Abu Dhabi Attractions
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
The mosque is one of the world’s largest and was the vision of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan – the Founding Father of the UAE. He envisaged the creation of a welcoming and cultural haven that inspires people from all backgrounds.
Even the construction was a cultural collaboration. The grand structure was designed and built by skilled teams from all over the world, including 1,300 Iranian artisans who hand-knotted the main prayer hall’s carpet – the world’s largest.
On your journey through the marbled halls, you’ll see one-of-a-kind treasures, including gold-plated Swarovski chandeliers, the courtyard’s vast marble mosaic artwork and reflective pools that mirror some of the many amethyst and jasper embedded columns. When you’re outside, look up to see the mosque’s four stunning minarets that proudly stand at 106 metres. The building is still an active mosque that welcomes up to 50,000 worshippers daily. Bear this in mind when planning your visit. Respectful clothing is a requirement for visitors to enter Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, and on Fridays, the main prayer hall is closed to visitors between 12 pm and 3 pm as Friday prayers take place.
Reference: Department of Culture and Tourism
Qasr Al Watan
Qasr Al Watan is a working Presidential palace in Abu Dhabi and a majestic cultural landmark that invites you to discover the rich legacy of knowledge and tradition that has shaped the UAE’s journey. More than just a traditional palace, Qasr Al Watan boosts cultural understanding of the nation and emphasises its incredible history. The palace stands as an icon of Abu Dhabi’s skyline with a design exquisitely crafted to tribute to its Arabian heritage and artistry. You will feel the grandeur as you enter the grounds. The structure and open halls echo its significance in Emirati culture.
Qasr Al Watan places a strong emphasis on learning and knowledge sharing. Here, you can expect to learn about the formation of the UAE and the country’s governing traditions and values. The palace highlights Arab contributions to various fields of knowledge and gives you access to halls typically reserved for official summits. Inside, you’ll also find the Qasr Al Watan Library and the House of Knowledge, where history and culture buffs and scholars can explore a vast collection of books, manuscripts and other resources about the UAE and learn about the nation’s progressive journey.
Be astounded by the spectacular light and sound show that celebrates the UAE’s journey in three breathtaking acts that unfold in front of the main palace every 30 minutes after sundown, with the final entry taken 30 minutes before showtime. Timings are subject to change.
Reference: Department of Culture and Tourism
Saadiyat Island
Welcome to Saadiyat Island, your serene paradise that brings culture and calm together. Here, you’ll find the iconic Louvre Abu Dhabi and other heroes of Abu Dhabi’s cultural scene, like Manarat Al Saadiyat and the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and Zayed National Museum, all designed by Pritzker Architecture Prize winners. If you want to be enlightened by art, history and culture, Saadiyat Island is the perfect place to base yourself, especially with a collection of top-rated resorts nearby. Feel the sand between your toes and take time to recharge on one of Saadiyat Island’s beaches. Pristine white sand and pockets of greenery make these beaches unique, but be on the lookout for Hawksbill turtles, the critically endangered species that call this place home.
If you’re not staying on the island, put a day aside to venture out and explore as there are so many things to do on Saadiyat Island. Enjoy a round of golf at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, shop and refuel at one of many Mamsha Al Saadiyat cafes and stores, or sip and dip at Saadiyat Beach Club.
Reference: Department of Culture and Tourism
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is known for many record-breaking achievements, but it’s also known for its striking red roof blazoned with Ferrari’s iconic prancing horse logo. Get up close and up high for a daring Roof Walk. See Yas Island and the Abu Dhabi skyline while strapped in for a daring walk along the theme park’s structure. You can also unleash your inner daredevil for a zip line experience which flies through the world’s highest rollercoaster loop!
The Flying Aces ride is where you can experience the world’s highest roller-coaster loop. Climb 63 metres at a 51-degree angle, and enjoy your ride! Do you have what it takes to join the Ferrari F1™ pit crew? Check out the Tyre Change Experience test to see if you can match the pace. Over at the Turbo Track, you can feel the unique force of an epic zero-gravity fall. Those who enjoy a more relaxed experience will love Bell’Italia, a ride that lets you explore a mini Italy in a Ferrari 250 California, circa 1958. The ride also showcases other Italian landmarks such as the Amalfi Coast, Monza Racetrack, the Colosseum di Roma, Venezia and Maranello, the home of Ferrari. You’ll also find a Family Zone, family-friendly attractions, state-of-the-art simulators, electric-powered go-karts, live shows and an inspiring collection of racing memorabilia.
Reference: Department of Culture and Tourism
Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental Abu Dhabi
Emirates Palace, Mandarin Oriental Abu Dhabi is where luxurious comfort, impeccable service and unique dining experiences come together in an enchanting setting. From a distance, the hotel looks like something out of an Arabian fairytale, with the main building alone stretching over one kilometre from one wing to the other and the gardens spreading across 100 hectares. Walking in, you will find a sense of deep relaxation washing over you. With a pristine 1.3km private beach, stunning pools, a private marina and natural bay, a beautiful spa and highly-rated dining venues – you can’t go wrong with a holiday here.
Emirates Palace, Mandarin Oriental Abu DHabi is one of the most remarkable buildings in Abu Dhabi when it comes to architecture. Picture this: During the day, the palace’s golden exterior contrasts with the lush greenery, silvery water fountains, and crisp blue sky. And at night, the hotel’s lighting changes subtly, with an ethereal rainbow effect displayed on the main dome. Featuring 114 domes, the palace’s central dome is a striking 72.6 metres above the ground, meticulously crafted with gold, mother of pearl and crystals. The building also boasts 1,002 chandeliers – the largest weighing 2.5 tons – with other photo-worthy features, including two handmade wall displays portraying the palace.
Reference: Department of Culture and Tourism
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi drives the sustainable growth of Abu Dhabi’s culture and tourism sectors, fuels economic progress and helps achieve the UAE capital’s wider global ambitions.
Visit the website to find out more information about other Abu Dhabi’s attractions and destinations.
