Joanna James
The UAE’s vibrant capital city, Abu Dhabi, is a dazzling blend of modernity and tradition, with so much to see and things to do. For travellers headed to Abu Dhabi, these are the attractions that are not to be missed in the exotic Gulf city. Come, treat yourself to a city getaway like never before.
No matter where you go in the Middle East, your holiday would hardly be complete without experiencing the region’s sprawling golden deserts. So, get off the tarmac and away from the towering skyscrapers to hit the glistening sands for a change of scenery. Awaiting you are some adventurous Arabs clad in white with their mighty SUVs, ready to take you on a stomach-churning roller coaster ride through the sands and up and down rolling dunes.
Abu Dhabi basks in the glory of being home to the largest mosque in the UAE, the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. It is a destination on almost every Abu Dhabi itinerary and a site without which your visit to Abu Dhabi wouldn’t be complete. The sacred mosque is one of the most important religious sites in the country, but with its pristine white marble domes, intricate carvings, and the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet, it is also a masterpiece of architecture and grandeur.
As the sun goes down and the azure blue skies slowly fade away, there’s no place you’d rather be than the Doha Corniche. Nothing makes for a lovely evening in the Gulf city like the seven kilometres of waterfront promenade right in the heart of the metropolis. Feast your eyes on the striking cityscape, set against the backdrop of pinkish oranges and overlooking the emerald waters. For an even more fun-filled experience, head over to Corniche Beach, an excellent spot for walking, cycling, or simply unwinding on the beach.
For those looking for a moment of peace and quiet, Mangrove National Park makes the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the lively metropolis. Nature lovers will certainly appreciate the serene beauty of the mangrove park and the diverse marine and bird life present. After a day of delightful nature exploration, retreat to a fine Abu Dhabi resort the likes of Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara.
One not to be missed by the art and history buffs to the capital city, the Louvre Abu Dhabi is a beautiful art museum set on Abu Dhabi’s iconic Saadiyat Island. Designed by renowned architect Jean Nouvel, the museum’s unique dome structure creates a mesmerising “rain of light” effect. Inside, it showcases an incredible collection of ancient and contemporary artworks from around the world.
A world of fun for the young as well as the young at heart, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is a mostly indoors theme park located on Abu Dhabi’s popular Yas Island. It is the world's first Ferrari-themed park and is the home of Formula Rossa, which has held the record for the world’s fastest roller coaster since 2010.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
