17 must-see tourist spots in Abu Dhabi! A mysterious Arabian night and a sci-fi world

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is the political center of the Middle East. Not only are the white mosques a beautiful contrast against the deep blue sky, but futuristic skyscrapers stand out everywhere in the rapidly developing city center. Many people still feel that the Arab world is too intimidating to visit as a tourist destination, but once you visit, you will be captivated by the beautiful scenery and the stimulating different cultures. We will introduce you to tourist spots in Abu Dhabi that will make you want to visit a mysterious world reminiscent of the Arabian Nights!

1. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

When you think of sightseeing in Abu Dhabi, the first building that comes to mind is probably the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. It is no exaggeration to say that it is the most famous tourist spot in Abu Dhabi. It is crowded with tourists and pilgrims from all over the world every day.

The contrast of the pure white mosque against the clear blue sky is so beautiful that you will forget the heat and be entranced for a while. The beauty of the marble illuminated by the strong sunlight is also magnificent.

As soon as you step inside the building, you'll be greeted by a gorgeous gold-plated chandelier. The prayer hall is home to the world's largest chandelier, said to weigh 9 tons. The floor is also covered with the world's largest hand-woven carpet, and you'll be overwhelmed by everything you see.

The building is surrounded by pools of water, creating an even more mystical atmosphere. The mosque is also beautifully lit up at night, making it well worth a visit.

2. Umm Al Emarat Park

Umm Al Emarat Park is like a desert oasis that suddenly appears in the middle of Abu Dhabi. It is a place of relaxation for locals and tourists alike. The park is filled with palm trees and is so lush that you might forget you're in Abu Dhabi. Arabian pots and other objects are displayed everywhere in the beautiful, well-maintained greenery.

A market is also held periodically. During the daytime when the sun is strong, you can see children splashing around in the fountains, creating a very peaceful atmosphere. There are also places to purchase food and drinks, so you can take a break while eating in the shade!

The large grounds also contain a zoo, botanical gardens, and a water park, so you can have fun there all day. It's a rare spot to relax and unwind while sightseeing in the desert of Abu Dhabi.

3. Emirates Palace (Emirates Palace Hotel Mandarin Oriental Abu Dhabi)

The Emirates Palace, which is said to have cost 7 billion dirham to build, is a luxurious five-star hotel that symbolizes Abu Dhabi. It has become a tourist spot where many tourists visit to see its palace-like exterior.

Even though it is a top-class hotel, tourists can enter the entrance, lobby, and cafe! Many tourists who visit for reasons other than lodging tend to use the cafe inside the building to enjoy the palace atmosphere. The cafe's popular menu item, the "Emirates Palace Cappuccino," is also a specialty. It is an original cappuccino topped with plenty of 24-karat gold powder.

Of course, the cafe isn't the only attraction! The interior, which is completely covered in gold, is also a must-see. The marble floors, dome-shaped ceiling, and open-ceiling hall are all gold wherever you look. Please enjoy the luxurious space to the fullest. Please note that a dress code is required when entering.

The Emirates Palace is also a must-see night spot for tourists in Abu Dhabi. At night, the building is lit up in a golden glow, transforming it into an even more luxurious building than it was during the day. The fountains on both sides of the walkway to the entrance accentuate its beauty. Abu Dhabi is home to many buildings symbolizing wealth and is popular with tourists, but the Emirates Palace is a must-see tourist spot.

4. Yas Waterworld

Yas Waterworld is a hugely popular amusement park in Abu Dhabi. It is a large-scale water park that uses an extravagant amount of water that you would never expect in the desert. Its size is out of the ordinary. There are a wide variety of water slides, from one-seat to six-seat. There are also a wide variety of other pools, including lazy rivers, wave pools, and surfing pools! You can share a slide and have fun interacting with people from different countries.

It's a popular tourist spot not only among locals but also among tourists. It's less crowded in the morning, so we recommend visiting early in the day. It's a place on a scale, so you can enjoy it to your heart's content all day long. Being able to splash around in the water in the desert of Abu Dhabi is a luxury. It's a little-known tourist spot.

5. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

The world's first Ferrari theme park is located here in Abu Dhabi, "Ferrari World Abu Dhabi". It is a popular tourist spot in Abu Dhabi, attracting tourists from neighboring countries and all over the world! Although it is a theme park, it is full of elements that adults can enjoy, rather than being aimed at children.

You can learn about the history of Ferrari, but there are also plenty of experience-based facilities! You can enjoy attractions with a car motif, such as sports cars and F!

Particularly popular is the Formula Rossa, the world's fastest roller coaster. It reaches a maximum speed of 240km per hour, so it's a must-see for thrill-seekers. There are also other thrill-seekers and attractions that are safe for children, so you won't have enough time to spend a whole day there.

The park is well-maintained and well-equipped. There are also plenty of restaurants, so you don't have to worry about food. Why not visit the newest tourist spot that is unique to wealthy Abu Dhabi?

6. Saadiyat Beach

Saadiyat Beach, overlooking the Persian Gulf, is known as one of the most beautiful beaches in Abu Dhabi. It is a popular tourist spot that is visited by tourists every day. The contrast between the blue sky, pure white sand, and emerald green sea is amazing, and just looking at it will refresh your mind.

The sea is shallow, so you can swim as if you were in a pool, and it is not very crowded, so you can relax on the beach. Tourists can spend their time however they like. The sand is also so well maintained that it is safe to walk barefoot!

There are many restaurants around the beach. Saadiyat Beach Club is a special spot where you can experience a tropical resort atmosphere that is hard to imagine in the skyscraper district of Abu Dhabi. With a bar and a pool, it is also a popular spot for taking great photos on social media!

You can also see sea turtles laying eggs a little distance away, so if you're lucky, you might even spot them. Experience the feeling of being a celebrity on Abu Dhabi's beautiful private beach!

7. Capital Gate

When walking through the city of Abu Dhabi, the Capital Gate catches your eye.

This mysteriously shaped building is sure to catch the eye of any tourist, and is also known as Abu Dhabi's Tower of Pisa. It is also registered in the Guinness World Records as the world's most leaning tower. The building is inclined at 18 degrees, more than four times that of the famous Tower of Pisa.

Many tourists visit the building to find out what kind of structure it has, but the mystery only deepens. This 35-story building is often used on postcards as a symbol of Abu Dhabi. This mysterious building, which makes full use of the latest architectural technology, is a must-see. Don't forget to take a photo as a souvenir of your visit to Abu Dhabi!

8. Alder Headquarters Building

Among the many unusually shaped buildings in Abu Dhabi, the Aldar Headquarters Building is by far the most unique. Although it looks like a monument of modern art, this building is actually an ordinary office building housing the headquarters of a company. For tourists, the unique appearance of this building makes them want to take photos.

Abu Dhabi is the first Arab country to have a circular building, which is rare in the world. The building has 23 floors and is 110 meters tall. The International Building Association has promoted it as one of the most amazing corporate offices in the world.

Unfortunately, tourists are not allowed to enter the building, but the impact of the exterior alone makes it worth a visit. Abu Dhabi is lined with buildings with unique architectural designs, including this one, so tourists can have an extraordinary experience just by walking through the city. If you see it up close, you'll be amazed by the CG-like scenery!

9. Hawk Specialty Hospital

Abu Dhabi is home to a rare hospital specializing in falcons. For Arab people, falcons are as important as family. This hospital, which specializes in treating falcons, is also a popular tourist spot that doubles as a museum. It is equipped with the latest facilities and the generous treatment it receives shows just how much falcons are loved.

The grounds are dotted with facilities for treating injured or sick falcons, which are open to tourists. Guided tours for tourists are also available, so we recommend joining one! It's efficient, as you can hear stories about hawks and be shown around the grounds.

In the beautiful green garden, you can actually have a hawk land on your arm, and if you're lucky, you can even feed a cute baby hawk. Opportunities to interact with hawks are rare, so if you visit Abu Dhabi, be sure to try this rare experience at the Falcon Hospital.

10. Qasr al-Hosn

Known as the oldest building in Abu Dhabi, Qasr Al Hosn is an important place in the history of the birth of Abu Dhabi. It is now one of the most popular tourist spots in Abu Dhabi and is bustling with tourists every day.

Inside the building, the history of Abu Dhabi and life at that time are introduced, and it is free to visit. There are many very interesting exhibits that teach you about the roots of the culture and thoughts of the Emirates.

Built-in the 1760s, Qasr al-Hosn was made of coral and stone and served as a sort of lookout tower. The shells on the exterior walls reflected the sunlight and apparently served as a landmark. It subsequently underwent extensive renovations, resulting in the magnificent building we see today. In recent years, the exterior walls of the building have deteriorated, so repairs are currently underway.

Additionally, every February an event introducing traditional Arab culture is held, attracting tourists from all over the world, making the area even more lively. It's a fun event where you can experience Arab culture firsthand, so if the time is right, be sure to visit.

11. Cultural Heritage Village

The Cultural Heritage Village is a faithful reproduction of Abu Dhabi before oil was discovered. It is a tourist facility that introduces the lives and culture of the people at that time. You will be amazed at the lifestyle that is hard to imagine in today's developed Abu Dhabi. Although it is not a very large facility, it is a valuable tourist spot that gives you an idea of ​​what it was like at the time and is often visited by tourists from overseas.

Inside the facility, traditional styles such as campfires and tents made from goat's hair, which were once part of daily life in the desert areas surrounding Abu Dhabi, are recreated. In the demonstration corner, tourists can enjoy women weaving traditional textiles and artisans actually working with metal and making pottery.

There are also a variety of souvenirs on display on the premises, and it's interesting just to look at the spices, herbs, handmade soaps, and more. There are many demonstration and experience corners, so tourists can lose track of time and have fun, but since there are many outdoor exhibits, it is essential to take measures against the heat during the day and stay hydrated.

12. Yas Marina Circuit

Yas Marina Circuit, famous as the venue for the F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, is a popular tourist spot for both domestic and foreign tourists as a place where you can easily experience F1. Even if you're not an F1 race fan, you're sure to be excited by the loud sound and high speed of the races. The facilities are well-maintained and comfortable, and the artistic buildings are also well worth seeing. At night, the area is lit up, transforming into a fantastical landscape.

This circuit offers a variety of trial driving courses, so you can choose the one you like depending on your level. There are courses where you can receive driving training and even get a racing license, so the wide range of courses is appealing for everyone from beginners to advanced drivers. There are also guided tours that allow you to see the inside of the facility.

The Abu Dhabi circuit is on a completely different scale, so you will be overwhelmed just by looking at it. If you have time, we also recommend a stroll around the nearby marina. The sight of the huge ships lined up in a row is spectacular.

13. Observation Deck at 300

Etihad Towers is one of the many skyscrapers in Abu Dhabi. On the 74th floor is the Observation Deck at 300.

From this observation deck, 300 meters above ground, you can get a panoramic view of the city of Abu Dhabi, and on clear days you can even see the neighboring islands, making it a popular tourist spot. The view of Abu Dhabi's skyscrapers through the glass is a spectacular sight.

There is a cafe restaurant on the observation floor, so you can enjoy a meal while taking in the view. High tea is especially popular with tourists. The tea served with hearty sandwiches and sweets is exceptional.

If you stay at the hotel attached to the facility, admission is free, but it's also nice that the admission ticket includes a small portion of the cost of food and drink. Enjoying an elegant teatime while looking out at Abu Dhabi's futuristic landscape is a blissful moment. Be sure to stop by when you're sightseeing.

14. Emirates Park Zoo

Emirates Park Zoo, which is extremely popular with children in Abu Dhabi, is home to over 1,700 animals. Located on the outskirts of Abu Dhabi, the well-maintained zoo is popular with tourists for its easy viewing.

Once you pass through the Arabian Nights-like entrance, you'll find a full lineup of popular animals, including the two white tigers that are the zoo's signature animals, as well as zebras, bears, and lions. You can observe the impressive behavior of wild animals up close.

Although it is not that big, there is also an aquarium and a reptile section in addition to the zoo. At the hotel next to the zoo, you can have breakfast right next to the giraffes, so it is popular with tourists. Emirates Park Zoo is recommended as a relaxing spot between exciting Abu Dhabi sightseeing.

15. Corniche

The Corniche Road, built along Abu Dhabi's beautiful coastline, is a well-maintained tourist spot that tourists can easily stroll along. There are bicycle rental shops in the area, so you can enjoy cycling. Of course, there are also many stylish cafes and restaurants scattered around. You can enjoy tea and meals in a great location overlooking the pure white sand and the beautiful emerald green sea.

Also, the Corniche Beach that spreads out before you is one of the most beautiful beaches in Abu Dhabi. There are many lifeguards on duty, so you can feel safe. Many foreign tourists also enjoy the beautiful beach in their own way. On weekends, it is crowded with local families and couples. If you want to enjoy a relaxing time, we recommend weekdays.

16. Yas Mall

Yas Mall, which is directly connected to Ferrari World, is one of the largest shopping malls in Abu Dhabi. You will be overwhelmed by its size. There are many security guards and staff in the facility, so even inexperienced tourists can enjoy shopping with peace of mind. The open facility, filled with natural light, is filled with about 370 shops and 60 restaurants. No matter how much time you have, you will never be able to spend there.

Many stores are only located in Yas Mall in Abu Dhabi, making it a popular tourist spot for locals. There is also a kids' room inside the building, so children and adults alike won't get bored even if they spend the whole day there.
There is also a well-equipped food court, so you can try some food that you can only get in Abu Dhabi. It is a shopping mall of a scale that you won't find anywhere else, so it is recommended to stop by while sightseeing in Abu Dhabi.

17. Mangrove Lagoon National Park

If you want to try activities like jungle exploration in Abu Dhabi, we recommend Mangrove Lagoon National Park. Explore the mangrove-filled river by boat or kayak. It's no problem if you're not confident in paddling a kayak yourself. For tourists who visit every day, local tourist guides with extensive knowledge and experience will support you, so you can feel safe and secure.

There are many wild birds around the river, so you can observe beautiful birds. If you're lucky, you may see beautiful flamingos playing in the water!

There is a promenade along the river, so you can see tourists strolling along it. Getting away from the hustle and bustle of Abu Dhabi and listening to the birds singing is a luxurious way to spend time. There is also a row of stylish restaurants and cafes around the five-star Anantara Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa, which is located near the park. Dining while watching the sunset is the ultimate luxury.

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Summary of recommended sightseeing spots in Abu Dhabi

In this desert oasis surrounded by beautiful beaches, everything you see is far more splendid than you can imagine, leaving tourists overwhelmed. Sightseeing in Abu Dhabi is not just about differences in history, culture, and religion, but also about discovering new things, such as buildings you've never seen before and facilities of a completely different scale. Abu Dhabi, the oasis city in the desert, may be at the forefront of the world.

Etihad Airways is an airline based at Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates.