Abu Dhabi, located on the island of Persian Gulf, is a collage of magnificent architecture, stunning beaches, traditional and cultural monuments, adventure-sport destinations and premium ultramodern shopping plazas. This city, a perfect mix of traditional ethos and contemporary culture is a tourists’ paradise. A piece of knock-knock advice to all the travelers who wish to experience the best of the Middle East – do not return till you have explored all of the below-mentioned places to visit in Abu Dhabi, the prized jewel of the United Arab Emirates.
31 Best Places To Visit In Abu Dhabi In 2023
Are you looking for the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi? Check out these awesome tourist attractions in Abu Dhabi that will make your vacation all the more memorable.
- Yas Mall – Yas Island
- Saadiyat Public Beach – Saadiyat Island
- Al Lulu Island – Zayed Sea Port
- Mushrif Central Park – Mushrif Area
- Marina Mall – Jumeirah Beach
- Abu Dhabi Mall – Beach Rotana
- Dalma Mall – 19th Street
- Mushrif Mall – Airport Road
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre – Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed St
- Qasr al-Hosn – Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum 2nd St
- Heritage Village – Abu Dhabi Theatre Rd
- Safaris – Al Ain Road
- Blue Whale Jet Ski – Abu Dhabi Beach
- Yellow Boat Tour – Emirates Palace Marina
- Desert Camp – Al Khatem
- Ferrari World – Yas Leisure Drive
- Marina Eye – Marina Island
- Emirates Palace – Jumeirah Beach
- Emirates Park Zoo – 12th St
- Warner Bros World – Al Falah Rd
- Louvre Museum – Saadiyat
- Al Ain Palace Museum – Al Mutawwa
- Women’s Handicraft Centre – Al Karamah
- Etihad Towers – Corniche West Street
- Warehouse 421 – Al Mina
- Arabian Wildlife Park – Sir Bani Yas Island
- Emirates Auto National Museum – Al Dhafra
- I Battle – Battle Park
- Al Jahili Fort – Al Ain City
- Capital Gate – Abu DhabKhaleej Al Arabi Street
- Al-Ain Zoo And Aquarium – Nahyan
1. Yas Mall – The Shopping Hub
Your dream of getting shopping, leisure and entertainment amenities all in one place comes true with the man-made Yas Island, a one-of-a-kind place to visit in Abu Dhabi and among the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi with family. This is place must be included in your travel itinerary.
Location: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Key attractions: Amusements and buzzes at Yas Waterworld, the high-end motorsport venue – Yas Marina Circuit, the luxurious shopping experience at Yas Mall and the sunny and spectacular Yas beach.
Timings: 10 am to 12 am
Things to do: Mangrove tour at Yas Beach, Bubble’s Barrel slide and Rush Rider at Waterworld, relax at Yas Marina Circuit, and do not forget to pick awesome stuff from the Ikea store in Yas Mall.
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2. Saadiyat Public Beach – A Sporty Beach
Saadiyat Public beach offers recreation and leisure in one package. One of the most happening tourist attractions in Abu Dhabi, this beach offers water sports, retail therapy, and delightful bistros.
Location: Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
Key attractions: Beautiful beach, shops with beach accessories and local cuisine shacks.
Timings: Sunrise to sunset
Things to do: Kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, beach fitness classes, and relaxing and sunbathing in sun loungers.
3. Al Lulu Island – A Dynamic Island
Fabulous beaches, exotic blue water, beach activities, and watersports contribute to making Al Lulu Island, one of the most popular Abu Dhabi tourist places. The island stretches from Abu Dhabi Breakwater to the Zayed Sea Port.
Location: Zayed Sea Port, Abu Dhabi
Key Attractions: Lively beach atmosphere, beach shops and comfortable shacks.
Timings: 10.30am-11pm
Things to do: Explore the magnificent malls, Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium and St Joseph Catholic Church.
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4. Mushrif Central Park – An Active Urban Park
Mushrif Central Park is one of the most sprawling urban parks of Abu Dhabi. Initially meant only for women and children, it was named as Mushrif Central Park because of its central location in the city.
Location: 15th Street, Mushrif Area, Abu Dhabi
Key attractions: Animal barn, Botanical Garden, Children’s Garden, Wisdom Garden and Park Pavilion
Timings: 8am to 12 pm
Things to do: Check out lovely eateries like Burger Bureau and Park Station as you take a leisure walk in the park.
5. Marina Mall – Luxury Overloaded
Marina Mall is located very close to the Emirates Palace Hotel and is one of the largest and most luxurious shopping arcades in Abu Dhabi. Marina Mall combines leisure, entertainment, and fashion under one roof and is among the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi.
Location: Near Jumeirah Beach Residence, Abu Dhabi
Key attractions: Bowling alley, ice skating rink, musical fountain, movie complex and 100-meter observatory along with 4 storied retail space comprising of all leading brand shops.
Timings: 9 am to midnight
Things to do: Shop till you drop! Spend some exciting time with friends and family at the bowling alley, movie complex, and food court.
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6. Abu Dhabi Mall – A Global Mall
Located adjacent to Beach Rotana Hotel, Abu Dhabi mall is one of the oldest shopping plazas. Quite popular amongst foreigners as well as localities, the vast retail area housing all Global brand outlets is one of the best tourist places in Abu Dhabi.
Location: Near Beach Rotana Hotel, Abu Dhabi
Key attractions: Luxury and affordable brands for fashion, accessories, electronics, home décor, and beauty.
Timings: 10am – 11 pm
Things to do: Indulge in retail therapy and try some of the best restaurants like Athena, Café Nero, and Cold Stone Creamery.
7. Dalma Mall – Grand Shopping Places
Dalma Mall, housing close to 400 stores is located close to Abu Dhabi International Airport on the Abu Dhabi-Tarif-Al Ain highway. It is the largest shopping mall in the city.
Location: 19th Street, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Key attractions: Fun City, Cine Royal and Adventure HQ
Timings: 10 am – 12 am
Things to do: Kids can have exciting play time at Fun City, movie dates at Cine Royal and outdoor adventure like fishing, diving, camping, hiking, cycling and watersports in Adventure HQ.
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8. Mushrif Mall – For High-End Fashion
Mushrif Mall, a sprawling new retail space, is one of Abu Dhabi’s best places to visit. The mall is not only popular for extensive brands of fashion, accessories, electronics, shoes, home décor, books and toys but also for renowned supermarkets and fresh shops.
Location: Airport Road, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Key attractions: Huge hypermarket with fresh Shoppe of fruits, vegetables, fish, and meat.
Timings: 10 am – 11 pm
Things to do: Retail therapy, Dil kholke.
9. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre – A Cultural Hub
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre was built in memory of late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan. The mosque is not only a religious site but also serves as an educational and cultural hub, which is why it’s on every list of the finest places to visit in Abu Dhabi near airport.
Location: Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed St, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Key attractions: Glamorous architecture combined with exquisite design and pattern of the mosque makes it one of those Abu Dhabi’s visiting places that are highly popular among the foreign travelers.
Timings: 9am – 10 pm
Things to do: Witness the magnificent library, beautiful premises, and the heavenly sunset.
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10. Qasr al-Hosn – The Story Teller
Qasr al-Hosn is the first permanent structure of Abu Dhabi and the ancient residence of Emirate’s ruling Al Nahyan family. The exhibition at the Qasr al Hosn Centre reveals the tale of the city and its folks in detail. It is one of the places to visit in Abu Dhabi for couples.
Location: Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum 2nd St., Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Key attractions: Qasr al-Hosn festival within the fort area.
Timings: 10am – 9 pm
Things to do: Enjoy live music and dance shows during the annual Qasr al-Hosn festival.
11. Heritage Village – Truly Emirate
Want to witness a typical Emirati life? Visit the heritage village of Abu Dhabi, located on the shore of one of the city beaches. Filled with all kinds of interesting things, this village is one of the most unique places to see in Abu Dhabi.
Location: Abu Dhabi Theatre Rd, Corniche Brake Water, Near Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi
Key attractions: Art and artifacts of daily commodities used by Bedouins
Timings: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
Things to do: Witness the typical agricultural, cooking, and pearl trade pattern of the local people.
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12. Safaris – Desert Adventures
Deserts can be one of the most adventurous places to visit in Abu Dhabi. Try the mesmerizing and enthralling Wadi bashing or Dune driving in a 4×4 wheel Drive for 20-30 minutes.
Location: Al Ain Road, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Key attractions: Indulge in a xerophytic experience with the local cuisine and culture.
Timings: NA
Things to do: Beautiful sunset, camel rides, awesome dinners, and belly dancing
13. Blue Whale Jet Ski – Sea Adventures
Explore the splashing blue water and bouncy waves with the Blue Whale Jetski. An experience of a lifetime, you will truly feel the adrenaline rush.
Location: Abu Dhabi Beach
Key attractions: High-speed jet skiing for an hour
Timings: 9am – 7pm
Things to do: Try your luck and say hello to a blue whale! It is not every day that you drive a jet ski.
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14. Yellow Boat Tour – Fun-Filled Water Safari
The view of the city from the other side is equally or rather more enchanting. The vibrant yellow boat will take you to the Lulu Island, Emirates Palace, Fisherman’s Village and Corniche.
Location: Emirates Palace Marina, Abu Dhabi
Key attractions: High-speed boating experience
Timings: 8am – 8pm
Things to do: Feel the swoop and splash as the speed boat gives you a wonderful experience of sightseeing in Abu Dhabi.
15. Desert Camp – Desert Safari At Its Best
If you are not satisfied with desert safari and your heart craves for more, plan an overnight stay in one of the desert camps. The experience is one of a kind.
Location: Al Khatem, Abu Dhabi
Key attractions: Overnight in the desert camping
Timings: 24×7
Things to do: Camel rides, belly dance, Arabic coffee, sand boarding, Shisha and henna painting.
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16. Ferrari World – Endless Rides And Attractions
Ferrari World is undoubtedly one of the places to visit in Abu Dhabi city for thrill seekers and car lovers. Counted in the list of the top amusement parks of the world, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi designed in the Ferrari brand theme is spread over a massive area of 86,000 square meters, and also features a huge range of rides, shows, and attractions for visitors belonging to all walks of life. Other than rides, Ferrari World is also known for hosting various events, having a number of top-notch eateries and restaurants, and a grand shopping space where visitors can buy a vast array of Ferrari products like clothes and accessories.
Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Key attractions: Flying Aces, Scuderia Challenge, Turbo Track, and Formula Rossa (world’s fastest roller coaster)
Things to do in Ferrari World: Take a ferrari ride, dine at the high-end restaurants, shop till you drop!
Timings: 11 AM – 8 PM
17. Marina Eye – Panoramic Views Of Abu Dhabi
Witness panoramic views of Abu Dhabi while taking a ride on the delightful Marina Eye giant wheel, one of the places to visit in Abu Dhabi at night. All that you need to do is sit inside a giant glass capsule of this 196-foot tall rotating wheel and soon you’ll be treated to the most stunning panoramic views of Abu Dhabi from its observation wheel high up in the air. This 5-minute ride is sure to bring a smile on the faces of your loved ones and makes for an awesome activity to indulge in at night when you can enjoy glittering views of the entire skyline of Abu Dhabi.
Location: Marina Island, Abu Dhabi
Key Attractions: 196-foot tall rotating wheel and soon you’ll be treated to the most stunning panoramic views of Abu Dhabi
Timings: 11 AM – 11 PM
Things to do: Hang out at the waterfront.
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18. Emirates Palace – Jumeirah Beach
Your trip to the Abu World is incomplete without mention of the Emirates Palace. This place should not be skipped if you have a taste for luxurious lifestyle. The gorgeous hotel is spread over an area of 100 acres stores all kind of luxury for the visitors.
Location: West Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi
Key Attractions: Range of restaurants serving different cuisines from all over the world, luxurious lifestyle of the Arab world
Timings: Open 24 hours
Things to do: Witness the luxurious lifestyle
19. Emirates Park Zoo – Abu Dhabi
If you want to experience the best of Abu Dhabi sightseeing, visit the Emirates park zoo. The zoo in Abu dhabi gives one an opportunity to come closer to around 1700 animals which include species like Lion, Cheetah, White Tiger and Siberian Bear; to name a few.
Location: 12th St – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Key Attractions: See wildlife (different species)
Timings: 9 am to 8 pm (Sunday to Wednesday) and 9am to 9pm (Thursday to Saturday)
Things to do: Indulge in activities of luxury resort as well as fun activities like breakfast with giraffe and parrot.
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20. Warner Bros World – Al Falah Rd
One of the famous Abu Dhabi tourist attractions, Warner Bros World is the third theme park of its kind in the world. The indoor and fully conditioned different features of the park, makes it one of the most exciting places to visit in Abu Dhabi in summer.
Location: Al Falah Rd – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Key Attractions: Various rides include The Joker Funhouse, Tom and Jerry: Swiss Cheese Spin, The Jetsons Cosmic Orbiter, Scooby-Doo: The Museum of Mysteries
Timings: 10:00am to 8:00pm (Saturday to Wednesday) and 10:00AM to 10:00PM (Thursday and Friday)
Things to Do: Enjoy the unique rides and different features of the park.
21. Louvre Museum – Saadiyat
Inaugurated in the year 2017, the Louvre Museum is one of the must-see tourist places in Abu Dhabi. This largest museum in the Arabian Peninsula showcases artwork from across the globe. Apart from the wonderful artwork the architecture of the building itself is something which is attractive.
Location: Saadiyat – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Key Attractions: Artworks of Vincent Van Gogh, Leonardo Da Vinci, Jacques-Louis David, Claude Monet and Henri Matisse
Timings: 10:00AM to 8:00PM (Saturday to Wednesday), 10:00AM to 10:00PM (Thursday and Friday), Monday Closed
Things to Do in Louvre Museum: Enjoy the artwork by different famous artists and the good vibes of the ambience.
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22. Al Ain Palace Museum – Al Mutawwa
Al Ain Palace Museum is a historical fort that has been developed into a museum. Also known as Qasr al-Ain, it is one of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi for free. It was opened to the public in the year 2001 and is a prominent tourist places in Abu Dhabi.
Location: Al Mutawwa, Al Ain
Key Attractions: Beautiful traditional architecture
Timings: 8:30 am to 7 pm
Things to Do: Learn about the rich history of the country and lifestyle of the royal family
23. Women’s Handicraft Centre – Al Karamah
Women’s Handicraft Centre is an initiative run by women in Abu Dhabi to showcase the local arts and crafts. There are many rooms in the complex and each is dedicated to an individual craft. It is one of the famous Abu Dhabi points of interest as it represents the true Arabic traditions.
Location: Al Karamah
Key Attractions: Impressive handicraft to promote the local art and craft of the region
Timings: 7am to 3pm
Things to Do: Get beautiful henna designs on your hands and visit the small museum within the complex.
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24. Etihad Towers – Corniche West Street
Etihad towers is on the list of Abu Dhabi points of interest. It is a building complex with five towers which has workplaces, hotels, shopping centres, restaurants, entertainment areas, apartments and more. One of the towers of the complex, tower 2 is the tallest building in Abu Dhabi.
Location: Corniche West Street, Abu Dhabi
Key Attractions: The towers are believed to be shining forever in the gleam of sunshine and artificial lights.
Timings: Always Open
Things to Do: Admire the beauty of this stunning place which is a great example of human imagination.
25. Warehouse 421 – Al Mina
Warehouse 421 is one of the must visit tourist places for all the art lovers. The cultural space not only hosts local talents but also artists from across the globe. This one of the new attractions in Abu Dhabi was launched in the year 2015.
Location: Warehouse 421, Al Mina, Abu Dhabi United Arab Emirates.
Key Attractions: Culture, designs and paintings from across the globe.
Timings: 10.00am to 8.00pm (Mondays closed)
Things to Do: See the amazing artwork and if you are an artist you can exhibit your arts, performances.
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26. Arabian Wildlife Park – Sir Bani Yas Island
For wildlife lovers, Arabian wildlife park is an exciting place to experience the best of wildlife in Abu Dhabi. The land area of over 1,400 hectares has a lot in store for you. You can also participate in various activities like horse riding besides watching the animals.
Location: Sir Bani Yas Island, Jebel Dhanna
Key Attractions: The park has over 1,300 animals including Giraffes and Cheetahs.
Timings: 9 am to 8 pm (Sunday to Wednesday) and 9am to 9pm (Thursday to Saturday)
Things to Do: Indulge in activities like walks, horse-riding, nature and wildlife drives and mountain biking.
27. Emirates Auto National Museum – Hamim Road
Emirates Auto National Museum features a great collection of vintage and modified cars, military vehicles and trucks. All the vehicles owned and used by HH Sheikh Hamad Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan are kept in the museum. From showcasing the world’s largest truck to various other things, it is among the top attractions in Abu Dhabi.
Location: Hamim Road, Al Dhafra
Key Attractions: Showcases world’s largest truck to various fancy American cars and off-road vehicles.
Timings: 9am to 5pm
Things to Do: Click a selfie with pyramid shaped structure and take a tour of the music.
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28. I Battle – Battle Park
Those who wish to live a warfare scene, I Battle is the upscale virtual battle combat, that is, designed by the ex-military engineers. Bring out your obsession for PUBG or any of your favorite action game at I Battle on your next stay in Abu Dhabi.
Location: Battle Park, Abu Dhabi
Key Attractions: Real-time battle experience with the super-competent communication system embarking live feedback, statistics and results
Timings: 10am to 10pm
Things to do: Have your own warfare
29. Al Jahili Fort – Al Ain City
Al Jahili Fort is an architectural marvel that was established in the 19th century. It is amongst the largest forts in UAE and played significant role in the bygone era. The fort was commissioned by Sheikh Zayed bin Khalifa.
Location: Al Ain City
Key Attractions: Exquisite infrastructure
Timings: 9am to 5pm
Things to do: Explore the palace and know about the glorious past
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30. Capital Gate – Abu Dhabi
Another interesting place to visit in Abu Dhabi is Capital Gates. The innovative structure of this leaning tower of enormous heights is worth witnessing. Capital Gates is amongst the famous skyscrapes in UAE and has been awarded by Guiness World Records for being the world’s farthest leaning manmade building.
Location: Near Abu Dhabi national Exhibition Centre, Abu Dhabi
Key Attractions: The structure of Capital Gates leans 18 degrees to the west, making it one of the best of its kinds
Timings: 24×7
Things to do: Click pictures, know the facts about the building representing spiral of sand and unleashing waves.
31. Al-Ain Zoo And Aquarium – Nahyan
If you are staying in Abu Dhabi with kids then one place that you must undoubtedly add to your wish-list is Al-Ain Zoo and Aquarium. It is a huge wildlife park, that is located in the foothills of Jebel Hafeet in Al Ain. Spread over 400 hectares of land, the zoo has a big cat house, monkey compunds, reptile house, aquarium, and an aviary.
Location: Nahyan The First St – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Key Attractions: The zoo features around 4,000 animals including the rare white lion and Nubian giraffe.
Timings: 9am to 8pm
Things to do: Interact with the hommies
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Abu Dhabi, being the capital of UAE is filled with the extravagance that is beyond imagination. With facilities and amenities to satisfy everyone, there will never be a dull moment. Planning a holiday in this multi-cultural hub of joy will be the best decision you ever make.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Abu Dhabi
What are the famous Abu Dhabi places that tourists can visit?
Some of the awesome Abu Dhabi tourist places that will make your vacation all the more memorable are:
1. Saadiyat Public Beach
2. Al Lulu Island
3. Marina Mall
4. Abu Dhabi Mall
5. Dalma Mall
6. Mushrif Central Park
7. Mushrif Mall
Is Abu Dhabi cheaper than Dubai?
If you consider hotel and food prices, Abu Dhabi is cheaper than Dubai. But it is slightly more expensive than Dubai if you are comparing the activity prices.
Is there a train between Abu Dhabi and Dubai?
No, there are no trains or metro connectivity between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. You can either rent a car or board a bus to commute between the two cities.
What is famous in Abu Dhabi?
Abu Dhabi is mainly known for hosting sports events like the Formula 1 Race, impressive architecture such as Sheikh Zayed Mosque and a number of skyscrapers. It also has numerous parks and fountains that really add aesthetics to the place.
Where can I go for free in Abu Dhabi with family?
The following are some of the places to visit in Abu Dhabi for free with family:
1. Marina Mall
2. Sheikh Zayed Mosque
3. Jahili Fort
4. Sheikh Zayed Museum
What is the best time to visit Abu Dhabi?
The winter season, from November to March, is the ideal time to visit Abu Dhabi, with temperatures ranging from 25° to 32° C. Although there is no rainy season in Abu Dhabi, the winter season from November to March receives a small quantity of rain. Summers in this Gulf city is exceptionally hot, with temperatures often exceeding the 40s (°C). However, you won't receive much of a snowy sensation over here; rather, the temperature will dip to mild ranges from the extremes, and the weather in Abu Dhabi will be ideal for a holiday.
Where can I hang out in Abu Dhabi?
If you are looking for places to visit in Abu Dhabi in one day where you can hang out and have an awesome experience, then the following are the escapes for you:
1. The Corniche
2. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
3. Minaret Al Saadiyat
4. Masdar City
Can you drink alcohol in Abu Dhabi?
The legal age for drinking in Abu Dhabi is 18 but as per the Government regulations, those under the age of 21 are not served alcohol by the hotels.
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A book lover and fun-loving, overtly emotional mom with a wanderlust soul, Sukanya has completed her Master Degree in Geography and currently perusing her passion for writing as a profession. Nothing detoxes her more than trying new recipes and travelling to offbeat places is ultimate Therapy for her.
