5 Best Things to Do in Abu Dhabi

Just a short drive for most of us, Abu Dhabi has so much to discover.

Historic mosques entrenched in a landscape of jaw-dropping modern architecture. Abu-Dhabi is a renowned tourist hot-spot, however contradictory to its debut on Sex in The City, its recent developments, subsidised by Abu Dhabi’s tourism board, mean that there is no shortage of activities for travellers. Whether you are traveling for a weekend getaway from Dubai or coming from further afield, there is a world of mangrove tours, seaplane excursions, spa visits, as well as world-class museums awaiting you…

• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

An architectural Icon, The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the world’s largest Mosques. The Grand Mosque invites everyone from all cultures and backgrounds to come together to absorb the architecture’s beauty and gain a deeper understanding of the religion and culture of the UAE. The Grand Mosque was designed by a highly skilled team from all over the world, including 1,300 Iranian artisans who hand-knotted the main prayer hall’s carpet. With pure marbled halls, amethyst-and-jasper-embedded columns, reflective pools of turquoise blue waters and Swarovski chandeliers, The Grand Mosque is a stunning collaboration of culture and art. The Mosque still welcomes over 50,000 worshipers daily so respectful clothing is a must, covered hair, shoulders and needs for women is obligatory. The Grand Mosque offers a transcendental experience for its visitors. 

• Mangrove National Park

Mangrove National Park is a serene oasis of lush waterways and natural foliage. Home to sixty species of birds and still streams, perfect for kayaking, Mangrove Park is one of the world’s best examples of eco-tourism. It is the first self-contained, educational, nature, and leisure destination in the region.  A haven of avian and marine species, native to Abu Dhabi, the national park boosts awareness and understanding of the important ecological function of the mangrove habitats in the UAE. A meander of boardwalks and paths along the area, as well as an array of different spots to Kayak from, makes the Mangrove National Park a juxtaposition from the urban sprawl surrounding it.

• Café Del Mar Abu Dhabi

If you're going to Abu Dhabi in search of a grandiose, larger-than-life, dose of nightlife, look no further than Café Del Mar. Attracting a vibrant array of visitors, Café Del MAR Is notorious for its gravitational pull of A-List Celebrities and socialites. Paired with Mediterranean bites and a lively orchestra of staff, Café Del Mar boasts an internationally loved line up of DJ’s and themed parties that are not to miss when visiting Abu Dhabi. Even just to hang out in the uber-chic infinity pool, Café Del Mar is the hotspot for a pool day in the region and a great backdrop for those Instagrammable pics. 

• The Louvre Abu Dhabi

If world-renowned pieces of art and rich architecture is on your Abu Dhabi bucket list, look no further than The Louvre Abu Dhabi. The quality of its temporary exhibitions and the splendour of its permanent collection provides a spectacular cocktail of contemporary and historic brilliance. The unprecedented partnership between France and UAE is the first of its kind and makes for a brilliant day out. Visitors are guided through a chronological, theme-based array of displays and exhibitions, fuelled by loans from its partner museums (The Louvre France loans 100 pieces of art per year.) Named an ‘Arabic-galactic’ wonder, the architect Jean Nouvel has been internationally praised for his work on the design of The Louvre Abu Dhabi, if not for the art, the structure itself is a sight to behold.

• Kai Beach

If you’re searching for peace and quiet, contrary to the fast-paced lifestyle of Dubai, head down to Kai Beach. This private beach, swathed in chic, effortlessly cool Bali-inspired netted hammocks and wooden tee-pee-inspired cabanas, is a secret sanctuary of stylish bliss. This secret hangout spot, lesser-known to the swarming crowds of beachgoers, provides a peaceful bathing experience with an added touch of luxury. Expect to pay an entry fee of 200-300 DHS fully redeemable, with an orchestra of uber-smart staff to adhere to your every need.