It’s no secret that guests to the United Arab Emirates affiliate the nation extra with scorching Dubai than stately Abu Dhabi. But the UAE’s capital has by no means been one to chase pizzazz.

As an alternative, Abu Dhabi has taken initiatives that emphasize heritage and tradition, in addition to family-friendly choices comparable to theme parks. With quick access to seashores, mangroves and a beautiful swathe of desert aptly generally known as the Empty Quarter, there’s a lot for nature lovers right here, too.

It’s true that Abu Dhabi is noticeably conservative, particularly when in comparison with Dubai. However don’t let that deter you: it doesn’t take lengthy to understand that town is as bold as it’s tradition-oriented, a combination that leaves newcomers wanting extra.

Listed here are 9 can’t-miss experiences that can present you the very best of Abu Dhabi.

1. Absorb the religious attract of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Amongst Abu Dhabi’s many architectural wonders, none enraptures guests fairly like Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Occupying a website the dimensions of 4 soccer fields, it could accommodate as much as 40,000 worshippers and hosts thousands and thousands of holiday makers yearly. Regardless of the footfall, a way of serenity all the time obtains – a temper accentuated by the lilting name to prayer that reverberates by means of the air 5 instances a day.

A workforce of artisans, architects and engineers from throughout the globe labored on the monument for 11 years, producing a monument that fuses Mughal, Ottoman and Persian architectural influences. Gold-leaf spires, gilded chandeliers and columns inlaid with treasured and semi-precious stones like amethyst lend a way of opulence.

Guests can discover the premises solo or with a information. We suggest arriving late within the afternoon, when you’ll be able to linger lengthy sufficient to see the 4 minarets and 82 domes – all clad in gleaming white marble – bathed within the blue-tinted late-afternoon mild.

Detour: Immediately reverse the mosque, Wahat Al Karama (Oasis of Dignity) is one other architectural feat whose award-winning centerpiece, The Memorial, options 31 aluminum-clad panels that lean towards one another to represent unity. The Memorial Plaza is the place you’ll discover the final word view of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: behind a shallow pool of water that displays it superbly.

2. Ponder the worth of spiritual tolerance at Abrahamic Household Home

This interfaith complex options three homes of worship representing the shared values of the three Abrahamic religions: Islam, Christianity and Judaism – a celebration of the spirit of tolerance that governs on a regular basis life within the Emirates. A gathering in 2019 between Pope Francis and Grand Imam Ahmad Al-Tayyeb impressed the undertaking, which options the primary synagogue constructed within the Center East (outdoors of Israel) in almost 100 years.
 
Every of the three cubic sanctuaries is equal in scale, respecting the equality of the faiths they symbolize. Refined architectural particulars – an abstracted crucifix within the church, a suspended bronze veil within the synagogue, panels of latticework within the mosque – salute the religious practices and traditions of the three faiths. Guests are welcome to take part in prayer at any of the sanctuaries, whereas a guided tour supplies a broad overview of all three religions.

Planning tip: Reserving a (free) ticket online is required, as is dressing modestly. Girls might borrow an abaya or scarf at reception to go to the mosque.

3. Maintain the entire household occupied at a theme park

World-class theme parks are maybe what Abu Dhabi does finest – and 4 of them are conveniently positioned on Yas Island, its leisure capital. Ferrari World is all about high-octane motion: it’s at the moment dwelling to each the world’s quickest curler coaster and first-ever sideways coaster drop, in addition to a 290m (950ft) go-kart observe and state-of-the-art simulation experiences. Close by, Yas Waterworld affords over 40 rides and slides for all ages, tied collectively by an interactive theme involving the search to discover a legendary pearl. You’ll be able to even plunge to the depths of an underwater tank to gather oysters containing treasured pearls, a nod to the UAE’s pearl-diving heritage. At 1.65 million sq ft (153,290 sq m), Warner Bros World is the most important indoor theme park on this planet – and excellent for these on the town with the children throughout the hotter months.

Elsewhere on the town, Snow Abu Dhabi in Reem Mall makes the inconceivable potential: sledding, Zorbing and zip-lining inside a winter wonderland in the midst of a desert.

Planning tip: If theme parks are a excessive precedence, look into Yas Island Multi-Park Experiences for discounted ticket bundles, that are ideally suited to massive households.

4. Escape to the desert, nevertheless you select

The huge wilderness of Rub’ al Khali (Empty Quarter) is the stuff of legends, the topic of tales of sunken cities and disappearing caravans. Spanning a staggering 650,000 sq km (251,000 sq miles) throughout a number of international locations on the Arabian Peninsula, it’s the most important steady sand desert on Earth. It additionally occurs to cowl 70% of Abu Dhabi, and there are many methods to immerse in its otherworldly magnificence, from nature excursions to adrenaline-fueled actions to luxurious stays.

A “desert safari” is right for first-time guests. The usual providing includes a wide range of actions: the thrills of dune bashing over and throughout rolling sand dunes in a 4×4 automobile, in addition to quad biking, sand-boarding, camel rides, stomach dance performances and a barbecue dinner. An in a single day keep within the desert takes the expertise up a notch – suppose ultra-clear starry skies adopted by a spectacular dawn, and (if achieved appropriately) Bedouin hospitality. At glamping retreat Liwa Nights, Salam Almazrouei – whose Bedouin household has inhabited Liwa Oasis on the northern fringe of Rub’ Al Khali for generations – introduces friends to the area’s delicacies, customs and traditions.

Planning tip: If you happen to’re susceptible to movement illness, it’s finest to take your medication 30 to 60 minutes earlier than your desert safari begins, for between the dune bashing and quad biking, you’re in for a few wild rides. It’s additionally finest to keep away from alcohol and heavy meals beforehand.

5. Uncover town’s ambitions at Louvre Abu Dhabi

Louvre Abu Dhabi attracts artwork and tradition lovers with its placing structure; a rising everlasting assortment that options 700 artworks from each civilization; one other 300 items on mortgage from companion museums; and non permanent exhibitions that bridge East and West. Masterpieces on everlasting view embrace The Subjugated Reader by René Magritte, Portrait of a Lady by Pablo Picasso and Younger Emir Finding out by Osman Hamdi Bey.

You can spend many hours on this palace of tradition; these pressed for time can e book an Express Tour to find the highlights. Nonetheless lengthy you spend right here, you’ll have the ability to absorb Jean Nouvel’s extraordinary 7500-ton dome, which appears to drift over the museum, its perforations making a “rain of sunshine” impact beneath.

Planning tip: For an alternate perspective of the architectural grandeur of Louvre Abu Dhabi (which is perched on the lip of the Arabian Sea), you’ll be able to kayak across the museum come golden hour.

6. Immerse your self in native life alongside the Corniche

Abu Dhabi’s beloved Corniche, or waterfront esplanade, is the place sunburned vacationers most frequently intermingle with residents taking a break from the bustle of city life. Right here, younger {couples} with squealing children, health lovers and aged promenaders spill out alongside a promenade dotted with cafes, manicured gardens, volleyball courts and play areas. Devoted pathways separate cyclists from pedestrians.

Lifeguarded Corniche Beach attracts these seeking to beat the warmth with a dip. Guests can anticipate all of the necessities – showers, cabanas, umbrellas and extra – at this Blue Flag website. You’ll discover devoted areas for singles, teams and households, making your seaside day each protected and handy. If you happen to’re seeking to actually get out on the waves, hire a Jet Ski to whiz alongside the waterfront and luxuriate in views of town’s gleaming skyscrapers.

Planning tip: You’ll need to refuel proper after, so search for the meals vans that cluster collectively underneath the identify In Between (it’s positioned proper by the Corniche cease of town’s new, tram-like electrical bus).

7. Cool off in type at an expensive seaside membership

Since year-round sunshine all the time prevails on this a part of the world, pool and seaside days are the final word spare time activity. At Saadiyat Beach Club, white sand and turquoise waters are accented with Mediterranean fare, health services, a sizzling tub, personal cabanas for when blissful seclusion is desired, and an infinity pool that steals the present each time. The typical day right here might entail an encounter with a world-class DJ or critically endangered hawksbill turtles – each have been identified to make appearances at this trendy place.

The extra relaxed Nation Riviera Beach Club and Bayshore Beach Club can each be discovered inside luxurious accommodations (the St Regis Abu Dhabi and InterContinental Abu Dhabi, respectively), and promise high quality household time.

Planning tip: Test DayPass and Best Bites for particulars on the very best day passes provided by accommodations and seaside golf equipment throughout town.

8. Paddle by means of the waters of Mangrove Nationwide Park

Deserts and mangroves don’t appear to be a pure pair, however they’re intrinsically linked. Dominating the coastal vegetation of the Arabian Peninsula, dense mangrove bushes assist purify and calm tidal flows whereas eradicating and locking away spectacular quantities of carbon dioxide from the environment. In Abu Dhabi, their biodiversity – to not point out their magnificence – are protected by a neighborhood environmental company.

In Mangrove National Park, mottled crabs, higher flamingos, western reef herons and even famously skittish dugongs (sea cows) congregate. Kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding by means of the nonetheless waters right here is one of the simplest ways to stand up and shut with these locals. Test with trusted native tour operators like Noukhada Adventure Company and Husaak Adventures.

9. Step again in time within the metropolis’s most historic neighborhoods

Hid amid the mega malls, luxurious accommodations and golf programs are the previous neighborhoods of Al Danah and Al Zahiyah, each hardly ever visited by vacationers. Mother-and-pop shops have been standing right here for over 40 years, suggesting a a lot easier previous.

On a stroll by means of their lanes and alleys, you’ll see family-owned bakeries, kebab eating places, textile shops, tailor outlets and salons – a residing lesson in how expats from Egypt, Sudan, Yemen, Iran, India and Pakistan have formed this metropolis’s social and cultural cloth. The federal government has (rightfully) designated these areas as “Urban Treasures.”

Native tip: A go-to for town’s long-standing residents, Abu Al Afwal Cafeteria is a humble joint run by Sudanese immigrant Al Zahiyah. Make sure to order a portion of the foul, a hearty stew made with fava beans – a recipe that has been drawing strains of shoppers since its debut in 1975.