Have you visited Abu Dhabi recently?
You’ll be amazed by how fast this city is developing, and by its tourism infrastructure that now rivals the best cities in the Gulf. Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates, the largest emirate in size, and the most expansive. This has made it easy to find the top 10 tourist destinations in Abu Dhabi, thanks to the many amazing places to visit in Abu Dhabi.
And if you’re someone who loves to travel frequently, the Jawwak feature from almatar is your window to achieving your travel dreams.
Jawwak is the loyalty program from almatar, and through it, you can enjoy many benefits like points, services, discounts, special rates, and early booking prices.
10 Tourist Destinations in Abu Dhabi You Should Visit
The Emirate of Abu Dhabi includes many incredible tourist attractions, and here are our selections which we consider to be the top places to visit in Abu Dhabi if you decide to travel there:
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Sir Bani Yas Island
A natural island located in the Al Dhafra region, west of Abu Dhabi, it is the largest natural island in the UAE and home to thousands of animals and plants in a unique natural environment.
Top activities:
- Going on a safari in the Arabian Wildlife Park to see animals like the Arabian oryx, gazelles, and giraffes roaming freely in nature.
- Renting a mountain bike or hiking along the island’s mountainous trails to experience an adventure amid the hills and rocks and enjoy birdwatching and close-up views of wildlife.
- Engaging in water activities such as kayaking in the mangroves surrounding the island, or snorkeling to explore coral reefs and marine life in the clear waters.
Address: Sir Bani Yas Island, Al Dhafra Region, Abu Dhabi.
Working hours: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Entrance fees: There is no fee to enter the island itself; however, the Arabian Wildlife Park on the island requires a separate entry fee.
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Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi
A massive water park located on Yas Island and considered one of the best water parks in the world. The park features over 40 rides and slides suitable for all ages, providing a thrilling water adventure.
Top activities:
- Sliding on the giant water coaster and experiencing the suspended Formula Rossa water ride that goes across the park.
- Wave challenge in the artificial wave pool and riding the bubble barrel that creates the largest surfable wave in the world.
- Enjoying family time in water play areas for children, such as the interactive water fortress and smaller slides.
- Relaxing after the adventure by floating along the lazy river around the park, or renting a private cabana to unwind by the pools with food and beverage service.
Address: Yas Waterworld, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.
Working hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM; on Friday: 1:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Entrance fees: AED 270 for adults and AED 220 for children.
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Saadiyat Island
A luxurious tourist island in Abu Dhabi that combines nature, culture, and luxury. Known for its pristine white sandy beaches and high-end resorts, it is also home to world-renowned cultural institutions.
Top activities:
- Relaxing on Saadiyat Public Beach with its soft white sand and clear turquoise waters; visitors can swim and sunbathe.
- Practicing water sports like paddleboarding in calm settings.
- Walking through the dunes and nature reserves on the island; Saadiyat is a habitat for endangered hawksbill turtles.
- Playing golf at the Saadiyat Beach Golf Club with its stunning ocean views.
Address: Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi.
Working hours: 8:00 AM – 7:30 PM
Entrance fees: There is no general entry fee for Saadiyat Island; it’s open and accessible to the public, except for some facilities.
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SeaWorld Abu Dhabi
A modern marine theme park on Yas Island, opened in 2023, and the first of its kind in the region.
Top activities:
- Watching tens of thousands of marine creatures, including sharks, swimming behind floor-to-ceiling glass walls.
- Attending entertaining live shows hosted by the park, notably the dolphin show, as well as performances by sea lions and seabirds that delight families of all ages.
- Experiencing thrilling rides and simulations, including modern roller coasters that take riders on fast-paced journeys simulating the rush of marine creatures.
- Visiting the Polar Region zone to see penguins in their cold, natural environment, offering a deeper understanding of their lifestyle and habitats.
Address: SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, Yas Island.
Working hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entrance fees: AED 375 for adults.
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Snow Abu Dhabi
A brand-new indoor snow entertainment park opened in 2023 at Reem Mall, Reem Island, Abu Dhabi. It is one of the largest indoor snow parks in the world.
Top activities:
- Playing in the snow and building snowmen in the Snowflake Garden.
- Sliding down snowy slopes.
- Riding unique winter-themed rides, such as the snow train.
- Experiencing thrilling activities like the giant snowball roll, rolling inside a transparent ball over the snow, or gliding on the zip-line.
Address: Snow Abu Dhabi, Second Floor, Reem Mall, Reem Island.
Working hours: 10:00 AM – 11:59 PM
Entrance fees: Starting from AED 200.
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Emirates Park Zoo
A popular family zoo that houses a large and diverse collection of animals from around the world.
Top activities:
- Attending the exciting sea lion show in the zoo’s open-air theater, where trained seals perform acrobatic and entertaining acts.
- Feeding animals and interacting closely with them; the zoo allows visitors to feed some animals under expert supervision.
- Enjoying unique experiences like dining with a cheetah, where you can have a meal safely near its enclosure and observe the animal up close.
- Exploring the zoo and its various attractions.
Address: Emirates Park Zoo, Street 12, Al Bahiyah Area, Abu Dhabi.
Working hours: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Entrance fees: AED 40 per person; free entry for children aged two and under.
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Ferrari World
A unique indoor theme park inspired by the Italian Ferrari brand, and the first of its kind in the world.
Top activities:
- Riding the legendary Formula Rossa roller coaster for the ultimate adrenaline rush, accelerating from 0 to 240 km/h in under five seconds.
- Challenging yourself on record-breaking rides like Flying Aces, which features the world’s highest loop.
- Enjoying family-friendly activities and events inside the park.
- Exploring a different side of Ferrari through the classic car exhibition, showcasing rare and historic Ferrari sports cars.
Address: Ferrari World, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.
Working hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Entrance fees: AED 345 for a one-day ticket per adult.
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Corniche Beach
A stunning public beach stretching approximately 2 km along Abu Dhabi’s waterfront, parallel to Corniche Street. It features soft white sands and turquoise shallow waters, as well as a stylish promenade lined with landscaped gardens, palm trees, and sea-view benches.
Top activities:
- Swimming and relaxing in the calm and refreshing waters of the Gulf, sunbathing on clean sand.
- Corniche Beach offers free sports facilities, including volleyball and beach soccer courts, as well as dedicated paths for walking, jogging, and cycling along the beach. Visitors can rent bikes from nearby stations and enjoy a ride along the corniche, taking in the sea breeze and views.
- Trying out light water sports; snorkeling fans can explore marine life near the shore where waters are clear and shallow. Small boat and jet ski rentals are available near the Corniche Marina.
- Strolling and relaxing while watching the sunset.
Address: Corniche Beach, along Corniche Street, Abu Dhabi.
Entrance fees: Free access to most open areas of Corniche Beach.
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Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
An awe-inspiring Islamic architectural masterpiece and the largest mosque in the UAE, and one of the largest in the world, accommodating about 40,000 worshippers at once.
Top activities:
- It’s recommended to join one of the free guided tours offered by the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center several times a day. Expert guides take you on a 45–60-minute tour explaining the design and construction details.
- Upon entering, you’ll be amazed by the vast white marble courtyard, decorated with the world’s largest floral marble mosaic.
- Inside the main prayer hall, you’ll be struck by the serene grandeur. For instance, it houses the world’s largest handwoven carpet, registered in the Guinness World Records.
- Night viewing of the mosque is a must. After sunset, the mosque is lit by a unique lighting system that casts soft bluish-white hues on the domes and façades, with projections resembling clouds or moon phases, creating a majestic spiritual ambiance.
Address: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street, Abu Dhabi.
Working hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM; Friday: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Entrance fees: Free for all visitors.
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Louvre Abu Dhabi
A modern global art museum born from a partnership between Abu Dhabi and France, and the first of its kind in the Arab world.
Top activities:
- Louvre Abu Dhabi houses a rich permanent collection across 12 main galleries, covering various eras and human civilizations.
- The museum hosts several temporary exhibitions each year focusing on specific themes, periods, or artists, often in collaboration with global cultural institutions.
- The museum is not just about what’s inside; the architecture itself is a masterpiece. You can stroll under the dome in the open air and enjoy the “rain of light” effect as sunlight filters through.
- The museum offers various programs and events that enrich the visitor experience, especially for families and children.
Address: Louvre Abu Dhabi, Cultural District, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi.
Working hours: Open every day except Monday, from 10:00 AM to midnight.
Entrance fees: AED 65 for adults; free for visitors under 18, people of determination and their companions, and seniors over 60.
FAQs About Tourist Attractions in Abu Dhabi
What is the best time to visit Abu Dhabi?
The best time to visit Abu Dhabi is from November to March, when the weather is mild and ideal for outdoor activities.
Do Abu Dhabi tourist attractions require entry fees?
Some attractions are free, like Corniche Beach and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, while others like Ferrari World and Yas Waterworld require paid tickets.
Is Abu Dhabi suitable for families with kids?
Yes, Abu Dhabi is full of family-friendly activities like Emirates Park Zoo, Snow Abu Dhabi, and SeaWorld, suitable for all ages.
What are the most adventurous activities to do?
You can go on safari at Sir Bani Yas Island, ride the world’s fastest roller coaster at Ferrari World, or slide down snowy slopes at Snow Abu Dhabi.
Can you benefit from the Jawwak program while traveling to Abu Dhabi?
Absolutely; the Jawwak program from almatar offers you points, rewards, and discounts on your trips and travel bookings.