Abu Dhabi is considered one of the most fascinating cities in the United Arab Emirates. Many travelers wonder: Is it really worth visiting, or is a day trip from Dubai* enough? That’s exactly what we tested during our road trip through the Emirates. In this article, we’ll show you which Abu Dhabi attractions impressed us the most and whether it’s worth staying longer.
Our Hotel in Abu Dhabi
We stayed at the Jannah Burj Al Sarab Hotel*, ideally located between downtown and the Corniche Beach. The price and amenities were great, but above all, the location was perfect for exploring Abu Dhabi comfortably.
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Corniche Beach
Our first highlight in Abu Dhabi was Corniche Beach. The city beach is clean, with fine light sand and turquoise water. Despite the modern facilities, the beach was almost empty – perfect for relaxing and swimming.
Important note: Abu Dhabi has strict traffic regulations. We were actually flashed here for driving through a red light. Red-light violations in the Emirates are taken seriously. If you plan to drive, make sure to read our article on driving in the Emirates or watch our detailed video about it.
Sheikh Zayed Mosque – Abu Dhabi’s Landmark
The Sheikh Zayed Mosque is one of the most impressive highlights in Abu Dhabi. It’s among the most beautiful mosques in the world, admired for its massive domes, intricate details, and serene atmosphere. For us, it’s an absolute must-see and the city’s most remarkable sight. You can find our video about this visit on our YouTube channel.
Presidential Palace – Qasr Al Watan
Next on our itinerary was the Presidential Palace, Qasr Al Watan. Even the drive through the vast palace grounds is impressive. The palace itself is an architectural masterpiece featuring grand domes, glittering chandeliers and opulent halls. It’s a place full of splendor and a visit we can highly recommend.
View from the Etihad Towers – Observation Deck 300
Within sight of the palace, the Etihad Towers rise high above the city. From Observation Deck 300, you get a spectacular panoramic view of the skyline, the sea and the Corniche. We had to look around a bit to find the entrance, but the view was absolutely worth it.
Qasr Al Hosn – Abu Dhabi’s Oldest Fort
Another historical highlight is Qasr Al Hosn, the city’s oldest fort. It’s centrally located and offers fascinating insights into Abu Dhabi’s history. The contrast between the ancient stone walls and the modern skyscrapers around it is particularly striking.
More Things to See in Abu Dhabi
Of course, the city has even more to offer:
- Yas Island with theme parks and the Formula 1 racetrack*
- Louvre Abu Dhabi – a modern art museum on the water*
- Marina Mall and the Emirates Heritage Village for culture and shopping
Our Conclusion – Is Abu Dhabi Worth Visiting?
Our answer: Yes, definitely! With the Sheikh Zayed Mosque and the Presidential Palace Qasr Al Watan, Abu Dhabi offers two absolute top attractions. Compared to Dubai, the city feels calmer, less international and more relaxed. For a day trip* or a short stay of two nights, Abu Dhabi is ideal. For a longer vacation, however, we found it less exciting.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
- Plan your visit to the Sheikh Zayed Mosque early in the morning.
- Follow the traffic rules carefully – pay attention to speed limits and red lights.
- Take your time at the Observation Deck in the Etihad Towers.
- Book your tickets online in advance, especially for the palace and the mosque.
Frequently Asked Questions About Abu Dhabi Attractions
Yes, Abu Dhabi is definitely worth visiting. The city offers two outstanding landmarks – the Sheikh Zayed Mosque and the Presidential Palace Qasr Al Watan. Compared to Dubai, Abu Dhabi is quieter and more relaxed. A stay of one to two nights or a day trip from Dubai is ideal.
The best attractions in Abu Dhabi include the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, the Presidential Palace Qasr Al Watan, the Observation Deck 300 in the Etihad Towers, and the historic Qasr Al Hosn Fort. The Corniche Beach and Yas Island are also popular with visitors.
Abu Dhabi has strict traffic laws, especially for red-light violations. Plan your visits early in the day, as many sights get very hot at noon. It’s best to book tickets for the mosque, palace and observation deck online in advance to avoid queues.
I’m Marie, and I write about our excursions and travel destinations. I love discovering new places and sharing my experiences and practical tips with you. My goal is to inspire you for your next adventure and help you find the best activities and must-see sights.
