Culture

The great mosque of Sheikh Zayed

A massive mosque in size (one of the largest in the world), white and bright, and to be honest, a worthy contender in the competition for its beauty with the Taj Mahal. Apart from being a place of worship and a sacred symbol, the mosque is a spectacular work of art incorporating broad Islamic architecture.

The site has about 80 different domes and over 1000 marble pillars, and in the main prayer room, you can find one of the world’s largest and most impressive chandeliers.

From the moment you enter the mosque, the amount of ‘wow’ that will come out of your mouth cannot be measured (so don’t even try to count them). The place is impressive, and no picture can convey the beauty and splendor.

It is essential to note! A mosque is a holy place, so a dressing and behavior code must be followed.
Wear conservative, loose-fitting clothing. Men are not allowed to wear shorts. Women must wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, or long, loose-fitting skirts. Shoes will be removed before entering the mosque.)

Where can you buy a local, inexpensive outfit that suits your mosque visit?

The entrance to the mosque passes through an underground passage full of shops, where you can buy traditional Muslim clothes at reasonable prices that do not tear your pocket.

The path is modern and clean, full of photos of historical and political moments taken at the mosque over the years. And let’s not forget to mention; It is air-conditioned! If you wondered, yes, it is HOT in Abu Dhabi.

Wahat Al Karama

The most beautiful observation point over the mosque, mainly after sunset time when all the mosque’s lights are being turned on.

The place is the first war memorial in all the emirates and commemorates all the fallen heroes of the Emirates.

The translation of the term Wahat al-Karama is a ‘place of honor.’ The place’s essence is respecting the people who have significantly contributed to the UAE throughout history.

The place is impressive in its beauty and, thanks to its magnificent architecture, has become a popular tourist destination among those coming to Abu Dhabi.

Qasr Al Watan – Palace of the Nation

The Presidential Palace of Abu Dhabi and one of Abu Dhabi’s most impressive and prestigious buildings; It is all gold plated, and every little corner is breathtaking.

Beyond being a palace, the building provides visitors with a more robust understanding of Abu Dhabi’s traditions and values: cooperation, acceptance, and hospitality. The place is used both for presidential meetings and for hosting international leaders.

It was opened to the public in 2019, and now everyone can glimpse the fascinating story of the Islamic states, getting to know its past rulers and kings who laid the foundations of this great nation.

Emirates Palace

Have you ever slept in a palace?

The Emirates Palace is the most iconic and luxurious hotel in Abu Dhabi (and believe me, there is plenty of competition). The entire hotel is gold-plated and prestigious (As you can probably imagine, it is expensive, VERY EXPENSIVE).

The palace is an official accommodation for the government, royal families, and celebrities visiting Abu Dhabi. Even if you do not stay in it and can not afford housing there or any other reason, it is worth coming to the place to be impressed by the pulsating Islamic architecture, the gardens, and the fountains surrounding it.

The National Aquarium

The largest aquarium in the Middle East,

I always saw the ocean as a mystery.
Something none of us can understand to its deep. A life full of wonder, To be able to observe it so closely, so you can almost touch it with your fingertips, it’s priceless.

Visiting The National Aquarium in Al Qana is like swimming with aquatic wildlife featuring over 46,000 animals from more than 300 unique species.

This place is a first-of-its-kind project whose mission is to Rescue, Rehabilitate and Release native wildlife in the Abu Dhabi Emirate to ensure a world of natural treasures for future generations. And if you’re visiting Abu Dhabi in the summertime with your kids, they have a unique and educating summer camp with lots of activities!

I would love to return to being a kid only for such an experience.

Louvre Museum Abu Dhabi

Art lovers? Do not miss it!

Does the name sound a bit familiar to you? You’re right. The museum was founded in collaboration between France and the Emirates capital, Abu Dhabi.

Located on the island of Saidat, it is a must-visit if you ask me to dodge the heat and enjoy spectacular art.

Here you will find the best works of art by the most outstanding painters/artists; Van Gogh, Picasso, Da Vinci, Gauguin, and Monet. You will see real Mummies! (Yes. Mummies) and remains from ancient and fascinating cultures.

Besides the extensive repertoire of pure art, the complex is a masterpiece. The whole place was built over water, while the roof is a vast white and crocheted dome, allowing sunlight to penetrate the area with an interesting texture.

And for an upgraded experience (especially for children), you can rent a kayak boat and observe all its beauty from the water.

Attractions for kids (and for those who refuse to grow up)

Yas Island

An island full of fun. All the parks and attractions for children are on it, and in addition, it is simply insane in its beauty. You can find one of the world’s famous Formula 1 tracks, and if you are lucky, you might be able to watch a live race!. Go shopping in the largest mall in Abu Dhabi, enjoy a skydiving simulator, stroll along the promenade and enjoy a variety of excellent restaurants and bars.

Warner Bros Abu Dhabi

Want to visit Bugs Bunny’s house? Getting a haircut at Duffy Duck’s barber shop? Going on a stormy night of crime with the Joker or maybe cuddling with Tom and Jerry? This place is the place for you!

Warner Bros is my favorite of all the parks without thinking twice. Amusement Park brings together all the most iconic characters we love, along with a superb backdrop and excellent facilities, which make it a fantastic experience for every child, but especially for every adult, who for a moment remembers what it feels like to be excited as a child.

The place is divided into six different complexes (the feeling is that you are walking inside your favorite series and movies). Each complex is more exciting and beautiful than its predecessor – Gotham- where you will fight your favorite villains alongside Batman.

The cartoons-  where you will meet Scooby Doo with the gang and share carrots with Bugs Bunny.

Bad Rock – where you will return to the Stone Age with dinosaurs and dance with the Flintstones.

Metropolis – where you will know what it feels like to be a superhero for one day alongside our all-time favorite – Wonderwoman, Superman, Flash, and many others.

And the Warner Brothers Plaza, where you will walk around Hollywood Boulevard, take photos with a star representing your favorite movie character, and enjoy a great show and tasty food.

Ferrari World Theme Park

Lovers of extreme activities and rollercoasters? You are in the right place!

The amusement park of the Italian racing brand; Ferrari, where you will find the fastest roller coaster in the world, reaching 150 miles per hour; the Formula Rosa, and the most iconic and rare models of the most famous Ferrari car.

 The park is divided into four complexes:

 the Formula 1 complex – where you will find the roller coaster( and probably meet me there cause I’m a huge fan of extreme).

The Italian complex – where you can tour the most beautiful country (in my opinion), visit Venice, Rome and all of that in a Ferrari.

Family Zone – where you can enjoy various activities with your little ones, and the last one

World of adventure – In which you can enjoy various excellent rides that will tickle your stomach.

The park has another attraction, perhaps the most exciting, where you can drive the legendary vehicle yourself! And if you are a little apprehensive, you can also go alongside a driver who will take you on a tour of the island.

Best Beaches

Saadiyat island Beaches

With clear turquoise water, white sand, and dunes to run on, Saadiyat Island is the ultimate place to enjoy a perfect day at sea. The island has picturesque public and private beaches. There you will find pampering hotels and photogenic beach clubs. This place is simply a paradise.

And if you’re already visiting Saadiyat island, I highly recommend going to Saadiyat Beach Club:

Our favorite place. You can enjoy a beautiful infinity pool in front of a quiet and magical beach. Dance to fun music, drink a good cocktail, eat excellent food and sunbathe in a private cabana (it is recommended to reserve a place for the cabana in advance).

Corniche Beach

The most famous beach in Abu Dhabi, A stunning sea next to glittering skyscrapers, momentarily gives the feeling of a futuristic city.

You can walk along the 8 km stretching beach next to tall palm trees and enjoy the beautiful Persian Gulf. Sit in cute cafes and get the most out of soccer and volleyball courts for sports lovers.

Abu Dhabi Desert Safari

We saved the best for last. Our favorite experience of all for which we gathered here

The place that was the biggest inspiration for the stories of “One Thousand and One Nights”; The desert.

 Where maybe, if you’re lucky, you’ll see a glimpse of light through the sand, Where Genie sings and magic happens(sorry, I had to let go of the poetic spirit that had taken over me). Finally, we arrived at an attraction you don’t want to miss.

Safari in the desert

Let’s talk about the Abu Dhabi desert first; endless expanses of sights change with every hour of the day.

Pleasant and caressing carpets of sand, orange and yellow dunes of various sizes, walking camels, and countless stars shining at night. If you ask me what is my favorite type of landscape. I will always answer that it is the desert.

There is something about the desert that enchants you. A silence that cannot be described in words, that feeling like you’re alone in the world.

few types of safari activities

Camels Safari –  riding camels through the beautiful desert views(I think it is a bit hard to connect with. I prefer to see the camels and not ride them).

Off-road driving on the dunes – jeeps or ATVs at sunset when it is already lovely outside and the heat is tolerable.

Falcon training shows and other birds of prey birds, these shows are very familiar in Abu Dhabi

Dinner in the middle of the desert with authentic Arabian hospitality: Barbecue meal next to a bonfire and spectacular dancing show into the night under the desert skies, And if you haven’t been convinced by now, maybe the pictures will speak for themselves.

Because an experience like this is had to explain in words:

Final Thoughts

Abu Dhabi, I love you. I tried to put as much info as possible into this article and explain how fascinating Abu Dhabi is and how rich it is with all of the options and attractions. The destination is unique, starting with the culture and ending with its stunning views. And the possibilities are truly endless. So what? Have you already booked a flight ticket?