Best Places To Visit In Abu Dhabi: Iconic Landmarks, Restaurants And More

Abu Dhabi is a rich, diverse, and globally connected city known as the capital of the United Arab Emirates. It is home to more than 200 nationalities home to some of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi. It is an aspiring global financial centre, a growing innovation hub, a leading energy producer, and a renowned tourist destination and cultural centre.

The Largest Emirate of the UAE

Abu Dhabi is the biggest emirate in the United Arab Emirates and is divided into three regions. It is on the coast of Al Ain in the east, and Al Dhafra is in the west. Book your Abu Dhabi city tour with BookMyBooking and get to know the country up closer. Abu Dhabi City is famous for being the commercial and cultural centre of the emirate, situated on the coast of the Arabian Gulf. It encompasses numerous islands, like Yas Island, a world-class entertainment location, and Saadiyat Island, famous for its cultural locations. The Louvre Abu Dhabi is one of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi. Al Ain features crucial cultural heritage sites, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites and Jebel Hafit, Abu Dhabi's highest peak at 1,240m above sea level. Al Dafra is an essential agriculture centre and hosts the annual Liwa Date Festival, home to several oil and gas fields, as there are numerous places to see in Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, is a cheerful city known for its modern architecture and cultural spots. One of the must-visit places is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a stunning architectural masterpiece showcasing Islamic art and culture. Abu Dhabi is one of the world's most futuristic and colourful cities. See and explore Abu Dhabi tour packages on the BMB website, and book your package with great deals and discounts! The city is famous for its dynamic designs, cultural heritage, and luxurious experiences. If you are visiting the Emirates for the first time here, we have listed some popular attractions you must take advantage of in Abu Dhabi.

Tourism 2030: Rise in Footfall on the Best Places to Visit in Abu Dhabi

The Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council has approved the new Tourism Strategy 2030 for the emirate. If you are also planning your next trip, book your BMB Abu Dhabi Tour packages with us now! Spearheaded by the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi, the ambitious blueprint signals a new era of expansion and strategic development in the travel and tourism sector. The Strategy seeks to boost visitor numbers from nearly 24 million in 2023 to 39.3 million by 2030, with 7% year-on-year growth. The capital is filled with numerous places to visit in Abu Dhabi. Also, it plans to prominently elevate the tourism and travel sector's contribution to the UAE's GDP, raising it from approximately AED 49 billion in 2023 to AED 90 million annually by 2030. Book your Abu Dhabi City Tour with BookMyBooking today!

The Strategy will generate an estimated 1,78,000 new jobs by 2030 as the entire tourism infrastructure is developed to meet this demand. It intends to double international overnight visitors from 3.8 million in 2023 to approximately 7.2 million in 2030, expand hotel room availability from 34,000 in 2023 to 52,000 by 2030, and further enhance the holiday home segment for diversifying accommodation options as there the capital is home to some of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi's tourism sector saw a remarkable surge, inviting nearly 24 million visitors. The 27% rise in the number of hotel guests and 54% increase in the number of international guests flaunted the economy, with an approximate AED 49 billion contribution to the UAE's GDP.

Unveiling Best Places To Visit in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, the dazzling capital of the UAE, is a city where tradition meets modernity in the most captivating way. Whether you're a history buff, an adventure seeker, or someone looking to relax, Abu Dhabi has something extraordinary for everyone. From its iconic landmarks like the breathtaking Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to the thrilling excitement of Yas Island, this city offers a perfect blend of culture, luxury, and adventure. Ready to explore? Dive into this blog to discover the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi and prepare to be mesmerized by this vibrant desert gem!

1. Emirates Palace

Spend a night at Emirates Palace, one of the most luxurious hotels and best places to visit in Abu Dhabi in the world.

It is also one of the most exquisite tourist places in the country. The hotel offers tours of its interiors to non-residents.

Simply enjoy the signature coffee at Le Cafe, which features a golden leaf and the Emirates Palace logo. Indulge in these fun activities in Abu Dhabi with your loved ones, as it is one of those experiences you won't forget for the rest of your life.

Let the restaurants of Emirates Palace Hakkasan, BBQ Al Qasr, and many others offer you a world-class dining experience.

Spend a day at the Emirates Palace private beach or lounge, which offers stunning, remarkable blue waters. This is one of the most exciting things to do in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

• Timings- Opens 24x7
• Location- West Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi

2. Louvre Museum

Visit the Louvre Museum, where over 600 works of art, including works by Leonardo da Vinci, Claude Monet, Giovanni Bellini, and many more, are on display.

Get to know the Museum's exquisite collection of art with the BMB Abu Dhabi honeymoon package, where the art collection is gathered from all over the world and arranged into thematic sequences.

Cherish the unique paintings by the Louvre Abu Dhabi from its counterpart in France.

• Timings- 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM (Tuesday to Sunday)
• Location- Saadiyat, Abu Dhabi UAE

3. Yas Island

Spend a weekend filled with thrills and adventure at Yas Island, one of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi.

You can indulge in kayaking, snorkelling or parasailing, as there are a variety of watersports at Yas Beach.

Go shopping at the sprawling Yas Mall, Yas Island's most prominent retail destination.

With your Abu Dhabi tour packages, you can visit any fine-dining eateries that line Yas Marina and enjoy a gourmet meal with sea views.

• Timings- Major attractions open between 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM
• Location- Yas Island Abu Dhabi, UAE

4. Ferrari World

Spend an adventurous day at Abu Dhabi Ferrari World, the only Ferrari-themed amusement park in the world and one of the famous tourist places in Abu Dhabi.

Enjoy the fastest roller coaster in the world with your friends and family in Abu Dhabi.

You can even catch live performances and stunt shows that are held at the park theatres from time to time. It is one of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi.

You can even drive a Ferrari across the race tracks or have an expert drive you.

• Timings- 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Sunday-Wednesday)
• 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM (Thursday- Saturday)
• Location- Yas Island, 128717, Abu Dhabi UAE

5. Desert Safari

Travel across the beautiful golden sands on a desert safari, one of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi, while admiring the breathtaking golden dunes that stretch endlessly around you.

As you ride through the dunes, prepare to be amazed by a beautiful sunset over the Abu Dhabi desert.

With your Abu Dhabi honeymoon package exclusively from BMB, you can include a Desert Safari and various other cultural experiences, such as camelback riding, camel farm shows, and more!

Desert safari with a traditional Arabic dinner in a beautifully decorated Bedouin tent, enjoying a live belly dancing performance as you do so.

• Timing- 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM
• Location- Arabian Al Khatim Desert in Abu Dhabi

6. Emirates Park Zoo

Explore and experience Emirati wildlife with a tour through the Emirate Park Zoo, one of the best places for families to visit in Abu Dhabi.

You can watch a sea lion show at the Emirates Zoo and admire the intelligent animals as they swim, play, and interact with the audience.

Experience the falcons, eagles, and parrots at Bird Park or the regal pink flamingos at Flamingo Park.

Spend a luxurious night at the deluxe cottages at the Emiarte Zoo, one of the top attractions in Abu Dhabi, and you'll discover the unique experience of living amidst wildlife.

• Timing- 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM (Everyday)
• Location- 12th St Abu Dhabi-UAE

7. Warner Bros World

Spend a day with the family at Warner Bros. World, the first Warner Bros. and the world's biggest indoor theme park.

Interact with and take a picture with your favourite characters in Warner Bros and DC comics, one of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi.

Indulge in purchasing a gift from the themed merchandise stores in each store and carrying it home as a souvenir.

Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi is an indoor theme park featuring immersive rides, attractions, and beloved characters from iconic Warner Bros franchises.

• Timing- Everyday (12:00 PM to 8:00 PM)
• Loaction- Abu Dhabi-Al Falah Rd- Abu Dhabi-UAE

8. Yas Water World

It would help if you challenged yourself with the distinctive water slides at Yas Water Park in Abu Dhabi, the first mega park in the UAE.

Explore all of the 40+ rides and attractions that spreads across the 37 hectares of the park.

Navigate through a wave at the Bubble's Barrel, the world's most giant sheet surf wave.

Also, glide through the Cinesplash, one of the distinctive attractions in Abu Dhabi that mixes 5D cinema with water effects with the whole family.

• Timing- 10:00 AM-6:00 PM (Monday to Saturday)
• Location- Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

9. Kidzania

Let your children play, explore, and become the best versions of themselves at KidZania, an interactive play environment curated especially for kids. It is one of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi.

Watch your wards choose from over 40 occupations and navigate through real-life surroundings.

Let the children prosper under the guidance of the Zupervisots, who help them navigate from one scenario to another.

You can enjoy various performances and shows at the KidZania theatre. They all aim to teach children about the performing arts culture in the capital, which is one of the top things to do with children in the UAE.

• Timing- 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM
• Location- Yas Mall, Yas IslandYas West-Abu Dhabi-UAE

10. Mangrove National Park

Get to know the UAE's most enormous mangrove population at the Mangrove National Park, one of the least explored places to visit in Abu Dhabi.

Birdwatchers enjoy observing and photographing the native bird life at Mangrove Park, which houses more than 60 bird species.

Get to explore the park under the expert guidance of the Park Ranger, who takes one through the Mnagrove across a suspended boardwalk.

You can choose from various kayaking tours through Mangrove Park, such as a sunrise, sunset, or night tour. It is one of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi.

• Timing- 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM
• Location- Anantara Hotel-Abu Dhabi-UAE

11. Observation Deck at 300

Witness unobstructed panoramic views of the Abu Dhabi skyline from the Observation Deck at 300, nestled on the 74th floor of the Etihad Towers, with BMB Abu Dhabi honeymoon package.

The high-powered telescopes at the Observation Deck allow visitors to see as many city attractions as possible, such as the Corniche, the Grand Mosque, and the Emirate Palace.

Take advantage of the Observation Deck lounge, where you can choose from freshly ground coffee and high tea.

The sunset views from the Observation Deck, one of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi, are especially remarkable, making it a famous romantic hideout.

• Timing- 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM
• Location- Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, Tower 2 Level 74 Etihad
• Towers Corniche West St-Abu Dhabi-UAE

12. Hili Fun City

Experience all 28 rides and attractions at Hili Fun City, which prides itself on being the first themed amusement park in the Gulf region and one of the best places to see in Abu Dhabi.

Play a game of ice hockey or enjoy a round of skating at the Hili City Ice Rink.

Try your hand at a round of go-karting or watch as the go-karts zoom past you at the park-karting arena.

Enjoy around of boating with the self-manoeuvred pedal boost at the Hili Fun City lake with your Abu Dhabi city tour package.

• Timings- Monday to Thursday from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM
• Friday and Saturday- 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
• Location- Near Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium

13. Marine Eye

Spin a round on the Marina Eye, the enormous Ferris wheel that rises against the skies of Abu Dhabi.

One of the best tourist attractions in Abu Dhabi is the Ferris wheel, which prides itself on its gorgeous nighttime city views.

Witness beautiful views of the Abu Dhabi cityscape as your shuttle reaches the highest point.

Go for travel on the Marina Eye VIP capsules with an air-conditioned seating area and a live audio guide that narrates the history of each visible attraction, which is one of the best places to go in Abu Dhabi.

• Timings- 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM (Saturday to Wednesday)
• 10:00 AM to 1:00 AM (Thursday to Friday)
• Location- Marina Island, Abu Dhabi

14. Women's Handicraft Centre

Cherish the expert craftsmanship of the local craftswoman, displayed at the Women's Handicraft Center, one of the best cultural places to visit in Abu Dhabi.

Experience the sheer variety on display: handmade incense, jewellery, traditional dresses, souvenirs, and more.

Henna lovers can also have their hands tattooed, marvelling at the women's expertise in the craft.

After securing prior permission, photograph the colourful displays at the museum store, which is one of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi. These displays depict the country's cultural significance.

• Timing- 9 AM to 3 PM (Monday to Thursday)
• Location- Al Karamah-C9RQ+6XC-Abu Dhabi-UAE

Read More: Best Places to Visit in UAE

15. Al Ain Palace Museum

Experience Abu Dhabi's history and cultural wealth at the Al Ain Palace Museum, once the residence of the UAE's Founding Father and one of the best museums in Abu Dhabi.

Just admire the structure of the Al Ain Palace, which combines modernist trends with traditional Emirati designs.

You can take a picture with the Land Rover on the palace grounds; it is one of the numerous cars the former king owned.

Visit one of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi, which has unique religious rooms dedicated to the Quran and the Hadith.

• Timings- 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM
• Location- Al Mutawwa, Al Ain

16. Murjan Aqua Park

Abu Dhabi has many amusement destinations, and the Aqua Park is yet another excellent choice for your children.

There is a spectrum of attractions and slides for children of different age groups, so nobody finds a moment of dullness here.

One of the prominent water parks in Abu Dhabi, UAE, Marjan Aqua Park offers exciting slides, rides, shallow pools, and rivers. It is versatile in its character and offerings.

Besides, options like boating and other water sports will give your children a perfect, enthralling water park experience, as it is one of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi with friends and family adventure.

• Timing- 10 AM to 7 PM
• Location- Khalifa Park, Abu Dhabi

17. Yas Mall

This is another perfect mall for those who want both fashion and style simultaneously.

The outlets and stores at the Abu Dhabi shopping mall cover a wide range of products from an impressive range of brands and provide all kinds of clothes from famous brands.

The mall has an extensive books, electronics, clothing, and jewellery collection.

Moreover, the cinema and food zones in the Abu Dhabi shopping mall add more fun to the visit, which adds to its entertainment and fun element.

• Timing- 10 AM to 10 PM (Saturday to Wednesday)
• 10 AM to 12 AM (Thursday to Friday)
• Location- Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

18. World Trade Centre Souk and Mall

This building, consisting of three sky-piercing towers, is a delight for shopaholics and architecture buffs.

It is one of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi. The complex comprises offices and apartments, hotels and shopping areas.

You can indulge in a traditional shopping experience not only with brands but also with brands.

Also, you will find various excellent restaurants in Abu Dhabi where you can enjoy a memorable dining experience.

• Timing- Open 24 hours
• Location- Liwa St- Al Danah- Zone 1- Abu Dhabi-UAE

19. Saadiyat Public Island

Saadiyat Public Beach is one of the best beaches in Abu Dhabi. It is 12 kilometres northeast of the city centre. This clear white sand beach has views of the blue ocean on one side and the city skyline on the other, making it a scenic place to visit.

In the lounge at the beach, you get loungers and umbrellas if you want to relax in the sun or enjoy a picnic with your friends.

A protected green patch on the island that is one of the top places to visit in Abu Dhabi is the nesting ground for hawksbill turtles from March to August.

• Timing- Open 24 hours
• Location- Saadiyat Beach- Abu Dhabi-United Arab Emirates

20. Corniche Beach

If you have two hours to explore Abu Dhabi's tourist attractions, visit Corniche Beach, one of the city's top beaches.

The 8 km stretch of the beach provides scope for multiple activities, sightseeing, and relaxation.

The beach's landscape and elements, such as the library and sports activities in Abu Dhabi, make it worth visiting.

The beach also has the Blue Flag status, an eco-label credited to it for its clean and safe water.

• Timing- Opens 24x7
• Location- Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi, UAE

What is the Best Time to Visit the Best Places in Abu Dhabi?

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1. November is the Peak Season

Comfortable temperatures range between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius, suitable for sightseeing and outdoor adventure. This is the best time to visit Abu Dhabi for tourists and visitors worldwide.

The skies are clear this time, and the weather is pleasant, which is an excellent time for photography.

Therefore, many tourist arrivals require booking accommodation in advance along with your Abu Dhabi tour package.

It is the best time for travellers and tourists to go on outdoor exploration and expeditions with family and friends.

2. May to June is the Moderate Season

Warm temperatures with lows around 25 degrees Celcius and soaring to nearly 40 degrees Celsius.

Decreased tourist footfall makes securing accommodations and visiting attractions in Abu Dhabi easier without long queues.

Due to the rising heat, indoor activities and air-conditioned venues are the primary focus.

You will get deals on hotels and resorts for budget-conscious travellers.

Read More: Plan your Super-Easy Dubai Tour Package from India

3. July to October is the Low Season

This time is boiling, with temperatures averaging 36 to 45 degrees Celsius and high humidity levels with less opportunity for outdoor activities in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

During this time, limited outdoor activities focus more on indoor attractions like shopping malls, museums, and entertainment centres.

A low tourist footfall allows a more relaxed and peaceful experience.

Various discounts on accommodations and tour packages cater to budget travellers.

Top Places to Visit in Abu Dhabi to Savour Authentic Emirati Cuisine

The culturally rich capital of the United Arab Emirates excites travellers worldwide with its fantastic range of experiences and attractions. Abu Dhabi's restaurants reflect its cosmopolitan vibes and luxurious splendour, presenting myriad options and cuisine to pamper your palate. Here, we have listed some of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi for a mind-blowing cuisine experience as rich as your travel tales.

Byblos Sur Mer-Lebanese, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern

The restaurant serves the most authentic Lebanese cuisine with a mindblowing fine dining venue. It is one of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi with family or friends, and it serves local Emirati dishes with great taste and customer satisfaction. With a lively outdoor seating area, enjoying shisha and some of the best cocktails is an experience to remember in one of the best places to go in Abu Dhabi. Enjoy the great music over weekends, along with a Lebanese menu. Their kebabs, seafood, fattouch and hummus are perfect, and the friendly staff raises the bar for customer service.

• Location- InterContinental Abu Dhabi, King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud, Al Khubeirah-Abu Dhabi-UAE
• Opening Hours- 12 PM to 2 AM (Sunday to Thursday); 12 PM to 3 AM (Fri to Sat)
• Cuisine- Lebanese, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern

The Terrace on the Corniche- Arabian, Middle Eastern

It is amongst the best buffet restaurants in Abu Dhabi. This place serves a great food selection for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The elegantly curated place is serviced by professional staff who take great care of the guests. One of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi for Friday brunch, the restaurant is quite famous for its spread and excellent selection of dishes. The desert station surpasses expectations, and the hors d'oeuvres and main course are exceptional.

• Location- Nation Tower Corniche-Abu Dhabi-UAE
• They are open from 6:30 AM to 11 AM (Sunday to Thursday), and morning timings vary on Friday and Saturday.
• Cuisine- Arabian, Middle Eastern, Continental, European

Li Beirut-Lebanese, Arabian, Middle Eastern

This restaurant is a must-visit in the country and one of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi for upscale food and seating arrangements. The lovely dining area, exciting service, and delicious food will make you want to return for more. The decor makes you feel like you are sitting in Lebanon, while the attentive staff ensures you have desserts to add to the perfect meal. It is among the best Lebanese restaurants in Abu Dhabi.

• Location- Corniche Road West-Abu Dhabi-UAE
• Opening Hours- Daily, 12:30 PM, 7 PM to 12 AM
• Cuisine- Lebanese, Arabian, Middle Eastern

Almayass- American and Lebanese

Almayass is said to be known for its vintage setup and classic ambience. It is the best place to visit in Abu Dhabi, serving authentic American and Lebanese cuisine. It is amongst the most lively places in the city, where you can capture the local vibe. Do not forget to taste the Lebanese food if you visit the restaurant.

• Location- Sheraton Hotel and Resorts, Corniche Rd Abu Dhabi
• Opening Hours- 12:00 PM-3:00 PM and 7:00 PM to 12:00 AM
• Cuisine- American and Lebanese

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Abu Dhabi have special needs facilities?

Many of Abu Dhabi's five-star hotels, malls, and heritage attractions have wheelchair facilities. Book your Abu Dhabi city tour packages and explore the capital with complete grace, as the capital is equipped with wheelchair ramps that often have steep angles. Abu Dhabi International Airport is also well-equipped for physically challenged travellers. Even some Abu Dhabi shopping malls, places, and destinations have facilities for specially-abled visitors. There is a particular check-in gate with direct access from the car park, dedicated lifts, and a meet-and-assist service.

2. Is there Internet access in Abu Dhabi public places, malls and hotels?

The hotels provide complimentary internet access to their guests or paid access to non-guests. Many establishments outside hotels, such as coffee shops and restaurants in Abu Dhabi, also offer wireless internet access. Visitors with laptops can only drop by internet cafes in malls and along most busy streets.

3. Do hotels and malls consist of play areas and baby changing rooms?

The capital has a family-friendly environment. Some of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi have baby changing rooms, play areas, and kid's facilities, which are commonplace in malls and hotels. Most hotels also have paid childcare services. Kids' menus, high chairs, and play areas are ubiquitous in many restaurants.

4. How much you should pay for a tip in Abu Dhabi?

Although offering tips in Abu Dhabi restaurants is optional, you can provide a tip if you are happy with the service. Many fine dining and high-end restaurants might add a service charge. These charges are already included in the menu prices, and the menu will denote them. Some of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi are worth exploring and experiencing with your family and friends.

Best Places to Visit in Abu Dhabi-The Final Takeaway

The capital is home to beautiful scenic landmarks worth exploring and experiencing, whether the cultural souks, beaches, or shopping malls in Abu Dhabi. Book your BMB Abu Dhabi tour package with us today and plan your next trip to the capital!