Are you a travel freak and looking for places to travel? Then, it would be best to visit the golden city of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi. It is the capital and the second most populated city of UAE, with eye-catching places. This vast yet beautiful city is known for its rich history, Umrah Taxi, fascinating architecture, presidential palace, and everything else that gives off major Arab vibes.
Suppose you are on a short budget and cannot afford to go to expensive places, such as Dubai. In that case, there is no need to worry because Abu Dhabi awaits you. It offers the same experience but with more information about what Arab people are actually like. Therefore, if you are ready to dive into their culture and places, here are some of the best spots to visit while you are there.
10 Top-Rated Attractions To Visit In Abu Dhabi In 2024
We guarantee you that the following attractions are surely going to give you an experience you are never going to forget:
1. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
When in Abu Dhabi, the first thing to visit is the city’s largest and most beautiful mosque. As soon as you sit in the breathtaking Sheikh Zayed Grand mosque, your experience will be worth it. It was constructed between the years 1994 and 2007. They made this mosque for 20 years, which was worth the wait. The architecture is the fusion of Islamic, Arab and modern elements that speak about their beauty on another level.
Design elements extracted from the greatest dynasties, like the Mameluke, Ottoman and Fatimid, have made this place harmonious and modern. This mosque is by far the most popular sightseeing attraction, dedicated to the memory of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al Nahyan. This alluring and exquisite location allows every individual, irrespective of religion, to enter, making it more special. If you want to get to this location quickly and conveniently, book a guided tour from any travel agency offering the whole Abu Dhabi city tour.
2.Louvre Abu Dhabi
Coming up next is the attraction that cost approximately 1 billion Euros to construct this museum.
When visiting Abu Dhabi, individuals who want to embrace artistic vibes must see this place. Louvre is an art and civilisation museum that is highly modern. Once you enter this place, you’ll instantly feel both Arab and French rich vibes. The art included in this museum is solely adapted to bridge the gap between Eastern and Western art.
With its stunning structure, it is located in the Saadiyat Island Cultural District. Moreover, it is the largest museum on the Arabian Peninsula, covering approximately 24,000 sq ft. It is designed to incorporate a web-patterned dome structure, letting sunlight enter during the daytime. The overall theme is meant to give its viewers a representation of rays of sunlight passing through date palm leaves in an oasis.
3.Ferrari World
Ferrari World is the first Ferrari-branded theme park situated on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. Didn’t we all imagine, as kids, one day owning a Ferrari? It does not matter if you still don’t own it because you can always visit the Ferrari world. It also has the world’s fastest and most exciting rollercoaster, Formula Rossa. It was launched in 2007 and covers approximately 86000 square meters.
Apart from rollercoasters, this theme park includes go-karts, family rides like driving an actual Ferrari, and thrill rides for children. It also features many shows like Cinema Maranello and the Tyre exchange show, all based on the owner of Ferrari. Thus, book a ride from Abu Dhabi Gate City and have the adventure of your lifetime.
4.Observation Deck At 300
If Dubai has Burj Khalifa, then Abu Dhabi has its observational deck at 300. It offers exquisite skyline views from the 74th floor of Jumeirah at Etihad Towers. You need to pay an entry fee to view the skylines, but that entry fee is adjustable because they also have a café serving high tea for their guests. Imagine having a delicious high tea overlooking the skylines and the whole city underneath you; you will enjoy this. It is open from 10 am to 7 pm daily, but you can always inquire about its changing timings before visiting.
5. Warner Bros World
If you are travelling with kids, do not forget to visit the Warner Bros world. It is an indoor amusement park where your kids can relive the famous cartoons created by WWB. It has numerous adventurous rides that will make the rider’s moment memorable and thrilling. For instance, the Scarecrow raid, the Joker funhouse, Justice League War world attacks, and many others. The area comprises six main theme areas: Gotham City, Metropolis, Cartoon Junction, bedrock, Warner Bros Plaza and Dynamite Glutch.
Warner Bros World is located near the Ferrari world. So you ride a Ferrari and make your kids’ day memorable by taking them to this amusement park, all in just one day. The park has at least 29 rides, restaurants, attractions, shops, etc. Its daily timings are from 10 am to 8 pm except for Thursday and Friday.
6.Falcon Hospital
You might wonder why a hospital is on this list, but Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital is no ordinary hospital. As depicted by its name, it is a hospital for Falcons. It treats them but grants tourists access to see them from all corners of Arabia. This place will help you understand the connection between Arab culture and falcons. Visiting this hospital in Al Shamkhah will also help you realise how loyal and fierce these birds are.
7.Yas Waterworld
An Emirati-themed water park, which is located on Yas Island includes more than 40 rides, slides and attractions. It also has the biggest water slide in the Arabian Peninsula: Bubble’s Barrel, Rush Rider and Bandit Bomber. The theme of this park is based on a controversial story about a girl named Dana who was brave and loyal to her family. She went on a journey to get a lost pearl back that once brought happiness and prosperity to her village.
On her journey, animals helped and guided her, while people determined to steal that pearl away from her followed her. All the shops and restaurants carry the theme of this story. If you want to hear the accurate UAE folk story while having a fun experience, hire a tour guide from the city terminal in Abu Dhabi.
8.Desert Safari
How can you miss the experience of an actual desert in a city that once was a desert? If you are short on time, then desert safari is the right place. You can book a bus or a jeep from the fun city of Abu Dhabi and reach this place. The desert contains the most giant dunes in the world. They serve as a massive playground for buggies, sand boarding, and camel trekking. Besides, you can also set up a desert camp and spend a night under the stars.
Desert Safari is a place that is guaranteed to offer the official traditional life of an Arabian man.
If you plan to go in the evening and daytime with less time to spend, book your trip from Masdar City, Abu Dhabi. It will ensure that on your short trip, you get delicious food with a view of belly dancing.
9.Saadiyat Beach
Saadiyat Beach, along the tranquil shoreline of Saadiyat Island, is a glorious gem of Abu Dhabi. Its allure lies in the sun-kissed sands, blue waters and the fusion of natural beauty and cultural richness. What sets it apart is its association with the Saadiyat Cultural District. The beach often hosts art and cultural events that create an immersive experience for visitors.
The history of Saadiyat Island dates back centuries. It was once primarily a fishing and pearling site. Its transformation into a cultural and tourism hub signifies the city’s vision of uniting heritage with modernity. Opening times for the beach typically coincide with daylight hours. It allows guests to bask in the sun, engage in water activities, or enjoy a leisurely walk along the shore. Sunsets here are captivating, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, offering an attractive sight to behold.
10.Al Ain Safari
Al Ain Safari is a thrilling wildlife national park in the heart of Abu Dhabi’s desert landscape. It is a must-see place for nature enthusiasts and animal lovers. This extensive safari park offers an immersive experience. Visitors can witness diverse animals thriving in habitats like their natural environments. The history of Al Ain Safari is deep-rooted in the city’s commitment to conservation and education. Its establishment is dedicated to working for wildlife preservation and environmental awareness.
The park typically operates during daylight hours, inviting guests on safari drives or guided tours through different zones, such as the African, Arabian, and Safari Village. The experience at Al Ain Safari goes beyond mere observation. It offers interactive encounters and educational sessions, shedding light on the importance of biodiversity and wildlife conservation. From close encounters with magnificent giraffes to observing rare species in their natural habitats, the safari offers a memorable experience.
Final Thoughts
Abu Dhabi is equally good as Dubai but is just underrated due to Dubai’s glamour. However, visiting all the above places in this city would be best for enjoying a wonderful UAE trip on a budget. There are many other tourist spots in Abu Dhabi, but these are the top-rated ones in 2024. These destinations invite travellers to immerse themselves in a journey of discovery. As a result, they will leave the city with memories of a blend of history, luxury, and natural beauty.
