Top five things to do in Abu Dhabi

Thrilling rides, watersports or something else? Uncover what to do in Abu Dhabi.

From its cloud-brushing skyscrapers – which rub shoulders with vast desert scapes – to its ancient fortresses and world-famous shopping scene, it’s no wonder Abu Dhabi is the latest destination to grace our cities list. Jet off to this United Arab Emirates gem and you can do everything from ride the world’s fastest rollercoaster to snap photos of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and go on a 4x4 desert safari. Feeling inspired? Read on for more information about the top things to do in Abu Dhabi…

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1. MARVEL AT THE SHEIKH ZAYED GRAND MOSQUE

Abu Dhabi’s home to many world firsts, like the world’s first gold-dispensing ATM, but its crown jewel has to be the white-marble Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. This architectural wonder flaunts 82 domes and over 1,000 columns inlaid with precious stones. Look out for the world's largest loomed carpet in one of the prayer halls here, too.

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2. GET CLUED UP ON CULTURE AT LOUVRE ABU DHABI

The super-modern Louvre Abu Dhabi is home to a collection of masterpieces, on loan from its French namesake, and is as photo-worthy on the inside as it is on the out. The building is designed by Pritzker prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel, and features a large dome made from interlaced steel beams. From underneath, it looks like palm leaves with light filtering through.

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3. TOUR THE FAMOUS YAS MARINA CIRCUIT

Racing fans should make tracks for the city’s Yas Marina Circuit, where F1 cars burn rubber every November in the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. But even if you’re not there for the main event, you can experience the thrill of the track year-round. Take a behind the scenes tour of the grandstand and race control centre or get behind the wheel of some of the world's most impressive supercars with an on-track driving experience.

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4. KAYAK THROUGH MANGROVE NATIONAL PARK

Abu Dhabi may be known for its deserts, but we’ll let you in on a secret – it’s got wildlife-packed coastal mangrove forests, too. Hop on a kayak and navigate your way through this protected coastal ecosystem. More than 60 bird species live here, including reef heron and flamingos. You’re likely to see both more often in the breeding season from April to July.

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5. HIT THE RIDES AT FERRARI WORLD ABU DHAB

Fast-paced Ferrari World Abu Dhabi offers an exciting list of rides for kids and adults alike. Adrenaline lover? The world’s fastest rollercoaster – Formula Rossa, with a speed of 0 to 240 km/h in 4.9 seconds – is the one for you. Families meanwhile can go go-kart racing or challenge each other to the best lap times in a state-of-the-art simulator.