Best places to visit and things to do in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is the capital of UAE (United Arab Emirates) and also one of the 7 Emirates that form the UAE, while Ajman, Dubai, Fujairah, Ras al-Khaimah, Sharjah, and Umm al-Quwain are the other six. These Emirates, collectively make the UAE a diverse and a unique place to travel. Like most touristy destinations, Dubai steals the show and thus Abu Dhabi is still a bit off the beaten path. In fact, a big part of Abu Dhabi is an archipelago of natural islands. 
                                                

1. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi  

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the only two mosques in the country to offer entry to Non-Muslims. Take Bus 54 (Number) outside Abu Dhabi central bus station to visit this mosque. This will be a soul-stirring experience. But it must be seen to be believed. The white marble masterpiece is a breathtakingly beautiful part of modern history.
Visit the mosque in the morning or evening to avoid the heat. It’s a photographer’s delight! The Mosque looks gorgeous in the early morning and at sunset. There are also free educational tours for visitors. You’ll need to check their timings online. Ladies will be required to wear a ‘Burkha’ and men must cover shoulders and legs.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque visiting time: 9 AM to 10 PM (Saturday to Thursday). Last entry at 9:30 PM.
The mosque is closed for tourists on Friday mornings. But it is open for tourists from 4:30 PM to 11 PM. Check the website below for more information szgmc.gov.ae

2. Heritage Village 

                                                                                                               Abu Dhabi was essentially a rundown Bedouin dessert country before oil was found in 1960’s. A visit to this place will give you an insight into how beautifully this Emirate changed in the last 60 years. This will also help you know the culture of the United Arab Emirates.

3. Yas Island – Ferrari World 

Open 365 days a year, here you can discover some spectacular rides like the new Flying Aces ride, World’s highest roller-coaster loop, Formula Rossa (The fastest roller coaster with a top speed of 250kmph in 4.9 seconds) and other state-of-the-art simulators.

4. Qasr Al-Hosn (Old Fort-Palace)

This Old Fort Palace is also known as White Fort and was constructed in 1793. Once a residence of the ruling family now is used as a museum depicting the cultural history of Abu Dhabi. The courtyard and the magnificent tile work over the main northern gate are notable features. This is an interesting place for those who are keen on historical things.

5. Yas Island – Waterworld

Home to nearly 40 rides, slides, and attractions, Waterworld is simply spectacular and a lot of fun. The theme is based on an original story of challenges encountered by a brave girl Dana on a journey to get a lost pearl. This interesting theme is evident throughout the park, even in shops and                                                                        restaurants.

6. The Corniche 

This is a promenade which is like a walkway beside the seafront. It’s almost 5 kilometres long with beaches, luxury hotels and coffee shops all along the coastline. Enjoy the shimmering turquoise waters and white beaches! Plenty of options available for boat rides and water sports as well.

7. Wadi Adventure Park

Here you can enjoy artificial white water rafting, artificial wave beach, and water rides. Zip lines are also available for enthusiasts. And the best part, all this in the middle of a dessert!

Few more tourist attractions of Abu Dhabi

• Emirates Palace Hotel (If you can afford this place and also its 24-carat gold flaked coffee!)
• Marina Mall (For Shopping) and Olympic size Ice Rink
• Al Maryah Island / Saadiyat Island / Al Reem Island (All 3 are unique in themselves!)
• Louvre Abu Dhabi (Fantastic Modern Museum)
• Yas Marina Circuit – Formula Rossa (Formula 1 Track)
• Observation Deck at 300
• Gold Souq at Madinat Zayed
• Emirates National Auto Museum
• Saadiyat Public Beach
• Kayaking in Mangrove National Park
• Scuba Diving
• Desert Sa

                                                                        THANKS FRIENDS