As the capital city of one of the wealthiest countries in the world, it’s little surprise that Abu Dhabi stands out as an impressive and varied travel destination. Attracting around 10 million annual visitors with classical and contemporary experiences, Abu Dhabi has it all, but where do you start?
Accommodation in Abu Dhabi
Before getting out and about into what Abu Dhabi has to offer, you’ll first need a hotel or place to stay. As many travelers can attest, finding a place to stay in a foreign land, especially if you don’t speak the language, can be a stressful pursuit. Fortunately, Abu Dhabi is a city seemingly tailor-made for foreign visitors.
A huge proportion of hotels in Abu Dhabi employ English speakers, and there are other choices available for those who wish for alternative stays. Unlike many travel destinations, Abu Dhabi allows visitors to rent properties, even in the most highly sought-after locations. For example, Al Reem Island, one of the city’s most desirable standouts, is an extremely popular area offering apartments for rent in Abu Dhabi through companies like Bayut. Renting accommodation through this method can be a great way for travelers to really get a taste for what life is like in their destination.
“Al Reem Island Development – Overall Vie” (CC BY 2.0) by SunCon Photos
What to see and what to do in Abu Dhabi
With such a strong cultural and historical inheritance, combined with an enormous and still growing tourism industry, Abu Dhabi is no slouch in providing a range of interesting and entertaining experiences. From the culturally important to the light and fun, the only problem visitors to Abu Dhabi will have is choosing between the wealth of possibilities available.
Every person, couple, and family is different. None the less, the following options are commonly recognized as some of the best day trips and excursions that one of the UAE’s greatest gems has to offer.
READ NEXT: 48 Hours in Dubai? List of Things to do on a Short Layover! READ NEXT: How to Visit Dubai on a Budget - The Secret Revealed
Shaikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center
In terms of impressive architecture, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is guaranteed to impress even the most well-traveled explorer. Of newer construction, having been finished in 2007, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque still finds itself as an important cultural site. Just be sure to book and plan ahead with this one, as on busy days it is known to attract upwards of 40,000 visitors.
”The Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi” by David Munro
Warner Bros World
For those traveling with family, or just looking to experience the best of what Abu Dhabi theme parks have to offer, then Warner Bros World is a fantastic choice. With individual lands like Cartoon Junction, Gotham City, Bedrock, and Metropolis covering WB’s biggest properties, this attraction can easily stand alongside some of the world’s best.
“Warner Bros World (33)” (CC BY 2.0) by Ankur P
Desert Safari
One of the most famous day trips available from Abu Dhabi is an excursion just outside of the city and into the desert. With breath-taking beauty, a trip to the Lima Oasis is a must-do, though just bearing witness to the world’s largest sand-dunes is enough to create a lasting memory.
”Abu Dhabi, beautiful desert” by Christopher Schreiber
Louvre Abu Dhabi
Art and museum enthusiasts will be thrilled to find that the Louvre Abu Dhabi is home to some of history’s greatest pieces. These include Van Gogh’s self-portrait and authentic finds from Egyptian tombs.
“The Louvre Abu Dhabi” (CC BY 2.0) by Francisco Anzola
For a few days, or much longer, consider making Abu Dhabi a stop the next time you travel. With art, architecture, and historical and modern experiences for all ages, this corner of the Arab world is rapidly developing into one of the world’s favorite destinations. Just be sure to pack your sunscreen.
Featured image credits ”Abu Dhabi Grand Mosque” by George Tudorache
PLAN YOUR NEXT TRIP:
Disclosure: Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I will receive a small commission if you make a booking after clicking. It comes at no extra cost to you but it helps me with the running of this site! As always, opinions are my own. Thank you!
