Abu Dhabi is one of the most popular cities to visit in the Middle East. From Shopping for Gold at Madinat Zayed Shopping Center to spending a night under the stars in these Bedouin Camps in the middle of the desert and watching the Belly Dancers, The list of things to do in Abu Dhabi is just endless. Unlike other Arabian Cities, in the Middle East, Abu Dhabi is not just History. And it's also not just modernity kissing the sky as it is in Dubai. Abu Dhabi is only one such Emirate, which welcomes you to a place, that's a perfect combination of history and modernity. The first president of the Emirates of Abu Dhabi was a huge believer in this melting point of culture, and that vibe is still carried around this city.
This T Shaped Island is the capital of the Emirates of Abu Dhabi. UAE or the United Arab Emirates is made of 7 Emirates, and this is one of them. Abu Dhabi is the largest Emirate of UAE. Abu Dhabi is also one of the best cities to visit in Asia. From a deep-rooted culture to a history that dates back to centuries to an ultra-luxurious lifestyle, did you know that Abu Dhabi's streets are first to see many cars before they are even launched? If you still haven't got your reason, to visit Abu Dhabi, then I highly recommend you to read below and check out the most exciting things to do in Abu Dhabi in 2020 (updated list).
Top things to do in Abu Dhabi
Visit the Sheikh Zayad Grand Mosque
One of the must-visit places in Abu Dhabi, the Sheikh Zayad Mosque was built by Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. He was the first president of UAE, and he always wanted to build this mosque that would serve as the melting point of Cultural diversity in the Islamic world. So, he began its construction in the year 1996. The Sheikh Zayad Mosque was designed by Yousef Abdelky, a Syrian Designer. However, he passed away in the year 2004 and was buried on the Mosque grounds. Finally n the year 2007, this mammoth project got completed. Its major highlight is the World's Largest Carpet. Ths carpet has 2.3 billion knots and covers the prayer hall which is about 60,000 square feet in size.
Catch opulence at Yas Island Hotel
Yas Viceroy Hotel is one of the most luxurious places to be in Abu Dhabi. The best part is the World's Largest LED Lights display, which is a modern canopy of lights that covers the Grid shell, which is a semi-transparent structure over the tow elliptical towers of the Yas Viceroy Hotel. This Hotel is over the F1 Yas Marina Circuit. This F1 Circuit is the 2nd in the Middle East, after the 1st one in Bahrain. This F1 Circuit is fully operational, and you can enjoy an exhilarating experience here, driving or even sitting on the passenger seat of one of the F1 Cars.
Shop till you drop Yas Mall
Yas Mall is one of the foremost and best Malls in Abu Dhabi. When it comes to shopping in Abu Dhabi then Yas Mall is unabashedly the best of all. Located in the center of the Island, you can find all the modern luxury brands here. It has 370 stores. You can literally "Shop till you drop" here. And don't worry. If you feel hungry at any point of time, there's over 60 restaurants and Cafe at your service!
Seek the thrill of this Italian Luxury Car Brand at Ferrari World
Regarded as one of the best Tourist attractions in the Middle East, Ferrari World, is nothing like you've ever been to! If you are a Car lover, then this is THE Place to be in Abu Dhabi. This is basically an Indoor theme Park of Ferrari. Although Ferrari Cars are manufactured in Maranello, Italy, it's only here in Abu Dhabi, you get to see a replica of the same. This 900,000 square feet, largest Indoor Theme Park, looks like a massive 3 Pointed star with the Yellow Prancing horse on it's the roof. You can drive a real Ferrari here, through the "Bell Italia" ride. This amazing ride takes you through a miniature replica of famous Places in Italy, such as the Roman Colosseum, Amalfi Coast, and Maranello. You can also visit the Ferrari Factory here. You'll also get to enjoy Italian cuisine here at the Italian themed Food Court. This is one of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi with Kids.
Explore Art at The Louvre, Abu Dhabi
The first branch of Louvre to be opened outside of France, this is the place to be if you love Art. Over 600 pieces of art are displayed, that displayed the various shades of human experiences and stories, dating from ancient to modern times. Masterpieces such as Da Vinci and Van Gogh works are also included.
Watch the true meaning of Grandeur at Emirates Palace Hotel
If you wanna experience the true grandeur and luxury of this Emirate, then you cannot miss out n Emirates Palace Hotel. Did you know, that it cost $6 billion, to make this hotel? It's open 24 hours for Punon guests, to go there and visit this impressive place, and also check out those amazing ancient sculptors which are on display.
Catch a Glimpse of the Past pages of Abu Dhabi at Qasr Al Hosn
To visit a place and not experience it's past, is a shame! When you are in Abu Dhabi, then you cannot miss out on Qasr Al Hosn. It's the oldest building in the city, dating back to the 18th century, and was built by Bani Yas tribes. It's amazing how quickly this same city has developed to be one of the richest cities in the World.
Go Dune Bashing on a Desert Safari
One of the unrivaled experiences in Abu Dhabi this Dune Bashing. You can try this by going on a Desert Safari, preferably during the Sunset time. Make sure, you drive too. It'll be an experience you won't forget quickly.
Go on a Midnight Desert Safari
When it comes to adventure, the Arabs, surely know the best! One of the best things to do in Abu Dhabi at night includes going on an Overnight Desert safari and exploring the vast, unadulterated beauty of a desert on a starry night.
Camel Ride in the Deserts of Abu Dhabi
Camel Ride in the Deserts of Abu Dhabi | Image Source
Abu Dhabi is one of the best places in the world to go for a camel ride. You can go riding on a camel and indulge in the true Arabain feelings.
Try Sand Boarding
Sand Boarding in Abu Dhabi | Image Source
When you are in a desert, and that too in Abu Dhabi, Sand Boarding seems inevitable! Try sand boarding. It's so fun. You just need a Sand Board, which the agencies will provide you with, and you are all set to play with the sands of the desserts.
Feel like the King of the Desserts on a Quad Bike
Quad Biking is a popular thing in Abu Dhabi. If you feel the need to pamper the adrenaline junki within you, there can be no better experience than trying out Quad Biking on the deserts of Abu Dhabi.
Feel the lavishness of the Arabian world, as you watch the Belly Dancers
Belly Dancers in Bedouin Camps in Abu Dhabi | Image Source
If you try out any Desert Safari Tour, after your day trip, you can enjoy the evening at the local Bedouin Camps, here. Other exciting things to do in Abu Dhabi at night can be indulging in the spicy and exciting Barbecues and also watching the gorgeous Belly Dancers. Allow yourself to be transported to those magical and eerie nights, you had only dreamt of while reading the Arabian Nights!!!
Jet Ski at the Persian Gulf
One of the best experiences you will have in Abu Dhabi is, if you go for Jet Skiing. Jet skiing is certainly one of the most unusual things to do in Abu Dhabi. There are a number of Jet Skiing Rentals, you can find online. You can try any one. All of them are equally good and helpful. They pick you up from your pace and en drop you back after. They are quick in teaching and take all safety precautions. The best time to try skiing is definitely the Sunset hours.
So, these were the Most exhilarating and amazing things to do in Abu Dhabi. If you haven't yet been to Abu Dhabi, then I hope, you found one reason, at least to visit this beautiful Emirate of the UAE. If you liked this post, then please share it on social media. Until n next time.