Abu Dhabi is home to the world’s fastest roller coaster, opulent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, and so much more. The UAE’s capital has a lot to offer in terms of adventure, nature, food, culture and more. However, as tourists, there are only a few popular that we tend to visit. So if you are planning to visit Abu Dhabi in the near future, then here are five hidden gems that you must add to your list.
1. Jubail Mangrove Park
Jubail Mangrove is a marine and mangrove sanctuary, which is quite popular amongst the locals in Abu Dhabi. The dense mangrove park is known for its natural beauty and is a perfect place for children. While children can learn about the environment and biodiversity, adults can enjoy fun activities like a guided 2.3km boardwalk for AED 50, Kayak for AED 100 and E-canoe tours of the mangroves for AED80. Jubail Mangrove Park is one of the most beautiful secluded parks of Abu Dhabi, and you must visit it.
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2. Wadi Adventure
Are you a sucker for adventure? If yes, then Wadi Adventure is for you. Wadi Adventure is an action-packed sports park in Al Ain, which is just 90 minutes from Abu Dhabi. The place offers varied water and aerial activities, so you can enjoy Kayaking or test the waters with whitewater rafting. You can catch waves in the surf pool or get your adrenaline pumping with wakeboarding, kneeboarding, etc.- at this adventure park.
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3. Heritage Village
Many popular spots across Abu Dhabi depict the Emirati culture, but if you truly want to delve deep and know more about the culture, then Heritage Village should be on your list. It is a reconstructed village, and it features a souk, mosque, dhows, a traditional fort and much more.
4. Qasr Al Watan
Qasr Al Watan is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Abu Dhabi. Also known as the Palace of the Nation, it lets the visitors explore the history, traditions and journey of the UAE through a vast collection of cultural artefacts, art and rare manuscripts. The palace has various sections- the Great Hall, remarkable for its grand central dome, archways, ornamentation and mosaic patterns. In 2020, Qasr Al Watan was recognised by the Middle East and North Africa Leisure & Attractions Council as the Best Unique Visitor Attraction and was also named Middle East’s Leading Cultural Tourist Attraction at the World Travel Awards.
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5. Al Wathba Wetland Reserve
This nature reserve houses more than 250 species of birds, 37 plant species and varied types of dragonflies and damselflies. The Al Wathba Wetlands reserves have walking tours that let you explore the place on foot. While there are many birds and distinct species, this place is particularly renowned for the abundance of Greater Flamingos, with as many as 4,000 living there during autumn and spring. Now ain’t that cool?
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