Top attractions in Abu Dhabi
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Top sights in Abu Dhabi
The best things to see and do in Abu Dhabi
As the world's richest city, Abu Dhabi breaks all the records. Visitors from around the world flock there to bask in its luxury and take advantage of the myriad opportunities for leisure. Here are 10 exclusive treasures awaiting you there.
1. Sheikh Zayed Mosque
With minarets over 100 meters tall, 82 domes of white marble and one of the world's largest hand-knotted carpets, the world-famous Sheikh Zayed Mosque is awe-inspiring to say the least.
2. Yas Island
Whether you want to stay in a luxurious hotel, watch the Formula One Grand Prix, or chase thrills at a water park, Yas Island is the entertainment and leisure world that has it all.
3. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
Ferrari World is the world's largest indoor theme park. Among its many exhilarating rides it boasts the Formula Rossa, which at 150mph is the world's fastest roller coaster.
4. Marina Mall
You could easily spend days at the Marina Mall. Aside from some of the best shopping in the world, it also houses an observatory, an ice rink, a bowling alley, and the famous musical fountains.
5. The Corniche
After visiting Marina Mall, head to the Corniche outside. Recharge your batteries with a relaxing stroll or bike ride along this stunningly beautiful promenade.
6. Saadiyat Island
Still under construction, Saadiyat Island is set to become paradise on earth: a miniature city offering the greatest possible mix of leisure, business and culture.
7. Abu Dhabi Mall
If you're in need of some retail therapy, head over to the amazing Abu Dhabi Mall. With more than 200 stores, your shopping needs will most definitely be satisfied!
8. Yas Island Marina Circuit
Accompanying the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, this stunning circuit offers racing enthusiasts amazing opportunities to look behind the scenes or race around the track.
9. Emirates Palace
When it was built, this opulent, 7-star hotel was the most expensive hotel in the world, costing $3 billion! Its private beach is nearly a mile long and its grounds span 85 hectares.
10. Capital Gate
Inclined at a whole 18 degrees, Abu Dhabi's Capital Gate has stolen the Leaning Tower of Pisa's claim to the world's most lopsided building!
Planning Your Visit
What to Wear
Keep in mind that the United Arab Emirates is a Muslim country and while visitors are not expected to follow religious dress codes, they should nonetheless dress with respect for local customs. Skirts and trousers should be knee-length or longer, and women should avoid tight-fitting clothes. Cleavage, midriff and upper arms should be covered. Shorts are only allowed on the beach and while bikinis are permitted, topless sunbathing is prohibited.
Ramadan
During the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, eating and drinking in public is strictly forbidden. However, most hotels and clubs will serve food and beverages to foreigners. Over Ramadan, visitors should consider dressing extra conservatively outdoors.
Mind the Air-Con
Even though the weather in Abu Dhabi is generally very hot, it's a good idea to carry a jacket or sweater around with you, as indoor areas can get quite chilly due to air-conditioning.
Good to know
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- Language
- Arabic, English
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- Currency
- AED (United Arab Emirates dirham)
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- Time Zone
- UTC (+04:00)
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- Country Code
- 971
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- Best time to visit
- Take a leisurely trip during the cooler months between November and February
Top Attractions in Abu Dhabi
- 10 Yas Island
- 11 Masdar City
- 12 Zayed Port
- 18 The Landmark
- 20 The Galleria
Things to Do in Abu Dhabi
Other Sightseeing Options in Abu Dhabi
Want to discover all there is to do in Abu Dhabi? Click here for a full list.
What people are saying about Abu Dhabi
The trip was good overall, located at Al Khatem. We went during the Christmas time, started at 2:30 in the afternoon on a Friday and had a great combo of Dune bashing, quad biking, camel ride and arabic traditional dance as well as video shows. Overnight stay at the camp was simply great as the tent and beds were arranged for us (we only had to bring warm clothing and blankets). Will plan for a trip once again during this season (possibly new year!). I recommend the use of advance photography to share photos of night sky to tourists for a charge, which was beautiful too during the late night stay (Al Quaa is where people normally go)
I absolutely loved this tour! I wanted to go Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and when I was looking for tour, I realized most of tour start in the morning but it didn’t work with my schedule. However, this tour is held twice a day so I was able to go there using afternoon tour. The tour guid(I’m so sorry I couldn’t remember his name..) was very kind, thoughtful and have very well knowledge. I was bit worried because I was the only one who joined this tour alone(other people came with their group.) but he took care of me very well and I didn’t feel like I left alone at all. I’m so thankful for him and this experience!
Our Tour Guide Saddam was very knowledgeable about the UAE. He made the difference with his quirky jokes. He knew a lot about Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Qasr Al Watan. Lunch is not included however we went to a lovely buffet restaurant overlooking the Corniche beach. All in all it was a great experience, however it did feel a little rushed at times...
The half day tour is enough time to go, see the mosque and come back. It was perfect for us as we were on a tight schedule and was cramming in other tours. Latif, our guide was very personable, knowledgable, and was the best photographer! He knew all the angles!
Excellent tour, great communication in regards to pick up. Fantastic service during the day. very informative guide who knew what time to arrive and get us into places before the large crowds.
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