Joanna James
Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is a vibrant city of modern luxury and rich cultural heritage, seamlessly blending into a perfect holiday destination. From theme parks to enchanting desert landscapes, Abu Dhabi offers a diverse range of attractions for travellers—explore 5 of the emirate's very best, and curate the ultimate itinerary.
Abu Dhabi is a mecca for motorsports, and for adrenaline junkies, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is an unmissable destination. Located on Yas Island, this world-renowned theme park is home to the world’s fastest roller coaster, Formula Rossa, along with various Ferrari-themed attractions and simulators. Just next door, Yas Marina Circuit hosts the annual Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, offering visitors the chance to experience high-speed racing action. Guests can even sit behind the wheel and channel their favourite F1 champion, with options for drag racing and Formula 3000 experiences—some of the most exciting activities in Abu Dhabi.
The Empty Quarter, also known as Rub' al Khali, is the largest sand desert in the world and provides the ultimate playground for your next dune adventure. Visitors can embark on dune-bashing and sandboarding excursions across the golden sands, or navigate the towering slopes atop a camel. The desert’s stunning landscapes, rolling dunes, and mesmerising sunsets make it an ideal location for photography and a unique Arabian experience under the starlit sky. For those staying back after dark, visitors have the opportunity to experience authentic Bedouin traditions at a desert camp, with delectable feasts, mint tea, belly dancing, and more.
Located a few hours west of the city, Sir Bani Yas Island is a hidden paradise, surrounded by the glistening waters of the Persian Gulf. What was once a barren desert, this island is now home to a thriving Arabian Wildlife Park, thanks to conservation efforts spanning over 30 years. Visitors have the opportunity to witness rare, free-roaming animals such as Arabian oryx, gazelles, and cheetahs, with excursions available through Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort. For the adventurous traveller, activities such as kayaking, hiking, and snorkelling are also available, from the otherworldly wadi terrain to the crystal-clear waters surrounding the island. The island's resorts also offer bespoke experiences, which include private beach dinners featuring freshly caught seafood.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site on the city's outskirts, Al Ain Oasis is a lush green dream in the middle of the desert. Featuring thousands of date palm trees and ancient falaj irrigation systems, this oasis offers a refreshing retreat from the commotion and metropolitan streets of Abu Dhabi. Just a short drive away, Al Ain Zoo is another fantastic family-friendly attraction centred around wildlife, home to richly diverse desert fauna, from lions to giraffes and endangered species. The zoo also focuses on conservation efforts and offers engaging educational programmes.
For spectacular panoramas, Jebel Hafeet is the perfect destination. This towering mountain, located near Al Ain, provides visitors with a scenic drive along its winding roads, leading to stunning viewpoints at the summit. The area is also known for its ancient tombs, hot springs, and rugged landscapes, making it an excellent spot for those seeking adventure and the tranquility of the natural world.
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.
