22 Reasons You Need To Visit Abu Dhabi At Least Once Before You Die
If you’re looking for a bucket list full of exhilarating, gorgeous, and fun-filled things to do in Abu Dhabi – then look no further! Complete this list and enjoy every experience the heart of the UAE has to offer.
1. At the top of your bucket list should be the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
The mosque was built by the founding father His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan in 1996. It was built over the span of 12 years and opened in December 20, 2007.
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the LARGEST mosque in the UAE and third largest in the world. Additionally, it was rated as one of the World’s Most Beautiful Sights in the world by TripAdvisor.
Image via @edsonpizzini
2. Abu Dhabi’s Palaces will have you breathless
Qasr Al Watan is THE palace to experience. From it’s gorgeous sculptures to great halls to breathtaking landscapes, this Presidential Palace is one for the list. Plus, it has 3 of the most Instagrammable spots.
- Power of Words Sculpture
- Gorgeous green landscapes and beautifully blue fountains
- The Great Hall
Qasr Al Hosn is a historical landmark and the OLDEST stone building in Abu Dhabi. So, enjoy the blast from the past and see what life as a royal was like in 1761.
Al Ain Palace Museum was home to the Founding Father of the UAE and the first President of the country, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. He lived there with his family until the late sixties when he moved to Abu Dhabi.
So explore the rich history of Abu Dhabi in the first home of the late Founding Father.
3. Art lovers! Immerse into different cultures through art or better yet unleash the artist within at these bucket list worthy places
The Louvre Abu Dhabi is THE place for all you art lovers out there. From gorgeous paintings to intricate sculptures all the way to ancient well-preserved artifacts, the Louvre Abu Dhabi will have you immersed in the art every step of the way.
Plus, if you’re feeling adventurous you can rent a kayak and row around the waters of the Louvre Abu Dhabi.
Ever wanted to paint a plate? A brick? A face? Or maybe a bottle even? You can do all 4 with a delish drink or snack. Unleash your inner artist at Art House Cafe.
4. Feeling adventurous? If you’re looking for a thrill, look no further than Yas Island
From waterparks to the fastest rollercoaster in the world all the way to an indoor skydiving experience, Yas Island has it all. Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros. World, Ferrari World, and CLYMB all have thrilling experiences and attractions to get your adrenaline pumping.
Additionally, they were titled as the BEST of the best attractions in Abu Dhabi by TripAdvisor.
5. Even YOU can make the best memories in these gorgeous green parks
From BBQ spots to a skate park, taking your friends and loved ones to any park is basically a right of passage in Abu Dhabi. A spot to take a stroll, start a BBQ, have a picnic, skate around, or even just to let the little ones out to play – Family Park, The Lake Park, Urban Park and more. Make the most of these moments!
Home to the infamous SALT and Parkers, Um Al Emarat Park is THE place for good eats and even better sweets. From delish burgers to Matilda’s extra chocolatey cake, your cravings will deffo be satisfied. Plus who wouldn’t want to enjoy some good food surrounded by greenery?
Fun fact: SALT was a moving food truck that you had to find every single time it posted a hint. However, it’s now taken home near Um Al Emarat Park!
6. Trek deep into the Mangroves of Abu Dhabi and enjoy the serene surroundings
Environmentalists! The Mangroves of Abu Dhabi is a MUST experience. You can walk on the platform or rent a kayak and row around the glistening waters of the Mangroves to be one with nature. Listen to the sounds of the birds and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Abu Dhabi.
7. Dive deep into the MARVEL of Al Wathba’s wonders
From the Salt Lakes to the Wetland Reserves all the way to the Fossil Dunes, Al Wathba has it all. These natural phenomenons are a marvel.
8. Enjoy the variety of flavors of coffee from these cafes
Make the best memories and meet the owls of Abu Dhabi’s Owl Cafe, Boomah.
You can enjoy your time and drink your coffee while enjoying the view of the owls. Better yet, you could go in and meet them too!
Or discover the hype of % Arabica and Rain.
From the comfort of your car, you could order your very own cup of coffee. However, you might have to wait a while for these are some of the HOTTEST spots in Abu Dhabi.
Or better yet, cool yourself during the summer and drink right out of a can at SPIN.
Disclaimer: It’s not actually canned coffee, it’s just superb packaging!
9. A Bucket list MUST is Karak at Break Water Marina, or locally known as Kaser Marina
Grab a friend or your entire family and head over to Breakwater Marina with a nice hot cup of Karak. Take in the views and the experience at Kaser.
10. DELISH affordable eats
Nothing says Abu Dhabi more than affordable eats. The delish Parathas from cafeterias like Tea Break, Sea Shore, and Sea Shell are a right of passage. Plus, they serve fresh juices and Karak.
11. Never ending experiences for the Foodies!
Two words: Food Trucks.
Two POPPIN spots: Nation Towers and Hudayriat Island.
Multiple options! From coffee to desserts to burgers and chicken tenders, these food trucks have it all.
12. Trek the mountaintop of Al Ain’s Jebel Hafeet
Nature lovers and adventurers, Jebel Hafeet is the best place to make some memories. You can watch the sunset or sunrise over the beautiful mountain landscape with your loved ones.
13. Unleash your inner athlete at Zayed Sports City
Check off ice skating, bowling, and more from your bucket list! You can have an active and fun-filled day at Zayed Sports City with your friends and family.
14. Watch a herd of camels cross the road at Million Street next to Liwa Resort
Spotting camels in the city is not as common as people may think. So experience the beauty of spotting MULTIPLE camels at a crossroad near Liwa Resort, Abu Dhabi.
15. These amazing get away spots at the desert definitely HAVE to be on your bucket list
From roughing it by camping or enjoying the luxurious liberties of a resort, spending a staycation at the desert is a must. Why? Well, you can witness the glory of the universe shining above you at Al Quaa Observation Spot aka “Milky Way Spot.” Additionally, you can experience life in the desert at Tilal Liwa Resort or Anantara Qasr Al Sarab.
16. The FRESH markets in Mina are a local hot spot for groceries
From fruits and veggies to fish and meat, the markets in Mina have it all. Especially, the new fish market. It has 8 restaurants and 44 fish cleaning stations and stores. Additionally, the market has a supermarket, 104 fresh fish stalls, 8 dry fish stalls, 4 stalls for fruit and veggies, and more.
17. Cyclists, this one’s for you! Abu Dhabi is transforming itself to a cycling capital
New cycling tracks from Reem Island to the Eastern Mangroves, and from Yas Island to Saadiyat Island. Cycle around Al Wathba’s tracks and enjoy the Fossil Dunes, Wetland Reserves, and Salt Lake.
Plus, you can take your bike and enjoy the sound of the sea, from the start of the corniche all the way to the Break Water.
18. The joy you feel when you see the employees walking towards you with your dessert is incomparable!
Rolled ice creams, crepes, brownies, cakes – you name it, Abu Dhabi has it! Sukkardose, Lassi shop and the one and only Just Fresh’s desserts will have your mouth WATERING.
You might have to wait a while since these are the hottest spots in Abu Dhabi for the best desserts. Mmm… yummy!
19. One DELISH word: Karak
This activity is the best way to enjoy Abu Dhabi for its simplicity and raw beauty. Grab karak with your loved ones and sit by the rocks in the Mina or Kaser.
20. Good vibes and good eats at Marsa Mina
The new gem and hot spot where people of all ages go to unwind is Marsa Mina. Good food, good drinks, and good vibes all around Abu Dhabi’s newest hot spot.
21. The Club will deffo make you feel fancy every single time you visit
Located on the Arabian Gulf, The Club’s gorgeous white sandy beaches and clear blue waters will make you feel on top of the world. Let’s not forget it’s glorious features and top notch restaurants that’ll definitely make you feel fancy!
22. Cruising through the city with good tunes and good company is a MUST
The best moments of many are spent cruising down the corniche and through the city with no stop in mind. Or stopping at the nation towers parking lot to talk about anything and everything with friends.
