Abu Dhabi
United Arab Emirates
Attractions & Events in Abu Dhabi
Discover the top attractions, events, and festivals in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Top Attractions
Al Ain Oasis
A UNESCO World Heritage Site with lush date palm plantations and ancient falaj irrigation systems.
Tips: Rent a bike to explore the shaded pathways. Combine with a visit to Al Ain Zoo for a day trip.
Al Maryah Island
A modern leisure and business district featuring luxury shopping, fine dining, and trendy nightlife spots.
Tips: Ideal for upscale dining and shopping. Visit in the evening for vibrant nightlife at the waterfront.
Al Mina Fish Market
A bustling market where visitors can browse fresh seafood and have their selection cooked on-site.
Tips: Go early for the best catch. Bargain with vendors and try local seafood dishes at nearby eateries.
Corniche Beach
A beautiful waterfront promenade with pristine beaches, walking paths, cycling tracks, and playgrounds.
Tips: Public and family sections are available. Bring sunscreen and water; beach facilities and rentals are available onsite.
Emirates Palace
A luxurious hotel and cultural landmark, known for its opulent architecture, gardens, and high tea experience.
Tips: Non-guests can book dining or afternoon tea. Dress smart-casual. Photography is permitted in public spaces.
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
The world’s first Ferrari-branded theme park with thrilling rides, including the world’s fastest roller coaster.
Tips: Buy tickets online for discounts. Suitable for thrill-seekers and families. Check height restrictions for rides.
Heritage Village
A reconstructed traditional oasis village showcasing Bedouin life, crafts, and heritage.
Tips: Great for history buffs and families. Visit the craft workshops and souvenir shops for local handicrafts.
Louvre Abu Dhabi
A world-class art museum featuring works from ancient to contemporary times, housed in a striking modern building on Saadiyat Island.
Tips: Book tickets online to skip queues. Allocate at least 2-3 hours to explore. Family-friendly activities available.
Mangrove National Park
A protected natural reserve offering kayaking, paddleboarding, and boat tours through scenic mangrove forests.
Tips: Book guided eco-tours for the best experience. Early mornings offer cooler temperatures and more wildlife sightings.
Qasr Al Hosn
Abu Dhabi’s oldest stone building, now a museum showcasing the city's history, culture, and development.
Tips: Guided tours are recommended for a deeper understanding. Photography is allowed in most areas.
Saadiyat Public Beach
A serene and eco-friendly beach with white sands and crystal-clear waters, popular for swimming and relaxation.
Tips: Entry fee applies. Facilities include sunbed rentals and cafes. Look out for nesting turtles in season.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
One of the world’s largest mosques, known for its stunning architecture and intricate design, accommodating over 40,000 worshippers.
Tips: Dress modestly (cover arms, legs, and head for women). Free guided tours are available. Arrive early to avoid crowds.
The Observation Deck at 300
The highest vantage point in Abu Dhabi, offering panoramic views from the 74th floor of Etihad Towers.
Tips: Best visited at sunset for spectacular views. Entry fee includes a credit for refreshments.
Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi
An indoor theme park featuring rides and attractions based on iconic Warner Bros. characters and franchises.
Tips: Ideal for families and children. Arrive early to avoid long lines. Check the schedule for character meet-and-greets.
Yas Marina Circuit
The venue of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, offering tours and the chance to drive or cycle on the Formula 1 track.
Tips: Pre-book driving experiences. Cycling nights are held weekly. Suitable for motorsport enthusiasts.
Events & Festivals
Abu Dhabi International Book Fair
An annual event bringing together publishers, booksellers, and cultural organizations to promote literature and the publishing industry.
When: April
Tips: Check the official schedule for author signings and panel discussions; early arrival is recommended to avoid crowds.
Abu Dhabi International Jazz Festival
A week-long festival featuring performances by leading jazz artists, Latin musicians, and dancers.
When: April
Tips: Book tickets early, as popular performances sell out quickly; explore nearby dining options for a complete evening experience.
Abu Dhabi Shopping Festival
A city-wide shopping event with significant discounts across malls and retail outlets.
When: December to January
Tips: Plan your shopping list in advance; weekdays are less crowded than weekends.
Liwa Moreeb Dune Festival
An annual motorsports festival featuring car and bike races on the Moreeb Dune, along with cultural activities.
When: December to January
Tips: Bring sun protection and stay hydrated; arrive early to secure good viewing spots for races.
Al Dhafra Festival
A celebration of Emirati culture with events like camel races, traditional markets, and folk music performances.
When: February
Tips: Wear comfortable clothing suitable for desert conditions; consider guided tours to fully appreciate the cultural significance.
6 Hours of Abu Dhabi
An endurance race for sports cars held at Yas Marina Circuit, attracting motorsport enthusiasts worldwide.
When: January
Tips: Purchase tickets in advance and consider booking hospitality packages for the best viewing experience.
Abu Dhabi International Dance Festival
A three-day event featuring dance performances, parties, and workshops with artists from around the world.
When: January
Tips: Participate in workshops to enhance your experience; evening events may have dress codes, so check in advance.
Mother of the Nation Festival
An outdoor festival honoring H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak with cultural activities, dining, and entertainment.
When: January
Tips: Family-friendly with activities for all ages; check the event schedule for special performances and fireworks displays.
Abu Dhabi Festival
A month-long celebration of Arab arts and culture, featuring music, dance, and literary events.
When: March
Tips: Check the official program for event timings; some performances may require advance booking.
Abu Dhabi Art
An art fair featuring galleries, art and design foundations, and educational programs.
When: November
Tips: Attend guided tours for deeper insights; some artworks may be available for purchase.
Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
A Formula One motor racing event held at Yas Marina Circuit, featuring world-class drivers and entertainment.
When: November
Tips: Book tickets well in advance; consider hospitality packages for premium experiences.
Taste of Abu Dhabi
A three-day food festival showcasing local and international chefs, with live cooking demonstrations and tastings.
When: November
Tips: Purchase tasting vouchers upon arrival; attend early sessions to avoid long queues.
Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival
An annual event showcasing the UAE's cultural heritage with exhibitions, performances, and traditional crafts.
When: November to February
Tips: Allocate several hours to explore the various pavilions; evening visits offer cooler temperatures and vibrant atmospheres.
Abu Dhabi Science Festival
A ten-day event promoting science and technology through workshops and interactive exhibitions for all ages.
When: September
Tips: Ideal for families; plan your visit during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds.