Things to do in Abu Dhabi

Best Things to do in Abu Dhabi

Planning a trip and wondering about the top things to do in Abu Dhabi? From historic landmarks to modern experiences, the city offers something for every traveller, making it a perfect getaway in 2025.

With over 953 activities in Abu Dhabi, there is plenty to explore. Visit some of the most popular tourist attractions in , including iconic sites, vibrant neighbourhoods and cultural hubs. Whether you’re exploring bustling markets, sampling local delicacies or relaxing at scenic spots, every corner has something new to discover.

With experiences starting at INR 361, it’s never been easier to plan your perfect trip. Make the most of your visit to Abu Dhabi in October and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Incredible Things to Do in Abu Dhabi: Desert Calm Meets Big City Spark

About Abu Dhabi

If Dubai is the loud younger sibling, Abu Dhabi is the composed elder—the one that walks slower, speaks softer, but still surprises you with a Ferrari in the garage. The capital of the UAE might not chase headlines the way its flashier neighbor does, but it has something arguably better—depth, culture, and heritage. There’s also a calm confidence about the city that knows exactly what it’s doing.

Whether you're in the mood for mosques made of marble, adrenaline-pumping roller coasters, sunset cruises, or just watching flamingos in the mangroves, there are endless things to do in Abu Dhabi. It's a city that gives you space to breathe—and reasons to stay.

Unique Experiences

Stand in Silence at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

One of the most visually stunning and spiritually humbling things to do in Abu Dhabi, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is more than just architecture. It's an emotion carved in white marble. With 82 domes, 24-carat gold details, and one of the world’s largest hand woven carpets, the mosque is a physical and spiritual masterpiece. Visit just before sunset for that golden glow over its shimmering surface—it hits differently.

Where: Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street

Pricing: Free

Timing: 9 AM – 10 PM (closed Friday morning)

When to Visit: Year-round

Louvre Abu Dhabi: Where the Building Is the Exhibit

You don’t need to love museums to love the Louvre Abu Dhabi. The architecture alone—especially the “rain of light” from its geometric dome—is worth the visit. Inside, you’ll find everything from Mesopotamian sculptures to Van Gogh and contemporary Arabic art. It’s easily one of the most unique things to do in Abu Dhabi for culture lovers and daydreamers alike.

Where: Saadiyat Island

Pricing: INR 1,200+

Timing: 10 AM – 8 PM (closed Mondays)

When to Visit: All year

Top Attractions

Ferrari World: Because Your Heart Needs Speed Too

Where else can you go from sipping Arabic coffee to hitting 240 km/h in less than five seconds? Ferrari World on Yas Island is home to the world’s fastest roller coaster—Formula Rossa—and that’s just the beginning. Racing simulators, pit lane experiences, and Ferrari-themed rides make it one of the top things to do in Abu Dhabi, especially if you’re traveling with a little (or a lot of) adrenaline to burn.

Where: Yas Island

Pricing: INR 5,000+

Timing: 11 AM – 8 PM

When to Visit: October to April

Qasr Al Watan: The Presidential Palace You Can Walk Through

Think of this as a museum wrapped in a palace wrapped in a history lesson. Qasr Al Watan, the UAE’s presidential palace, is not just a stunning example of Arabic design—it’s a deep dive into governance, heritage, and diplomacy. The “Palace in Motion” light show in the evening? Breathtaking. One of the best things to do in Abu Dhabi if you’re even remotely curious about how the country functions.

Where: Al Ras Al Akhdar

Pricing: INR 1,000+

Timing: 10 AM – 8 PM

When to Visit: Year-round

Sightseeing Tours

Yas Island Combo Tour

Yas Island isn’t a place—it’s a playground. Home to Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros. World, and endless beachfront chill zones, you can’t go wrong here. A guided tour or a day-pass combo is one of the smartest activities in Abu Dhabi, especially if you’re here for only a short while.

Where: Yas Island

Pricing: INR 3,500 and up (depending on inclusions)

Timing: All day

When to Visit: October to April

Desert Safari That Starts Calm and Ends Wild

Dune bashing, camel rides, falcon shows, belly dancing, fire performances, and a buffet dinner under a starlit sky. The desert safari is the ultimate UAE cliche—but also, one of the most fun things to do in Abu Dhabi. You’ll scream. You’ll smile. And then, you’ll sit by a bonfire and feel the stillness of the desert.

Where: Al Khatim Desert

Pricing: INR 4,000+

Timing: 3 PM – 9 PM

When to Visit: October to March

Day Trips

Al Ain: The Garden City With Deep Roots

Just under two hours away lies Al Ain—a lush, heritage-soaked contrast to the steel of the capital. Visit Al Ain Oasis, a UNESCO site with an ancient falaj irrigation system, explore camel markets, and walk through forts older than the UAE itself. A great option if you’re looking for things to do in Abu Dhabi that offer a change of pace and a glimpse into Emirati life beyond the skyline.

Where: Al Ain

Pricing: INR 500–INR 1,500 (depending on transport)

Timing: Full day

When to Visit: October to April

Sir Bani Yas Island: Safari, But Make It Gulf

Not many people associate Abu Dhabi with wildlife safaris, but Sir Bani Yas Island says otherwise. Imagine giraffes, cheetahs, and Arabian oryx roaming free in a massive nature reserve—with the ocean in the background. Add luxury resorts and snorkeling spots, and you’ve got one of the most unique things to do in Abu Dhabi.

Where: Off Jebel Dhanna (3.5 hrs drive + ferry)

Pricing: INR 7,000 and up

Timing: Overnight stay recommended

When to Visit: October to March

Boat Tours

Sunset Dhow Cruise Along the Corniche

You board a traditional wooden boat. The sun starts to dip. The skyline turns gold. You sip tea (or something stronger). That’s the vibe on an evening dhow cruise along the Corniche. It’s one of the more relaxed things to do in Abu Dhabi, but with just enough romance and heritage to make it feel special.

Where: Abu Dhabi Marina or Corniche

Pricing: INR 2,000+

Timing: 5 PM – 7 PM

When to Visit: Year-round

Kayaking Through the Eastern Mangroves

Want something quiet, natural, and still within city limits? Paddle through a tunnel of green in Abu Dhabi’s protected mangroves. It’s peaceful, surprisingly cool (temperature-wise), and gives you a whole new appreciation for the UAE’s biodiversity. Easily one of the most offbeat activities in Abu Dhabi.

Where: Eastern Mangroves

Pricing: INR 1,500+

Timing: Morning or sunset paddles available

When to Visit: October to April

Getting Around

• Taxis: Everywhere, cheap, and clean. However, do note that taxis in Dubai can be quite expensive, and it’s better to use the public transportation system.
• Buses: Public buses are air-conditioned and reliable. It’s usually the preferred choice of budget travelers looking to save a good amount of money on transportation.
• Ride apps: Careem and Uber both work smoothly here. You can easily book rides on these apps.
• Rentals: Roads are wide, signs are clear—easy if you're confident driving abroad. However, Dubai has some of the most expensive traffic fines, so be mindful of that if you choose to drive on your own.
• Boat shuttles: Useful if you’re staying on islands like Nurai or Sir Bani Yas. They can take you from one island to another in no time.

Traveller Tips

• Currency: AED (Dirham); INR 1 = approx. 0.044 AED
• Language: Arabic is official, but everyone speaks English. You will not experience any issues while interacting with locals.
• Dress code: Modest in public and religious areas; swimwear is fine at beaches and pools. However, still follow basic etiquettes when you’re outside.
• Best time to visit: October to April (weather is perfect)
• Culture tip: Friday is a holy day—plan mosque visits around it