TOP 10 Things to do in Abu Dhabi

What to do in Abu Dhabi? For a few hours, a few days or more, there is much to see in this developing city that attracts more and more tourists from around the world. Overview of the best activities, not forgetting the safari in the desert and the beautiful beaches and luxury hotels.

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Sunset on Abu Dhabi Grand Mosque, seen from Shangri-La Hotel ©Odyfolio

#1: The Grand Mosque of Abu Dhabi

It is not the largest, but it is perhaps the most beautiful mosque of this world. If you only have an hour to visit Abu Dhabi, go to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. It generously opens its doors to tourists of all faiths.

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Sunset on Abu Dhabi Grand Mosque, seen from Shangri-La Hotel ©Odyfolio

Image The sublime Grand Mosque Sheikh Zayed in Abu Dhabi The sublime Grand Mosque Sheikh Zayed in Abu Dhabi

#2 : Le Louvre Abu Dhabi museum

Just inaugurated, the Louvre Museum Abu Dhabi is already a must in the city. At the edge of the turquoise waters of the Persian Gulf, under an immense dome designed by the architect Jean Nouvel, permanent and temporary collections present masterpieces of world art.

Image Abu Dhabi Le Louvre museum Abu Dhabi Le Louvre museum

#3: The Emirates Palace

The palace straight out of a tale of the miles is also a hotel, some of whose exteriors and the entrance hall are open to the public. To access the gardens and its beautiful beach, you will need book a room.

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Main dome of the Emirates Palace of Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates ©Odyfolio

Image Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi

#4: Yas Island

Yas Island should please everyone: Formula 1 circuit, Ferrari World, Warner Bros and Yas Waterworld theme parks, as well as Yas Mall, the largest mall of Abu Dhabi, and a tour in the luxury hotel Yas Abu Dhabi, Yas Links Golf or the trendy Yas Beach.

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Central Square of Yas Mall at Yas Island Abu Dhabi ©Odyfolio

Image Yas Island, the island dedicated to leisure Yas Island, the island dedicated to leisure

#5: Abu Dhabi desert safari

The desert safari excursion is certainly very cliche activity, but essential to your stay in the United Arab Emirates. To have a quality tour at the right price and ensure availability, it is better to book in advance.

#6: Abu Dhabi corniche

The Abu Dhabi Corniche is a pleasant promenade popular with Abu Dhabi residents. It's an opportunity to discover many of Abu Dhabi's iconic sights like the Heritage Village or the fish market.

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Water sports in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates ©Odyfolio

Image Visiting the corniche of Abu Dhabi Visiting the corniche of Abu Dhabi

#7: The desert of Liwa

If the organized safari did not plainly fulfill your appetite for adventure, rent a car and set off to explore the Liwa desert. Follow our itinerary and discover lost in the desert the unexpected automobile museum, a fabulous hotel surrounded by immaculate dunes (the Qasr al Sarab), the route of the forts of the oasis of Liwa or the highest dune in the country.

Image Itinerary to visit the Liwa desert and Al Gharbia Itinerary to visit the Liwa desert and Al Gharbia
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Panorama of palm groves and dunes from the roof terrace of the stronghold Al Hamily, oasis of Liwa, United Arab Emirates. ©Odyfolio

Image TOP 5 most beautiful hotels in the Liwa desert TOP 5 most beautiful hotels in the Liwa desert

#8: Visit of the historical city of Al Ain

Located less than two hours drive from Abu Dhabi (and Dubai), the city of Al Ain is in the emirate of Abu Dhabi. Built around a green oasis, it is a bit cooler than on the coast.

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Paved street crossing the Oasis of Al Ain, United Arab Emirates ©Odyfolio

Image Itinerary to visit Al Ain Itinerary to visit Al Ain

#9: The animals of Sir Bani Yas Island

In the Al Gharbia region, on an island off the desert coast, Sir Bani Yas Island is the sanctuary for thousands of animals. Book a night in one of the hotels on the island to enjoy this unique place.

Image Sir Bani Yas Island Sir Bani Yas Island

#10: Stroll in a luxury hotel in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi develops strongly the tourist sector and many hotels have been built. While waiting the city to be busy with tourists, it is the opportunity to stay in brand new luxury hotels at very low prices (much cheaper than in Dubai anyway).

Image What are the best hotels in Abu Dhabi What are the best hotels in Abu Dhabi Image TOP 5 best hotels in Yas Island Abu Dhabi TOP 5 best hotels in Yas Island Abu Dhabi Image Best hotels in Al Ain Best hotels in Al Ain Image TOP 5 most beautiful hotels in the Liwa desert TOP 5 most beautiful hotels in the Liwa desert