From a humble fishing village in 1760, Abu Dhabi transformed into a modern metropolis with high-rises, upscale malls, and luxurious hotels after the discovery of oil. Consider adding Abu Dhabi to your travel itinerary with the following options for a delightful escape.
1. Heritage Village
Discover the cultural tapestry at Heritage Village in Al Kasir, UAE, where a fort, camp, souk, and traditional mosque showcase rich historical artefacts. Adjacent to the village is a historic flagpole, once the world’s largest, providing a unique photo opportunity. The town is open Saturday to Thursday from 9 am to 4 pm and on Fridays from 7:30 am to noon, reopening from 3:30 pm to 9 pm. The free entrance offers a captivating experience for visitors seeking a glimpse into the region’s vibrant cultural history.
What: Tour In Heritage Village
When: Sat to Thurs from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, Fridays from 7:30 am to 12:00 pm & 3:30 pm to 9:00 pm
Where: Al Kasir
2. Ferrari World
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Supercar enthusiasts shouldn’t miss Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. Discover the brand’s history and engineering brilliance. For thrill-seekers, ride Formula Rossa, the world’s fastest roller coaster, at 240 km/h on a two-kilometre track with invigorating loops. Enjoy a birds-eye view of Yas Island or opt for the Family Zone, which has less intense rides for those seeking a milder adventure.
What: World’s Fastest Roller Coaster
When: Thurs to Mon from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm, Tues to Wed from 10:0 am to 8:00 pm
Where: Yas Island in Abu Dhabi
3. Louvre Abu Dhabi
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The iconic Louvre Abu Dhabi, recognized for its stunning dome (best viewed at night), showcases an impressive art collection featuring works by Claude Monet, Vincent Van Gogh, and Piet Mondrian. Temporary exhibitions, like Stories of Paper with Katsushika Hokusai’s Kanagawa-oki Nami Ura (The Great Wave off Kanagawa) and Rembrandt, Vermeer & the Dutch Golden Age, add to the allure. Admission is Dhs63 for adults, free for those under 18 and UAE residents over 60. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am to 6:30 pm, on Saadiyat Island.
What: Art Work At the Louvre
When: Tue to Sun from 10:0 am to 6:30 pm
Where: Saadiyat Island
4. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a must-visit in Abu Dhabi, with guided tours in Arabic and English. No booking is necessary. Explore the architectural marvel, including the world’s largest handwoven carpet, during a concise 45-minute tour. Open Saturday to Thursday from 9 am to 10 pm and Fridays from 9 am to noon and 3 pm to 10 pm, located at Khor Al Maqta. Entry is free.
What: Tour Of The Mosque
When: Sat to Thurs from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm & Fri from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm and 3:00 pm to 10:00 pm
Where: Khor Al Maqta
5. Warner Brothers World, Abu Dhabi
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Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi is a top summer destination in Abu Dhabi, known as the world’s largest indoor theme park. With themed areas like ‘Metropolis’ and ‘Gotham City,’ it boasts 29 rides inspired by iconic Warner Bros. characters and films. From the Scooby-Doo Museum of Mysteries to the Tom & Jerry Swiss Cheese Spin, the park offers non-stop fun. Admission is Dhs325 for adults and Dhs250 for kids. Open Sunday to Thursday from noon to 8 pm and Friday to Saturday from 11 am to 8 pm, located on Yas Island.
What: World’s Largest Indoor Theme Park
When: Sun to Thurs from 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm & Fri to Sat from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm
Where: Yas Island in Abu Dhabi
Also Read: Spend A Night At The Louvre Abu Dhabi Watching Movies, Moon Gazing & Meet Sultan Al Neyadi
6. Rub Al Khali Desert
The Rub’ al Khali, or Empty Quarter, is the world’s largest continuous sand desert, spanning parts of Saudi Arabia, Oman, the UAE, and Yemen. While not covering 70% of Abu Dhabi, it offers a vast and challenging terrain for activities like desert safaris, dune bashing, camel trekking, and stargazing. This iconic desert attracts adventure seekers and those looking for unique desert experiences.
What: Desert Safari & Activities
Where: Rub Al Khali Desert
7. Snow Abu Dhabi
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Snow Abu Dhabi, which opened in June 2023, is one of the newest attractions in Abu Dhabi. It features a variety of experiences, including toboggan runs, a Polar Express train, and bumper cars. Entrance fees are Dhs215 for adults and Dhs165 for children. Located on Level 2 of Reem Mall, Al Reem Island, it is open from 10 am to 10 pm on Sundays to Thursdays and from 10 am to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.
What: Snow Abu Dhabi
When: Sun to Thurs from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm and Fri to Sat from 10:00 to 12:00 am
Where: Reem Mall, Al Reem Island
8. Yas Waterworld
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Yas Waterworld, an Emirates-themed waterpark on Yas Island, boasts over 40 rides and experiences. Highlights include Hamlool’s Humps, a ten-story-high speed slide; Liwa Loop, the region’s first freefall drop waterslide; Slithers Slides with serpentine twists; and Dawwama, the world’s largest hydromagnetic-powered, six-person tornado waterslide.
Entry fees are Dhs270 for adults (day pass), Dhs220 for juniors, and Dhs1,295 for a gold Yas annual pass. Operating hours are subject to variation. Visit Yas Waterworld on Yas Island for an exciting aquatic adventure.
What: Water Park
When: Sun to Sat from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Where: Yas Island in Abu Dhabi
This city’s harmonious fusion of modernity and tranquillity promises an unforgettable experience enriched by exceptional places to explore and exciting activities.
Cover Image Courtesy : Canva Stock Images
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