Abu Dhabi is the capital and the largest city of the United Arab Emirates. It’s a country that combines tradition and modernity, desert and sea, culture and adventure. Abu Dhabi has something for everyone, whether you are looking for history, art, nature, shopping, or entertainment. One of the most popular and exciting activities that you can enjoy desert safari in Abu Dhabi, which lets you explore the vast and majestic desert landscape of the city. In this article, we will give you some recommendations on the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi. These recommendations include the must-see attractions, the hidden gems, the best time to go and the tips to make the most of your trip.
Must-See Attractions in Abu Dhabi
If you have limited time in Abu Dhabi, or you want to see the highlights of the city, these are the places that you should not miss:
- The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a stunning architectural masterpiece. This is one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in the world. It so large that it can accommodate up to 40,000 worshippers. Its other features include 82 domes, 1,096 columns, 24-carat gold chandeliers, and the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet.
- The Louvre Abu Dhabi, a museum that showcases the history and diversity of human civilization through a collection of artworks and artifacts from different cultures and periods. It is the first universal museum in the Arab world and the first branch of the Louvre outside France.
- The Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, a theme park that is dedicated to the famous Italian car brand and offers thrilling rides, shows, and attractions for all ages. It is the home of the world’s fastest roller coaster, the Formula Rossa, which reaches speeds of up to 240 km/h. The Yas Island, a man-made island that is a hub of entertainment and leisure. It hosts the Yas Marina Circuit, where the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix takes place. The Yas Waterworld is a water park that features 43 rides and slides, the Yas Mall, a shopping center. There are over 400 stores and restaurants, and the Yas Beach, a sandy beach that offers water sports and activities.
Hidden Gems in Abu Dhabi
Do you want to explore beyond the tourist spots and discover some of the lesser-known but equally amazing places in Abu Dhabi? These are the places that you should check out:
- The Qasr Al Hosn, a historical fort that is the oldest building in Abu Dhabi and the former residence of the ruling family. It has been restored and transformed into a museum that tells the story of the city and its people.
- The Al Ain Oasis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is the largest oasis in the country and a green haven in the desert. It has over 147,000 date palms and a traditional irrigation system that dates back to 3000 BC.
- The Emirates Palace, a luxury hotel that is one of the most opulent and extravagant in the world. It has 394 rooms and suites, 114 domes, 1002 chandeliers, and a private beach and marina. It also houses the Emirates Palace Spa, the Emirates Palace Gallery, and the Emirates Palace Theatre.
- The Saadiyat Island, a natural island that is a cultural and artistic destination. It hosts the Zayed National Museum, the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, and the Manarat Al Saadiyat, a center that features exhibitions, workshops, and events. It also has a golf course, a beach club, and a wildlife reserve.
Desert Safari Abu Dhabi
One of the most popular and exciting activities that you can enjoy in Abu Dhabi is the desert safari, which lets you explore the vast and majestic desert landscape of the city. You can choose from different types of desert safaris, such as morning, afternoon, or evening desert safari Abu Dhabi, depending on your preferences and schedule. Similarly, you can enjoy activities such as dune bashing, camel riding, sand boarding, quad biking, and falconry. You can also witness the sunset over the dunes and enjoy a traditional dinner and entertainment at a Bedouin camp. A desert safari is a must-do experience that will give you a glimpse of the authentic and adventurous side of Abu Dhabi.
Best Time to Visit Abu Dhabi
The best time to visit Abu Dhabi depends on your preferences and budget. Abu Dhabi has a hot and dry climate, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 42°C throughout the year. The coolest months are from November to March, when the weather is pleasant and comfortable. However, its also the time when it is most crowded and expensive. The hottest months are from June to September, when the weather is scorching and humid. Interestingly, it is also the time when the city is least crowded and cheapest. The shoulder seasons are from April to May and from October to November, when the weather is moderate and the prices are reasonable.
If you want to avoid the crowds and the heat, you can also plan your trip around some of the major events and festivals that Abu Dhabi hosts every year. Some of the most popular ones are:
- The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, a Formula One race that takes place in late November or early December at the Yas Marina Circuit.
- The Abu Dhabi Film Festival, a showcase of local and international films that takes place in October or November at various venues across the city.
- The Abu Dhabi Festival, a celebration of arts and culture that takes place in March or April at various venues across the city.
- The Abu Dhabi Shopping Festival, a month-long extravaganza of discounts, promotions, and entertainment that takes place in January or February at various malls and markets across the city.
Tips to Make the Most of Your Trip
To make your trip to Abu Dhabi more enjoyable and hassle-free, here are some tips and suggestions that you should keep in mind:
- Respect the local culture and customs, which are influenced by Islam and Arabic traditions. You should dress modestly, especially in public places and religious sites. You should avoid public displays of affection, alcohol consumption, and pork consumption. You should also be mindful of the prayer times and the holy month of Ramadan when Muslims fast from dawn to dusk and abstain from certain activities.
- Beware of the weather and the environment, which can be harsh and unpredictable. You should drink plenty of water, wear sunscreen, and avoid exposure to the sun during the hottest hours of the day. You should also be careful of the sandstorms, which can reduce visibility and cause respiratory problems. You should also be aware of the wildlife, such as snakes, scorpions, and spiders, which can be venomous and dangerous.
- Follow the health and hygiene regulations, which are strict and enforced. You should have a valid health insurance, a negative COVID-19 test, and a vaccination certificate to enter Abu Dhabi. You should also wear a mask, maintain social distancing, and sanitize your hands frequently. You should also avoid contact with sick people and seek medical attention if you feel unwell.
- Use public transportation, which is cheap and convenient. You can use the bus, the taxi, or the car to get around the city and beyond. You can also use the plane to travel to and from Abu Dhabi. You will need a valid driver’s license, an international driving permit, and a credit card to rent a car. You will also need a valid passport, visa, and ticket to board a plane.
Abu Dhabi is a fascinating and diverse city that offers a unique and memorable travel experience. By following these recommendations, you can visit the best places in Abu Dhabi and make the most of your trip. We hope you have a wonderful time in Abu Dhabi and enjoy its beauty, culture, and hospitality.
