Given the sheer extent of activities for visitors in Abu Dhabi – especially as Yas and Saadiyat Islands became destinations in their own rights – a little bit of FOMO ahead of your visit to the UAE capital is fully understandable. The last thing you want is to be cruising past the Sheikh Zayed Mosque on your way to the airport thinking: what’s that, and why didn’t I go there?
Or to be fielding questions from colleagues when you return – with a glorious tan and demob happy as the rain pelts down on your office window – about what the Louvre Abu Dhabi was like only to have to admit that you didn’t realise it was there.
In the spirit of that, and even if you are consciously heading to the UAE capital for some guilt-free winter sun and nothing else, we’ve put together the sites to prioritise should you want a day away from the beach.
1. Marvel at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
It is Abu Dhabi’s most iconic landmark, and provides a rare opportunity for non-Muslims to step inside a mosque that was built relatively recently but pays homage to generations of Islamic architecture, with shimmering white domes, reflective pools and colonnades. The hand-knotted carpet that graces the floor of the main prayer hall is, of course, the largest in the world, while the call to prayer is also unique, sung by three muezzin simultaneously and layered using a high-tech sound system. Free guided tours run throughout the day.
2. Wander through art and history at the Louvre Abu Dhabi
Since opening in 2017, the Louvre Abu Dhabi has become a destination in its own right, packed with masterpieces from all four corners of the globe and with a permanent collection covering centuries, from Ancient Egypt right up to the present day work of Ai Wei Wei. And it isn’t only the exhibits that make the Louvre one of the emirate’s premier sites: the Jean Nouvel-designed structure has an epic domed roof that creates a ‘rain of light’ that filters into the galleries below. There is also a popular Children’s Museum on site.
3. Escape into nature at Jubail Mangrove Park
Opened in 2024, Jubail Mangrove Park is fast becoming one of Abu Dhabi’s most popular outdoor attractions, with a raised boardwalk that weaves through lush, protected mangrove forests and is home to herons, crabs, and many species of fish. Be sure to visit at high tide, otherwise the mangroves are surrounded by nothing more than dusty desert scrub. Guided kayaking and dragon boat tours are also available for a fee, although the walk is free.
4. Experience the thrill of Yas Island’s theme parks
Grab the kids (and your wallet) and head to Yas Island’s theme parks for an adrenaline-pumping day out on the world’s fastest rollercoaster (Ferrari World Abu Dhabi) followed by a couple of hours literally chilling out on the rides and slides at Yas Waterworld. For an indoor experience, Warner Bros. World features classic cartoon and comic characters like Batman, Bugs Bunny and Scooby Doo. Check online for multi-park passes that can prove a good deal cheaper than paying on the day.
5. Dive into Emirati heritage at Qasr Al Hosn
Standing proudly amid Abu Dhabi’s modern skyline, Qasr Al Hosn is the city’s oldest stone building and an important piece of local history. Built in 1761 to protect a freshwater well, it later became the royal residence and a seat of government for the emirate. Today, it’s a beautifully restored museum showcasing artefacts, archival materials, and exhibitions on traditional crafts, pearl diving, and life before the oil boom. Admission is AED 32, but the surrounding Cultural Foundation and House of Artisans are free.
6. Soak up the sun at Corniche Beach
Stretching eight kilometres along Abu Dhabi’s shoreline and lined with palm trees, fountains, and parks, Abu Dhabi’s Corniche is a wonderful place for walking, biking or just sitting and people watching with a shawarma or a coffee on a cool afternoon or evening. Alongside the corniche itself is the beach, with separate areas for families and bachelors (single men), lifeguards, changing facilities, and shaded playgrounds for kids.
7. Explore Saadiyat Island’s cultural treasures
Saadiyat Island is Abu Dhabi’s cultural heartland, home not only to the Louvre but also a growing lineup of major institutions. The Zayed National Museum (opening December 2025) and the long-awaited Guggenheim Abu Dhabi (expected to open early 2026) promise to add to the city’s already burgeoning global art scene. Don’t miss Manarat Al Saadiyat, a free-entry space hosting rotating art exhibitions, film nights and workshops, which serves as a magnet for the city’s creative crowd.
8. Discover an underwater world at the National Aquarium Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi’s National Aquarium is the largest in the Middle East, home to 45,000 animals across 10 themed zones, and including the essential tunnel through the shark tank. No matter your age, the aquarium is lots of fun and a welcome refuge on a hot day. As well as water-dwelling fish and other creatures, the aquarium is also home to a colony of puffins. Prices start at AED 110 but rise quickly if you want to add animal encounters, which can include everything from feeding puffins to swimming with sharks.
9. Take a free sunset walk along Yas Bay Waterfront
As the sun sets at Yas Bay, the waterfront promenade lights up with a fountain show choreographed to music. With outdoor seating, Gulf views, and a cooling breeze, it’s a relaxing way to end a day packed with sightseeing. As one of the capital’s newest areas, it is also home to a range of restaurants and bars. Book ahead.
