Abu Dhabi, home to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the fastest roller coaster in the world, and the last race of the Grand Prix season, has far more to offer than glitzy hotels and coral-white beaches (although it has plenty of these, too)!
From exploring the vast expanse of the Empty Quarter to visiting awe-inspiring buildings that are a tribute to human endeavour and creativity, from lush desert oases to historic palaces, there’s much more to Abu Dhabi than first meets the eye.
Whether you’re a culture vulture or a thrill-seeker, here’s our list of over 60 interesting places and hidden gems that will sparkle in your Abu Dhabi itinerary!
- If you are visiting Abu Dhabi with family, we have detailed guides for visitors with toddlers, as well as those with teens and tweens!
Best Tourist Places to Visit In Abu Dhabi
We will start our list with the major attractions in Abu Dhabi city, then those further into the desert and the Western Region of Abu Dhabi Emirate—one of the seven Emirates of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Use this handy map as a reference guide to locating the top attractions in Abu Dhabi – and read on to learn more about each destination.
A * denotes the venue can be reached using the free Visit Abu Dhabi shuttle service
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque*
There’s never a bad time to visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Whether it’s your first or 10th visit to the Grand Mosque, even the little ones get caught up in the grandeur and allure of visiting this stunningly beautiful mosque. It truly is a city highlight and undoubtedly the best thing to do in Abu Dhabi, whether you’re a tourist or a resident.
When visiting the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, it is also worth visiting Wahat Al Karama, otherwise known as the Oasis of Dignity. This memorial was built to commemorate Emiratis killed in the line of duty. It offers some of the most stunning distant views of the mosque.
For a complete guide on visiting the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, click here.
Qasr Al Watan*
The UAE’s stunning Presidential Palace is one of the most interesting tourist attractions in the capital. You can explore the palace with an audio guide, at your own pace, or join a guided group tour (at an additional cost). Don’t forget to return for the evening light and sound show “Palace in Motion” at 7:30 PM.
For a complete guide on visiting Qasr Al Watan, click here.
The Louvre Abu Dhabi*
Abu Dhabi’s branch of the famous French museum displays treasures from around the world in an awe-inspiring space. The exhibitions offer a journey through humanity, with a sampler collection of the world’s finest and most interesting artistic and cultural achievements. The museum receives new artworks on loan and hosts several temporary exhibitions annually.
For a complete guide on visiting The Louvre Abu Dhabi click here.
Qasr Al Hosn*
This coral stone fort, set back from the Abu Dhabi Corniche, is the historical heart of Abu Dhabi. The site includes the renovated historical home of Abu Dhabi’s Al Nayhan family and a museum dedicated to the Emirate’s history.
There’s lots to see and do, including interactive experiences suitable for the whole family. It is also worth visiting the House of the Artisans on the same site to learn more about traditional handicrafts and cultural practices.
For a complete guide on visiting Qasr Al Hosn, click here.
Emirates Palace*
Whilst staying at the phenomenal Emirates Palace, Mandarin Oriental might be outside most people’s budgets, it’s still worth booking a table for morning coffee or afternoon tea in this glitzy hotel’s lobby lounge. Indulge in a gold-dusted cappuccino, top-quality cakes and pastries, and their signature camel burger if you’re feeling very brave.
Be sure to check out The Founder’s Memorial just outside the palace grounds, where the Abu Dhabi Corniche joins the Abu Dhabi breakwater.
If you’re unclear still on the distinction between the Presidential Palace and Emirates Palace, we explain the differences in detail in this guide to Abu Dhabi Palaces.
Zayed National Museum
The Zayed National Museum celebrates the life and vision of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the United Arab Emirates. The museum features six permanent galleries showcasing the nation’s story, rotating temporary exhibitions, and the beautiful Al Masar garden.
Visitors can explore the UAE’s ancient archaeological treasures, discover how coastal communities thrived through pearling, fishing, and trade, and learn about the arrival and influence of Islam in the region. The exhibits also highlight how the UAE’s national identity was formed and how modern innovation has transformed the country into what it is today.
To find out more about Zayed National Museum, click here
Abu Dhabi Natural History Museum
Opened in November 2025, the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi takes visitors on an incredible journey through 13.8 billion years of natural history—from the birth of the universe to the present day. Whether you’re traveling with curious young naturalists or you’re an adult explorer with a passion for science and nature, this museum offers a fascinating experience for all ages.
To find out more about the Abu Dhabi Natural History Museum, click here
The Abrahamic Family House
This remarkable site offers Muslims, Christians, and Jews the chance to worship and learn about each other’s religions in one place. Part of the Saadiyat Cultural District, it is open daily for tours and welcomes visitors of all faiths.
To find out more about The Abrahamic Family House, click here.
Mina Dhow Port and Fish Market
Mina Port is the historic harbor area of the city, where you can see traditional wooden dhows (sailing boats) and fishing baskets that local fishermen still use today. While the old fish market has been upgraded to a modern facility, the area retains its authentic atmosphere and remains a fascinating place to observe daily maritime life.
The port area is currently undergoing major infrastructure improvements, with plans to modernize the fruit and vegetable souk and relocate the carpet souk to new, enhanced facilities while preserving their traditional character..
To learn more about the Mina Markets, click here
The Galleria Mall*
Yes, it’s a shopping centre, but it’s also a cultural experience. The huge shopping centre includes the international brands that we’re all familiar with, but it also contains high-end luxury boutiques, amazing cafes and restaurants, rooftop parks and various indoor entertainment facilities.
For a completely different shopping experience, check out Madinat Zayed Mall. With its gold souq and fabric shops, this is quite the end of the scale, but, nonetheless, can bring a treasure trove of bargains for souvenir hunters!
Observation Deck at 300*
Located on the 74th floor of the Conrad Hotel in Abu Dhabi Corniche’s Etihad Towers, the Observation Deck provides stunning 360-degree views of the city. It also serves a fantastic afternoon tea, should you wish to indulge.
To find out more about the Observation Deck, click here
Abu Dhabi Breakwater and Heritage Village*
Many cruise ship passengers will be bundled off to the Abu Dhabi Heritage Village, once Abu Dhabi’s main tourist attraction. The replica of a traditional Emirati fishing village includes houses, a mosque, traditional workshops, and agricultural buildings with live animals.
There is a cafe and a small souk where souvenirs can be purchased. The site feels dated (ie much less shiny than say Qasr al Hosn or Zayed National Museum), but it is still worth visiting to see how life has changed in the emirate over the years and to take stunning photos of the modern city opposite.
Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation & Children’s Library
A lovely place to visit for an hour or two on a hot or wet day, the Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation provides exhibition spaces to local artists. It is home to the beautiful Abu Dhabi Children’s Library.
To find out more about the Abu Dhabi Vultural Foundation, click here.
Manarat Al Saadiyat*
The Manarat Al Saadiyat Arts Centre was the first building in the Saadiyat Cultural District and includes exhibition spaces and art and photography studios. The centre provides several workshops and special events throughout the year.
Al Qana*
This unique new waterfront development is not just architecturally beautiful; it has become a real foodies’ nighttime hot spot, very popular with locals. This is your place if you’d like an evening promenade and al fresco dining to soak in the modern Emirati atmosphere.
In addition to ample dining venues, you’ll find a very swish cinema, the National Aquarium (more below!), the Bridge health and wellness hub, Adrenark Adventure for indoor kids’ adrenaline activities, and Pixoul gaming centre for e-sports fans.
Other Landmark Buildings in Abu Dhabi City
There are a number of landmark buildings in Abu Dhabi that have received international attention for their design. You cannot go inside most of these buildings, but they are worthy of a scenic drive-by to appreciate the incredible modern side of the city. These include:
- Aldar HQ—This circular building in the Al Raha Beach area of the city is meant to represent an oyster shell. It is not open to visitors, but you can take photos from the nearby Al Raha Mall. The building serves as the headquarters of building giant Aldar.
- Abu Dhabi’s bendy tower, Capital Gate, is an engineering marvel. Inspired by a desert whirlwind, the tower is home to the Andaz Hotel. Cocktails on the 18th-floor terrace are highly recommended if you want to really experience this incredible building and its tremendous views.
- The WTC Mall, built on the site of the old Abu Dhabi Souk (which burned down in 2004), was designed by renowned Architect Norman Foster. Part of the building is a modern shopping centre with a variety of international stores and dining opportunities. A small section on the ground floor more closely resembles a traditional souk with date and spice shops and purveyors of carpets, pashminas, and other handicrafts.
- The Sheikh Zayed Bridge, designed by Zaha Hadid is a fine example of modern architecture. Particularly spectacular at night time, this bridge is one of Abu Dhabi’s definitive landmarks.
- Al Bahar Towers – locally nicknamed “the Pineapple Towers,” these twin towers are commercial office buildings, so they are not open to visitors but can be marvelled upon as you pass by. What makes their design unique is the dynamic and responsive façade
Theme Parks and Attractions
With tourism at the heart of the UAE’s offering, many spectacular entertainment offerings in Abu Dhabi will appeal to families and a broader audience of thrill seekers. These include:
The National Aquarium*
Opened in 2021, the National Aquarium is the largest aquarium in the Middle East and home to 46,000 animals. The thematically designed layout introduces visitors to different animals that live in different geographical areas. There are behind-the-scenes tours, the chance to feed fish, and the opportunity to get closer to the animals with various animal encounter packages.
To find out more about The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi, click here.
Snow Abu Dhabi
If the outside temperature gets too much, head to Snow Abu Dhabi, where the atmosphere is kept at a chilly 2 degrees. This icey indoor theme park is fun for the whole family, with winter-themed rides and a variety of other experiences.
To find out more about Snow Abu Dhabi., click here.
Yas Waterworld*
Experience “water’s greatest play ground” at Yas Waterworld. This sprawling site has over 40 iconic rides, and it’s set to get even bigger as construction work commences on 15 new rides and attractions this summer. The park features areas for babies, toddlers and younger children, as well as two lazy rivers, a huge wave pool, a 4D Water Cinema and various slides and tubes of differing scariness!
An extension to the park has been announced, and construction is well underway for “The Lost City” which will add a further 18 rides and attractions to the park in 2025.
To find out more about Yas Waterworld, click here
Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi
A great day out any time of year, this fully indoor theme park—the largest in the Middle East (it recently lost the title of the largest in the world!)—has something for everyone.
Whether you’re a Batman fan looking to meet the Dark Knight in person, seeking a thrilling ride through space with the Green Lantern, or fancy a leisurely log flume ride through Bedrock with the Flintstones, you will have a good time at this thoughtfully designed theme park.
A Harry Potter extension to the park has been announced, but no definitive time frame has been given yet. Details of what rides and attractions will be involved have not been released, but it’s sure to be epic once it arrives!
SeaWorld Abu Dhabi
The newest addition to Yas Island’s theme park scene, Seaworld is both a theme park and a marine conservation centre. Offering 8 different realms to explore, this is the perfect indoor activity for hot days, and it is especially good for younger children and those who like a more sedate theme park experience!
To learn more about Seaworld click here.
Ferrari World*
Featuring the world’s fastest roller coaster, the Formula Russo, and several other high-octane experiences, Ferrari World is the perfect place for adrenaline junkies.
Even if you don’t fancy some of the more intimidating rides, the park has many family-friendly aspects, including gentler rides and a soft play area. Christmas is an especially nice time to visit when the park goes all out for their Winterfest.
To find out more about Ferrari World, check out our complete article here.
Disney Abu Dhabi
Note that Disney Abu Dhabi is still at the ‘Imaginering’ stage but will join the four existing theme parks on Yas Island, probably some time after 2030.
Learn more abut this new attraction and find progress updates over here!
CLYMB
Ascend to dizzy heights at Clymb. Featuring the world’s biggest indoor skydiving flight chamber and the Middle East’s tallest climbing wall, Clymb is the ultimate experience for any thrill-seeker.
To find out more about CLYMB, click here.
Yas Marina Circuit
Visiting town outside of Grand Prix season? Kids can enjoy testing out their driving skills at the Yas Marina Karting circuit. Special sessions are held for kids (5 to 7 years) and juniors (4 to 12 years). Adults can pay to borrow a racing car and test their skills.
There are also opportunities during the week to walk, jog, or cycle on open track nights organized by TrainYas and the Abu Dhabi Sports Council. These sessions are FREE to attend; you just need to register, and bikes can be hired if you’re just visiting.
Learn more about karting sessions at Yas Marina circuit here ~ If you are visiting during the Grand Prix, check out this events guide
Al Forsan International Sports Resort
A mixed sports venue found in Khalifa City (out on the airport side of town), this is a bit of a hidden gem for visitors. You’ll find here the opportunity to go wakeboarding, paintballing, archery, shooting, karting, and to an equestrian centre.
It’s possible to stay on-site at the Marriott Hotel Al Forsan
Beaches, Parks, and Nature Spots
A Beach Club Daycation
Do you only want to spoil yourself for a day of beach and poolside action? There are plenty of resorts that allow you to stay just for the day without the added expense of an overnight stay.
Many of these beach resort and pool day pass deals even include the cost of your food and money-back vouchers, so they can be a really cost-effective way to spoil yourselves for the day. Also, look out on weekends for brunch-inclusive offers.
To find out more about Abu Dhabi’s beautiful beach clubs, click here.
A Day At The Beach
In addition to beach clubs, Abu Dhabi has several public beaches. Most are free or have a very minimal cover charge.
The two main beaches in the city are the Corniche*, which sits along the end of Abu Dhabi Island, and Saadiyat Beach*, acclaimed for its wildlife encounters and real crashing waves on the soft white sand.
For a full round-up of Abu Dhabi’s public beaches, click here.
Jubail Mangrove Park
Traverse the maze of boardwalks through the Jubail Mangrove Park and enjoy encounters with numerous species of local wildlife. Look out for the tide times as you’ll have quite a different experience between high and low tide -either way it’s the perfect place to spend some time outside.
Eastern Mangroves
A lush green paradise awaits at eastern mangroves. Take a stroll along the Al Gurm Corniche, or get closer to nature by hiring a kayak or a donut boat and exploring the network of waterways that punctuate this unique mangrove forest.
To learn more about the Eastern Mangroves, click here.
Umm Al Emarat Park*
Whether you’re travelling as a couple or part of a large family group, a trip to Umm Al Emarat Park is highly recommended. The beautifully designed area features stunning fountains, flower gardens, and open areas for sport and relaxation.
There’s a specially designed children’s park with a splash pad, petting zoo, and several playgrounds dotted around the extensive space. Winter evenings bring a variety of recreational activities, including family movies on the big screen, craft activities, and markets. There are several high-quality restaurants on-site, as well as kiosks offering takeaway options.
You can find out more about visiting Umm Al Emarat Park here.
Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital
A popular choice among visitors to Abu Dhabi looking for cultural experiences is a visit to the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital. The behind-the-scenes tour allows you to learn about the Emirati relationship with the falcon and how keepers care for these remarkable birds.
Get the Family Active at Hudayriat Island
New sports and leisure facilities – even a glamping site – have opened on Abu Dhabi’s Al Hudayriat Island. Joining the lineup of food trucks, cycling, and running tracks is Circuit X – BMX tracks, a high ropes course, an OCR Park Obstacle course, a new heritage walk, and even more sports facilities.
The newest attraction is Surf Abu Dhabi, the world’s largest artificial wave pool offering thrilling surfing experiences for all skill levels. After catching waves, visitors can relax at the beachside clubs and restaurants while enjoying stunning sunset views over the water.
Looking ahead, Abu Dhabi’s first indoor velodrome (cycling track) is expected to open later in 2026, adding another exciting sporting venue to the island.
See all the attractions, opening times, and how to book them here
Yas Bay Waterfront
A great spot to spend a lazy Sunday, Yas Bay Waterfront combines a leisure and fine dining destination with several recreational facilities. Take a stroll along the promenade, or let the kids play at one of the playgrounds or skateparks before enjoying breakfast in one of the many cafes or restaurants.
Alternatively, visit in the evening and enjoy watching the sun set over the city as you sip a carefully crafted cocktail on the rooftop terrace of the Siddharta Lounge.
Don’t forget to check out what’s on at the Etihad Arena when you’re in town – whether it’s a Broadway musical or a big-name band, there’s always something going on.
To find out more about Yas Bay, click here.
Brunch it
Abu Dhabi is famous for its brunches, long, leisurely afternoon meals that include unlimited food and drink, live entertainment, and, increasingly, pool access. Brunches range from high-end, glamorous affairs to laid-back, pocket-friendly opportunities to spend time with friends and family. We recommend that visitors do try a brunch as they are quite a cultural phenomenon.
Some of the most popular brunches in Abu Dhabi include:
More indoor entertainment in Abu Dhabi
In addition to the larger theme parks highlighted above, Abu Dhabi is home to numerous indoor entertainment venues, particularly popular in the summer months. These include top-tier cinemas, carefully designed children’s play centres, indoor roller-skating facilities, bowling alleys, and escape rooms.
The list of Abu Dhabi’s exceptionally indoor play centres and adventure parks could go on for miles! If you are visiting Abu Dhabi with kids, head over to our indoor guide to Abu Dhabi, as well as the great family guide to Abu Dhabi on our partner site Family Travel in the Middle East where we detail these venues in much more detail.
Abu Dhabi Places to Stay
Where you stay in Abu Dhabi can shape much of your experience and how you visit the capital’s famous landmarks and attractions. Here’s a brief rundown on where to stay:
Beach hotels to try in Abu Dhabi
In a city made up of a series of islands, it’s no surprise that there are plenty of hotels claiming beachfrontage clubs around Abu Dhabi. Areas you can look at include those along the Corniche and a big selection around Ras Al Akhdar (Emirates Palace end including the InterContinental, Conrad, Grand Hyatt, Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan & Bab Al Qasr).
In the old Tourist Club area, you’ll find family favourites Beach Rotana, Le Meridien & the Sheraton. Don’t forget “Between the Bridges” too, The Ritz-Carlton, Fairmont, Traders & Shangri-La.
You can find a full collection of Abu Dhabi hotels offering their own beach here
Saadiyat Island
If it is the tranquillity of real waves you are after, you can’t go past the selection of Saadiyat luxury resorts that line the shores of the Arabian Gulf. Each offers residents and tourists alike a luxurious getaway only minutes from the city. You’ll find that each has multiple pools, kids’ clubs, dining, and, of course, direct access to the stunning beach.
You can see our complete guide to Saadiyat Island resorts here.
Yas Island
Yas Plaza contains a plethora of well-appointed, budget-friendly 4 and 5* hotels, including the Yas Island Rotana, Centro, The Crowne Plaza, the Radisson Blu and the Park Inn. Guests staying at these hotels receive complimentary passes to the nearby Yas Beach Club and often receive theme park tickets as part of their booking deal.
Just around the corner at the newer Yas Bay development is the more luxurious, Hilton Yas Bay, with its extensive pool area and adjacent Cafe Del Mar Beach Club. Next to WB World Abu Dhabi, you can also find The WB Abu Dhabi, Curio Collection By Hilton, A Warner Brothers-themed hotel, and a Doubletree by Hilton, great for those who prefer a suite and a bit more room when they travel.
Hudayriat Island
There are no hotels on Hudayriat Island. However, it is possible to stay at the Bab Al Nojoum Hudayriat Camp and Villas, which offers a huge range of accommodations from the most basic of camping tents with communal facilities to glamping chalets and luxury overwater villas for an exquisite and unique stay close to the city
More Island Hopping
If you’re looking for a real desert island getaway with a boat ride included in the price, two-daycation or staycation options near the city that you could consider are:
- Al Maya Island is a good family choice because of its large pool and dining options.
- Nurai Island Resort – a pricey paradise, perfect for a special occasion (NB this island is temporarily closed, a change of ownership and new refurb are ongoing).
To learn more about the lesser-known island that surround Abu Dhabi, check out this island guide.
Places to Visit in the Western Region of Abu Dhabi & Liwa Desert
Whilst most visitors to Abu Dhabi stay within the city, there are plenty of places to visit in the rest of the Abu Dhabi Emirate. From magnificent sand dunes to stunning desert islands, Abu Dhabi really has it all.
Use this map to guide your way across the Emirates, though note that there are multiple locations for some attractions
An Abu Dhabi Desert Safari
The easiest way to get out into the desert is to take a desert safari from your city hotel. Such safaris take you to a nice spot of dunes, where you can experience a variety of activities, including sand surfing and dune bashing. There is often an Arabic-style barbecue and entertainment in the form of belly dancers, a tanoura dancer, or an oud player. The experience usually lasts 5 or 6 hours in total.
To learn about some of the best Abu Dhabi desert safaris click here.
Anyone seeking to spend longer in the desert could consider one of the following options:
Arabian Nights Village
A charming desert retreat. It is possible to visit the village for the evening or stay overnight. Overnight visitors can choose from 3 accommodation styles. In addition to accommodation, overnight guests have access to the swimming pool and breakfast. Staying overnight is a real treat, and waking up in the desert is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Learn more here about booking your visit to Arabian Nights Village
Qasr al Sarab
The ultimate in desert luxury; this is arguably the best hotel resort in the country. Sitting around a 2-hour drive from the city, the sprawling ‘Palace of the Mirage’ is a truly welcome site in the expanse of golden dunes that surround it. From the shimmering sand-swept entrance, you are transported to another world.
Aldhafra Resort, Vignette Collection by IHG
Located just beyond the western region city of Madinat Zayed. There’s not a great deal to see and do for most family visitors around Madinat Zayed, outside of the Al Dhafra Festival in the winter. However, Aldharfra Resort (previously called Tilal Liwa) provides an alternative to the more expensive desert resorts. Enjoy the pool and outdoor desert sports.
Check pricing on booking.com here.
Sir Bani Yas Island
Offering an altogether very different desert island experience, Sir Bani Yas is, in fact, a nature reserve filled with many endangered species from the Arabian Peninsula and beyond.
Guests can stay at the Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa, or there are two villa accommodation options, one directly on the beach and the other a little further inland.
For more information on what to expect on Sir Bani Yas Island, click here
Liwa Oasis
The ancestral home of the Bani Yas people, it is a long-time favourite location for those with 4x4s who want to take on the epic dunes. Much infrastructure and development has been happening in recent years to make this small desert village into a tourist attraction.
Exploring deep into the desert is naturally the number one attraction, but you can now explore the beauty of this remote spot deep in the Empty Quarter from the luxury of your own villa with the opening of Bab Al Nojoum Bateen Liwa.
You can find our complete guide to the Abu Dhabi desert – for family retreats and couples-only luxury getaways here.
Al Quaa Milky Way Spot
Famous for being the best stargazing spot in the UAE, but unfortunately, it’s one of those places that’s become a bit of a victim of its own popularity; on new moon nights, you’d be mistaken for thinking it was the E11 with the amount of cars and light pollution.
Your only true way to explore this location properly is to find a guide who can take you much deeper into the dunes. For this, we’d recommend Arabian Wanderers.
They offer both family tours and adult-only tour groups for an overnight adventure at each new moon (they’ll take care of all your camping gear and hotel pickups if required—use our code ADTP5OFF to save 5% on your tour).
If camping doesn’t take your fancy with all the sand, you can also check out these glamping options – a few in the Abu Dhabi Emirate. Alternatively, another desert resort option to consider close to Al Ain is Telal Resort.
Places to Visit in Al Ain – The Oasis City
If you have yet to explore the Oasis City, get this one on your bucket list for this winter!
Most families in Abu Dhabi have probably made it to the Al Ain Zoo at some point – if you’ve not been in a while definitely worth a re-visit as they’re making improvements all the time. The Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre is also one of the best educational displays you’ll find in the UAE. The tickets still remain amazingly good value!
Elsewhere in Al Ain, you may want to include on your sightseeing list:
- Take a stroll through the historic Al Ain Oasis and hunt out the other UNESCO World Heritage Sites spotted across the city, including Hili Archaelogical Park.
- Make the mountain drive up to Jebel Hafeet and enjoy far-reaching views of the UAE and Oman.
- Visit the Jebel Hafeet Desert Park and explore the 5000-year-old beehive tombs and stay in the unique bubble dome tents.
- Explore the many museums of Al Ain, including the Palace Museum, Qasr al Muwaiji & Al Jahili Fort.
- Drive through the Al Ain Camel Market – the only one of its kind left in the UAE! And experience the local hum of the city with an evening at Souq Al Qattara in the winter (Thursday to Saturday).
You can find our full guide to things to do in Al Ain here, and if you’re making a weekend of it, our favourite family resorts in Al Ain.
Al Wathba
On the way to Al Ain, you will pass through the area of Al Wathba, home to several interesting natural sites. These include:
- The Al Wathba Wetland Reserve—Open only during the cooler months, the wetland reserve provides a home for 250 species of birds, including the Greater Flamingo, 37 plant species, and a diverse range of aquatic life.
- The Al Wathba Salt Lake – Azure waters and salty white mounds make this a very photogenic spot.
- The Fossil Dunes – Impressive rock formations carved by the desert winds.
NB: These three Al Wathba sites aren’t always open to the public. They have recently become Instagram-famous, which inevitably attracts inconsiderate tourism. Therefore, ongoing work is being done to establish proper tourism infrastructure while preserving the natural beauty and ecosystems.
Whilst in the Al Wathba area, a seasonal must is the Sheikh Zayed Festival, held from November to February. Another often-overlooked destination in Al Wathba is Al Sadeem Astronomy, which offers observatory night tours and stargazing experiences.
We hope this guide has inspired your trip to Abu Dhabi with a comprehensive listing of places to visit. Of course, it is only a snapshot of what you can experience on a visit to the United Arab Emirates and is designed to help you start planning your itinerary.
Jump over here to see some suggested itineraries how you can tackle visiting all the highlights of Abu Dhabi, or take a look next at our partner site Dubai Travel Planner to learn more about our neighbouring Emirate – smaller in size but much larger in population and tourism terms
Before you go… Important things to consider when planning a trip to Abu Dhabi
- Pop into our essential planning information page; it includes everything you need to know about getting around Abu Dhabi, a handy guide on what to pack and top tips for first-timers on the dos and don’ts, laws, and customs in the UAE.
- Start planning your itinerary around the 60+ top places to visit in Abu Dhabi.
- Don’t forget to pack your travel insurance!
- Discover the best places to stay in Abu Dhabi.
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