A Weekend in Abu Dhabi, Things to Do in Abu Dhabi
Whenever you decide to visit the United Arab Emirates, make a stop in Abu Dhabi for a memorable experience. If you plan to spend a weekend in Abu Dhabi, you can visit museums, mosques, shopping centers, and engage in other fun activities. Apart from the unique sites and architecture, you get to indulge in their cuisines.
Where to Stay in Abu Dhabi
There are many 5-star and other luxurious hotels for you to stay when you visit Abu Dhabi. You will also find the best hotel in Abu Dhabi with modern, decorated, and spacious rooms with free WIFI. Whether you like to stay in the city or near the beach, there are resorts to suit you. You can also get massages and body treatments at some of the hotels. Remember that hostels are illegal, so be careful not to be deceived.
Things to do For Your Weekend in Abu Dhabi
You can never run out of things to do in Abu Dhabi; that is why people keep coming back. Whether you love adventure or you are an indoor person, there is something to do.
SHEIKH ZAYED GRAND MOSQUE
This is the most popular site in Abu Dhabi, given that it is among the largest mosques worldwide. There are 82 domes and more than a thousand columns with white and gold covering the exterior. Even if you are a non-Muslim and spending a weekend in Abu Dhabi, you can visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque because it is open to everybody.
The floor is adorned in the largest hand-woven rug in the world, as well as the largest chandeliers. The interior features the Ottoman, Mamluk, and Fatimid architectural designs, which are a representation of 3 Islamic dynasties. When the sun sets, the mosque turns into a spectacular scene. Remember to wear appropriate clothes.
EMIRATES PALACE
This is one of the most luxurious resorts in the city, where most dignitaries and royals stay during their visits. There are over a 100 domes adorned on the inside with crystals, gold, and mother of pearl. There are at least a 1000 chandeliers, and exquisite hand-made carpets. On the outside, you find palm trees, fountains, and posh gardens. You don’t have to stay in the Emirates Palace when you visit Abu Dhabi. Non-guests can enjoy the traditional Turkish bath at the spa or dine in one of the restaurants.
DESERT SAFARI
You can’t visit Abu Dhabi and leave without visiting the desert. There are many fun activities to do, such as sand boarding, camel riding, and quad biking. An overnight desert safari is enjoyable because you can watch the camels interact with their caretakers. You can also get henna tattoos on your hands with different designs. If you are a thrill lover, you can try the dune buggy, which is a four-wheeled ride. Before the end of the night, you can enjoy belly and Tanoura dances.
THE CORNICHE
When looking for things to do during your weekend in Abu Dhabi, visit the Corniche which runs through the Doha Bay. You can take a walk, jog, or even skate. You can watch the beautiful sunset as it illuminates the monuments. Many skyscrapers surround the Corniche; these buildings consist of cafes, hotels, government offices, parks, and landmarks. The good thing about the Corniche is that they don’t charge people to enter any building.
FERRARI WORLD
Spend your Weekend in Abu Dhabi at the fascinating Ferrari world the only Ferrari-themed park in the world. There are different rides; for instance, the entertainment destination consists of 37 rides and outstanding cuisines. If you are a thrill-seeker, you can ride the fastest roller-coaster in the world; the Formula Rossa. It travels at a speed of 240km/h. You can also enjoy the Scuderia Challenge, which is a simulated racing game. The best thing about this game is the 180-degree screen in front of the gamers, the small vehicle-like pods, and a steering wheel which makes the whole experience feel like reality.
YAS WATERWORLD ABU DHABI
Spend your visit in Abu Dhabi splashing in the cool waters. The Yas Waterworld has different interesting rides for all ages, for instance, the Tot’s Playground. This feature consists of a kid’s pool and a place for parents to pass the time with their children. You can also go to the cinesplash, a water cinema. This is a simulated cinema where you go for quests, where you experience waterfalls and explosions. If you would like something more challenging try the Jabel Drop – this ride will get your heart pumping and your adrenaline rising.
AL JAHILI FORT
This is one of the largest towers in the area, and it is designed using the traditional Arabian architecture. Don’t let your weekend in Abu Dhabi end without visiting the Al Jahili Fort. You can explore the watchtowers and the courtyard. The fort has many photographs relating the region’s history, for instance, Sir Wilfred Thesiger’s photo. This was a famous explorer who visited the area frequently.
AL AIN OASIS
When you visit Abu Dhabi, you can expect the temperatures to rise, but a visit to Al Ain Oasis can cool your body and thoughts. The area is not only quiet, but it has numerous date palms which brighten the place. There is a great contrast between the oasis and the desert. You will notice an old mosque as you walk around.
MARINA MALL ABU DHABI
What is a weekend in Abu Dhabi without a visit to the Marina Mall? This is a complex shopping center with at least 400 stores, ice rink, a bowling alley, movie theatre, and an amusement park with rides and arcade games. Apart from the large food court, you will find many cafes and restaurants which serve both traditional and modern cuisines. The mall has a viewing deck where you get to observe the Persian Gulf the view is spectacular, especially during sunset.
Apart from the beautiful architecture, rich history, and culture, there are a lot of things to do for your weekend in Abu Dhabi. If you love adventure, you can go to the desert or the waterparks to participate in fun activities. You can also visit numerous sites and eateries.