Another must-see destination in the United Arab Emirates, it's not unusual to see tourists visit Abu Dhabi after their visit to Dubai.
I tell you in detail about the things to see and do in this other big city of the Emirates.
Visit Abu Dhabi: article summary
Dine and watch the sunset at Yas Bay
Whether you're looking for a place to go out with friends or simply a romantic dinner, you're spoilt for choice at Yas Bay! Yas Island's leisure and entertainment center boasts a three-kilometre-long promenade with restaurants and magnificent views of the Persian Gulf.
There's also Pier71, which offers a host of restaurants including Asia Asia, Daikan Izakaya and Paradiso. The venue is opposite the five-star Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island hotel. In the evening, Cafe del Mare is the place to dance the night away.
As well as restaurants, there's also the Etihad Arena, which hosts events such as concerts, stand-up shows and UFC fight nights.
Explore Al-Qana
This neighborhood is home to a number of restaurants and cafés that you must visit if you're ever in Abu Dhabi. Whether you're looking for a bite to eat or a leisurely stroll, there's plenty to do! Home to the National Aquariumthe largest of its kind in the Middle East, and the Bridge Lifestyle Hub, an 8,000 square metre wellness area.
Enjoy the opulence of the Emirates Palace
The five-star Emirates Palace luxury hotel continues to be a favorite with tourists since it opened in 2005. The hotel is known for its opulence, with the majority of its suites furnished in gold and marble.
Head to the hotel café for a cappuccino with 23-carat gold flakes, a camel burger or afternoon tea. For those not staying overnight, there are also a number of gourmet restaurants such as :
- Talea by Antonio Guida
- Hemant Oberoi's Martabaan
- Las Brisas
- Mezlai
Learn more about Abu Dhabi's history at Qasr Al Hosn
Discover Abu Dhabi's extraordinary history by visiting its oldest heritage site: Al Hosn. Sections of this site date back to the 1760's. It is also home to the Qasr Al Hosn, the capital's oldest and most important historic building. home to the royal family for centuries and was the seat of the emirate's original government.
Other major components of the complex include the Cultural Foundation, established in 1981, dedicated to the preservation and promotion of traditional Emirati crafts and practices.
Adventure at West Bay Abu Dhabi
West Bay Abu Dhabi is a popular beach and sunset spot for all tourists. For those who wish to dine, find places like West Bay Lounge, Blu Ocean Cafe and Escape Beach Bar.
You'll also find water sports centers, a fitness center and a spa. There's also an adventure park, offering :
- a zip-line
- a rope course
- a wave pool
- an outdoor climbing park.
Visit the Louvre Abu Dhabi
If it's culture you're after, then Louvre Abu Dhabi should be your first port of call on any visit to the emirate. Surrounded by the Persian Gulf, the gleaming silver dome of the first world museum of the arab world has an almost futuristic architecture. Inside, the exhibits change regularly, often on loan from the world's most visited museum, the Louvre in France.
The museum park is also a great place for a stroll, with many outdoor exhibits. If you're feeling adventurous, you can sign up for kayaking around the museum. Tours depart every evening at sunset and require pre-booking. If you're with the family, don't miss the Children's Museum, with its interactive exhibits.
Take a stroll through Qasr Al Watan
One of the newest cultural features you can visit in Abu Dhabi is the breathtaking Qasr Al Watan. Located on the waterfront near the Emirates Palace, located inside the presidential palace grounds. Visitors can learn more about the traditions and values of the United Arab Emirates by exploring this structure.
Stroll through the ornate corridors of the National Palace, home to a multitude of exhibits, objects and architecture. For a special experience, visit the site on Thursday, Friday or Saturday evening. You'll be treated to an impressive sound and light show: Palace in Motion.
Marvel at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
You don't want to miss the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque when you visit Abu Dhabi. It is one of the largest mosques in the world. It is open to the public to help visitors better understand the emirate's cultural and religious beliefs.
The sprawling monument can accommodate up to 55,000 people at a time, and tours are free at all times. It took 10 years to build the mosque. It includes :
- 82 white marble domes
- 1,096 amethyst-encrusted columns
- gold-plated Swarovski chandeliers
- a courtyard featuring one of the world's largest works of marble mosaic art.
If you'd like to visit Abu Dhabi, there are plenty of places to visit to enjoy a unique trip to the heart of the United Arab Emirates. A city not to be missed if you wish to spend some quiet time just a few minutes from the hectic streets of Dubai.
What to do in Dubai in 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 5 days, a week?
Whatever the length of your stay, I invite you to download my special Dubai guide.
It's free and in PDF format.
All you have to do is tell me below which e-mail address you'd like to receive it at.
EDIT: you can't enter your email?
Take the quiz at the top of this article and you'll be able to register your email address to receive the special Dubai guide!
Leave a Reply