Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, blends ancient Arabian heritage with modern attractions. Things to do in Abu Dhabi span from the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to adrenaline-pumping theme parks on Yas Island. The city caters to culture seekers, adventure lovers, families, and couples alike.
With most attractions located within 30 minutes of each other, you can easily cover multiple spots in a single day. In this guide, we have covered the must-see places in Abu Dhabi, with their timings, ticket prices, and practical tips to plan your trip.
1. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
You can start your Abu Dhabi trip at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the city’s most recognized landmark. Named after the UAE’s founding father, this architectural marvel welcomes up to 55,000 worshippers daily.
The mosque features 82 white marble domes, four 107-meter minarets, and the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet. Free one-hour cultural tours run throughout the day, making this an educational experience alongside its visual appeal.
- Google Rating: 4.8/5 stars
- Location: Al Rawdah – W54 – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
- Timings: Saturday to Thursday 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Friday 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Price: Free entry (pre-registration required at szgmc.gov.ae); Set aside 45 to 60 minutes for guided tour
Suggested Read: Abu Dhabi With Kids | A Family Travel Guide
2. Louvre Abu Dhabi
After experiencing Abu Dhabi’s religious heritage at the Grand Mosque, head to Saadiyat Island for its artistic side. Louvre Abu Dhabi is the first universal museum in the Arab world, opened through a partnership with France.
French architect Jean Nouvel designed the striking dome that creates a “rain of light” effect through its intricate patterns. Inside, 12 galleries house over 600 artworks spanning 5,000 years, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to Van Gogh and Da Vinci masterpieces. Plan at least 3 hours here to appreciate the collection properly.
- Google Rating: 4.7/5 stars
- Location: Saadiyat – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
- Timings: Monday to Thursday 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM | Friday to Sunday 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM
- Price: Adults – AED 70/ INR 1,711 | Children under 18 – Free; Set aside 45 to 90 minutes for guided tour
3. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
Switching gears from culture to adrenaline, Yas Island hosts four world-class theme parks, starting with Ferrari World. This is the world’s first Ferrari-branded theme park and among the top things to do in Abu Dhabi for thrill-seekers.
Formula Rossa, the world’s fastest roller coaster, launches you to 240 km/h in under 5 seconds. The park spans 86,000 square meters with over 40 rides. Families with young children can enjoy Junior GT driving school and the Bell’Italia miniature ride, while older members tackle the high-speed attractions.
- Google Rating: 4.5/5 stars
- Location: Yas Island – YS1 – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
- Timings: Friday to Tuesday 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM | Wednesday and Thursday 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Price: Single Day Ticket AED 345/ INR 8432; Set aside 4 to 6 hours for guided tours
4. Qasr Al Watan
Return to Abu Dhabi’s cultural core at Qasr Al Watan, the working UAE Presidential Palace that opened to visitors in 2019. This grand structure sits near Emirates Palace and showcases Arabian craftsmanship at its finest.
Walk through the Great Hall with its massive chandelier, visit the House of Knowledge library, and see rare manuscripts from the Arab Golden Age. The real highlight comes after sunset; the “Palace in Motion” light show projects the UAE’s story onto the palace facade every 30 minutes. Book your daytime entry, stay for the show, and then head to nearby Yas Bay for dinner.
- Google Rating: 4.8/5 stars
- Location: Al Ras Al Akhdar – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
- Timings: Daily 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Price: Adults – AED 65/ INR 1589 | Children (4-17) – AED 30; Set aside 2 to 3 hours for guided tours
Suggested Read: 12 Must-Visit Beaches in Abu Dhabi for the Ultimate Seaside Escape
5. Yas Waterworld
Back on Yas Island, cool off at Yas Waterworld after a morning at Ferrari World. This Emirati-themed waterpark ranks among the fun things to do in Abu Dhabi for families and groups.
The park expanded in 2025 to over 60 rides and slides. Dawwama, the world’s longest tornado waterslide, spins six riders through a giant funnel. Bandit Bomber combines a roller coaster with water cannons across 550 meters.
- Google Rating: 4.5/5 stars
- Location: Yas Island – YS4 – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
- Timings: Daily 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Price: Adults – AED 295/ INR 7210 | Juniors (under 3 years) – Free; Set aside 4 to 6 hours for guided tours
6. SeaWorld Abu Dhabi
Complete your Yas Island theme park experience at SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, the region’s first marine life park. Opened in May 2023, it brings ocean conservation to the desert. Eight themed realms house over 100,000 marine animals from 150 species.
The Endless Ocean realm features the world’s largest multi-species aquarium with a 65-foot viewing window. Unlike the high-speed thrills at Ferrari World, SeaWorld focuses on immersive displays and animal encounters with dolphins, penguins, and sea otters. Budget 5-6 hours to cover all realms.
- Google Rating: 4.7/5 stars
- Location: Yas Island – YS6 – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
- Timings: Daily 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Price: Adults – AED 375/ INR 9165; Set aside 5 to 6 hours to explore the area
7. Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi
The fourth Yas Island theme park caters to cartoon and superhero fans. Warner Bros. World is the world’s first Warner Bros. branded indoor theme park, fully air-conditioned at 24°C regardless of Abu Dhabi’s desert heat. Six themed zones span 1.65 million square feet. Gotham City features Batman: Knight Flight, while Metropolis offers Superman-themed rides.
Younger visitors gravitate toward Cartoon Junction with Bugs Bunny and Tom & Jerry. The Cinema Spectacular show combines projections and music, celebrating Warner Bros. film history. Consider multi-park passes if you plan to visit multiple Yas Island attractions.
- Google Rating: 4.5/5 stars
- Location: Yas Island – YS4 – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
- Timings: Friday to Tuesday 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Wednesday to Thursday 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Price: Adults – AED 345 | Children (under 3 years) – Free; Set aside 5 to 8 hours to get the full experience
8. Emirates Palace
Step away from theme parks and into royal luxury at Emirates Palace. This iconic hotel near Qasr Al Watan represents the height of Arabian hospitality and makes an impressive photo stop.
The property features 114 domes, 1,002 chandeliers, and gold-leaf interiors throughout its kilometer-long structure. Non-guests can freely explore the lobby, admire the architecture, and dine at award-winning restaurants.
- Google Rating: 4.8/5 stars
- Location: West Corniche Road – Al Ras Al Akhdar – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
- Timings: Open 24 hours (Visitor areas: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM)
- Price: Free entry to public areas; Set aside 1 to 2 hours to enjoy the full experience
Suggested Read: Best Cafes in Abu Dhabi: Where Coffee Meets Culture
9. Corniche Beach
After experiencing Abu Dhabi’s grandeur, unwind at Corniche Beach. This Blue Flag-certified beach stretches 8 kilometers along the city’s waterfront, connecting many of the attractions you’ve already visited.
The beach offers three entry gates with playgrounds, cycling tracks, and sports courts. Swimming is allowed up to 40 meters from shore with lifeguards on duty. Rent sunbeds and umbrellas or bring your own. The boardwalk provides evening stroll options with views of the Emirates Palace and the city skyline—linking your cultural visits with natural relaxation.
- Google Rating: 4.5/5 stars
- Location: Al Bateen – W10 01 – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
- Timings: Daily: 8:00 AM – Sunset (Swimming allowed until sunset)
- Price: Public areas – Free | Family sections – AED 10/ INR 245 (Adults), AED 5/ INR 123 (Children); Set aside 1 hour for guided tours
10. Mangrove National Park
For nature lovers seeking things to do in Abu Dhabi today beyond beaches and theme parks, Mangrove National Park offers a different experience. This protected area covers 19 square kilometers and holds 75% of the UAE’s mangrove forests.
Over 60 bird species live here, including herons and flamingos. Kayaking tours let you paddle through narrow waterways, spotting crabs, turtles, and occasionally dolphins. Early morning visits offer cooler temperatures and better wildlife sightings. This eco-experience balances Abu Dhabi’s urban attractions with natural heritage.
- Google Rating: 4.4/5 stars
- Location: FC4G+M3J – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
- Timings: Daily 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Price: Free entry | Kayaking – AED 160/ INR 3911; Set aside 2 to 4 hours to enjoy the full guided tour
11. Yas Marina Circuit
Yas Island’s attractions extend beyond theme parks. The Yas Marina Circuit hosts the annual Abu Dhabi Formula 1 Grand Prix and offers year-round driving experiences.
The 5.55 km track opens for karting, cycling sessions, and supercar experiences. Drive your own car during public track sessions or take a passenger ride with a professional driver. The Yas Kartzone has electric and petrol karts for all ages. If you visited Ferrari World for simulated racing thrills, this circuit delivers the real thing.
- Google Rating: 4.6/5 stars
- Location: Yas Central – Yas Leisure Dr – Yas Island – YS1 – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
- Timings: Varies by activity
- Price: Karting starts from AED 100/ INR 2444 | Track experiences vary, so set aside 2 hours for guided tours
Suggested Read: Top Nightclubs in Abu Dhabi: The City’s Best Nightlife Spots
FAQs
What are the best things to do in Abu Dhabi at night?
Once the sun goes down, Abu Dhabi really comes alive. Head to Qasr Al Watan for the Palace in Motion light show; it’s stunning against the night sky. From there, the Emirates Palace is just a short walk away for dinner. If you want something livelier, Yas Bay Waterfront has more than 20 restaurants with live music by the marina.
What are the things to do at Abu Dhabi airport?
Zayed International Airport is more than just a place to catch your flight. You can browse duty-free shops for luxury brands or local souvenirs. Got kids? There are play areas. Need rest? Sleeping pods are available. Prayer rooms and over 30 dining spots round out the options.
What can you do in Abu Dhabi for free?
You don’t need to spend money to see Abu Dhabi’s best. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is completely free and the most impressive sight in the city. Heritage Village, Founder’s Memorial, and Wahat Al Karama are also free. Corniche Beach has public sections that cost nothing, and the Mangrove National Park entry is free too.
What is Abu Dhabi famous for?
Ask anyone about Abu Dhabi, and they’ll mention the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque first because it is one of the biggest mosques in the world. Speed lovers know it for Ferrari World, home to Formula Rossa, the fastest roller coaster on the planet. Art fans flock to Louvre Abu Dhabi, and F1 enthusiasts watch the Grand Prix at Yas Marina Circuit.
Is Abu Dhabi worth visiting?
Absolutely. If you love culture, the museums and mosques will keep you busy. In case you want to experience an adrenaline rush, Yas Island has four theme parks. Want to enjoy beaches? Take your pick from Corniche, Saadiyat, or Al Bateen. For nature lovers, kayaking through mangroves or booking a desert safari is a good option.
Is Abu Dhabi expensive?
It can be, but it doesn’t have to be. Theme park tickets run AED 300-375 each, though multi-park passes bring that down. Hotels start around AED 400 a night. Local restaurants charge AED 40-60 per meal, while Emirates Palace dining hits AED 500+. Balance paid attractions with free ones like the Grand Mosque.
Is Abu Dhabi cheaper than Dubai?
Generally, yes. Hotels cost less here, especially outside peak season. Restaurant bills are lighter too. Theme parks are priced similarly to Dubai attractions. Public beaches like Corniche charge almost nothing compared to Dubai’s beach clubs. One exception: the nightlife is pricier in Abu Dhabi because there are fewer venues.
What is the best time of year to go to Abu Dhabi?
You should visit Abu Dhabi between November and March if you can. The temperatures during this time hover around 15°C to 30°C, perfect for outdoor activities and desert safaris. Summer months hit 40°C and above, so stick to air-conditioned theme parks and museums.
Do Indians need a visa for Abu Dhabi?
Yes, a visa is required if you are an Indian and want to visit Abu Dhabi. However, if any Indian has a valid US, UK, or EU visa, they can get a 14-day visa on arrival for a particular fee. So, before you plan things to do in Abu Dhabi, you also plan and take care of your visa.
