101 Things to do in Abu Dhabi

Forget what you think you know about Abu Dhabi. Sure, it's got the glitzy skyscrapers and fancy cars, but this desert metropolis also boasts surprises.

Imagine kayaking through mangrove forests populated by gazelles, then scaling a sand dune on a camel faster than a speeding falcon (well, maybe not that fast). We're about to take you on a whirlwind with 101 things to do in Abu Dhabi and not-so-typical experiences.

Discover the great outdoors

1. Spot amazing animals at the Al Ain Safari, including lions, and enjoy a delicious pre-booked dinner afterwards.
2. Combine exercise with breathtaking views with a bike ride along the illuminated Al Watha Cycle Track, just a short drive from Abu Dhabi
3. Escape to nature by renting an RV or pitching a tent at the Al Wathba Lake Camp. Enjoy the beautiful surroundings and on-site activities.
4. Witness the skills of desert hunters at a Falcon and Saluki show, where these incredible animals showcase their talents.
5. Explore a vast animal kingdom with a visit to the Arabian Wildlife Park, a must-see for families and animal lovers, with over 17,000 animals roaming free.
6. Experience the best of both worlds: camping and comfort with glamping at Bab Al Nojoum. This beachfront location boasts stylish tents, an outdoor cinema, a bonfire, and even watersports!
7. Embark on a thrilling adventure with an epic dune bashing session. Watch as experienced drivers conquer the desert's sand dunes with impressive skill.
8. Challenge your aim with a fun round of clay pigeon shooting or target practice at one of Abu Dhabi's top shooting clubs.
9. Connect with horses at the state-of-the-art Sir Bani Yas Stables. Enjoy a leisurely ride or sign up for lessons at this beautiful facility.
10. Step back in time at the Arabian Nights Village. This hidden gem allows you to experience the traditional way of life in Arabia and learn about Emirati culture.
11. Start your day with a unique experience by taking horseback riding lessons at the Mandara Equestrian Club, followed by a relaxing meal at a nearby restaurant.
12. Tee off with a view at the Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, offering a scenic golfing experience by the ocean.
13. Trade waves for sand dunes! Try sandboarding, a thrilling activity where you can carve your way down Abu Dhabi's stunning desert slopes.

Unleash the inner adventurer

14. Gear up for battle! Join friends, family, or colleagues for a paintball showdown at the massive Battle Park.
15. Take flight! Bounce Abu Dhabi elevates jumping to a whole new level.
16. Excitement awaits! Circuit X Hudayriyat Mar Vista offers four incredible parks for all ages.
17. Challenge your limits! CLYMB Abu Dhabi lets you experience indoor skydiving and wall climbing.
18. Glide through nature! Enjoy a peaceful kayaking trip through Abu Dhabi's stunning mangrove forests.
19. Step back in time! Explore Bedouin culture at the Heritage Theme Park in Al Ain. See traditional homes, pottery, and tools.
20. Family fun for all! Hili Fun City, the region's first theme park, boasts 28 rides and attractions for an unforgettable day.
21. Adventure under the stars! Hike, bike, or camp at Jebel Hafit Desert Park, the UAE's first World Heritage Site.

Thrills and chills:

22. Hold on tight! Experience the world's fastest roller coaster at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi.
23. Let your imagination soar! KidZania Abu Dhabi is an immersive edutainment city mimicking real life for kids.
24. Cool off and have a blast! Murjan Splash Park's lazy river and water attractions are perfect for a refreshing day.
25. Explore the wonders of the deep! The National Aquarium offers a mesmerizing experience with sharks, fish, and more.

Dive deeper:

26. Unveil the underwater world! Snorkel or dive and witness Abu Dhabi's breathtaking marine life.
27. Catch a wave! Stand-up paddle boarding is a fantastic way to enjoy the sunshine and explore the water.
28. Non-stop action! Wadi Adventure lets you go white-water rafting, ziplining, and more in one exciting day.
29. Meet your favorite heroes! Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi brings superheroes and thrilling rides to life.
30. Feel the rush at Yas Kartzone offers an unforgettable adrenaline-pumping experience.
31. Make a splash! Yas Waterworld boasts over 40 rides and attractions for the whole family.

Dine in style:

32. Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe - Savor delicious Emirati food in a traditional setting.
33. Alkalime - Enjoy guilt-free vegan and vegetarian options at this trendy cafe.
34. Fishmarket - Experience Abu Dhabi's renowned seafood with the freshest catches.
35. Hakkasan (Emirates Palace) - Indulge in a luxurious fine-dining experience with stunning views.
36. Li Beirut - Savor Arabic cuisine with breathtaking sea views.
37. Local Mamsha - Combine coffee, shopping, and a haircut at this trendy beachfront spot.
38. Nusr-Et - Experience the famous "Salt Bae" and capture envy-inducing photos.

Relax and unwind:

39. Spa at W Abu Dhabi - Pamper yourself with massages, facials, and more at this award-winning spa.
40. Corniche Beach - Soak up the sun, play volleyball, or enjoy a sunset speedboat ride.
41. Cove Beach Makers District (Reem Island) - Lounge by day, dance by night at this stylish beach club with stunning views.
42. Saadiyat Beach Club - Relax by the pool, take a dip, and dine amidst the luxurious Saadiyat Island.
43. Nation Riviera Beach Club - Unwind and rejuvenate at this beach club offering watersports, dining, and more.
44. Soul Beach - Relax on the beach and enjoy refreshments delivered directly to your sunbed.
45. Abu Dhabi Corniche - Take a leisurely walk with ice cream in hand and enjoy the sights.

Shop and be entertained:

46. All-in-one: Marina Mall - Catch a movie, bowl with friends, and shop all day at this massive mall.
47. Day-to-night fun: Yas Bay Waterfront - Experience a variety of entertainment options from day to night.
48. Family-friendly: Yas Marina - Find family-friendly activities, buzzing nightlife, and watersports at this vibrant marina.
49. Waterfront living: Eastern Mangroves Marina - Enjoy a scenic stroll, discover dining options, or try adrenaline-fueled watersports.
50. Shopping haven: Yas Mall - Explore Abu Dhabi's largest shopping mall with a wide variety of stores.
51. Traditional market: Souq Al Qattara - Immerse yourself in the sights, smells, and sounds of a traditional Emirati market.
52. Luxury shopping: Galleria Al Maryah Island - Indulge in luxury shopping at this high-end mall.

Explore nature's beauty:

53. Jubail Mangrove Park - Observe a variety of wildlife in this serene mangrove park.
54. Mangrove National Park - Discover the UAE's most important ecological treasure.
55. Saadiyat Island - Explore stunning Saadiyat Island with its diverse activities.
56. Sir Bani Yas Island - Embark on an unforgettable safari adventure on Sir Bani Yas Island.
57. Yas Island - Experience everything from theme parks to racing tracks on this dynamic island.
58. Tilal Liwa Hotel - Escape to the tranquility of the desert with stunning views.
59. Zaya Nurai Island - Relax and unwind at this secluded island resort with breathtaking scenery.

Encounter animals and green spaces:

60. Up-close encounters: Al Ain Zoo - Enjoy breakfast with giraffes, meet lemurs, and interact with various animals.
61. Umm Al Emarat Park - Explore the greenery and attractions within this city park.
62. Hili Archaeological Park - Discover ancient monuments dating back to 2000 BCE.
63. Emirates Park Zoo - Learn about animals and have fun at this family-friendly zoo.
64. Masdar City Central Park - Enjoy a fun and educational park built with sustainability in mind.
65. Sheikha Fatima Park - Relax and enjoy outdoor activities like skateboarding, splash pad fun, and live events.

Abu Dhabi's iconic landmarks:

66. Al Ain Oasis - Cycle or walk through grasslands, relax under palm trees, and discover traditional irrigation systems.
67. Abu Dhabi Children's Library - Inspire young minds with this hidden gem offering reading, performance, and play areas.
68. Masdar City - Explore the world's first planned eco-city focused on sustainability and conservation.
69. Spark wonder in your kids as they explore, create, and get lost in a good book at the Abu Dhabi Children's Library - a hidden gem designed for all ages.
70. Aiming to be the world's greenest city, Masdar City is a must-visit for sustainability enthusiasts.
71. Witness a cinematic landscape and the world's biggest sand desert, the Empty Quarter (Rub' Al Khali) - an unforgettable adventure.
72. Be awestruck by the architectural marvel, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a masterpiece of artistry.
73. Unearth the past at Al Wathba Fossil Dunes, where you'll find four-million-year-old fossils.
74. Don't miss the iconic, coin-shaped Aldar HQ, one of Abu Dhabi's first eco-friendly buildings!
75. Immerse your children in art and culture at the Cultural Foundation. Explore the library, catch a show, browse exhibitions, or let them unleash their creativity in workshops.

Abu Dhabi's iconic landmarks:

76. Enjoy breathtaking city views with friends over afternoon tea at the Observation Deck at 300, offering a stunning panorama from 74 floors up!
77. Capture the history of the UAE's ruling family at the impressive Qasr Al Muwaiji fort, a former residence of the Al Nahyan family. Tip: Make sure your phone is charged for plenty of photos!
78. Escape to the luxurious Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. Imagine yourself surrounded by palm trees, golden dunes, and timeless desert beauty.
79. Explore the magnificent Qasr Al Watan presidential palace. Marvel at the architecture, be dazzled by the light and sound show, and get lost in the grand library. Don't forget your camera!
80. Snap a photo while driving across the architecturally stunning Sheikh Zayed Bridge, designed by Dame Zaha Hadid and inspired by the flowing curves of desert sand dunes.
81. Emirates Palace offers a perfect day for the beach lover. Relax on the sand, enjoy a luxurious meal, or simply admire the stunning Arabesque architecture.
82. Challenge yourself with a hike or bike ride up Jebel Hafit, one of Abu Dhabi's highest mountains. The reward? Spectacular sunrises and sunsets!
83. History buffs will love a guided hike to the Jebel Hafit Tombs, an archaeological site with over 500 tombs dating back 5,000 years.
84. Take a walk along the Abu Dhabi Corniche and ponder the inspirational messages inscribed on the Mamsha Al Khair limestone panels, featuring quotes from past and present UAE leaders.
85. Pay your respects at Wahat Al Karama, a beautiful memorial dedicated to the UAE's martyrs.
86. Yas Marina Circuit, home to the Formula 1™ Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, offers racing experiences, go-karting, and even the chance to get your racing license!

Cultural and Historical Attractions:

87. Immerse yourself in Emirati heritage at the Al Ain Camel Market. Get up close to camels, a traditional symbol of desert life.
88. Explore the UAE's rich history at Al Ain Museum, the oldest museum in the region built in 1969.
89. Discover Emirati art and inspiring exhibitions at Al Ain's Al Qattara Arts Centre.
90. Step inside the carefully restored Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa, a historic house offering a glimpse into the UAE's past.
91. Explore the ancient caravan site of Bidaa Bint Saud, featuring Bronze Age tombs, fascinating artefacts, and rare finds.
92. Car enthusiasts will love the Emirates National Auto Museum, showcasing the unique car collection of His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan.
93. Gain a fascinating insight into the world of money at the UAE Currency Museum.
94. Learn about the UAE's evolving story at Qasr Al Hosn, originally a watchtower built in the 1790s.
95. Pay your respects at The Founder's Memorial, a tribute to Sheikh Zayed, the UAE's founding father./li>
96. Embark on a cultural adventure at the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the first universal museum of the Arab World.
97. Learn about the early days of Abu Dhabi and its founder, Sheikh Zayed, at the Zayed Heritage Centre.
98. Explore a stunning collection of Islamic art pieces from around the world at the Miraj Islamic Centre.
99. Find unique souvenirs and support local talent at the Women's Handicraft Centre, showcasing intricate handwoven work by local artists.