Abu Dhabi is no ordinary destination, and once you visit, you will see exactly why. You could admire futuristic architecture, encounter exotic wildlife or traverse golden dunes… and that’s just the tip of the proverbial iceberg! So, if you are ready to explore, here’s where you should go.
City Escapades and Beyond
During a stay in the city, you could marvel at the breathtaking Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque or soak in the artistic wonders of the Louvre Abu Dhabi. Over on Yas Island, you can ride the world’s fastest rollercoaster at Ferrari World, splash around at Yas Waterworld, or meet your favourite characters at Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi. Don’t miss shopping at the Abu Dhabi Mall or gaining rich insights at the Heritage Village.
The Wilds of Sir Bani Yas
Head off the beaten path to Sir Bani Yas Island, home to the Arabian Wildlife Park, where over 17,000 animals roam freely, including giraffes, cheetahs, and the rare Arabian oryx. Properties here like Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Yamm Villa Resort offer guided wildlife drives, nature walks, and even horse riding. On a getaway at such a resort in Abu Dhabi, you can enjoy mountain biking, snorkelling and exploring ancient archaeological sites too.
Thriving Mangroves
The emirate is also home to lush mangroves teeming with wildlife. Mangrove National Park is a great example and offers a peaceful escape, best explored on a kayaking adventure, where you can paddle through winding waterways surrounded by nature. Keep your eyes peeled… you might just spot herons, flamingos, turtles, or even crabs scuttling along the shore.
The Empty Quarter Beckons
No trip to Abu Dhabi is complete without venturing into the Empty Quarter (Rub’ al Khali), the world’s largest sand desert. Movie buffs might recognise this epic landscape as it served as a backdrop for Arrakis in Dune (don’t worry, no giant sandworms here!). Whether you are dune bashing in a 4×4, camel trekking at sunrise or sunset, or horse riding across a sea of sand, the desert is pure magic.