The proud capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) - a federation formed between seven emirates in the Arabian Peninsula’s southeastern corner - Abu Dhabi has played a crucial political, economic, and cultural hub in the region for generations. The city’s history dates back to the 18th century when Abu Dhabi was established as a small fishing and pearling village. The discovery of oil in the 1950s transformed the region from a quiet coastal settlement into a thriving metropolis. While visiting, guests can enjoy the unique fusion between traditional Emirati culture and cutting-edge technology and modern amenities. With state-of-the-art healthcare, extensive education options, and an openness towards multiculturalism, Abu Dhabi has attracted growing numbers of well-off expatriates that continue to swell the size of the local population. Make sure that your trip to Abu Dhabi includes the perfect itinerary when you travel with Gray Line Worldwide today!
Tour Expert, Gray Line Abu Dhabi
As the largest mosque in the UAE, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque can fit up to 40,000 worshippers within its walls at a time. Showcasing a blend of Islamic and Mughal architecture, the structure is adorned with 82 domes and over a thousand columns. Construction was initiated in memory of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the Arab Emirates, and took over a decade to complete in its entirety. While its exterior is smoothed with white marble, the interior of this mosque truly impresses with chandeliers, the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet, and intricate floral patterns infusing the space. Based on the time of day you visit, you might notice that the lighting system changes occasionally to enhance the mosque’s already calming atmosphere.
Found on Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi, the Louvre Abu Dhabi officially opened in 2017 to help position the city as an attractive, cosmopolitan destination for visitors. Designed by the renowned French architect Jean Nouvel, the structure features a dome that appears to float untethered over the building. Its collections display well-known pieces from various cultures and historical periods, including the ancient Bactrian Princess, an Etruscan Sarcophagus of the Spouses, and the Dancing Shiva. The Abu Dhabi museum also regularly participates in global exchanges with the original Louvre in Paris, the Musee d’Orsay, and Centre Pompidou.
Found off the coast of Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island was developed in the early 2000s by the Tourism Development and Investment Company (TDIC). The island was intentionally designed to house various cultural institutions, like the Louvre Abu Dhabi. Once you’ve visited the museum, visit Saadiyat Beach, a landscape painted with strokes of white sand and blue waters. You can also select from one of the island’s many available restaurants, including casual eateries and fine dining establishments. If you’re looking for a luxurious place to stay in Abu Dhabi, the high-end resorts and hotels on Saadiyat Island are an excellent place to start your adventure.
The Qasr Al Watan presidential palace was built to commemorate the creation of the UAE and serve as a working palace for official state business. Since its opening in 2019, the large complex offers guided tours to curious visitors or residents while juggling important meetings and summits attracting leaders from all over the world. Marvel at Qasr Al Watan’s Great Hall, a breathtaking centerpiece filled with geometric patterns and lavish chandeliers. Several exhibition and learning spaces are easily accessible as well, including the House of Knowledge (featuring rare books, manuscripts, and artifacts about the scientific and cultural contributions of the Arab world), Presidential Gifts (a collection of diplomatic gifts presented to the UAE from other nations), and Governance and Leadership Displays. During the evenings, you can even catch the Palace in Motion light show that takes place in the gardens.
For fans of everything fast, don’t miss Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, an indoor amusement park found on Yas Island. As the world’s first Ferrari-branded theme park, guests can enjoy a variety of attractions, rides, and experiences themed around the iconic Italian sports car manufacturer. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the park is home to the world’s fastest roller coaster: Formula Rossa. Hitting speeds of 149 miles per hour in just 4.9 seconds, this coaster simulates the adrenaline rush that is a Formula 1 race. Flying Aces is another ride that has the world’s highest loop (at 52 meters) inspired by the aerodynamics of Ferrari’s racing heritage. For something a little slower-paced, check out the park’s Galleria Ferrari, a museum featuring an impressive collection of classic Ferrari models and limited editions.
A waterfront area that stretches for about 8 kilometers along the city’s coastline, Abu Dhabi’s Corniche is a space of beautiful oceanside views, landscaped gardens, and recreational facilities. Initially designed in the 1970s, the Corniche was intended to enhance public access to the waterfront and contribute to the city’s booming urbanization process. Several renovations later, though, the area comprises a wide promenade, stretches of pristine beaches, and green parks. Take a walk or bike ride along the Corniche’s dedicated lanes and spend some time at the playground with little ones. Finally, make reservations for dinner at one of the many cafes or restaurants with outdoor seating that faces the Arabian Gulf.
Found near the Breakwater opposite Marina Mall, Heritage Village is a fascinating cultural site that provides visitors with a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the Emirati people before the oil boom transformed the region permanently. The village consists of a reconstructed oasis settlement. Several exhibits give a sense of what daily life was like for the Emirati and allow guests to explore Bedouin tents, a souk (market), and handmade crafts. Enjoy traditional Emirati cuisine at the on-site restaurant, observe a pottery or metalwork craft demonstration, and watch a cultural performance of song and dance.
Learn more about the desert sands surrounding Abu Dhabi than you could ever imagine with an Adventure in the Desert expedition! Go “dune bashing” by riding in a 4x4 vehicle over an array of sand dunes. Thrilling climbs and scream-inducing descents make this high-energy activity a favorite for residents and visitors to Abu Dhabi alike. For something a little less fast-paced, plan a camel ride, a traditional mode of transportation often referred to as the “ship of the desert.” Popular adventures also include sandboarding - like snowboarding, but on sand instead of snow - and stargazing in pollution-free nightscapes. For a completely unique outdoor experience, look into tours that offer live falconry displays.
Found on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island, the mall of the same name is one of the largest in the UAE and occupies about 2.5 million square feet. Opened in 2014, the mall is integrated into a larger entertainment complex that includes theme parks, a race track, and hotels. Catch the latest released movie at the spot’s state-of-the-art cinema or get shopping at one of the many international brands on display (Sephora and the Apple Store are particular favorites). Similarly, guests looking for more local establishments can browse perfumery at Areej or Al Haramain and purchase handicrafts at Sukoon. The Yas Mall Arcade is a great place to engage in some healthy competition between family members.
Mangrove National Park in Abu Dhabi is a protected area that showcases unique coastal ecosystems of mangrove forests. Designated as a protected area in 2013, the park emerged out of a need to reduce coastal erosion, improve the water quality, and provide additional habitat for local wildlife. Spanning approximately 13 square kilometers along the eastern shore of Abu Dhabi, the park is home to various species of mangrove, including Avicennia marina (grey mangrove) and Rhizophora mucronata (red mangrove). These trees are remarkably adapted to thrive in the saline waters of the coastal ecosystem and provide essential habitats for fish, crabs, and bird species. The area is also a crucial stopover for migratory birds, which makes birdwatching a popular pastime for visitors. Don’t forget to take lots of pictures while you’re there!
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