By Discover a diverse array of attractions on Grayline’s Abu Dhabi Private City Tour. From Louvre Abu Dhabi on Saadiyat Island to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, this city offers something for everyone.
Start your day with a visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the world’s largest mosques. Admire the onion-topped domes and reflective pools before visiting Heritage Village, a recreated desert village that charts Abu Dhabi’s history.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
One of the best things to do in Abu Dhabi is visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. It’s one of the largest mosques in the world, a beautiful monument to Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan that pays tribute to traditional Islamic architecture. It combines elements of Moorish, Ottoman, and Persian designs to create a breath-taking work of art that’s both a place of worship and a spectacular attraction.
Each of the 96 pillars in the main prayer hall is decorated with floral patterns and mother-of-pearl accents. You’ll also see seven imported chandeliers that incorporate millions of Swarovski crystals.
The Grand Mosque is open to all faiths and non-Muslim visitors are welcomed (although you will need to dress appropriately). There are a few places where photos are not permitted. Men should wear long pants and shirts; women need to cover their heads. Appropriate garments are available to rent before you enter.
Corniche
The Corniche is the city’s coastal promenade where joggers and cyclists share space with families and tourists. At its eastern end lies Lulu Island, a man-made stretch of sand that’s relatively undeveloped and ideal for a picnic.
The entire length of the path is lined with cafes and restaurants to stop at, and there’s even a children’s playground and separate cycle paths. You can rent bikes on the spot to freewheel along the waterfront, with plenty of parking spaces nearby.
At the far western corner of the Corniche sits Marina Mall and Heritage Village, a reconstruction of a pre-oil-era enclave. Stop in at the latter to get a glimpse of UAE life before oil fundamentally changed its landscape, with camels and tents in full view. You can also buy a souvenir at the craft shops here.
Heritage Village
The Heritage Village, near the Corniche, reflects the city’s history before oil dramatically changed its skyline. A recreation of a traditional desert home, it showcases Bedouin lifestyle in a fort-like setting with goat-hair tents and campfires. It also features a souk, mosque, and workshops that allow visitors to get hands-on with the local crafts, like weaving, pottery, and making gold jewelry.
You can even learn how to make henna, a popular local body art, at one of the workshops. If you’re feeling creative, try a glassblowing demonstration at another.
Travelers say the Heritage Village is an interesting peek into a different time in Abu Dhabi. They also appreciate that it’s free to enter.
Yas Island
A destination that has something for everyone, Yas Island is home to state-of-the-art attractions. From thrilling theme parks and world class shopping to a golf course, a beach and an award-winning hotel, this leisure destination has it all.
Thrill-seekers will find the world’s fastest roller coaster at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi while kids can go on endless rides and attractions at Warner Bros. World(tm) Abu Dhabi. The recently opened park brings a new level of fun for families and children featuring 29 rides and attractions inspired by DC superheroes, iconic animated characters, and more.
World-class shopping can be found at Abu Dhabi’s largest mall, Yas Mall, while the destination also offers a year-round line-up of spectacular musical, entertainment and family events at Etihad Arena and du Forum. Yas Island also boasts ten incredible hotels, including the first ever hotel to straddle an F1 track, Yas Viceroy. Moreover, the area houses over 160 dining experiences and an expansive golf course – Yas Links.
