Top attractions in Abu Dhabi: 19 places to visit this summer
From cultural attractions, world-class facilities and tourist spots for all budgets, we promise you, you will not want to miss the top attractions in Abu Dhabi.
Whether you fancy an afternoon walking through the natural beauty of mangroves or exploring the extraordinary architecture of presidential palaces, we've rounded up some of the most famous – and beautiful – sites to add to your travel bucket list.
Without further ado…
Top attractions in Abu Dhabi in 2025
Abu Dhabi Corniche
Attractions come and go, but the corniche will always be one of the most famous places in Abu Dhabi. The 8km stretch of road is a thriving piece of street theatre, people-watching paradise, foodie hub and public walkway all rolled into one. From public beach zone to bicycle hire location you will never tire of visiting the street.
Even amid the rollercoasters, luxury hotels and world-class attractions a simple street where you can walk freely in the Emirates sunshine is a stand-out way to spend any day of the year.
Corniche.
Emirates Palace
More than 15 years since first opening it is still Abu Dhabi's most iconic and storied hotel. The low-rise Arabian-style property has been the host to royalty, Governments, celebrities and discerning travellers from around the world and is known for the luxury of rooms, gardens and fine-dining restaurants.
Emirates Palace, West Corniche Road, mandarinoriental.com (02 690 888).
Ferrari World
A Ferrari-themed park, which is home to the Formula Rossa – the world's fastest rollercoaster. Strap in and zoom off at speeds up to 240kmph on a track climbing 52m high.
Car lovers and Ferrari enthusiasts will love the motoring attractions that include VIP motoring, a fleet of rides and a celebration of all things to do with the famed car brand.
From Dhs345. Ferrari World, Yas Island, ferrariworldabudhabi.com (600 511115).
Heritage Village
This recreation of a traditional Emirati village is a snapshot of how life used to be in the UAE. Stroll the palm tree-lined grounds and you can observe craftspeople at work demonstrating metalwork, weaving and pottery skills. You can also see a traditional souk, explore a fort and buy handmade souvenirs.
Free entry. Heritage Village, near Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi Corniche, torath.gov.ae (02 681 4455).
Jubail Mangroves
Arguably the best place to walk in the UAE, this serene parkland is an area of outstanding natural beauty. A series of meandering boardwalks let you criss-cross the mangroves and see herons, flamingos, turtles, deer and more animals in their natural habitat. A gorgeous getaway that shows off a different side to the country. Stunning.
From Dhs20. Jubail Mangroves, Al Jubail Island, jubailisland.ae (02 546 8341).
Louvre Abu Dhabi
An architectural marvel and cultural and artistic beacon, Louvre Abu Dhabi is still as impressive today as it was when it opened its doors in 2017.
People from all over the globe put the museum at the top of their list when arriving in the UAE for a holiday – and with good reason.
Louvre Abu Dhabi is filled with unique historic pieces, and classic and contemporary artworks spanning the then and now from East to West. But as well as the breath-taking exhibitions there are also kayaking and yoga lessons on offer.
From Dhs65. Open Tues-Thu, 10am-6:30pm (exhibition), Fri-Sun, 10am-8:30pm. Closed on Mon. Saadiyat Cultural District, Saadiyat Island, louvreabudhabi.ae .
Mamsha Al Saadiyat
This beachfront development on 'Happiness Island' is known for its ocean views and superb dining. If al fresco food and family-friendly ambience alongside the sea sound good to you then you need to explore. Casual dining and easy-going bites are the order of the day.
Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Jacques Chirac St, Saadiyat Island, aldar.com (056 888 9808).
National Aquarium
With 46,000 animals, 330 species and 10 thematic zones – there is an entire other world to explore at the Middle East's largest aquarium. Sharks, stingrays, birds, reptiles and much more besides can be seen, studied and adored at this attraction that puts education and conservation at the heart of everything it does. Through animal encounters and an aquarium journey, visitors can learn more about our planet and the creatures we share it with.
From Dhs110. National Aquarium, Rabdan, Al Qana, thenationalaquarium.ae (02 418 6666).
Qasr Al Watan
A presidential palace that visitors can explore in detail and learn more about the cultural heritage of Abu Dhabi and the UAE. While the exteriors seem traditional, it was actually constructed in 2017 and opened to the public a couple of years later.
The incredible building and it interiors make for one of the world's great palace attractions, and one of the most famous places in Abu Dhabi. Plus there are regular light, sound and cultural performances to enjoy.
Qasr Al Watan, Al Ras Al Akhdar, qasralwatan.ae (600 544 442).
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
The largest mosque in the UAE and an active place of worship for thousands of people. The architectural masterpiece is a stunning sight to behold, and work began under the leadership and instruction of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan as a haven to inspire people of all backgrounds. It now accepts visitors who want to learn more about Islam and culture in the UAE.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street, szgmc.gov.ae (02 419 1919).
The Galleria Al Maryah Island
Don't call this a mall. It is one of the few boutique lifestyle destinations that really deserves the name.
Yes, there are stores from leading fashion houses such as Louis Vuitton, Fendi, Prada and more, but there is so much more to do. Fine dining in the shape of Zuma, Maison and more, for starters.
The Galleria Al Maryah Island, thegalleria.ae (02 493 7400).
Warner Bros. Hotel
Not only is it next door to the world's largest theme park, around the corner from a water park and just up the road to the world's fastest rollercoaster – it is also the world's first Warner Bros-themed hotel.
To put it another way – if Superman came to Abu Dhabi on holiday this is where he would stay. Get ready for movie-themed rooms, loads of real props and all sorts of memorabilia and movie magic to enjoy.
WB Abu Dhabi, Yas Bay, Yas Island, hilton.com (02 815 0000).
Warner Bros. World
Dozens of rides and attractions are divided into super fun themed zones here. Specialising in Batman, Superman, the Flintstones and all manner of Warner Bros cartoons such as Scooby Doo, Tom and Jerry, Daffy Duck and more. As well as all the rides there are live shows and chances to meet beloved characters and a few villains, too.
From Dhs345. Warner Bros. World, Yas Island, wbworldabudhabi.com (600 511 115).
Yas Bay Waterfront
Yas Bay is Abu Dhabi's one-of-a-kind Dhs12 billion waterfront destination nestled south of Yas Island, and it's the capital's premier waterfront destination.
Down by the water's edge you'll find the impressive Etihad Arena and all the headline concerts that come with it, plus many many cool restaurants.
It's not a place you want to pass up.
Yas Bay, Yas Island, yasbay.ae (800 927 229).
Yas Mall
Abu Dhabi is particularly good at shopping malls, but even in this crowded market Yas Island's megamall stands out. The numbers alone are impressive – 2.5million square feet, 370 international brands, nearly 70 places to eat and drink, a 24-screen cinema. The whole experience is just as rewarding with lots of space for leisure including a climbing centre and play centres.
Yas Mall, Yas Island, yasmall.ae (800 927 6255).
Yas Marina Circuit
If Abu Dhabi's incredible motorsport circuit was only open for one weekend a year, to host the annual grand prix and F1 spectacular it would still be worthy of this list. But there is so much more to get up to, including driving experiences, karting and drifting event and regular fitness events where you can get on the track for walks, jogs, and even bike rides.
Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Island, yasmarinacircuit.com (800 927).
Yas Waterworld
The little touches make all the difference on a day out. Like making the excite chute on a waterslide look like a hissing snake's fanged mouth – it just makes an already exciting ride all the more thrilling.
Not that adrenaline junkies need much more convincing. With more than 40 slides, for all ages and thrill requirements, Yas Waterworld makes for one of the best days out in Abu Dhabi and a must for aquatic thrill seekers.
From Dhs295. Yas Waterworld, Yas Island, yaswaterworld.com (600 511 115).
SeaWorld Abu Dhabi
SeaWorld allows marine biology fans to see more than 100,000 animals at the world's largest and most expansive multi-species aquarium.
Visitors to SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, which spans 183,000 sq m over five floors and eight 'realms', will also have access to 15 rides and experiences such as the Manta Coaster or the Hypersphere 360.
From Dhs 375. SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, seaworldabudhabi.com (600 511 115).
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