Updated: April 24, 2024

Abu Dhabi, the federal capital of UAE and the largest emirate by area, houses the second largest human population after Dubai within the country. It ranks among the most modern cities of the world and offers many delights to charm a traveller’s soul. Dubai emirate might be one appealing tourist destination but Abu Dhabi is more vivid and has some good riches when compared to the former.

It has developed itself as a new age city in a slow but firm manner while maintaining rich cultural heritage at the same time. Trip to Abu Dhabi is marked with opportunities to witness exquisite beaches, historical monuments, gold souqs, shopping centres, theme parks, entertainment facilities and opulent hotels & restaurants.

One of the major attractions of Abu Dhabi is Yas Island- an island city that boasts of the famous Ferrari World, the largest indoor theme park in the world. Other attractions of this island are Yas Island IKEA, Southern Marina, Warner Bros. Theme Park and Yas Waterworld. Some other important towns and cities that can be included in Abu Dhabi holiday packages are Al Ain, Al-Aryam Island, Dalma, Habshan, Khalifa City, Liwa Oasis, Ruwais, Sila and Al Mushrif.

An important site that one should not miss to visit on an Abu Dhabi tour is the famous Sheikh Zayed Mosque- world’s third largest mosque. The interiors of the mosque flaunt the largest Persian carpet in the world, while the exteriors are remarkably rich with inclusion of Italian marble, crystals, semiprecious stones and ceramics.

Other major sites worth visiting are Al Ain National Museum, Al Hosn Palace, Abu Dhabi Heritage Village and Abu Dhabi Corniche.

Besides sightseeing, there are seemingly endless numbers of things to do in Abu Dhabi. One can explore the outdoors and have an exciting time on a desert safari. Dune bashing is one of the most thrilling activities that tourists can do in the rugged deserts of Abu Dhabi.

To surprise travellers, Abu Dhabi has some freshwater lakes as well, some of which are Al Wathba Lake and Tilapia Lake in Al Ain. These wetlands are ideal for leisurely walks and bird watching.

Many posh shopping malls add to the elegance of holidaying in Abu Dhabi. Some of the most happening places for shopping in this city are Abu Dhabi Mall, Marina Mall, Al Wahda Mall and Khalidiya Mall. There are also many souqs dotting the city, where tourists can head to shop in traditional style.