Highlights
Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
November is the usual month for F1 racing, staged in the twilight of late-afternoon, the track dramatically floodlit, and demand is always high for this premier sporting event. The circuit is dazzlingly set around Yas Marina and can be visited year-round, with behind-the-scenes, escorted tours for an exciting glimpse of F1 life. Alternatively, driving and passenger experiences, private driving tuition, track days, karting and a drag racing academy provide unique and thrilling pursuits for driving fanatics of all ages.
Architecture
Gaze in awe at Abu Dhabi’s striking modern architecture, including some of our hotels – the stunning glass and steel structure of Yas Viceroy and Emirates Palace, an extravagant example of Arabian splendour. Other architectural landmarks not-to-miss are Etihad Towers (exclusive five-tower complex), Al Bahar Towers (with eco-friendly, honeycomb wrappings), Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium (home of Al Ain Football Club), Sheikh Zayed Bridge (designed to resemble sand dunes), Aldar HQ (an amazing circular construction) and Capital Gate – certified by Guinness World Records as the ‘World’s Furthest Leaning Manmade Tower’!
Families
Abu Dhabi offers a bumper-sized bundle of family-friendly attractions! These include the world’s fastest rollercoaster ride at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, adrenaline-pumping slides at Yas Waterworld, surfing, rafting and kayaking at Wadi Adventure and the many rides at Hili Fun City, the Gulf’s first theme park. For a bird’s eye view of the cityscape and islands, head for Observation Deck at 300 or the Marina Eye Ferris wheel on the Corniche Breakwater. Or meet Abu Dhabi’s cutest creatures at the Arabian Wildlife Park or zoos at Al Ain and Emirates Park.
Forts and Mosques
An iconic landmark of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is astonishingly big and open daily to visitors. An incredible 40,000 worshippers can be accommodated, while features include 82 domes, the world’s largest hand-knotted woven carpet and a glorious chandelier weighing twelve tons. Check the listings of artistic and cultural performances at Al Jahili Fort, built in 1891 to protect the city and its precious palm groves.
Islands
Abu Dhabi straddles over two-hundred islands, offering pristine, white-sand beaches, exclusive dining, family attractions and much more. The flagship project is Saadiyat Island, a premier leisure and cultural hub still in the making. When complete, standout features will include Zayed National Museum, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, Louvre Abu Dhabi, a Monte Carlo Beach Club and oceanfront golf. Yas Island is another exciting and well-heeled setting, home to glamorous beaches, fine dining establishments, a sleek marina, fantastic waterparks, Yas Marina Circuit and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. Sir Bani Yas Island, meanwhile, is home to a wonderful wildlife reserve, with over 10,000 free-roaming animals, including gazelles, giraffes, hyenas, cheetahs and Arabian Oryx.
Shopping
Shop ‘til you drop in Abu Dhabi, a destination that’s legendary for its diverse range of independent shops, bustling souks and ultra-swish malls. Indeed, shopping is a national custom followed by everyone, whether looking for spices, carpets, perfumes, handicrafts, silks, designer timepieces, high-end fashion, Arabian antiques, gold or the latest technology. You can spend a lot or a little and bartering is expected, so don’t hold back from bagging a bargain, especially in souks such as Al Ain and Al Zafarana. For a luxury spree, look out for The Galleria on Al Marayah Island and the Avenue at Etihad Towers. Opening hours are generally from 10am to 10pm, except during Ramadan.
Sports & Adventure
Abu Dhabi offers all manner of unusual and exciting activities! Sandboarding and sand-skiing are both hugely popular with the slopes of Abu Dhabi's desert dunes varying from gentle gradients for beginners, to 300-metre-high challenges for enthusiasts. Swap golden sand for velvet-green fairways at the five pay-and-play golf courses, all offering superb facilities and beautifully sculpted from desert and coastal landscapes. Make a splash in Abu Dhabi’s sparkling seas, swimming, sailing, wake-boarding and kite-surfing or opt for a breathtaking tour of the coastline and city sights, via speedboat or helicopter.