Top attractions in Abu Dhabi: 19 places to visit this summer
From cultural attractions, world-class facilities and tourist spots for all budgets, we promise you, you will not want to miss the top attractions in Abu Dhabi.
Whether you fancy an afternoon walking through the natural beauty of mangroves or exploring the extraordinary architecture of presidential palaces, we've rounded up some of the most famous – and beautiful – sites to add to your travel bucket list.
Without further ado…
Top attractions in Abu Dhabi in 2025
Abu Dhabi Corniche
Attractions come and go, but the corniche will always be one of the most famous places in Abu Dhabi. The 8km stretch of road is a thriving piece of street theatre, people-watching paradise, foodie hub and public walkway all rolled into one. From public beach zone to bicycle hire location you will never tire of visiting the street.
Even amid the rollercoasters, luxury hotels and world-class attractions a simple street where you can walk freely in the Emirates sunshine is a stand-out way to spend any day of the year.
Corniche.
Emirates Palace
More than 15 years since first opening it is still Abu Dhabi's most iconic and storied hotel. The low-rise Arabian-style property has been the host to royalty, Governments, celebrities and discerning travellers from around the world and is known for the luxury of rooms, gardens and fine-dining restaurants.
Emirates Palace, West Corniche Road, mandarinoriental.com (02 690 888).
Ferrari World
A Ferrari-themed park, which is home to the Formula Rossa – the world's fastest rollercoaster. Strap in and zoom off at speeds up to 240kmph on a track climbing 52m high.
Car lovers and Ferrari enthusiasts will love the motoring attractions that include VIP motoring, a fleet of rides and a celebration of all things to do with the famed car brand.
From Dhs345. Ferrari World, Yas Island, ferrariworldabudhabi.com (600 511115).
Heritage Village
This recreation of a traditional Emirati village is a snapshot of how life used to be in the UAE. Stroll the palm tree-lined grounds and you can observe craftspeople at work demonstrating metalwork, weaving and pottery skills. You can also see a traditional souk, explore a fort and buy handmade souvenirs.
Free entry. Heritage Village, near Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi Corniche, torath.gov.ae (02 681 4455).
Jubail Mangroves
Arguably the best place to walk in the UAE, this serene parkland is an area of outstanding natural beauty. A series of meandering boardwalks let you criss-cross the mangroves and see herons, flamingos, turtles, deer and more animals in their natural habitat. A gorgeous getaway that shows off a different side to the country. Stunning.
From Dhs20. Jubail Mangroves, Al Jubail Island, jubailisland.ae (02 546 8341).
Louvre Abu Dhabi
An architectural marvel and cultural and artistic beacon, Louvre Abu Dhabi is still as impressive today as it was when it opened its doors in 2017.
People from all over the globe put the museum at the top of their list when arriving in the UAE for a holiday – and with good reason.
Louvre Abu Dhabi is filled with unique historic pieces, and classic and contemporary artworks spanning the then and now from East to West. But as well as the breath-taking exhibitions there are also kayaking and yoga lessons on offer.
From Dhs65. Open Tues-Thu, 10am-6:30pm (exhibition), Fri-Sun, 10am-8:30pm. Closed on Mon. Saadiyat Cultural District, Saadiyat Island, louvreabudhabi.ae .
Mamsha Al Saadiyat
This beachfront development on 'Happiness Island' is known for its ocean views and superb dining. If al fresco food and family-friendly ambience alongside the sea sound good to you then you need to explore. Casual dining and easy-going bites are the order of the day.
Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Jacques Chirac St, Saadiyat Island, aldar.com (056 888 9808).
National Aquarium
With 46,000 animals, 330 species and 10 thematic zones – there is an entire other world to explore at the Middle East's largest aquarium. Sharks, stingrays, birds, reptiles and much more besides can be seen, studied and adored at this attraction that puts education and conservation at the heart of everything it does. Through animal encounters and an aquarium journey, visitors can learn more about our planet and the creatures we share it with.
From Dhs110. National Aquarium, Rabdan, Al Qana, thenationalaquarium.ae (02 418 6666).
Qasr Al Watan
A presidential palace that visitors can explore in detail and learn more about the cultural heritage of Abu Dhabi and the UAE. While the exteriors seem traditional, it was actually constructed in 2017 and opened to the public a couple of years later.
The incredible building and it interiors make for one of the world's great palace attractions, and one of the most famous places in Abu Dhabi. Plus there are regular light, sound and cultural performances to enjoy.
Qasr Al Watan, Al Ras Al Akhdar, qasralwatan.ae (600 544 442).
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
The largest mosque in the UAE and an active place of worship for thousands of people. The architectural masterpiece is a stunning sight to behold, and work began under the leadership and instruction of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan as a haven to inspire people of all backgrounds. It now accepts visitors who want to learn more about Islam and culture in the UAE.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street, szgmc.gov.ae (02 419 1919).
The Galleria Al Maryah Island
Don't call this a mall. It is one of the few boutique lifestyle destinations that really deserves the name.
Yes, there are stores from leading fashion houses such as Louis Vuitton, Fendi, Prada and more, but there is so much more to do. Fine dining in the shape of Zuma, Maison and more, for starters.
The Galleria Al Maryah Island, thegalleria.ae (02 493 7400).
Warner Bros. Hotel
Not only is it next door to the world's largest theme park, around the corner from a water park and just up the road to the world's fastest rollercoaster – it is also the world's first Warner Bros-themed hotel.
To put it another way – if Superman came to Abu Dhabi on holiday this is where he would stay. Get ready for movie-themed rooms, loads of real props and all sorts of memorabilia and movie magic to enjoy.
WB Abu Dhabi, Yas Bay, Yas Island, hilton.com (02 815 0000).
Warner Bros. World
Dozens of rides and attractions are divided into super fun themed zones here. Specialising in Batman, Superman, the Flintstones and all manner of Warner Bros cartoons such as Scooby Doo, Tom and Jerry, Daffy Duck and more. As well as all the rides there are live shows and chances to meet beloved characters and a few villains, too.
From Dhs345. Warner Bros. World, Yas Island, wbworldabudhabi.com (600 511 115).
Yas Bay Waterfront
Yas Bay is Abu Dhabi's one-of-a-kind Dhs12 billion waterfront destination nestled south of Yas Island, and it's the capital's premier waterfront destination.
Down by the water's edge you'll find the impressive Etihad Arena and all the headline concerts that come with it, plus many many cool restaurants.
It's not a place you want to pass up.
Yas Bay, Yas Island, yasbay.ae (800 927 229).
Yas Mall
Abu Dhabi is particularly good at shopping malls, but even in this crowded market Yas Island's megamall stands out. The numbers alone are impressive – 2.5million square feet, 370 international brands, nearly 70 places to eat and drink, a 24-screen cinema. The whole experience is just as rewarding with lots of space for leisure including a climbing centre and play centres.
Yas Mall, Yas Island, yasmall.ae (800 927 6255).
Yas Marina Circuit
If Abu Dhabi's incredible motorsport circuit was only open for one weekend a year, to host the annual grand prix and F1 spectacular it would still be worthy of this list. But there is so much more to get up to, including driving experiences, karting and drifting event and regular fitness events where you can get on the track for walks, jogs, and even bike rides.
Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Island, yasmarinacircuit.com (800 927).
Yas Waterworld
The little touches make all the difference on a day out. Like making the excite chute on a waterslide look like a hissing snake's fanged mouth – it just makes an already exciting ride all the more thrilling.
Not that adrenaline junkies need much more convincing. With more than 40 slides, for all ages and thrill requirements, Yas Waterworld makes for one of the best days out in Abu Dhabi and a must for aquatic thrill seekers.
From Dhs295. Yas Waterworld, Yas Island, yaswaterworld.com (600 511 115).
SeaWorld Abu Dhabi
SeaWorld allows marine biology fans to see more than 100,000 animals at the world's largest and most expansive multi-species aquarium.
Visitors to SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, which spans 183,000 sq m over five floors and eight 'realms', will also have access to 15 rides and experiences such as the Manta Coaster or the Hypersphere 360.
From Dhs 375. SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, seaworldabudhabi.com (600 511 115).
Summer in Abu Dhabi
The 27 best things to do indoors this summer in Abu Dhabi
It's time for some air-conditioned bliss
The best budget restaurants in Abu Dhabi
Big on flavour, low on cost
25 brilliant beach and pool day passes in Abu Dhabi
Grab your SPF – a lush day by the water awaits
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Campaign ME
11 hours ago
- Campaign ME
How Nissan's latest Patrol Path campaign turned a drive into a story of legacy
In a market saturated with automotive campaigns built around horsepower and glossy finishes, Nissan Dubai took a different route in their latest campaign. The Patrol Path, a curated weekend getaway, wasn't about sleek finishes or specs – it was about movement, memory, and meaning. Research shows that the region's rising generation of adventure-seekers and culture-shapers want campaigns that don't just sell but stand for something real. At its core, the Patrol Path campaign explored how legacy isn't built in isolation but shaped through shared experience and connection. The campaign honoured the enduring role of the Patrol in the UAE. The creative vision was designed not just to highlight the car, but to echo the stories of those who've lived, led, and grown alongside it by drawing inspiration from local culture, the rhythm of the land, and the untold stories off the path. Hussam Baghdadi Senior Director, Arabian Automobiles shared, 'The Patrol Path wasn't just a drive, it became a powerful tribute to the spirit of leadership, the roots of legacy, and the roads that connect us all.' The result? A campaign that wasn't just told, but experienced. It generated over 330+ social media stories, with 2.2+ million organic and earned reach, and an estimated $320,000 in PR value. But more than numbers, it tapped into something emotional: the spirit of the Patrol and the pulse of the UAE. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ai Lee Syarief | Coach (@chopsueylee) The patrol path: more than a campaign The campaign was conceived and brought to life by ComCo Middle East and Africa, who served as the creative and activation partner. ComCo orchestrated the collaboration between Nissan Dubai, Gravity Calisthenics Gym, JA Hatta Fort Hotel, and Fujifilm Instax Middle East – bringing together diverse partners to deliver a seamless campaign that celebrated adventure. It unfolded in two acts, each designed to turn brand storytelling into lived experience. Leadership and legacy was a heritage road trip shaped by Emirati voices, while power and performance delivered movement, aligned with the Dubai Fitness Challenge and brought memory first stories. It began with a convoy of 22 media and and adrenaline-seeking participants setting off from Nissan's Sharjah showroom. Supported by the Sharjah Media Council, the route featured cultural pit stops that offered moments of pause and perspective. Highlights included an abandoned gas station frozen in time, the Khalid Al Huriya public kitchen, and the historic Shees Market, each moment offering a glimpse into the rich stories present across Sharjah's landscape. Then came the real test, off-roading through the dramatic terrain of Hatta, led by seasoned off-road expert Mahmoud Al Jaffrawi, better known as Dr. Motor. With his guidance setting the pace, the Nissan Patrol rose to the challenge, navigating steep climbs, rugged paths, and sharp descents with effortless confidence, a living reminder of why it remains a trusted companion for the bold and the curious. As dusk approached, the crew pulled into the serene JA Hatta Fort Hotel for an evening of reconnection and reflection. The next morning began with a grounding inversion and stretch session led by Gravity Calisthenics Gym, followed by energising outdoor activities curated by JA Hatta Fort Hotel. A story told through many lenses Each participant received a Fujifilm Instax Mini 99 in their Patrol Pack, encouraging them to document the experience through their own lens. 'By integrating INSTAX cameras into each guest's 'Patrol Pack', the event encouraged participants to document their journey in a uniquely personal way, reinforcing the brand's belief in the power of self-expression and memory-making. From nostalgic pit-stops to cultural touchpoints and moments of self-reflection, every aspect of the experience offered an authentic canvas for storytelling – not through scripted narratives, but through the eyes and emotions of each participant,' says Gopal Sudhakaran, Marketing Operations Manager, Grand Stores. From printed memories at nostalgic pit-stops to spontaneous reflections in motion, the campaign became a patchwork of personal stories. The cameras weren't just tools for content – they were portals for connection. After a day of culture, heritage, and off-roading, the convoy of Patrols pulled into JA Hatta Fort Hotel – a true embodiment of nostalgia and nature. JA Hatta Fort Hotel, first opened in 1981 and is a piece of UAE's history. 'Being part of this journey felt like a natural fit for us. The Nissan Patrol is such an iconic brand in the UAE and across the GCC. As much as it is a symbol of adventure, reliability, and heritage, in many ways, Hatta holds a similar place in people's hearts. It's where generations have come to disconnect from the bustle of city life and reconnect with nature, culture, and community. Both are timeless in their own way, bringing a sense of character, nostalgia, and authenticity that have become central to how outdoor enthusiasts and many others experience the UAE,' shares Deborah, the Cluster GM of JA Hatta Fort Hotel and Terra Cabins. Gravity Calisthenics CalisGym, Dubai's first calisthenics and movement gym challenged participants to connect strength and story. They brought sessions focused on inversion, mobility, and mindful movement to day two of the Patrol Path. Guests were guided through routines that challenged their physical boundaries while also mirroring the emotional and cultural depth of the campaign. 'Our participation was inspired by the synergy between Nissan Patrol's legacy of resilience and our mission to redefine fitness through natural movement. Hosting physical sessions during the campaign added a tangible layer to the message; it showed that leadership starts with showing up, moving intentionally, and building strength from the inside out,' said Yousef Al Gurg, Founder of Gravity Calisthenics Gym. 'Bringing that to The Patrol Path allowed us to align with Nissan's heritage message in a very real, very physical way. Leadership begins with how you carry yourself.' Reflections that resonate Influencer marketing was integral to the campaign but it wasn't just transactional, it was transformational. Every guest selected, and every brand partnered in the campaign brought a unique voice, not for reach alone, but for relevance, sincerity, and storytelling power. 'The response from our community was overwhelmingly positive. Many saw it as a bold and authentic collaboration that bridged adventure, lifestyle, and fitness. It sparked conversations around legacy not just in terms of cars or branding, but in how we carry and challenge ourselves daily. Members appreciated having their fitness journeys cross paths with the Nissan Patrol, while this may not be the most obvious of cross-overs, the synergies identified by participants were numerous,' says Gurg. Across Instagram, LinkedIn, and press coverage participants shared, reflected, and celebrated what the campaign stood for. Some of the strongest engagement came from quieter moments such as reconnecting with one's roots at a local kitchen stop. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hany Zaho👑 (@hanyzaho) Overall, the Patrol Path campaign blurred the line between brand and human experience. It invited people to move, to listen, to reflect – and, ultimately, to lead.
Campaign ME
11 hours ago
- Campaign ME
Rixos Obhur Jeddah picks Brazen MENA as PR partner for Saudi launch
Rixos Hotels has appointed Brazen MENA as its strategic Public Relations partner for the launch of Rixos Obhur Jeddah, an all-inclusive family and lifestyle resort in Saudi Arabia. The appointment follows a competitive pitch process and marks a milestone moment for both brands as Rixos makes its highly anticipated debut in the Kingdom. Brazen MENA will lead launch communications for the flagship property, with a remit spanning strategic media relations, content development, influencer engagement, and storytelling around the brand's signature 'all-inclusive, all-exclusive' philosophy. The agency will spotlight the resort's cultural relevance and its role in shaping Saudi Arabia's evolving tourism landscape. Mohammed Al-Khatib, General Manager of Rixos Obhur Jeddah, said, 'We are delighted to partner with Brazen MENA at this pivotal moment for the Rixos brand in Saudi Arabia. As a milestone launch, it was essential to find a PR partner who understands the market and brings bold, creative storytelling.' Al-Khatib added, 'Brazen MENA stood out for their strategic thinking, local insight, and passion for lifestyle-driven communications – we're excited to bring this destination to life together.' The win further strengthens Brazen MENA's growing portfolio in the Kingdom and reinforces the agency's track record in delivering high-impact, locally relevant campaigns for some of the region's most exciting hospitality brands. Louise Jacobson, Managing Partner at Brazen MENA, said, 'This is a hugely exciting win for the agency. Rixos Obhur Jeddah isn't just a resort – it's a game-changing destination that speaks to where Saudi tourism is heading. Our expertise in lifestyle, hospitality, and market-first openings puts us in a prime position to help bring the launch to life and create lasting impact.'' Located on the shores of Obhur Bay, Rixos Obhur Jeddah represents a bold new chapter in experiential travel, combining elevated hospitality with a vibrant, family-first approach. The resort aims to blend contemporary elegance with Arabian hospitality and features 250 accommodations, a private beach, curated dining concepts, world-class wellness facilities and Jeddah's only dedicated kids' club. Meanwhile, with offices in Dubai and Riyadh, Brazen MENA continues to build on its bold new brand platform – B Ahead, B Brazen, aimed at driving greater visibility, reputation and impact across the region.
Gulf Business
2 days ago
- Gulf Business
BRABUS Island launch transforms Emirates Palace in 48 hours
Image: Supplied BRABUS Island, the first-ever branded residential project by German high-performance brand BRABUS, made a dramatic entry into the Middle East with a high-octane launch event at Emirates Palace. The unveiling, developed by Cosmo Developments – powered by Reportage Group – was brought to life by creative agency Innovation Crew, tasked with executing a fully immersive brand experience within tight venue limitations and an even tighter deadline. The brief was ambitious: convert one of the most opulent venues in the world into a signature BRABUS experience. The challenge? No structural changes allowed. The transformation had to reflect BRABUS' iconic black-on-black aesthetic, all within 48 hours. 'We had just a few days to finalise the creative, plan the journey, source materials, rehearse, and execute,' said Sony AbdelMohsen, general manager of Innovation Crew. 'When they told us they wanted to dim the gold, I laughed. But they weren't kidding – and neither were we, once the brief was in.' Sony AbdelMohsen, general manager of Innovation Crew At the time, Innovation Crew was already handling eight major campaigns across eight countries. To meet the deadline, the agency mobilised over 50 specialists across production, design, technology, and guest experience. Additional team members were flown in from Riyadh and Cairo to reinforce the Dubai-based core team. Leadership remained on-site to oversee every phase of execution. To reflect the BRABUS brand DNA, the agency sourced bespoke materials from across the UAE – from carpets and cutlery to furniture and textiles – all designed to match the brand's minimalist, high-impact palette. Emirates Palace staff coordinated closely with the production team to ensure installations adhered to strict preservation standards. Read: 'We couldn't alter the structure, but we had to silence it,' added Sony. 'Every shadow, spotlight, and surface was calculated. And if black plates and cutlery were missing across the UAE in April or May, you can probably blame us.' The result was a striking, multi-sensory experience that captured the essence of the BRABUS brand while fully respecting the heritage of the venue. The event achieved strong digital momentum, with widespread organic impressions across social media platforms, and has since been recognised as one of the year's most commercially successful real estate showcases. Innovation Crew is no stranger to executing standout experiences. The agency's portfolio includes some of the region's most high-profile activations, such as the Pepsi Titan takeover at Ain Dubai, ADNOC's Youth Centers closing ceremony with CAF, British Petroleum's West Nile Delta launch, Philips' Guinness World Record event at the Pyramids, and the opening of BSH's first factory in Africa.
