7 best things to do in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi has world-class spas, a plethora of family-friendly activities, as well as amazing cultural and educational attractions not to be missed. Here’s what you should include on your next trip to the UAE.

The National Aquarium

For something truly unique, adventurous travelers can partake in shark diving at the National Aquarium. The aquarium has always attracted a large number of visitors as it is the largest aquarium in the Middle East and houses over 46,000 creatures (about 300 species). Thrill-seekers can swim with hammerhead sharks and sand tiger sharks, while those who prefer to stay out of the tanks can stroll through the 10 nautical-themed areas, including sunken shipwrecks and ocean caves. ‘Atlantic; fiery volcanoes; frozen ocean and 60 other attractions. Another interesting immersive experience is the glass bottom dhow tour.

Kayaking at the Louvre

The Louvre Abu Dhabi is made up of 55 buildings, including 23 galleries. After exploring the interior of the museum, travelers can take a guided tour to learn about the architecture of the structure, all from the vantage point of the Arabian Sea. Tours are available at sunrise, during the day, and also during the full moon. A professional guide leads all excursions and each tour lasts approximately 60 minutes.

Telal Resort Al Ain Private Wildlife Safari

The Telal Resort Al Ain offers several on-site activities including the private wildlife safari where travelers can find a variety of antelope including the Arabian oryx. The resort is a boutique property located in the Remah Desert, less than an hour from Abu Dhabi Airport, and features seven heritage rooms. three heritage suites and 14 private tented villas. In addition to the popular wildlife safari excursion, Telal Resort offers a variety of other unique activities including a falconry experience; heritage and cultural tours; and both by camel and horseback in the desert.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is well worth a visit. It is one of the largest mosques in the world. For design lovers, the mosque is an interesting example of Islamic style and architecture. The mosque has over 1,000 columns inlaid with amethyst and jasper; 82 domes in white marble; reflecting pools; gold-plated Swarovski chandeliers; an iconic prayer hall; and a courtyard with one of the largest marble mosaic artworks in the world. The mosque also holds a Guinness World Record for the largest hand-woven carpet. The impressive building has an open door policy allowing visitors as well as worshipers to enter and explore the beauty. The mosque has up to 55,000 worshipers and visitors every day. A good time to visit is at sunset when the domes, arches and reflecting pools catch the light.

Qasr Al Watan

Qasr al Watan is a magnificent palace as well as a cultural landmark. It features exhibits on a variety of topics, including Arabic art and presidential gifts given to the UAE over the years. Qasr Al Watan is a good place for travelers to better understand the history and culture of the region. Be sure to catch the sound and light show called “Palace in Motion” which takes place after sunset. The show celebrates the trip to the United Arab Emirates in three acts.

Jubail Mangrove Park

Jubail Mangrove Park is a mangrove sanctuary and a delight for photographers. Its aim is to raise awareness of the important ecological function of Abu Dhabi’s mangroves and to celebrate the biodiversity of this area – travelers can see a variety of fish and birds here (visitors can see turtles, herons and gazelles among other wild animals). The boardwalk allows visitors to stroll through the mangroves and provides a peaceful experience. The best time to visit is at high tide.

Celebrate Ramadan

Travelers visiting during Ramadan have a unique opportunity. Every night at sunset, the Ramadan canon is sounded, marking the end of the day’s fast. People then gather to eat their meals at restaurants and Iftar tents across Abu Dhabi. One such experience for travelers who are unfamiliar with this tradition is to have the Iftar experience at Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas. Travelers are invited to gather under an Arabian Nights-themed iftar, outdoors under the stars. Live music and entertainment take place while visitors enjoy the culinary delights. Dinner includes a Bedouin-style feast that includes local dishes like Ouzi lamb, veal hare, and Moroccan tagine. The meal ends with a wide assortment of Arabic sweets.