World-class cultural gems, elaborate Islamic architecture, adrenaline-packed entertainment, and year-round sunshine? Move over Dubai, Abu Dhabi’s mix of old and new is quietly stealing the show.
The UAE’s capital has long had a reputation for being the calmer and more traditional sibling to fast-paced and flashy Dubai. But things are changing, and quickly. While Abu Dhabi remains the place to glimpse the Arabic way of life now you can combine it with something fantastically modern.
Where else can you get lost in the UAE’s last camel market and then hop into the hot seat of an F1 simulator? We show you 6 of the top things to do in Abu Dhabi.
1. Get your heart racing on Yas Island
Yas Island is home to numerous theme parks and attractions, while also playing host to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix each year. Thrill-seekers and families alike will enjoy Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, the world’s first Ferrari-branded theme park and home to the world’s fastest roller coaster.
If you still feel the need for speed, then the nearby Formula 1 Yas Marina Circuit will surely satisfy. Feel like a Formula 1 driver as you gear up to take a spin around the track in the driver’s seat of an actual racecar.
And if an adrenaline rush has caused you to work up a sweat, then head to Yas Waterworld to cool off. With more than 60 rides, a wave pool, water slides, and other attractions, there’s plenty of fun for the whole family.
Finally, your trip to the island wouldn’t be complete without visiting Warner Bros World. Spread over six themed lands, visitors can meet their favourite childhood movie characters, enjoy exhilarating rides, and even explore their movie sets.
2. Stand in awe of this extravagant mosque
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a must-see landmark that never fails to wow. Its pristine white marble walls and exquisite domes welcome all visitors to the UAE capital.
Open to non-Muslims, the Mosque is the eighth largest in the world and features 24-carat gold gilded chandeliers, the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet, and 82 domes supported by more than 1,000 columns.
Both men and women must cover shoulders and knees when entering. Visitors will need approximately two hours when exploring this majestic palace in order to do it justice.
3. Dive into the world of art
Saadiyat is an artificial island located about 500m off the coast of Abu Dhabi. It’s becoming the most important cultural hub in the Middle East, as one of the places with the highest concentration of cultural experiences in the world.
Here you’ll find the Louvre Abu Dhabi, which opened its doors back in 2017,and has since become an institution. Designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, the museum recounts the history of humanity through a display of 600 artworks and artifacts from all over the world.
At the end of 2025, two more prestigious museums opened on the island: the Zayed National Museum and the Abu Dhabi Natural History Museum.
Dedicated to Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the United Arab Emirates, the futuristic Zayed Museum retraces the country’s history, going back as far as 300,000 years and drawing a connection between the present and the past.
The Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi explores the history of life on Earth through interactive exhibits, with a particular focus on the rich natural heritage of the Arabian Peninsula. It’s definitely worth a stop if you’re travelling to Abu Dhabi with the kids in tow.
4. Explore this green former seat of power
Located east of Abu Dhabi, Al Ain is the historical seat of the Sheikhs. Commonly referred to as the Garden City for its greenery, Al Ain is the most traditional of the UAE’s major cities and is popular in the summer due to its low humidity. The Al Ain Oasis, spread over 1,200 hectares and containing more than 147,000 date palms, is the UAE’s first curated UNESCO World Heritage site traveler experience.
Visiting the Al Ain National Museum and Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum is a must as is the camel race track and the Camel Market. The UAE’s last souk of its kind, the Camel Market is a truly fascinating experience.
5. Steep yourself in tea and views at this hotel
The Emirates Palace Hotel is a destination in and of itself. The billion-dollar spectacle is not just a hotel but a landmark. Located on Abu Dhabi’s on Corniche, the palace offers an amazing panoramic view of the city from the 910-feet-high Etihad Towers.
The vast grounds, private beaches, and ornate interiors will take your breath away. In addition to the breathtaking view, treat yourself to afternoon high tea or 24 carat gold cappuccino at the Emirates Palace Hotel. Sip some of this hot beverage while you indulge in freshly prepared delights like scones, sandwiches, and tarts in an unparalleled atmosphere of the hotel’s tea salon.
6. Climb the Jebel Hafeet mountain
With a height of more than 1200m, Jebel Hafeet near Al Ain is the second‑tallest mountain in the Emirates. The Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road that takes you to the peak, offers breathtaking views, making the drive itself a real experience. Once at the summit, umbrellas, seating areas and cafés make the stay especially pleasant, letting you enjoy a truly special view over Al Ain.
Instead at the base of the mountain, there are hot springs where you can relax while taking in the artificial lakes and chalets.
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