Abu Dhabi, the vibrant capital of the United Arab Emirates, offers a mesmerising blend of modern marvels and rich cultural heritage, making it an ideal departure port for your next cruise adventure. Whether you’re fascinated by towering skyscrapers, pristine beaches, or immersive cultural experiences, Abu Dhabi has it all, making it a top choice for cruise passengers from around the world.
1 – Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Abu Dhabi’s most stunning and iconic landmark – the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is an architectural masterpiece. Accommodating over 40,000 worshippers, the mosque boasts 82 domes, more than 1,000 columns, 24-carat-gold gilded chandeliers and the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet – weighing 35 tonnes. Complimentary guided tours are offered daily. Please note: Dress code applies
TOP TIP – The mosque is stunning at any time of day, but it is particularly breathtaking in the evening. The sunset enhances the architectural beauty making it perfect for photography.
2 – Yas Island Theme Parks
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi: experience the world’s fastest roller coaster at 240kmph, go-kart race with the whole family and challenge the best lap times in a state-of-the-art race simulator.
Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi: experience six immersive ‘lands’ including Gotham City, Metropolis, Cartoon Junction and Bedrock at the world’s largest indoor theme park.
Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi: cool off on one of the park’s 40 rides, slides and attractions – surf the world’s largest sheet wave or experience the region’s first-ever water cinema.
CLYMB Abu Dhabi: climb up the world’s tallest indoor climbing wall and discover the largest indoor skydiving chamber.
TOP TIP – Purchase a multi-park pass, they offer a significant discount compared to buying individual tickets for each park. They are often flexible and can be used over one or more days.
3 – Yas Marina Circuit
Every November, Yas Marina Circuit hosts the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix – the ultimate finale of the F1 season. The circuit features a unique design with 21 turns and a combination of high-speed straights and challenging corners. Join us on a Paramount Package for the final race on the calendar.
TOP TIP – Visiting outside of F1 dates – TrainYAS is where the track is open to the public for walkers, runners and cyclists. The sessions usually take place on Tuesday evenings 6pm – 10pm. Check the official Yas Marina Circuit website for more information.
4 – Desert and Dunes
No trip to Abu Dhabi is complete without a desert adventure. Just beyond Abu Dhabi city is Rub Al Khali, or the Empty Quarter, the largest expanse of sand in the world. Take a day trip to go dune bashing in a 4×4, sand boarding, camel trekking or even a dinner under a starry sky.
TOP TIP – A number of resorts lie within the desert for guests wishing to stay overnight somewhere special. The most famous is the 5* Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, which resembles an old Arabian fortress set amongst the dunes.
5 – Souks and Shopping
Abu Dhabi’s souks and shops offer a vibrant blend of traditional and modern retail experiences. The souks, such as the Al Mina Fruit and Vegetable Souk and the Carpet Souk, are bustling markets where visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture, haggling for spices, traditional handicrafts, textiles, and exotic carpets. In contrast, modern shopping centers like The Galleria, Marina Mall, and Yas Mall provide a luxurious shopping experience with a wide range of international brands, dining options, and entertainment facilities. Together, these retail venues reflect Abu Dhabi’s unique fusion of its rich heritage and contemporary lifestyle.
TOP TIP – Bargaining is common practice in souks, but it should be done respectfully and with a friendly attitude. Start by offering a lower price than the initial quote and be prepared to negotiate until both parties reach a fair price.
6 – Relax on the Beach
Head to one of the world-class beaches to soak up some rays and relax in turquoise waters.
The Corniche: an 8km promenade lined with restaurants, play areas and lifeguarded beaches.
Yas Beach: check out a stylish beach lounge complete with an infinity pool.
Saadiyat Beach: pristine ribbon of white sand with both public and private hotel sections – look out for the endangered hawksbill turtles that come to nest each year among the dunes.
Zaya Nurai Island: a private island paradise to escape the city
TOP TIP – Many beach clubs offer ladies day events, these often include exclusive access, special promotions, activities and additional entertainment. Check the official websites or social media pages for the latest events.
7 – Visit Sir Bani Yas Island
Sir Bani Yas Island is a natural paradise located off the coast of Abu Dhabi. Guests visiting the island can enjoy nature and wildlife drives, culture, and historic tours, plus horse-riding, walking tours, snorkelling, mountain biking and much more.
TOP TIP – Pre-book your tour at Arabian wildlife Park which is home to more than 10,000 free-roaming animals, including endangered Arabian Oryx, gazelles, giraffes, hyenas and even cheetahs.
8 – Get Active
Tee off at any of Abu Dhabi’s five pay-and-play golf courses, all of which have certified PGA professionals on the books – Yas Links Abu Dhabi and Saadiyat Beach Golf Club are our top picks! Go sailing, windsurfing and jet skiing from the beach, or take a guided tour on a kayak or stand-up paddle board through the Mangrove National Park and Jubail Mangrove Park. Get a fresh perspective aboard a seaplane tour with water take-off and enjoy panoramic views or take a thrilling speedboat ride along the waterfront.
TOP TIP – With so much to see and do make sure you plan in advance and pre-book activities where applicable.
9 – Day Trip to Al Ain
For an authentic feel of Abu Dhabi’s heritage, take a 90 minute drive to Al Ain, the rustically charming home of the Al Jahili Fort – built in 1891 to defend the city’s palm groves and Qasr Al Muwaiji – a modern museum built around the ruins of a centuries old fortress. Experience Al Ain’s camel market, before unwinding at the Al Ain Oasis, the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in the UAE. Thrill seekers shouldn’t miss Wadi Adventure – a man-made white-water rafting, kayaking, surfing and wakeboarding facility.
TOP TIP – Begin your journey early in the morning to avoid traffic and make the most of daylight hours for sightseeing.
10 – Louvre Abu Dhabi
The magnificent Louvre Abu Dhabi museum showcases Abu Dhabi as the cultural hub of the Middle East, housing a permanent collection comprising more than 600 pieces of art, complemented by 300 masterpieces on loan from key French institutions, including works by Titian, Monet, Rodin and Matisse. The works are displayed under a giant 180-metre-wide metal dome, weighing the same as the Eiffel Tower and designed to emulate the palm trees of Abu Dhabi – a rain of light filtering through a canopy of ‘leaves’.
TOP TIP – Take advantage of the free guides and multimedia guides, they provide context and background stories to the collection.
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Explore Our Insider Tips
Discover our favourite places to grab a bite to eat, where we think you should head to for an evening drink, and which of Abu Dhabi’s many attractions should be on your list to visit whilst in the capital of the U.A.E.
