Even though Dubai is the main tourism hub of the UAE, its neighboring Emirate has a lot to discover in it as well. In this guide, you will find all the main tourist attractions to visit in Abu Dhabi, directions for each of them, and other useful tips on how to get the most out of your experience there.
Getting Around Abu Dhabi
Before you can even set out to explore Abu Dhabi, you need to figure out how you’ll get there. There are multiple options available for getting around. Local cabs and apps like Uber are readily available in the UAE, offering you a quick and easy way to get from point A to point B. However, this transportation method is more suitable for a small number of rides, and it’s not very optimal for exploring dozens of attractions scattered around Abu Dhabi.
The next option you have is public transport. There are bus routes in place that will get you to virtually any point within the city and its nearest outskirts, and it is far more affordable compared to taxi services. However, many travelers prefer not to deal with public transport as figuring out the routes and fares is not something they want to spend their limited time during a vacation.
The last option is renting a car, and it is easily the most balanced one. It is more expensive than public transport, but cheaper compared to cab rides, especially if you’re travelling a lot. Thanks to the well-developed road infrastructure, you will never have an issue with figuring out directions or finding parking spots in the UAE.
Must-See Attractions in Abu Dhabi
There is something for everyone in Abu Dhabi. No matter which preferences you have or what is the main purpose of your trip to the Emirates, you will find what you’re looking for here. While working on this list, our team focused on making it as diverse as possible, starting with the most iconic architectural sites and ending with the best shopping destinations.
1. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
First on the list we have the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. It is one of the most recognizable buildings not only in Abu Dhabi, but in the entire United Arab Emirates. It is one of the largest religious buildings in the world, and its sheer size is truly inspiring. As the name suggests, it is built in honour of the country’s founding father Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
The mosque is amazing to look at from the outside, and there are multiple spots in the city, from which you can take some stunning photos of this architectural marvel. However, since it is open to visitors, most tourists naturally desire to also explore it from the inside. The mosque’s interiors are beautifully decorated, and it is home to the world’s largest hand-made carpet.
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a universally appealing destination and a must-see tourist attraction for virtually all visitors of Abu Dhabi. Even if you don’t intend to make a deep dive into the country’s culture, history, or architecture, this place is still worth taking off your bucket list.
We should point out that you will need a ticket to enter the mosque as a tourist. You can purchase one on the spot, but we recommend doing it online in advance to avoid spending precious time in queues.
Google Maps: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
2. Louvre Abu Dhabi
The second must-see tourist attraction in Abu Dhabi is the Louvre. As you could have already guessed, it is an official branch of one of the world’s most famous museums. Even though it is not as grandiose as the Paris Louvre, it is still a worthy cultural experience.
The Louvre Abu Dhabi has several persistent exhibitions that will help you dive into the local culture of the United Arab Emirates. There, you will find paintings, sculptures, and even some archeological artifacts and replicas telling the history of the country and its people.
Additionally, there are shifting exhibitions where the museum showcases international works of art, including even the paintings of world-class artists like Edouard Manet or Giovanni Bellini.
We recommend checking up with the event schedule on the official website of the museum to time your visit properly. On the same site, you will also be able to book tickets to avoid spending time in queues.
Google Maps: Louvre Abu Dhabi
3. Heritage Village
Heritage Village is another attraction worth adding to your bucket list. It offers an insight into the authentic Bedouin lifestyle. Even though there are many locations where you can learn more about the Bedouin culture all around the UAE, Heritage Village is easily the most accessible one.
There, you will be able to walk around the village streets, admire its mosque, and witness various traditional crafting processes. Additionally, there is a souk and a museum operating on its territory, enabling you to purchase some souvenirs and take a look at some valuable historical artifacts.
Heritage Village is a suitable destination for visitors of all ages, but it is admittedly not so appealing to kids. It is a great educational experience, but it likely won’t be fun or entertaining for most children. Thankfully, the attraction is situated right next to the Marina Mall and Corniche Beach, making it easy to switch to something more engaging after your visit.
Google Maps: Emirates Heritage Village
4. Manarat Al Saadiyat
Manarat Al Saadiyat is a special center situated in the Saadiyat Cultural District. This place serves as a hub for various artistic and community events. It constantly hosts shows, exhibitions, lectures, and performances granting insights into various arts and crafts ranging from painting to filmmaking.
Unlike most other attractions on our list, Manarat Al Saadiyat offers a wide and diverse set of impressions. Two tourists visiting it within a week from each other will have absolutely different experiences there.
Of course, the appeal of each individual exhibition hosted here is individual. We suggest checking up with the event calendar on the official website of the center. You will almost certainly find something appealing available on one of the days of your stay in Abu Dhabi. Most events hosted here last from one to two hours, not taking away from your opportunity to explore other attractions within the city.
Google Maps: Manarat Al Saadiyat
5. Qasr Al Watan
Qasr Al Watan is the Presidential Palace of the United Arab Emirates. It was opened to the public all the way back in 2019, quickly becoming one of the most interesting cultural and architectural attractions you can visit in Abu Dhabi.
You can explore the palace from the inside as well, enabling you to admire the luxury design and decor of its halls and chambers. Various exhibitions and lectures are also regularly hosted at Qasr Al Watan, granting an even deeper insight into the country’s heritage and traditions.
We should note that the entrance to the Presidential Palace is by ticket, which you can either purchase on the spot or book online on the attraction’s official website. We recommend the latter option, as it will both save you time in queues and enable you to learn about local events in advance.
Google Maps: Qasr Al Watan
6. Qasr Al Hosn
Next on the list, we have Qasr Al Hosn, one of the oldest stone buildings in Abu Dhabi. This landmark was originally built as a watchtower, evolving into a fort and then a royal residence over the years. Right now, it functions as a museum and a cultural attraction for tourists.
You can visit Qasr Al Hosn to learn about the history of the city through pictures and artifacts. And while this could have been a fairly tiresome experience for a younger audience, the site has a trick up its sleeve. There is an authentic House of Artisans, where the visitors can witness and even participate in this inspiring traditional craft, making the attraction interesting for attendees of any age.
Similar to most other places on our list, you will need to purchase a ticket to enter Qasr Al Hosn. As you could have already guessed, the best option to get one is to visit the website and purchase it online. As always, you will also find an event calendar and an opportunity to have a virtual tour there.
Google Maps: Qasr Al Hosn
7. Corniche Beach
In order to contrast educational experiences with something more entertaining, let us take a look at Corniche Beach, one of the most popular public beaches in Abu Dhabi. Here, you will be able to enjoy the pristine waters of the bay, soft white sand, and some amazing views of the city’s skyline.
Corniche Beach is equipped with all the infrastructure you might need. It is divided into several areas, enabling families with kids and single tourists to have a safe and enjoyable experience here.
Naturally, you can visit the beach for free at any moment. However, you should keep in mind that additional services such as renting water sports equipment have to be paid for separately. If you intend to spend an entire day at Corniche Beach, you will be able to grab a bite in one of the many food trucks available here or enjoy a more wholesome meal at a variety of cafes and restaurants.
Google Maps: Corniche Beach
8. Mangrove National Park
The Mangrove National Park is a unique ecological zone situated right next to the city center. It is home to a variety of species such as flamingos or turtles as well as some beautiful trees and plants.
Thanks to its unique location, one of the most optimal ways to explore the park is from the water. You can easily book a guided tour that will walk or swim you through the most interesting locations. The park is also equipped with elevated boardwalks, granting you even more opportunities to explore its wildlife.
Needless to say, it is a perfect place for ecological enthusiasts. It is one of the best places to discover the natural beauty of the UAE without having to leave the city. We should mention that you will need a ticket in order to enter the park. It costs AED 15 per person which includes entrance and walking the boardwalk. Additional services such as renting kayaks or booking tours are paid for separately.
Google Maps: Mangrove Marine National Park
9. Etihad Modern Art Gallery
Let us have a quick break from natural attractions and switch to cultural ones. The Etihad Modern Art Gallery is a perfect opportunity to do so. The gallery is situated in the north-western part of the city, allowing you to easily stop by after exploring other interesting parts of Abu Dhabi.
The set of exhibitions, lectures, and other events hosted at Etihad Modern Art Gallery is always rotating, meaning you will always be able to discover something new here. Of course, the culture of the United Arab Emirates is well-represented at this gallery, but it also hosts works of modern artists from all around the world.
As always, you will need a ticket to visit the gallery, and you can purchase it online in advance. We recommend giving its official website a look, as you will also be able to discover the event calendar there.
Google Maps: Etihad Modern Art Gallery
10. Al Ain Oasis
Al Ain Oasis is a UNESCO World Heritage site in the city of Al Ain, in the south-eastern corner of the emirate. It is an actual oasis system covering more than twelve hundred hectares. It offers an impressive experience and grants you an unparalleled insight into how life in the desert works.
When visiting the Al Ain Oasis, you will be able to explore palm groves and traditional mud-brick buildings as well as visit various educational lectures and exhibitions. You can either take a guided tour around the oasis, or walk through it yourself, learning from signs and interactive stations. If you decide to venture out here, make sure to explore the city of Al Ain as well – you will find some amazing historical buildings and museums here.
There is no entry fee required to explore the Al Ain Oasis, however, all additional services are paid here. If you are interested in learning more details, you can do so on the Experience Abu Dhabi website.
Google Maps: Al Ain Oasis
11. Emirates Park Zoo
Next on the list, we have the Emirates Park Zoo, the largest zoo in Abu Dhabi. Here, you will meet more than 200 species of animals, allowing you to get a deep dive into the wildlife of the UAE.
Aside from watching different animals in replicated natural habitats, you will also be able to enjoy a set of interactive experiences. The zoo hosts all sorts of events such as feeding sessions, educational presentations, and more.
This attraction is equally suitable for adult nature enthusiasts and families with kids, as it combines educational insights with fun interactive experiences. As always, you can discover the event calendar and book tickets on the official Emirates Park Zoo website.
Google Maps: Emirates Park Zoo and Resort
12. Sheikh Zayed: The Founder’s Memorial
Moving on, we have a rare architectural attraction you can visit in Abu Dhabi. As the name suggests, the Founder’s Memorial is dedicated to Sheikh Zayed, the founding father of the country. It is a classic memorial featuring artworks and other exhibits that will grant an unparalleled insight into the life and values of this iconic figure.
You won’t need a ticket to explore the memorial – it is open to visitors every day from 9 AM to 10 PM. It is definitely worth stopping by, but we recommend planning more activities or attractions on the same day, as you won’t likely need more than an hour to explore the memorial.
Google Maps: The Founder’s Memorial
13. Umm Al Emarat Park
Umm Al Emarat Park is another beautiful park you can visit in Abu Dhabi. It is situated right in the center of the city, serving as a much-needed place for respite. On the park’s territory, you will find a botanical garden, a scene for music performances, and the required infrastructure for parents with kids.
Even though Umm Al Emarat Park is not the type of attraction you would visit Abu Dhabi for, it is a great place to take a break from following your itinerary in the city. You can even have a picnic here, provided that you’re willing to bring everything with you and clean the site once you finish.
Google Maps: Umm Al Emarat Park
14. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is a theme park situated on Yas Island. As you could have guessed from the name, it is branded and themed with Ferrari. However, it is a suitable destination not only for car lovers but for all fans of thrilling rides.
There are more than 40 different rides available on its territory, offering suitable experiences for visitors of all ages. If you are into luxury sports cars, you will definitely enjoy live shows, exhibits, and top-level driving simulators operating in Ferrari World.
Single-day tickets start from AED 295 for kids and AED 345 for adults. If you’re interested in visiting the Warner Bros. World as well, you should consider the 2-park ticket that goes for AED 475 and allows you to visit both these places over a 6-day period. As always, you can learn more details on the official Ferrari World website.
Google Maps: Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
15. Abu Dhabi Children’s Library
If you’re looking for an educational experience for your kids to contrast with a visit to Ferrari World, you should consider visiting the Abu Dhabi Children’s Library. It offers educational spaces spread over three floors, where kids can participate in reading sessions, view interactive installations, and engage in other interesting activities.
The library is split into different age zones, offering tailored experiences for all young visitors. The entry fee is AED 210 per week, so if you’re looking for the most value for your money, you can visit it every day.
Google Maps: Abu Dhabi Children’s Library
16. Al Wathba Wetland Reserve
Next on the list we have another protected sanctuary, where you can explore local flora and fauna. It includes boardwalk trails, birdwatching spots, and a variety of educational events that will improve your knowledge of plants and animals inhabiting the United Arab Emirates.
This destination is suitable for natural enthusiasts of all ages – interactive events will be fun for kids, while the adults will have the opportunity to take a break from the city’s hustle and bustle. There is no entrance fee at the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, so you’re free to enter the sanctuary from 8 AM to 4 PM.
40 km southeast of Abu Dhabi
Google Maps: Al Wathba Wetland Reserve
17. The Galleria Al Maryah Island
The Galleria is a shopping mall situated on Al Maryah Island, offering its visitors a taste of luxury lifestyle. Here, you will find exquisite restaurants, exclusive fashion boutiques, and a great selection of entertainment.
There are many prestigious malls in the United Arab Emirates. Even though some of the most iconic shopping centers are located in Dubai, The Galleria is a great option if you’re staying in Abu Dhabi. You can always visit the official website of the mall to check out its event calendar.
Al Maryah Island
Google Maps: The Galleria Al Maryah Island
18. Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi
Next on the list, we have Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi. Much like the Ferrari World theme park, it is located on Yas Island. In fact, these two places are located across the road from each other, making the 2-park ticket even more appealing.
As the name suggests, this entertainment center is themed with Warner Bros. properties. It is divided into six sections including Gotham City, Metropolis, and Cartoon Junction. As you could have already guessed, the park is suitable for visitors of all ages and fans of any WB franchise. There are 29 different rides available here, ranging from relaxing and immersive to thrilling and adrenaline-packed experiences.
Similarly, you can book tickets, learn more about the park, and discover the event calendar on the official Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi website.
Yas Island
Google Maps: Warner Bros. World™ Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
19. Zayed National Museum
Zayed National Museum is a fairly new cultural attraction devoted to the legacy of the country’s founding father. Unlike the memorial we have covered earlier, it focuses more on the history and culture of the country rather than Sheikh Zayed himself.
It includes six galleries that are available permanently, one rotating exhibition, and an outdoor space where you can discover even more exhibits. Tickets to the museum as well as its event schedule are available on its website.
Google Maps: Zayed National Museum
20. Al Forsan International Sports Resort
If you’re looking for something more active, the Al Forsan International Sports Resort is a great option. It is a top-level fitness facility that offers karting, water sports, shooting, paintball, football, basketball, tennis, and other sports.
Thanks to the variety of activities offered here, the resort is universally appealing to all audiences. If you’re a family with kids, karting is certainly going to be entertaining for you. If you’re on a business trip with colleagues, you can spend a day team-building and having fun at the paintball zone.
The official website allows you to check the availability of different activities on specific dates, although the booking itself is made through WhatsApp.
Google Maps: Al Forsan – الفرسان
21. Marina Mall
The Marina Mall is another prominent shopping center available in Abu Dhabi. It is situated right next to Corniche Beach which we have covered previously, enabling it to offer some stunning views of the bay from the windows.
As for the inside, there are more than 400 venues operating here. Needless to say, such an assortment covers the preferences of virtually any visitor. Whether you’re looking for fashion boutiques or tech shops, you will find them in this shopping center. Of course, there is also a food court area with popular international fast food brands as well as a variety of exquisite restaurants available on its territory.
Once again, you can learn more about the place and check the calendar of events hosted there on the official Marina Mall website.
Google Maps: Marina Mall Abu Dhabi
22. Capital Gate (The Leaning Tower)
Moving back to architectural attractions, let us take a look at the so-called Leaning Tower of Abu Dhabi. Officially known as Capital Gate, this marvelous skyscraper reaches over 150 meters above the ground. It is leaning by almost 20 degrees to the side, which is significantly more compared to the world’s most iconic leaning building.
The construction of this tower started all the way back in 2007. By the year of 2011, it was opened, serving as a space for offices and hotels. If you’re in Abu Dhabi on a business trip, it might be extremely beneficial for you to stay here, considering its proximity to the ADNEC Centre and other potential points of interest.
If you’re simply into architecture, you can easily come to Capital Gate to admire it from the outside. You will be able to view the skyscraper from different angles and take some amazing pictures. You can even do so on your way to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, as you will only need ten minutes to drive from one of these destinations to the other.
Google Maps: The Leaning Tower
23. Sir Bani Yas Island
Sir Bani Yas Island is a natural island located roughly 250 kilometers away from Abu Dhabi. We should mention that it is a two-hour long drive there, so we only recommend this attraction to the most avid nature enthusiasts.
Despite such remoteness, the island is still very popular among tourists. It is an official wildlife reserve that works as a safe sanctuary for protecting different local animal species. Here, you can go on a safari to encounter exotic animals like cheetahs or Arabian oryx in their natural habitats. Other outdoor activities such as kayaking or mountain biking are available here as well.
Sir Bani Yas Island is one of the very few Abu Dhabi tourist attractions on our list that you won’t be able to reach by car alone. It is still viable and efficient to drive to the ferry beach located right next to the island, but since there are no bridges leading to it, you will need to take a boat to get there.
There are several luxury hotels and resorts operating here, offering a very secluded and calm experience. However, if you intend to explore the rest of Abu Dhabi during your visit, it will be a good idea to only come here for a day.
Google Maps: Sir Baniyas Island, Sir bani yas ferry beach
24. Abu Dhabi Mall
Next on the list, we have the most iconic and popular shopping centers in Abu Dhabi. It is strategically situated in the northern part of the city right next to Al Maryah Island, enabling you to easily get there from virtually anywhere in Abu Dhabi.
The mall itself is home to more than 200 different venues including luxury fashion boutiques, high-end electronic stores, and various entertaining activities. Of course, there is also a play zone for kids and a fast food court. If you’re looking for something more exquisite, there are multiple dining options for you to choose from as well.
Even though it is not as huge as Marina Mall, it is still packed with experiences. As you could have guessed, there are numerous events hosted here throughout the year, so it might be a good idea to check the calendar on its official website.
Google Maps: Abu Dhabi Mall
25. Saadiyat Public Beach
Saadiyat Public Beach is an eco-friendly place where you can enjoy sunbathing, swimming in the pristine waters, and trying out various popular water sports. It is situated in the northern part of Al Saadiyat Island, offering a much more remote and secluded experience compared to some other popular public beaches in Abu Dhabi.
The beach is truly beautiful and worth visiting, although you should definitely keep in mind its location. If you’re staying on Al Saadiyat Island, it is easily the best public beach you will find nearby, but traveling all the way from other parts of the city might not be the most efficient use of your time.
Google Maps: Saadiyat Beach
26. Yas Waterworld
If you picked up the hint in the name, Yas Waterworld is a water park situated on Yas Island. It offers one of the most diverse selections of waterslides in the entire emirate, boasting more than 40 different attractions you can try out.
Needless to say, visitors of all ages will find something to explore here. There are both kid’s zones with fun games and high-velocity slides for adrenaline lovers. Visiting the park can easily take up an entire day, so we don’t recommend planning anything major on the same evening.
If you’re really enthusiastic about theme parks and water slides, you are probably already considering staying on Yas Island. It is indeed a viable solution, especially if you are going to spend more days on the island than exploring the rest of the city.
Google Maps: Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi
27. CLYMB Abu Dhabi
While we’re still on Yas Island, let us also take a short peek into another attraction for active tourists. CLYMB Abu Dhabi is an indoor venue that offers various interesting activities such as wall climbing, chamber skydiving, and more. If you’re a sports enthusiast, we definitely recommend stopping by.
On top of the regular activities, the venue is also used for hosting special events such as the International Indoor Skydiving Championship. As always, we suggest checking out the CLYMB Abu Dhabi website to learn more details and book a visit.
Google Maps: CLYMB Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
28. Yas Beach
Since we’re discussing staying at Yas Island, we cannot avoid mentioning Yas Beach, a private club located in the southern part of the island. Despite it being very close to the busy city area, it offers a great respite from its hustle and bustle.
Yas Beach is equipped with all the infrastructure you might need, making it an equally comfortable place to visit for couples, single adults, families with kids, fans of water sports, and other groups of travelers.
Google Maps: Yas Beach
29. Observation Deck at 300
We are going to cover the famous Etihad Towers a bit further on this list, but the Observation Deck at 300 deserves a separate mention. It is situated on the 74th floor of one of the towers, making it the highest observation deck in the entire city. It offers panoramic views in all directions, allowing you to snap equally impressive pictures of the pristine Arabian Gulf and the architectural marvels of Abu Dhabi.
The place is also equipped with a fully functioning lounge, so if you decide to spend some more time taking in the views, you can also have some hot drinks or cold refreshments on the spot. Tickets to the observation deck are AED 95 per person, which includes a credit of AED 55 that you can spend in the lounge.
Google Maps: Observation Deck at 300
30. Yas Marina Circuit
Yas Marina Circuit is a world-class racing track situated on Yas Island. It is a must-see attraction for motorsport lovers and drivers in general. Even if your trip does not coincide with any racing events, you can still come here to enjoy a variety of thrilling experiences.
There are guided tours around the track, cycling nights, test drives, and even karting sites available here. Depending on the type of activities you are looking for, a visit to Yas Marina Circuit can take from only an hour to an entire day. Make sure to check out the official website to get a web tour, learn more about the services provided here, discover the event calendar, and book the tickets for your visit.
Google Maps: Yas Marina Circuit
31. Dhow Cruise at Abu Dhabi Marina
While there are numerous options for ferry rides around the waters of the Arabian Gulf in Abu Dhabi, a Dhow Cruise is an experience that deserves a separate mention. These cruises mainly take place in the evening, offering an unparalleled view of the city’s skyline from an authentic dhow boat.
There are several cruises of this kind available in Abu Dhabi, but we recommend the ones that take off from Dubai Marina. One of the most enticing options there is a cruise dinner – a romantic experience with stunning views and exquisite meals.
Google Maps: Abu Dhabi Dhow cruise
32. SeaWorld Abu Dhabi
Before moving on with our list, let us go back to Yas Island for one last attraction. SeaWorld Abu Dhabi is the most popular theme park centered of marine life. It is one of the largest parks of this kind in the world, offering a truly remarkable and inspiring experience.
The park is split into eight different sections called realms. They are all named in the style of oceans, starting with the Arctic and ending with the Tropical Ocean. Each section has something unique to offer, allowing you to have a very immersive tour around marine life from all around the world.
Of course, aside from the main exhibition and interactive stations, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi also hosts a variety of events. It includes submersible rides through the aquarium, sessions of animal interactions, science talks, special sleepovers, and even a summer camp for kids. We recommend checking out the official SeaWorld website to read its event calendar, learn more about the park, and book tickets if you’re interested. If you’re into theme parks, make sure to check out multi-park tickets that grant you passes to SeaWorld, Ferrari World, Yas WaterWorld, and Warner Bros. World.
Google Maps: SeaWorld Abu Dhabi | سي وورلد جزيرة ياس، أبوظ
33. Etihad Towers
As we promised earlier, let us return to one of the most impressive architectural sites you can find in Abu Dhabi. Etihad Towers is a complex of five skyscrapers that have already become one of the main symbols of the UAE’s capital. Three of these buildings are residential, one is mainly used for office spaces, and the fifth one is the famous Conrad at Etihad Towers Hotel.
Travelers with a knack for architecture will be able to observe this complex of massive buildings from multiple points in the city or even from the water if they decide to take a ferry ride nearby. Of course, it is also possible to enter the towers and explore them from the inside. The observation deck you might remember from earlier is one of the main standout experiences here.
The 5-star Conrad Hotel is a popular option among business tourists, as it offers a great combination of convenient location and luxury service. Needless to say, if you’re looking for a vacation on the beach, this is not a favorable option for you.
Google Maps: Etihad Towers
34. Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital
Next on the list, we have the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital. Even though the institution is indeed used for falcon care, it is actually more similar to a research center or even an interactive museum. It is open to visitors, allowing them to learn more about these magnificent birds and even meet some of them.
There are several tour packages offered on the official Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital website that can be up to 3 hours long. If you’re up for a shorter visit, you can always arrange a customized visit.
Google Maps: Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital
35. Date Market in Al Mina
Moving on, let us try out an authentic shopping experience at the Date Market in Al Mina. Dates are fruits with a massive presence in Middle Eastern cuisine, and the market near the port is equally popular among locals and tourists. Needless to say, you will find all popular varieties of date fruits here as well as various products and meals made from them.
It is a traditional market, meaning the vendors will be glad to offer you samples and even bargain with you for a price. It is an ideal option for food enthusiasts, so if the experience sounds appealing, you should definitely stop by for a quick look here.
Google Maps: Abu Dhabi Dates Market
36. Li Beirut in Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers
Even though we have already covered all the main architectural, cultural, historical, educational, shopping, and entertaining attractions in Abu Dhabi, we still have to discuss some of its most iconic restaurants. And what better place to start this gastronomic journey than Li Beirut, one of the most luxurious dining experiences in the city?
Li Beirut is operating within the Conrad Hotel at Etihad Towers, but it is open to all visitors, not only the hotel guests. It features Lebanese cuisine offering a unique combination of traditional dishes and a modern environment. Situated on the 62nd floor of the building, it offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf from its terrace, although the indoor section is well-decorated too.
Considering the popularity of the restaurant, we recommend making a reservation in advance. As for the prices, you will, on average, need to spend from AED 400 to AED 600 for a meal per person.
Google Maps: Li Beirut
37. Zuma Abu Dhabi in Al Maryah Island
The next restaurant we would like to suggest is called Zuma. It is a Japanese dining experience with impeccable quality standards and exquisite meals. Here, you will find sushi, sashimi, and other traditional Japanese dishes carefully crafted and neatly served by professional chefs and waiters.
Zuma is a popular choice among business visitors, but regular tourists looking for new tastes and exceptional service are also recommended to stop by. Similar to Li Beirut, the demand here is high, so it is always safer to reserve a table in advance. Keep in mind that average meal prices range from AED 500 to AED 700 here.
Google Maps: Zuma Abu Dhabi
38. Talea by Antonio Guida in Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Talea is another restaurant we can recommend to gourmet food lovers. This time, you will be able to experience Italian cuisine with a cozy yet luxurious presentation. The kitchen is managed by Antonio Guida, a famous chef who has earned the restaurant its Michelin star.
The variety of dishes available here includes all the traditional dishes such as gnocchi al pomodoro, risotto, pizza, and more. Talea is also famous for its list of classic Italian wines and personalized approach to every customer.
Similar to Zuma, the restaurant is open to all visitors, not only the guests of the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental Hotel. The average meal price is from AED 600 to AED 800 here.
Google Maps: Talea by Antonio Guida
39. Hakkasan Abu Dhabi – Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Located within the same hotel complex, there is another restaurant you might be interested in visiting. Hakkasan specializes in Cantonese cuisine, offering a very relaxing atmosphere with a bit of luxury added to the mix. It has a perfect setting for a relaxing evening in the company of like-minded high-end food enthusiasts.
Some of the most praised meals served at Hakkasan include Peking duck and grilled sea bass, while the drinks include beautifully decorated cocktails, fine wines, and stronger drinks. The guests equally enjoy the cozy setting of the restaurant and its dishes, often remarking that the food is always flavorful and fresh.
However, we should note that weekends are often live music nights at Hakkasan, meaning you should plan a visit for a business day if you’re looking to have a calm conversation here. As always, you can make a table reservation in advance. The average meal price is on par with other top Abu Dhabi restaurants on this list, as they go from roughly AED 500 to AED 750 per person.
Google Maps: Hakkasan Abu Dhabi
40. 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant – The Galleria, Al Maryah Island
We have already covered The Galleria earlier on our list, but 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant deserves a separate mention. It is another high-end Japanese concept with a Michelin star that is definitely worth checking out.
Some of its most iconic meals include foie gras, black cod glazed in red miso, and other popular Japanese dishes served with style and elegance. The interior decor sets a perfect mood for taking a break from the city’s hustle and bustle. You can either come to 99 Sushi to top off a successful shopping spree at the mall or visit The Galleria specifically to dine here.
The average meal price is from AED 600 to AED 800 per person here, and the tables can be reserved in advance.
Google Maps: 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant Abu Dhabi
How to Properly Plan a Visit to Abu Dhabi
Now that you are familiar with all the most popular Abu Dhabi tourist attractions, let us share some useful tips on how to build the most efficient itinerary and get the most out of your trip to the UAE.
Step 1: Filter Out the Attractions
First of all, you need to choose the attractions you are interested in visiting. Needless to say, this choice should be made individually and based on your own preferences. We recommend going through our list point by point and adding the places you like to a separate list.
Step 2: Plan for the Must-Haves
Depending on the duration of your trip, make sure to start planning by reserving days for the spots that are on top of your bucket list. At this stage, it is not necessary to account for dates – enough to simply count the days you have available.
Step 3: Check the Event Calendars
Check the event calendars of all the attractions you have selected to see if there’s anything that would catch your eye. Depending on your preferences, an interesting lecture, concert, or live music night might move certain items up on your list. You should use this updated version of your list to fill out the remaining days you have available.
Step 4: Try to Combine
Check if there are any opportunities to combine different attractions in one day. For example, if you strive to visit the Founders Memorial, you can easily go to Corniche Beach right after, and finish the day by visiting Li Beirut or Hakkasan.
To make these combinations successful, you need to account for both the time and strength it takes to explore each of the attractions you want to visit. For example, planning something active after visiting Yas Waterworld is a bad idea – you will likely be tired after riding on waterslides.
Conclusion
Summing up, Abu Dhabi offers numerous opportunities for visitors with any preferences. As long as you build a proper itinerary, you will have an unforgettable time here. We hope that our list helped you discover some new attractions and sparked your interest in the United Arab Emirates even further.