Abu Dhabi Holidays

Things to Do

Culture

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

A truly iconic Abu Dhabi landmark is none other than the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, rated 3rd on TripAdvisor’s list of top 10 world landmarks. This colossal masterpiece can house more than 40,000 worshipers and boasts unmatched decadence and detail, from the 24-carat-gold gilded chandeliers to the world’s largest handmade carpet. If you are looking for a strong dose of Abu Dhabi culture, a guided sunset tour around the Grand Mosque is a must-see and an incredibly humbling experience.

Emirates Palace

Stretching over a kilometre from wing to wing, this national landmark is one of the world’s most opulent hotels. It is set on 1.3km of private, pristine beach on the city’s magnificent Corniche, with suites furnished in gold and marble, acres of gardens and 114 domes of Arabic architectural splendour. Emirati royalty and visiting dignitaries stay on the top floor in the six Rulers' Suites.To feel like a royal yourself, try their world-famous cappuccino with real gold flakes!

Qasr Al Hosn

For those seeking out a more historic landmark, Qasr Al Hosn is the oldest stone building in the city and a national monument. Designed by Mohammed Al Bastaki and built around the 1790’s this statuesque icon is otherwise known as the watchtower. Many refer to Qasr Al Hosn as the most significant buildings in Abu Dhabi as it has been home to an array of prominent entities including the ruling family and the government as well as a consultative council and then a national archive. Its walls have seen a multitude of happenings of which tourists and locals alike find fascinating to visit.

Adventure

Desert Safari

Just beyond Abu Dhabi city is the Rub Al Khali, or Empty Quarter, the largest expanse of sand in the world, recently depicted in Star Wars: The Force Awakens, as the desert planet of Jakku. Take a day trip for dune bashing in 4x4s, camel trekking, sand surfing, and dinner beneath the stars. Alternatively, escape the dunes for an open jeep safari on Sir Bani Yas Island, home to thousands of free roaming oryx, gazelles, giraffes, and even cheetahs.

Island Cruise

Take to the waters and experience the city of Abu Dhabi by boat. Relax on deck and experience a guided tour through both the inshore channels of the city and the coastline of Samaliyah Island. Spot both wildlife and city lights on the sunset tour sailing by Raha Beach, past the traditional beachfront Emirati village of Samaliyah to circle back to Yas Island. A sensational experience combining both luxury and adventure.

Experience

Louvre Abu Dhabi

The magnificent Louvre Abu Dhabi establishes the city as the cultural hub of the Middle East, with a permanent collection complemented by masterpieces on loan from key French institutions, including works by Titian, Rodin, Picasso, and Matisse. The galleries depict the story of humanity with each chapter focusing on shared ideologies that connect people to one another. As well as their permanent collection, the Louvre Abu Dhabi hosts 4 rotational collections each year following a complimentary thematic approach.

This world-renowned artistic hub features a fantastic Children’s Museum, in a special two-floor section of interactive learning. Whilst also offering a rooftop café, allowing visitors to end their day with sunset views of the Arabian Gulf.

Observation Deck at 300

Experience the city of Abu Dhabi from 300 metre up. Venture above the clouds and enjoy clear, birds-eye views of the city below. Located on the 74th floor of the Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers is the cities highest vantage point, enabling those brave enough to secure outstanding skyline captures, beach snaps and sea shots. Grab a sky-high snack in the cafe famous for its afternoon tea or take to the cocktail menu with their signature Etihad Sparkler.

Cuisine

Emirate cuisine is traditional of the UAE’s heritage and has only recently started gaining in popularity. Although the city offers a multitude of restaurants spanning all types of international cuisines, national dishes traditionally combine Middle Eastern & Asian ingredients enhanced with local herbs and spices for a totally unique, must-try flavour. Abu Dhabi’s national dish isKabsa, an infused mixture of basmati rice, either lamb or chicken, vegetables, and an array of spices, traditionally served in a large pot placed in the centre of the table. Local drinks consist of Gahwa, otherwise known as Arabic coffee and is often served as a welcome drink alongside a cup of dates. Another local favourite is Jallab, a fruity syrup drink made up of grape molasses, dates and rose water. Such drink is popular during Ramadan when Muslims need a drink to keep them hydrated during their daylight fast.

Events & Festivals

Eid Al Adha

Seen as one of the most important celebrations in the Muslim calendar, Eid Al Adha is the festival of sacrifice marking the end of Hajj. The celebrations commemorate the annual pilgrimage to Mecca and prophet Ibrahim’s sacrifice of his son.

Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

As the UAE’s Formula One motor race destination, Abu Dhabi has hosted a prestigious Grand Prix since 2009 on the contemporary Yas Marina Circuit designed by Hermann Tilke. Experience 55 laps of high speeds, atmosphere, and adrenaline as you sit in one of 5 grandstands built to shade spectators from the dazzling desert sun.

Abu Dhabi Golf Championship

One of 6 professional golf tournaments in the UAE, the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship is highly anticipated annual sporting event. Founded in 2006, it is particularly famous for its ‘Hero Challenge’ and starting the ‘Race to Dubai’ season attracting some of the world’s top players.

Taking place early in the year, many golf fanatics time their Abu Dhabi visit to coincide with such an occasion. Although this year’s tournament has already taken place, don’t miss your chance to get close to the action in 2022.

UAE National Day

When visiting Abu Dhabi during December, your visit may fall across United Arab Emirates’ National Day. A joyous celebration marking the union of the seven states and an impressive sceptical for both locals and tourists to experience. From firework displays to street parades, the celebratory festivities take place across the entire Gulf and are not to be missed.