25 Best Places To Visit in Abu Dhabi (Price + Hours)

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the most beautiful places to see in Abu Dhabi because of its amazing white marble design. Other great places to visit in Abu Dhabi are Louvre Abu Dhabi, which features amazing art in a lovely setting, and Ferrari World, where you can ride the fastest roller coaster in the world. 

You also have the Qasr Al Watan presidential house, the Corniche waterfront for beach walks, and Yas Island, which is full of theme parks and other fun things to do. 

We have checked the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi with family, just for you to enjoy the best of your time in Abu Dhabi:

• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
• Louvre Abu Dhabi
• Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
• Qasr Al Watan
• The Corniche
• Yas Island
• National Aquarium Abu Dhabi
• Heritage Village

25 Best Places to Visit in Abu Dhabi

There are many places to visit in Abu Dhabi for couples, like theme parks, a huge mosque, museums, and mountains. 

Name	Type	Entry Fee
Louvre Abu Dhabi	Art Museum	AED 63 (Kids under 13 free)
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque	Mosque / Cultural Site	Free (Audio guide AED 25)
Jebel Hafeet Mountain	Mountain	Free (Camping AED 100-150)
Jubail Mangrove Park	Nature Park	AED 15
Sir Bani Yas Island	Wildlife Reserve	Varies (Resort booking needed)
Al Ain Museum	History Museum	AED 3
Al Qattara Arts Center	Art Center / Cultural Site	Free
Hili Archaeological Park	Archaeological Site / Park	Free
Al Wathba Salt Lake	Natural Lake / Photo Spot	Free
Dalma Island	Historic Island	Ferry AED 20/person
Umm Al Emarat Park	Family Park / Green Space	Free
Qasr Al Hosn	Historic Fort / Museum	AED 60
Al Wathba Cycle Track	Cycling Track	Free (Bike rental AED 30-60/hour)
Al Wathba Fossil Dunes	Natural Formation	Free
Qasr Al Watan	Presidential Palace	AED 60
Saadiyat Public Beach	Public Beach	AED 150 weekdays, AED 200 weekends
Al Jahili Fort	Historic Fort / Museum	Free
Al Reem Island	Waterfront Community	Free (Individual venues vary)
Marina Mall	Shopping Mall	Free
Al Mirfa Beach	Natural Beach & Camping	Free
World Trade Center Mall	Shopping Mall	Free
Al Ain Oasis	UNESCO Heritage Site	Free
Observation Deck at 300	Viewing Platform & Café	AED 75 (With high tea AED 160)
Al Ain Palace Museum	Historical Museum & Palace	AED 47 (Under 18 & over 60 free)
Al Bateen Beach	Public Beach	Free (Women’s section AED 25)

1. Louvre: A Place To Visit in Abu Dhabi With Family

Detail	Info
Type	Art Museum
Entry Fee	AED 63 (about $17)
Best Time	10 AM when it opens
Hours	Tue-Sun: 10 AM-8 PMThu-Fri till 10 PM (closed Monday)
How Long	2-4 hours
Where	Saadiyat Island
Getting There	Taxi 30 min from airport (AED 50-70), or bus 94/032

More than 600 pieces of art are in Louvre Abu Dhabi, such as sculptures from Asia, paintings by Van Gogh, and art from ancient Egypt. This huge dome moves on water and makes cool light patterns when the sun hits it. 

Also, the roof has 7,800 little holes in the shape of stars, and when light goes through them, it looks really cool.

There are 12 rooms inside, and they all show art from different times and places, but they blend them all together. 

What You Can Do in Louvre Abu Dhabi

• Walk through the 12 galleries
• Check out special exhibitions (they change 2-3 times a year)
• Take your kids to the Children’s Museum
• Grab photos under that dome 
• Get the free audio guide app before you go
• Join a free tour (they have tours in 9 languages)
• Try art classes if they’re running any
• Eat at the cafes; Museum Café has full meals, and Aptitude Café just does coffee.
• Buy some art books or gifts from the shop

Things You Should Know about Louvre Abu Dhabi

• Get there at 10 AM since it gets packed after 11
• Buy tickets online so you don’t wait in line
• Download their app for the audio guide
• Wear comfy shoes
• They got free lockers for your stuff
• You can bring water, but no food
• Go on Tuesday or Wednesday
• Need your vaccine pass to get in
• Bring your ID 
• The ticket desk shuts 30 min before closing

Louvre Abu Dhabi Prices

It costs AED 63 for an adult to get in, while children younger than 13 do not have to pay to get in. They also have combo deals if you want to do more than one thing on Saadiyat Island.

Ticket	Price
Adult	AED 63 ($17)
Kids under 13	Free
Students (show ID)	AED 31.50
2 Adults deal	AED 112
4 Adults deal	AED 224

2. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Best Places To Visit in Abu Dhabi for Free

Detail	Info
Type	Mosque / Cultural Site
Entry Fee	Free (Audio guide costAED 25 and need ID)
Best Time	4-5 PM for sunset
Hours	Sat-Thu: 9 AM-10 PMFri: 3-10 PM (Fri morning closed)
How Long	1.5-2 hours
Where	Abu Dhabi mainland
Getting There	19 km from the airport, taxi about AED 90-120 round trip

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is very big, and there are more than 1,000 columns, 82 roofs, and room for 40,000 people. 

Everything is white marble with gold accents all over and inside; the lights are made of real gold and Swarovski diamonds. It’s even pretty amazing that the biggest one weighs 12 tons.

The mosque also has the world’s biggest handmade carpet, which is 60,570 square feeta nd si maong the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi with family for free. Plus, all 99 of Allah’s names are written in traditional writing on the Qibla wall.

What You Can Do in Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

• Walk through the main hall and see those giant chandeliers
• Check out the world’s biggest mosque carpet
• Visit the Qibla wall
• Take photos by the water pools
• Catch the sunset from the courtyard
• Take a free tour (seriously, do this – you’ll learn tons)
• Go to the library on the 3rd floor
• See the light show at night

Things You Should Know About Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

• Go around 4-5 PM to see it in daylight and at sunset
• Take the free tour
• Dress code is strict
• Guys’ dress code is long pants, shirt with sleeves (no shorts, no tanks)
• Ladies’ dress code is everything covered, and they give you a scarf at the door
• Take your shoes off before going in
• Don’t hold hands or kiss your partner inside
• No eating, drinking, or gum
• Don’t photograph people praying
• They got audio guides in 8 languages (need your ID)
• Closed during Ramadan for visitors
• Friday mornings, it’s closed and opens after 3 PM

3. Jebel Hafeet Mountain: Natural Place To Visit in Abu Dhabi

Detail	Info
Type	Mountain
Entry Fee	Free (camping costs AED 100-150/night)
Best Time	Sunset (4-6 PM) or early morning
Hours	Open 24/7
How Long	2-3 hours with the drive
Where	Al Ain (1.5 hours from Abu Dhabi)
Getting There	Need your own car or taxi (AED 200-300 round trip)

Jebel Hafeet Mountain is the second-highest mountain in the UAE at 1,249 meters and is also the most stunning place to visit in Abu Dhabi for couples. The main draw here is the drive to the top since there are more than 60 sharp turns on this 11.2 km-long road.

At the top, you can see Al Ain city and the Omani desert from all sides, while green Mubazzarah Park is at the bottom of the mountain. It has natural hot springs, places where people can eat lunch, and pools with mineral water. 

Jebel Hafeet Desert Park is also in the area, and it has more than 500 ancient graves that are as old as 5,000 years. 

What You Can Do In Jebel Hafeet Mountain

• Drive that crazy mountain road
• Watch the sunrise or sunset from the top
• Check out the desert park at the bottom
• See the ancient tombs
• Soak in the hot springs
• Have a picnic
• Bike up if you’re crazy enough
• Hike around
• Camp overnight
• Eat at the hotel restaurant
• Visit Al Ain Zoo nearby

Things You Should Know About Jebel Hafeet Mountain

• Go at sunset for the best views
• Your brakes might smell (that’s normal)
• Fill up with gas before you go
• Bring water and snacks
• Wear good shoes if you’re hiking
• The best months are October to April
• Check out the desert park first for the history
• Parking’s free everywhere

4. Jubail Mangrove Park: Best Place To Visit in Abu Dhabi for AED 15

Detail	Info
Type	Nature Park
Entry Fee	AED 15 (like $4)
Best Time	1-3 PM when the tide’s high
Hours	Sun-Thu: 7 AM-10 PM, Fri-Sat: 7 AM-11 PM
How Long	1.5-2 hours
Where	Al Jubail Island
Getting There	15 min from Abu Dhabi center

This Natural place to visit in Abu Dhabi has a wooden path that is 2.6 km long and goes through a mangrove forest. You can, in fact, walk on raised walkways that go through the trees and over the water. 

Mangrove trees have pointy roots that stick up from the ground so they can breathe when the tide comes in.

In the waterways, you’ll see fish, crabs, herons, and flamingos, and there are viewing towers that you can climb to for better views, as well as floating platforms that let you get closer to the water. 

What You Can Do in Jubail Mangrove Park

• Walk the 2.6 km boardwalk
• Spot flamingos and other birds
• Watch crabs and fish
• Stand on the floating platforms
• Kayak through the mangroves (book this separately)
• Talk to the park rangers
• Take photos (high tide looks best)

Things You Should Know About Jubail Mangrove Park

• Go during high tide (1-3 PM)
• Book online before you go
• Need your vaccine pass
• Bring your ID
• Don’t go in the summer
• No smoking, fishing, or swimming
• Can’t bring food on the boardwalk
• No flash photos (scares the birds)
• Don’t touch anything
• Wear comfy shoes
• Tuesday-Thursday are quieter
• Early morning or late afternoon is best for birds
• No bikes or scooters

Jubail Mangrove Park Prices

Entry for Jubail Mangrove Park is super cheap at just AED 15 per person. 

What	Price
Entry	AED 15 ($4)
Tour with a guide	AED 45
Kayaking 1 hour	AED 100-150
Kids under 5	Free

5. Sir Bani Yas Island: Wildlife Reserve Place To Visit in Abu Dhabi

Detail	Info
Type	Natural Island / Wildlife Reserve
Entry Fee	Varies by activity (usually need resort booking)
Best Time	September to March
Hours	Open 24/7 (activities have specific times)
How Long	Full day or overnight stay
Where	250 km southwest of Abu Dhabi
Getting There	Drive + boat from Jebel Dhanna, or direct seaplane

Sir Bani Yas Island is the UAE’s biggest natural island, and more than half of the island is the Arabian Wildlife Park. It has more than 13,000 animals, such as Arabian oryx, gazelles, cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, and even endangered species like sea turtles. 

Abu Dhabi’s Sir Bani Yas Island has several million trees and was named “World’s Leading Sustainable Tourism Destination” back in 2014.

What You Can Do in Sir Bani Yas Island

• Go on safari drives through the Arabian Wildlife Park
• Spot Arabian oryx, gazelles, giraffes, cheetahs, and more
• Take 4×4 open vehicle tours around the island
• Kayak through dense mangroves
• Try horse riding on Arabian horses
• Go coral reef diving (barracudas, turtles, dugongs)
• Relax on the beaches
• Visit the ancient Christian monastery and church
• Mountain biking on various trails
• Pearl diving experiences
• Stay at luxury Anantara resorts

Things You Should Know About Sir Bani Yas Island

• The best months are September to March 
• Most visitors need a resort reservation to access the island
• Cruise ship passengers can visit for the day
• Three Anantara resorts are available (Desert Islands Resort, Al Yamm Villa, Al Sahel Villa)
• Safari tours are usually early morning or late afternoon
• Bring sun protection and water
• Wildlife viewing is best in cooler hours
• The beach has all amenities (loungers, umbrellas, water sports)

Sir Bani Yas Island Prices

To get in, most of the time you have to book a hotel or certain events. Prices change a lot based on what you are doing.

What	Price Range
Resort stay	AED 900-1,700/night
Safari tour	AED 150-300/person
Kayaking	AED 100-200/person
Horse riding	AED 150-250/person
Diving experience	AED 200-400/person
Day visitor (cruise)	Varies by cruise

6. Al Ain Museum: UAE’s Oldest Museum To Visit in Abu Dhabi

Detail	Info
Type	History Museum
Entry Fee	AED 3 (less than $1)
Best Time	Morning hours (10 AM)
Hours	Sun-Thu: 9 AM-7 PM, Fri: 2-6 PM (closed Monday)
How Long	1-2 hours
Where	Al Ain (1.5 hours from Abu Dhabi)
Getting There	Drive to Al Ain, near Al Jahili Fort

Sheikh Zayed opened this museum in 1971, making it the oldest in the UAE. It shows the past of the country from the Stone Age to 1971, when the UAE was formed. Here in the Al Ain Museum, you will see tools and arrowheads from 6,000 years ago, old pots, jewelry, weapons, and other items from Mesopotamia.

The museum is next to the Sultan Fort (also known as the Eastern Fort) and close to the Al Ain Oasis. Also, NASA gave the UAE a well-known moon rock after the Apollo 17 flight, and it’s located here. 

What You Can Do in Al Ain Museum

• See archaeological artifacts from the Bronze Age
• Check out the moon rock from NASA
• Visit Gifts, Ethnography, and Archaeology
• Look at ancient stone tools from 6000 BCE
• See traditional Emirati culture displays
• Visit the Sultan Fort next door
• Browse historical photographs of Al Ain and Liwa
• Shop for souvenirs at the gift shop
• Learn about Sheikh Zayed’s history
• See imported Mesopotamian pottery (5,000 years old)

Things You Should Know About Al Ain Museum

• Closed on Mondays
• Friday opens later (2 PM instead of 9 AM)
• Great for history buffs
• Family-friendly and educational
• Air-conditioned inside
• Part of the UNESCO World Heritage site
• Combine with a visit to Al Ain Oasis nearby
• Al Jahili Fort is also close by
• Photography allowed
• The gift shop has unique moon rock souvenirs

Al Ain Museum Prices

The entry is only AED 3 for adults.

What	Price
Adult entry	AED 3 ($0.80)
Students	AED 1
Children under 6	Free
Al Jahili Fort	Free
Al Ain Oasis	Free

7. Al Qattara Arts Center: Best Historical Place To Visit in Abu Dhabi

Detail	Info
Type	Art Center / Cultural Site
Entry Fee	Free
Best Time	Morning or late afternoon
Hours	Sat-Thu: 8 AM-8 PM (closed Friday)
How Long	1-1.5 hours
Where	Al Ain
Getting There	In Al Ain near Al Qattara Oasis

Inside the Al Qattara Arts Center, there are art rooms with pieces by local and foreign artists, and there is also an ancient museum in the basement that has items from 6,000 years ago.

Meanwhile, the main building has a regional design that combines old and new styles. It’s also the place where Al Ain holds big cultural events and art shows.

What You Can Do in Al Qattara Arts Center

• Visit art galleries with paintings and digital art
• See archaeological exhibits in the basement
• Watch interactive art murals
• Take classes (pottery, calligraphy, photography, music)
• Attend cultural events and exhibitions
• See the traditional fort architecture
• Learn about Iron Age artifacts
• Shop at Zoi Café next door (trendy coffee spot)
• Join workshops and art programs
• See work by Emirati and international artists

Things You Should Know About Al Qattara Arts Center

• Entry is completely free
• Closed on Fridays
• Call ahead to check what’s open
• Zoi Café nearby (expensive but good coffee)
• Best during cultural events
• Sometimes quiet with few activities
• Combine with other Al Ain attractions
• Photography is allowed in most areas
• Family-friendly
• Classes available for all ages

8. Hili Archaeological Park in Abu Dhabi with 

Detail	Info
Type	Archaeological Site / Park
Entry Fee	Free
Best Time	October to April (cooler months)
Hours	Daily 9:30 AM-9:30 PM
How Long	1-2 hours
Where	Al Ain (near Hili Fun City)
Getting There	In Al Ain, about 2 hours from Abu Dhabi

Hili Archaeological Park has a collection of Bronze Age structures, including the famous Hili Grand Tomb that’s over 4,000 years old. The tomb is 12 meters wide and has beautiful carvings of animals and humans at the entrances. 

What You Can Do in Hili Archaeological Park

• See the Hili Grand Tomb (4,000+ years old)
• Check out Bronze Age fort ruins
• Visit ancient settlement remains
• Walk through the gardens and fountains
• Have a picnic with family
• Let kids play in the play area
• See the Umm an-Nar period structures
• Learn about ancient agricultural villages
• Take photos of the historical sites
• Enjoy peaceful walking paths
• BBQ in designated areas

Things You Should Know About Hili Archaeological Park

• Open daily, including weekends
• Best visited in the winter months
• Mostly reconstructed structures (not all original)
• Great for history enthusiasts
• Good for kids with play areas
• Some sites are roped off for protection

9. Al Wathba Salt Lake: Best Picnic Park in Abu Dhabi

Detail	Info
Type	Natural Lake / Photo Spot
Entry Fee	Free (4×4 rental isAED 200-400/day)
Best Time	October to March, sunrise or sunset
Hours	Open 24/7
How Long	1-2 hours
Where	Al Wathba area (outskirts of Abu Dhabi)
Getting There	Need a 4×4 vehicle, about 45 min from the city

Abu Dhabi Al Wathba Salt Lake is a man-made lake. High salt levels have created white salt formations (called ‘sabkha’) that float on emerald green water. The whole lake looks unreal, especially when the sun hits it.

What You Can Do in Al Wathba Salt Lake

• Walk on solid salt formations
• Take incredible photos
• Watch desert birds (flamingos sometimes)
• Camp overnight by the lake
• BBQ your own food
• Play stepping stones on the salt structures
• Watch sunrise or sunset
• Spot various bird species

Things You Should Know About Al Wathba Salt Lake

• Visit early morning (5-8 AM) or after 5 PM to avoid the heat
• December to mid-February is the best season
• Bring all your own food and water
• No facilities (no bathrooms, no shops)
• Don’t walk on delicate salt platforms (they can break)
• Don’t swim 
• Pack out all your trash
• A 4×4 vehicle is highly recommended
• Can camp overnight

10. Dalma Island: Natural Island To Visit in Abu Dhabi 

Detail	Info
Type	Historic Island / Pearl Trading Site
Entry Fee	Ferry: AED 20/person, AED 100/vehicle
Best Time	November to March
Hours	Open 24/7 (ferry has specific times)
How Long	Full day or overnight
Where	42 km offshore from Jebel Dhanna
Getting There	Ferry from Sir Bani Yas terminal (2 hours) or small plane

This island has a long history, stretching back 7,000 years. Back in the day, pearl trading and fishing were a really big deal. While digging on Dalma Island, archaeologists discovered old stone tools, beads, shells, and some ancient Ubaid pottery pieces.

On the island, you’ll find three old mosques in Dalma Island, such as Al Muhannadi, Al Dawsari, and Al Muraykhi. The buildings here are really old, more than 100 years old, and they have that classic Emirati look to them. 

What You Can Do on Dalma Island

• Visit the Delma Museum in the old pearl merchant house
• See three historic mosques with traditional architecture
• Go fishing off the coast
• Try snorkeling in clear waters
• Camp overnight on the beaches
• Explore century-old buildings
• Walk through the fishing village

Things You Should Know About Dalma Island

• Ferry costs AED 20/person or AED 100/vehicle
• Kids under 12 travel free
• Bring an Emirates ID or a passport for ferry tickets
• Limited accommodation (one small motel)
• Very few restaurants (mostly local spots)
• The hospital canteen is an eating option
• Bring your own food and supplies
• Check ferry schedule before going (02 4071673/4)

Dalma Island Prices

The ferry is the main cost on Dalma Island.

What	Price
Ferry per person	AED 20
Ferry per vehicle	AED 100
Kids under 12	Free
Motel stay	AED 150-250/night
Restaurant meal	AED 30-60

11. Umm Al Emarat: A Park To Visit in Abu Dhabi With Family at Night

Detail	Info
Type	Family Park / Green Space
Entry Fee	Free entry
Best Time	Early morning (8 AM) or sunset
Hours	Daily 8 AM-12 AM (midnight)
How Long	2-4 hours
Where	15th Street, between Airport Road and Karamah Street
Getting There	Bus 40 or 54, or taxi from anywhere in Abu Dhabi

This park, established way back in 1982, is one of the largest and oldest in Abu Dhabi. 

They really renovated the place and added a bunch of new features, so now it’s truly a cheap place to visit in Abu Dhabi with family. Everywhere you look, there are more than 250 different kinds of trees and plants.

Plus, a Shade House full of palm trees, an Animal Barn where your kids can pet ponies and goats, and a Botanic Garden with more than 200 local plants are all here. 

What You Can Do in Umm Al Emarat Park

• Visit the Animal Barn (ponies, horses, goats, camels, donkeys)
• Let kids enjoy pony rides
• Try the Wonder Maze (world’s largest)
• Watch shows at the 1,000-seat Amphitheatre
• Explore the Botanic Garden with 200+ plant species
• Ride the toy train around the park
• See the Shade House with desert plants
• Have picnics on the Great Lawn

Things You Should Know About Umm Al Emarat Park

• Entry is completely free
• Open until midnight daily
• No outside food allowed (only water bottles)
• No pets allowed
• No smoking anywhere in the park
• Get a park map at the entrance (the place is huge)
• Watch your belongings at all times
• Don’t damage any plants or structures
• Best to visit early morning or at sunset
• Great for families with kids
• Multiple dining options inside
• Clean bathrooms and facilities

Umm Al Emarat Park Prices

Well, Umm Al Emarat Park entry is free, but you need to pay for food, activities, or the toy train.

What	Price
Park entry	Free
Pony rides	AED 20-30
Toy train	AED 10-15
Food at cafes	AED 30-80/person
Wonder Maze	Included in entry

12. Qasr Al Hosn: A Historic Fort in Abu Dhabi

Detail	Info
Type	Historic Fort / Museum
Entry Fee	AED 60 (around $16)
Best Time	Morning around 10 AM
Hours	Sun-Thu: 10 AM-9 PM, Fri: 2-10 PM, Sat: 10 AM-10 PM
How Long	2-3 hours
Where	Near World Trade Centre Mall, Abu Dhabi
Getting There	Bus 40 or 54, or taxi

The history of Qasr Al Hosn goes back to 1790, making it the oldest in the whole city. At first, it was just a lookout that kept an eye on the ships and trade going on along the coast. But it became very important over time.

Both the Inner Fort, which was built in 1795, and the Outer Palace, which was built between 1939 and 1945, are big things to see when you walk in. 

What You Can Do in Qasr Al Hosn

• Explore the Inner Fort and Outer Palace
• See the original watchtower (first permanent structure)
• Visit exhibitions about UAE governance
• See ancient manuscripts and artifacts
• Watch interactive screens in galleries
• Visit House of Artisans (traditional crafts)
• Watch Talli embroidery demonstrations
• Visit Bait Al Gahwa (Arabic coffee house)

Things You Should Know About Qasr Al Hosn

• Arrive early to avoid crowds
• Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees)
• No smoking or drinking inside
• Book tickets online to skip queues
• Audio guides available
• Photography allowed (no flash)
• AC inside (very comfortable)
• Takes 2-3 hours to see everything
• Free Arabic coffee and dates offered

Qasr Al Hosn Prices

Getting in will set you back AED 60 for the grown-ups, but still, they’ve got combo tickets that let you hop around to other fun places too!

Ticket	Price
Adult entry	AED 60 ($16)
Student	AED 30
2 adults combo	AED 100
With a Louvre combo	AED 130
Kids under 6	Free

13. Al Wathba Cycle Track: Best Cycling Track in Abu Dhabi for Free

Detail	Info
Type	Cycling Track / Outdoor Activity
Entry Fee	Free (bike rental AED 30-60/hour)
Best Time	Early morning or evening, winter months
Hours	Open 24/7
How Long	1-4 hours depending on route
Where	Al Wathba area, near Camel Race Track
Getting There	40-min drive from Abu Dhabi via the E22 highway

Al Wathba Cycle Track has five tracks you can ride on. The longest is 30 km, the shortest is 8 km, and the longest is 20 km. 

The good news, though, is that if you don’t have a bike, they charge AED 30 to 60 an hour to rent them out. You can even choose among regular bikes, bikes for kids, and even bike carts for when you want to bring the whole family. 

What You Can Do in Al Wathba Cycle Track

• Cycle on 5 different route options
• Rent bikes if you don’t have one
• Take photos in the desert
• Use the changing rooms and showers
• Store stuff in lockers
• Buy snacks at the ADNOC Oasis Store
• Bring family (kids’ bikes available)

Things You Should Know About Al Wathba Cycle Track

• The best time is from November to March (winter)
• Avoid summer visit
• Go early morning or evening for sunrise/sunset
• Solar lights work until dusk
• Rental shop hours are Weekdays 4-10 PM, Weekends 6:30 AM-10 PM
• Bring your own water and snacks
• Wear sunscreen and sun protection
• No support once on track (bring phone)
• Routes are well signposted

14. Al Wathba Fossil Dunes: Free Natural Formation To Visit in Abu Dhabi 

Detail	Info
Type	Natural Formation / Photo Spot
Entry Fee	Free
Best Time	October to April, sunrise or sunset
Hours	Open 24/7
How Long	1-2 hours
Where	Al Wathba area, 70 km south of Abu Dhabi
Getting There	Need 4×4, coordinates: 24°10’16.4″N 54°34’39.1″E

The Al Wathba Fossil Dunes formations are like natural art. They look totally unique, almost like sculptures that nature made. When the sun sets, everything turns this amazing red color as the brown sand and blue sky blend together. 

What You Can Do in Al Wathba Fossil Dunes

• Take incredible photos (very photogenic)
• Watch sunset or sunrise
• Camp overnight
• Have BBQ picnics
• Relax in a peaceful desert

Things You Should Know About Al Wathba Fossil Dunes

• Visit early morning or after 5 PM (avoid heat)
• The best season is from October to April
• Summer is way too hot
• Bring all food and water
• No facilities (no bathrooms, no shops)
• Don’t climb on structures (they’re fragile)
• Ministry asks visitors not to damage formations
• Photography allowed (watch for the army base nearby)
• 4×4 highly recommended
• Drone permits needed for aerial shots

15. Qasr Al Watan: Best Places To Go in Abu Dhabi at Night

Detail	Info
Type	Presidential Palace / Cultural Site
Entry Fee	AED 60 (around $16)
Best Time	Late afternoon for “Palace in Motion” show
Hours	Daily 11 AM-6:15 PM
How Long	2-3 hours
Where	Presidential Palace complex, Abu Dhabi
Getting There	15 min from the city center via the E10 highway

Qasr Al Watan is the real presidential house, where the president actually works. Back in 2019, they let people come because they wanted people to see how the UAE’s government works and learn about the country’s history. 

Just looking at the building will blow your mind. There are 37-meter-wide domes, chandeliers made of 350,000 crystals, white granite and limestone all over the building, and so many small details that you’ll want to look at them for hours.

The Great Hall is the first thing you see when you walk inside. It’s huge. Then there’s the House of Knowledge, which is where they keep important old records and items. 

What You Can Do in Qasr Al Watan

• Walk through the magnificent Great Hall
• See the 350,000-crystal chandelier
• Visit House of Knowledge exhibitions
• Watch “Palace in Motion” light show (7:30 PM)
• Visit Qasr Al Watan Library
• See gifts from world leaders

Things You Should Know About Qasr Al Watan

• Tickets sell out fast, so book online
• Dress appropriately (shoulders and knees covered)
• Last entry at 6:30 PM
• Palace closes at 7 PM
• Light show starts at 7:30 PM
• Bring a valid ID or a passport
• Photography allowed (no commercial equipment)
• No tripods larger than 15 inches
• Don’t photograph security systems
• Audio guides available
• AC throughout (very comfortable)
• Allow 2-3 hours minimum

Qasr Al Watan Prices

The admission fee to Qasr Al Watan is AED 60. 

Ticket	Price
Adult entry	AED 60 ($16)
With a light show	Included
Students	AED 30
Kids under 4	Free
Family package	AED 150

16. Saadiyat Public Beach: Best Seaside To Visit in Abu Dhabi for Couples

Detail	Info
Type	Public Beach
Entry Fee	AED 150 weekdays, AED 200 weekends
Best Time	December to February (winter)
Hours	Daily 8 AM-6 PM
How Long	Half day or full day
Where	Saadiyat Island
Getting There	Bus 404, or taxi from Abu Dhabi

It’s such a pretty beach, with soft golden sand and calm, very clear blue water. Saadiyat Public Beach is at the western tip of Saadiyat Island, with a view of the Persian Gulf. 

 If you’re lucky, you might see dolphins having fun in the water.

Things are set up really well here. Plus, there are shops, bathrooms, changing rooms, and more than 300 sun chairs, each with its own cover. 

What You Can Do at Saadiyat Public Beach

• Swim in clear, calm water
• Sunbathe on golden sand
• Spot hawksbill turtles (nesting site)
• Watch for dolphins in the bay
• Try paddleboarding or kayaking
• Go windsurfing or bodysurfing
• Play beach volleyball
• Build sandcastles with kids
• Fly kites on the beach
• Eat at Beach House Café
• Play golf nearby

Things You Should Know About Saadiyat Public Beach

• Entry fee required (not free)
• Weekdays are cheaper than weekends
• The best season is December to February
• Can see turtles during nesting season
• Dolphins are visible in the winter months
• Over 300 loungers 
• Bring sunscreen and sun protection
• Lifeguards on duty
• Clean facilities
• Food available at the cafe

Saadiyat Public Beach Prices

Beach access costs AED 150 on weekdays, AED 200 on weekends, and also includes a lounger and an umbrella.

What	Price
Weekday entry	AED 150
Weekend entry	AED 200
Lounger & umbrella	Included
Food at the cafe	AED 50-100/person
Water sports	AED 100-200

17. Al Jahili Fort: Historical Place To Visit in Abu Dhabi for Free

Detail	Info
Type	Historic Fort / Museum
Entry Fee	Free
Best Time	Morning or late afternoon
Hours	Sun-Thu: 10 AM-6 PM, Fri: 2-6 PM, Sat: 10 AM-6 PM
How Long	1-2 hours
Where	Al Ain (1.5 hours from Abu Dhabi)
Getting There	Drive to Al Ain via the E30 highway

Sheikh Zayed bin Khalifa built Al Jahili Fort in the 1890s to protect the lush fields and palm trees in the Buraimi Oasis area. It’s set up in a pretty cool way. 

In the middle of the  Al Jahili Fort is a big house, and four tall, round walls guard it. Al Jahili Fort takes up 14,000 square meters, and in fact, it’s one of the biggest forts in the whole UAE.

Within, there is a fascinating ongoing display about a person named Sir Wilfred Thesiger. He was an adventurous traveler who, in the 1940s, made two crossings across the world’s largest sand desert, the Empty Quarter. Then he took these beautiful black-and-white pictures of how the Bedouin lived. 

What You Can Do in Al Jahili Fort

• Check out the huge fort building.
• Visit the Wilfred Thesiger picture show.
• Look at the four towers from every angle.
• See the surrounding Jahili Park
• Get free Arabic coffee and dates
• Have a look at traditional cooling techniques

Things You Should Know About Al Jahili Fort

• Entry is completely free
• Closed on Fridays until 2 PM
• Natural cooling system (no AC needed)
• Free Arabic coffee and dates offered
• The photography exhibition is excellent
• Jahili Park is nearby for relaxing
• Best visited in cooler months
• Go around 3 PM, then enjoy the sunset at the park
• The gift shop needs a better selection

18. Al Reem Island: Best Free Waterfront Community in Abu Dhabi

Category	Details
Type	Waterfront Community & Shopping
Entry Fee	Free (individual venues vary)
Best Time	October to May
Hours	24/7 (shops 10 AM – 10 PM)
Time Needed	Half day to full day
Location	North-east Abu Dhabi
How to Get There	Bus, taxi, or car via bridges

Many of the buildings around Al Reem Island are very tall and have great views of the Gulf. It has high-end stores, great restaurants, and a laid-back beach vibe all in one area.

The vibe is what sets it apart from other parts of Abu Dhabi since people from all over the world live here. 

What You Can Do in Al Reem Island

• Walk around Reem Central Park with food trucks, skate parks, and water sports
• Shop at Shams Boutik Mall and the upcoming Reem Mall
• Eat at waterfront restaurants with Gulf views
• Check out Seven Wellness for yoga, fitness, and relaxation
• Join the Reem Weekend community event (happens periodically with organic food, street performances, and pop-up markets)

Things You Should Know About Al Reem Island

• Some areas are still under construction, so stick to the finished parts
• Best to visit during cooler months (October-May) for outdoor activities
• You can rent electric bikes to explore faster
• Food trucks around Reem Central Park are worth trying
• The island gets quieter during hot summer days

Al Reem Island Prices

Item	Price Range
Entry to the island	Free
Restaurant meals	AED 40-150 per person
Café coffee/snacks	AED 15-40
Bike rental	AED 30-50/hour
Seven Wellness classes	AED 60-120 per class

19. Marina Mall: Best Mall To Visit in Abu Dhabi With 400 Stores

Category	Details
Type	Shopping Mall & Entertainment
Entry Fee	Free
Best Time	Weekday mornings or late afternoons
Hours	9 AM – 10:30 PM
Time Needed	3-5 hours
Location	Corniche West, near Emirates Palace
How to Get There	Bus 8, taxi, or car

Marina Mall has more than 400 stores spread out over 122,000 square meters. It also has a perfect site too, right on the Corniche with views of the water all around.

The entertainment options include Bounce, an indoor trampoline park with ziplines and free-fall slides, Magic Planet for kids, a bowling hall, and VOX Cinemas with 9 seats. 

What You Can Do in Marina Mall

• Play at Bounce trampoline park (free-fall, zipline, trampolines)
• Let kids enjoy Magic Planet arcade games
• Bowl at Emirates Bowling Village
• Watch movies at VOX Cinemas (2,000 seats, IMAX, 3D, 4D screens)
• Eat at 68 restaurants and cafes
• Try the traditional Turkish breakfast at Petek
• Get seafood at Joe’s Crab Shack

Things You Should Know About Marina Mall

• Wear masks in public areas (safety first)
• Make a shopping list beforehand to save time
• Visit during off-hours 
• Take stairs or escalators instead of elevators 

Marina Mall Prices

Item	Price Range
Mall entry	Free
Movie ticket	AED 35-60
Bounce activities	AED 60-120
Bowling	AED 25-40 per game
Restaurant meal	AED 30-120 per person
Magic Planet games	AED 5-20 per game

20. Al Mirfa Beach: Natural Beach & Camping Place in Abu Dhabi

Category	Details
Type	Natural Beach & Camping
Entry Fee	Free
Best Time	January to March
Hours	24/7
Time Needed	Half day to overnight
Location	Al Dhafra Region, 172 km from Abu Dhabi
How to Get There	Car via E11 Highway (1.5 hours)

Al Mirfa Beach is very far away, in the Al Dhafra area, about 90 minutes from Abu Dhabi. In contrast to the city, Al Mirfa has no people, no buildings, just clean sand, blue water, and peace.

What You Can Do at Al Mirfa Beach

• Relax on the quiet beach 
• Camp overnight (bring your own gear or rent from the village)
• Fish (locals say you can catch good stuff here)
• Try water sports like jet skiing, wakeboarding, and banana rides
• Walk through the mangrove forest on the western side
• Stay at Al Mirfa Hotel (3-star, right on the beach)
• Attend Al Gharbia Watersports Festival (April, free entry)

Things You Should Know About Al Mirfa Beach

• Bring plenty of water and snacks (village shops are small)
• Pack sunscreen, a hat, and extra clothes
• The best weather is January-March (around 25°C)
• October-December is okay, but warmer
• Avoid summer 
• Camping is allowed and pretty safe
• The beach is undeveloped

Al Mirfa Beach Prices

Item	Price Range
Beach entry	Free
Camping	Free (bring your own gear)
Hotel room	AED 300-500 per night
Water sports	AED 80-200 per activity
Fishing gear rental	AED 50-100
Food at the hotel	AED 30-80 per meal

21. World Trade Center Mall (The Souk)

Category	Details
Type	Shopping Mall & Dining
Entry Fee	Free
Best Time	10 AM – 12 PM (less crowded)
Hours	10 AM – 10 PM daily
Time Needed	2-4 hours
Location	Al Hisn district, near Corniche
How to Get There	Taxi or car from major areas

They call the World Trade Center Mall “The Souk” because it’s designed to look like a traditional Arabian marketplace, but with AC, modern stores, and way more space. 

World Trade Center Mall replaced an outdoor souk that burned down in 2004, and they did a great job mixing old-school Arabian vibes with modern shopping.

It’s got 160+ shops spread across 60,000 square meters, and here you can buy a Balmain dress, then walk next door and get traditional Arabic perfume, spices, or camel figurines. 

What You Can Do in the World Trade Center Mall

• Shop at 160+ stores (H&M, MAC, Bath & Body Works, Victoria’s Secret)
• Buy traditional items (Arabic perfumes, spices, scarves, carpets)
• Eat at multiple restaurants (Indian at Tamba, seafood at Fish & Co.)
• Have breakfast at Pancake House
• Try American burgers at Shake Shack
• Watch movies at Novo Cinemas (8 screens, IMAX, 4D)
• Play games at Action Zone (VR, bungee jumping, zero gravity)
• Let kids play at Pop In and Play (LEGO area, soft play)

Things You Should Know About the World Trade Center Mall

• Bring cash for smaller vendors (some don’t take cards)
• Best deals are on traditional Arabian products
• Keep an eye on your belongings
• Make a list before you go to save time
• Try to arrive early to avoid crowds
• The cinema often sells out for popular movies

World Trade Center Mall Prices

Item	Price Range
Mall entry	Free
Movie ticket	AED 35-55
Restaurant meal	AED 35-100 per person
Coffee at the cafe	AED 15-30
Action Zone games	AED 30-80 per activity
Traditional souvenirs	AED 20-200

22. Al Ain Oasis: Unesco Heritage Place To Visit in Abu Dhabi

Category	Details
Type	UNESCO Heritage Site & Farm
Entry Fee	Free
Best Time	October to May
Hours	9 AM – 5 PM daily
Time Needed	1-2 hours
Location	Al Ain city center (159 km from Abu Dhabi)
How to Get There	Car or RTA bus from Dubai

Al Ain Oasis is a huge green island in the middle of the desert that has been there for thousands of years. It covers 1,200 hectares and has fruit fields, palm trees, and old watering systems that still work. 

The silver lining is that because Al Ain Oasis is so special, UNESCO named it a World Heritage Site in 2011.

It all works on the Falaj system, which is made up of old underground passages that bring water from far away to keep everything green. 

What You Can Do in Al Ain Oasis

• Walk the peaceful pathways under palm trees
• Join the Oasiscape Tour (guided tour with electronic info points)
• Visit the Eco Centre
• See the Miniature Oasis (shows how the Falaj system works)
• Spot different fruit trees (mangoes, figs, pomegranates, bananas)
• Rent a bike or pedal cart at the entrance
• Check out the Eastern Fort (built 1910)
• See how the ancient Falaj irrigation works

Things You Should Know About Al Ain Oasis

• Hit the road early morning or late afternoon to avoid traffic
• Bring a sun hat and lots of sunscreen
• Winter (October-May) is best 
• During Ramadan, dress properly and respect local customs
• Check the weather before going (rare but sometimes dust storms happen)
• Bike rental is AED 20-30 per hour
• Free entry, but tours might cost extra

Al Ain Oasis Prices

Item	Price Range
Oasis entry	Free
Bike/cart rental	AED 20-30/hour
Oasiscape Tour	AED 15-25
Eco Centre visit	Free with entry
Bus from Dubai	AED 30 one way
Parking	Free

23. Observation Deck at 300: Best Sunset Views To Visit in Abu Dhabi

Category	Details
Type	Viewing Platform & Café
Entry Fee	AED 75 (standard), AED 160 (with high tea)
Best Time	Sunset (around 6-7 PM)
Hours	12 PM – 8 PM daily
Time Needed	1-2 hours
Location	Etihad Towers, Tower 2, Level 74
How to Get There	Bus 33/34 or taxi

Observation Deck is the highest point in all of Abu Dhabi and is on the 74th floor of Etihad Towers, 300 meters above the ground. 

You can see the whole city below you, like the Corniche, Emirates Palace, the Arabian Gulf, and, in the distance, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

Moreover, there are windows from floor to ceiling, soft leather chairs, and binoculars that you can use to get a better look at certain buildings. 

What You Can Do in the Observation Deck at 300

• Take in 360-degree views of Abu Dhabi from 300 meters up
• Use high-tech telescopes to see landmarks up close
• Enjoy afternoon high tea (if you book that option)
• Try exclusive TWG Tea blends
• Drink the signature Etihad Sparkler mocktail
• Take photos through floor-to-ceiling windows
• Take a look at the Emirates Palace, the Corniche, the Grand Mosque, and the islands

Things You Should Know About the Observation Deck at 300

• Dress code is smart casual (no shorts, flip-flops, beach wear)
• Book high tea at least one day in advance
• Sunset time is most popular (book ahead)
• High-speed elevator takes you straight to floor 74
• Outside food and drinks are not allowed

Observation Deck at 300 Prices

Item	Price Range
Standard entry	AED 75
Entry + afternoon tea	AED 160
Coffee at the café	AED 25-35
TWG tea	AED 30-45
Mocktails	AED 35-45
Sweet treats	AED 20-40

24. Al Ain Palace Museum: Historical Palace To Visit in Abu Dhabi

Category	Details
Type	Historical Museum & Palace
Entry Fee	AED 47 (adults), free under 18 & over 60
Best Time	October to April (pleasant weather)
Hours	10 AM – 6 PM (closed Wednesdays)
Time Needed	2-3 hours
Location	Al Ain city center, next to Al Ain Oasis
How to Get There	Car, taxi, or bus

The Al Ain Palace Museum is where Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan lived when he first established the United Arab Emirates. Nowadays, it’s a museum that shows how the royal family lived before oil was found and everything became very modern.

Classical building with wind towers called Barjeels that naturally cooled the rooms (there was no air conditioning back then) makes the house itself very beautiful. 

Also, Al Ain Palace Museum has private rooms for the family, study areas for the kids with old blackboards, gardens for meetings, and even a room for teaching the Quran.

What You Can Do in Al Ain Palace Museum

• See private family living quarters (two floors)
• Visit the Quran teaching room
• Check out the outdoor meeting courtyard
• See original study rooms with blackboards
• View gifts given to the royal family
• Walk through rooms with traditional Barjeel wind towers
• Explore the old Land Rover (like what Sheikh Zayed used)

Things You Should Know About Al Ain Palace Museum

• Don’t touch artifacts or preserved items
• Cover shoulders and knees
• Closed on Wednesdays
• Best to arrive by 2-3 PM for the full tour before closing
• The tour takes about 2-3 hours
• Bring water (it gets hot outside)
• Free entry for seniors (60+) and kids under 18
• Next to Al Ain Oasis, so visit both together

Al Ain Palace Museum Prices

Item	Price Range
Adult entry	AED 47
Under 18	Free
Over 60	Free
Parking	Free
Guided tour	Included in the ticket
Photos	Free (no flash)
Gift shop items	AED 15-100

25. Al Bateen Beach in Abu Dhabi With Blue Flag Certification

Detail	Information
Type	Public Beach (Blue Flag Certified)
Entry Fee	Free (Women’s section: AED 25 women, AED 5 kids)
Best Time	30 minutes before sunset, October to March
Hours	Open 24/7
Duration	2-4 hours
Location	Al Bateen Area, western Abu Dhabi
Transport	Bus or taxi (limited parking)

Al Bateen Beach is way more chill than the popular ones because it has fewer people and a quieter atmosphere. It’s even got Blue Flag certification, and it means that they keep it super clean and sustainable.

One unique thing about Al Bateen is the separate women’s beach. It’s a private section just for women with female lifeguards only. Moreover, the main beach has volleyball areas, spots for jet skiing and kayaking, plus a playground for kids. 

What You Can Do at Al Bateen Beach

• Swim in calm, clear waters (safe for kids)
• Jet ski with rental equipment right there on the beach
• Try paddleboarding (easy in the calm water)
• Go kayaking solo or with family
• Play beach volleyball (bring your own ball)
• Relax at the women-only beach section (ladies only, private)
• Let kids play in the dedicated toddler play area

Things You Should Know About Al Bateen Beach

• It’s a Blue Flag beach
• Men should wear Bermuda shorts, and women can wear swimsuits
• Bring your own sunscreen (strong desert sun)
• Pack food and lots of water (limited vendors)
• Women’s beach requires a separate entry fee
• Bottom can be a bit muddy in some spots
• Lifeguards and security guards on duty
• Gets crowded on Friday afternoons and weekends

Al Bateen Beach Prices

Item	Price (AED)
Main Beach Entry	Free
Women’s Beach (Adult)	25
Women’s Beach (Kids)	5
Parking	Free
Jet Ski Rental	150-200/30 min
Kayak Rental	50-80/hour
Paddleboard Rental	60-100/hour
Volleyball (bring your own ball)	Free

Last Words | Best Places To Visit in Abu Dhabi

As we read through hundreds of reviews and asked locals what they thought of Abu Dhabi, we came to the conclusion that this city has a lot more to offer than you might think. 

Culture and theme parks are both available; you also have access to beaches, desert activities, and some truly amazing buildings. We checked out a lot of different places, from free ones like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Heritage Village to more expensive ones like Ferrari World and the Observation Deck. 

The nature spots also caught us off guard. Most people don’t think of mangrove kayaks, sand beaches, and mountain drives when they think of a Gulf city. 

FAQs | Best Places To Visit in Abu Dhabi