 AM to 8 PM
Duration: 10 hours
Location: Yas Island
Tickets: AED 295
Conclusion
Apart from these things, you should also check out the Louvre Museum, Abu Dhabi Corniche, Qasr Al Watan, Observation at 300, Al Ain Oasis, Yas Water World when in Abu Dhabi, if you have the time. So, do not ignore Abu Dhabi if you are planning a holiday in the UAE. In fact, dedicate at least a few days to enjoy the things the city has on offer.
