Top 7 Things Abu Dhabi Is Famous For - Updated 2024

Silvia
Silvia 
Updated
| 3 min read

Contending the spotlight with neighbouring Dubai, the United Arab Emirates’ capital, Abu Dhabi, is renowned much like its “rival” for the highly profitable oil exports, the cutting-edge architecture, the splendid sea views, and the luxurious grandeur the city radiates all around. Abu Dhabi and Dubai face the Persian Gulf and are the second-and first-most populous city in the UAE, respectively. Despite the similarities, the two cities are certainly not identical. They offer tourists and locals alike their own share of popular attractions and sights. In case you’re planning a trip to Abu Dhabi, check out our list of the top seven things Abu Dhabi is famous for.

1. Skyscrapers

Abu Dhabi
Source: Photo by Flickr user edward stojakovic used under CC BY 2.0

With nearly 40 skyscrapers, Abu Dhabi holds a respectable 36th place worldwide. Burj Mohammed Bin Rashid, which is the city’s tallest building, stands at 1251 feet (381 metres) and has “only” 88 floors. Despite the not-so-mind-blowing statistics, its spectacular effect is amplified by the location. Much like Dubai, Abu Dhabi is the centre of skyscrapers between a sea of blue and yellow. Architecturally magnificent, they seem to emerge from the ground as their silhouette defined against the clear sky. Hotels and restaurants have claimed a floor or two out of these giants, giving tourists the unique opportunity of enjoying some grand views.

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2. Sports events

British Polo Day in Abu Dhabi, UAE
Source: Photo by Flickr user Land Rover MENA used under CC BY 2.0

Abu Dhabi hosts an impressive number of sports events all year round. They could range from charitable to professional races, from local to global championships, from niche to popular sports, and so on. You can expect a bit of everything, including quirky matches of Camel Polo.

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3. Mangrove kayaking (from USD 60.0)

For those of you who can’t say no to physical exercise even on holiday, why not rent a kayak and test your paddling skills? You can choose to go solo or share the kayak with someone else. Before you set sail, you will be provided with all the necessary equipment and safety instructions. If you’re a newbie, don’t be afraid as a guide will paddle along with you should you need assistance. Once you get acquainted with the kayak, take in the views of the luxuriant mangroves and abundant wildlife all around you.

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Abu Dhabi Mangrove Kayaking Tour

Duration: 2 hours

28 reviews

4. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (from USD 63.0)

A trip to Abu Dhabi will not be complete without a visit to the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Surrounded by beautifully kept landscaped gardens, the Mosque boasts perfectly designed lines and skillful use of precious materials such as marble, gold, and crystals. This magnificent building deserves your undivided attention, so you should consider booking a half-day private tour with an experienced guide.

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Shru & Kuku

Shru & Kuku

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
There is no description, verbal or written, no matter how beautifully and elegantly it is done, that can match the sheer grandeur of this place. Each and every corner is photo-worthy, but most of the people who visit the Grand Mosque tend to skip Wahat Al Karama, exactly opposite the mosque, which gives an unobstructed view of the entire structure.
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Abu Dhabi Sheikh Zayed Mosque Half-Day Tour from Dubai

Duration: 5 to 6 hours

402 reviews

5. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi (from USD 95.0)

Whether you’re a Formula 1 fan or not, you will be stunned by Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. Located on man-made Yas Island, this is the world’s largest indoor theme park. Get a day ticket and spend an afternoon amongst adrenaline-filled car race simulations, fun kids’ rides, informative tours, much-needed restaurant “pit stops”, and much more.

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Abu Dhabi Ferrari World Theme Park Day Entrance Ticket

Duration: 1 to 7 hours

63 reviews

6. Yas Island (from USD 44.0)

abu dhabi is famous for | yas island

While in Abu Dhabi, don’t forget to book a guided tour around an artificial wonderland, Yas Island. A hub for futuristic inclination, the island hosts hotels, shopping malls, Ferrari World theme park, and an F1 circuit. If you book a guided tour, you get to discover what it takes to set up an F1 event, have your photo taken on the podium, and witness what usually happens behind the scenes.

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Abu Dhabi: Yas Marina Circuit Guided Tour

Duration: 2.0 hour

950 reviews

7. Emirates Palace Hotel (from USD 107.0)

emirates palace hotel

Opulence, class, and luxury are all terms that apply when describing Emirates Palace Hotel. Designed by architect John Elliott, it has been referred to as a beyond-five-stars hotel. It claims 207 acres (84 hectares) of land including a long stretch of coast with a private beach and marina. With its many domes, sand-coloured walls, and characteristically arched windows, the complex evokes a dreamy, Arabian-inspired castle straight out of a fairytale. Booking a suite here may not be affordable but you can still walk the palace’s opulent interiors, thanks to Get Your Guide. Choose a buffet lunch or dinner at Le Vendome Restaurant or opt for a world-famous, gold-flaked cappuccino accompanied by a slice of cake.

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Abu Dhabi: Emirates Palace Coffee or Dine-in with Transfers

Duration: 2 hour

8 reviews

Luxury and grandeur in Abu Dhabi

If seen from a satellite, Abu Dhabi looks like a coastal oasis of architectural grandiosity surrounded by a sea of sand. Known as the Manhattan of the Middle East, its impressive sights and family-friendly attractions should have a special place on your bucket list.

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Silvia, who has a passion for traveling, is determined to discover every corner of the planet within her available time. Currently residing in London and originally from Italy, she has harbored a...Read more

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