Attractions in Abu Dhabi

Al Maqtaa Fort:
This is a 200-year old fort that can be watched whilest approaching the Al Maqtaa Bridge towards Abu Dhabi Island. It had been used as a watch house against invading bandits at the time. The fort has undergone several renovations with the time and it is a valuable attraction representing Abu Dhabi's history.

Bateen Shipyard:
This is an interesting site, enabling you to watch how craftsmen build dhow vessels using traditional techniques. These wooden dhows are used for trading purposes and races. The craftsmen are usually very friendly and informative.

Dhow Cruising:
Dhow cruising in Abu Dhabi is the most enhanced way of sightseeing the lovely Gulf waters and numerous islands scattered around the city. These sailing vessels of ancient design are originally traditional wooden sailing boats used by merchants many centuries ago. But the modern Dhow with traditional design offers the latest facilities such as satellite navigation and quality rest rooms. Dhow cruising is popular among the tourists for its comfortable and pleasant atmosphere.

Heritage Village:
Located at the Breakwater in the middle of Abu Dhabi, Heritage village is designed as a living museum offering a glimpse into the country's past. It exhibits Bedouin tradition and lifestyle detailing a variety of local traditions, as well as those of other cultures employed in agriculture, fishing and trading. The site features tents, courtyard houses, an ancient irrigation system and workshops where craftsmen ply their trades. Furthermore, there are souvenir shops where authentic pottery and exotic spices are available.

Khalifa Park:
This is the best place in Abu Dhabi for relaxation, fun and entertainment. Located in Al Matar, behind the old airport of Abu Dhabi, this landmark is popular among residents, as well as tourists. The park has a lot to offer for all types of visitors. It has a beautifully landscaped grand avenue, a central plaza for meeting, a maritime museum, a time tunnel ride, a monorail, an Amphitheatre, a party hall, a women & children's garden, a theme park, a mosque and an Islamic garden also. Tours can be carried out via train or by foot, whichever is more convenient.

Khalifa Park Museum:
This museum provides information about the history and culture of Abu Dhabi. This history traces back to prehistoric times to the present time of Abu Dhabi. The Time Tunnel ride is the highlight of this museum, the monorail offers a journey of a living history with all the sights, sounds and smells of the past.

Old Airport Garden:
Located at the edge of Abu Dhabi Island, at the breakwater end, this serene spot is ideal for anyone who needs time out to relax by the sea and take in the wonderful views. It offers a play area for children and its landscape is particularly pleasing to the eye. In addition to this, it features the largest flagpole in the world.

Sheikh Zayed Mosque:
This is the third largest mosque in the world, also known as the Grand Mosque. This mosque is named after Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan who was the founder and the first President of the United Arab Emirates. He is also buried there. The mosque acquires large area between Mussafah Bridge and Maqta Bridge. After its full renovation is should be able to hold up to around 10,000 worshippers. Once finished it will be a major landmark, although it is not yet certain whether visitors will be able to enter it.

Heritage Village:
Located at the Breakwater in the middle of Abu Dhabi, Heritage village is designed as a living museum. It exhibits Bedouin tradition and lifestyle detailing a variety of local traditions, as well as those of other cultures employed in agriculture, fishing and trading.

It features tents, courtyard houses, an ancient irrigation system, workshops where craftsmen ply their trades, a museum and much more.

The Corniche:
The picturesque area of the city is well known for its fountains, park-lined coastal boulevard that skirts the city and architecturally modern buildings that face the sea. Watch flower-filled gardens and modern high-rises on foot from east to west or enjoy a ride on a traditional wooden dhow and experience the changing views of the scenic skyline, parks and fountains. The Corniche Park located on the east side of Abu Dhabi Island is perfect for fishing and birdwatching .

Sheikh Zayed Mosque:
The third largest mosque in the world. This mosque is named after Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan who was the founder and the first President of the United Arab Emirates. He is also buried there. The mosque acquires large area between Mussafah Bridge and Maqta Bridge. Non-Muslims cannot enter mosques in UAE but Sheikh Zayed Mosque will be an exception.

The Emirates Palace Hotel:
This wonderful seven star hotel is one of the Abu Dhabi's most popular landmarks and the venue for many of the city's cultural activities. The hotel is equipped with a huge conference centre and large landscaped gardens, palm trees and fountains. The hotel also welcomes any non-residents to come and enjoy the hotels surroundings.

Qasr al-Hosn:
Also known as the white or old fort, this palace is the oldest historic building of Abu Dhabi which dates back to 1793. It is located on Sheik Zayed First Street, in the centre of Abu Dhabi. This fort remained the royal palace and the seat of government until 1966. The fort itself is not open to the public but great pictures can be taken from the grounds surrounding it. The area also accommodates the popular Cultural Foundation centre which hosts a number of art, music and film events each year.