Abu Dhabi has a relaxed pace that makes exploring a pleasure. Wide roads, sprawling islands, and distinct neighborhoods give each part of the city its own character; some are filled with soaring skyscrapers, while others showcase rich cultural experiences deeply rooted in the United Arab Emirates. The city also boasts striking mangroves and pristine beaches, perfect for both relaxation and adventure.
With so much to see across the emirate, getting around is easier with a car when you visit Abu Dhabi. International travelers and most visitors can make the most of their visit by renting a vehicle with Hertz UAE, giving them the freedom to explore at their own pace. From cultural landmarks to natural escapes, here are the top 10 things to do in Abu Dhabi that rank among the city’s most popular tourist attractions.
1. Visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is even more breathtaking in person than in photos. Known as one of the largest mosques in the world, its white stone glows brilliantly in daylight, and the surrounding water reflects the arches so perfectly that the view is truly mesmerizing. It is regarded as one of the largest mosques in the world, drawing visitors from across the United Arab Emirates.
Visitors enter through a bright underground passage lined with small shops and cafés, offering a gentle introduction before stepping into the main prayer hall. Sunset is an ideal time to visit, as the domes gradually change from bright white to soft shades of blue. Remember to follow the dress code to respect local customs, and consider booking a guided tour to learn more about the mosque’s history and architecture.
2. Explore the Qasr Al Watan (Presidential Palace)
Qasr Al Watan is a stunning royal palace, where grand doors, expansive floors, and intricate geometric designs catch the eye at every turn. As you move through its halls, it’s hard not to pause and admire the beautifully decorated ceilings. Inside, there’s a sense of calm that makes the palace feel serene rather than touristy, even though it’s a popular destination. Visiting in the late afternoon is ideal, especially for outdoor photography, as the palace takes on a warm, golden hue. Dress respectfully, keeping attire simple and modest, to fully enjoy the experience.
3. Admire the Emirates Palace
Stepping into Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental feels like entering a different era of design. The grand dome overhead and warm lighting give the lobby a soft glow that photographs beautifully. Visitors spread out casually; some enjoying coffee, others strolling leisurely. Outside, the pathways leading to the beach stretch far into the distance, encouraging a slower pace.
This iconic destination is a must-visit, perfectly complementing other nearby landmarks such as the Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation, allowing visitors to explore art, heritage, and architecture in one relaxed outing.
4. Witness Panoramic Views from Etihad Towers Observation Deck
The lift to the 74th floor moves faster than expected, and stepping out, you’re immediately struck by the city’s layout: the Corniche curves gracefully, islands are neatly spaced, and long roads stretch across the water. Floor-to-ceiling windows bring the view close, making it one of the top attractions for visitors wanting to understand Abu Dhabi’s scale. Visitors often stay longer than planned, soaking in the relaxed atmosphere and capturing the coastline from ideal angles. Combining this stop with other Abu Dhabi attractions is effortless when travelling in a Hertz rental, making the day seamless.
5. Admire the art at the Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum
Before you even enter Louvre Abu Dhabi, the architecture here sets the tone. The dome casts patterned shadows on the walkways. You will feel a gentle breeze due to the building’s proximity to the water. Inside, the galleries take you through global history at an easy pace. The objects are systematically put side by side to make sense while strolling.
6. Stroll or Cycle Along the Corniche
The Corniche is the place to go when you want a simple, relaxing outing. Its long, clean stretches make it perfect for walking or cycling, and you’ll often see people jogging, strolling, or sitting on benches while enjoying the view. Nearby Corniche Beach has calm waters, ideal for a gentle swim or a quiet moment by the shore. Visiting in the evening is especially lovely, as the lights from the buildings reflect softly on the water, creating a peaceful, scenic atmosphere.
Since most visitors explore Abu Dhabi by car, it also helps to understand traffic fines in Abu Dhabi, including speed limits, parking violations, and common driving mistakes tourists make.
7. Have fun at Yas Island
Yas Island has its own style. This busy yet organized attraction is created keeping tourists in mind, with Yas Island parks offering some of the city’s most exciting entertainment options. Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros. World, and Ferrari World are the biggest draws, but there’s also Yas Beach for those who want somewhere quieter. Yas Mall ties much of it together with dining and shopping options.
Getting around the island is simple. You will find everything in proximity. Many families rent a seven-seater car from Hertz UAE for this part of the trip to keep the day running smoothly. It’s also a nice area for evenings if you want something lively but not chaotic.
8. Experience the thrill at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is the city’s largest indoor theme, designed for excitement and fun. Its vibrant colors and energetic atmosphere draw visitors in, with the iconic roller coaster taking center stage. Alongside it, numerous smaller rides and simulators often become the highlights for families and mixed-age groups. Being entirely indoors makes it perfect for visiting during the hotter months. The park’s layout is easy to navigate, and many guests finish their visit with a short walk to Yas Mall for a meal or a well-deserved break.
9. See a Different Side of Abu Dhabi with Heritage Village
Heritage Village offers a glimpse into Emirati history and life before skyscrapers and large roads existed. It’s simple: a few huts, pottery demonstrations, weaving, and some traditional tools. The area isn’t polished, and that actually helps make it feel authentic.
One pleasant surprise is the view of the city’s skyline. It’s clearer than many other spots in the city. After visiting, Marina Mall is just around the corner, so you can pair the two places.
10. Shop at Abu Dhabi’s Best Malls
Abu Dhabi has a variety of malls, each offering a distinct experience:
- Yas Mall is modern, bustling, and always full of energy.
- Marina Mall has a quieter atmosphere and a scenic waterside location.
- Abu Dhabi Mall is centrally located and dependable for everyday shopping needs.
- The Galleria is the destination for luxury brands and refined dining experiences.
When visiting busy places like malls, beaches, or cultural landmarks, knowing what counts as vehicle obstruction and how to report wrong parking in Abu Dhabi can help you avoid fines or unnecessary delays.
Go Beyond the City with Desert Adventures
The desert outside Abu Dhabi offers a striking change of pace: wide, open spaces with soft sand that shifts colour as the day progresses. Visitors can:
- Join thrilling dune drives across the rolling sand for an adrenaline-filled experience.
- Visit traditional desert camps to enjoy local culture, food, and entertainment under the stars.
- Take a scenic trip to Al Ain, where oases and mountain roads provide a refreshing escape from the city’s urban landscape.
Travelers planning to drive themselves commonly choose a Toyota or Lexus from Hertz because the handling feels stable on uneven terrain.
Plan Your Abu Dhabi Trip with Hertz UAE
Abu Dhabi is a sprawling city, and having the flexibility to travel on your own schedule makes exploring much easier. Hertz offers a wide range of vehicles, from compact cars for city driving to spacious seven-seaters for families and cars suited for longer journeys.
Renting with Hertz ensures your trip is comfortable and practical, giving you the freedom to visit multiple attractions without hassle. Be sure to check the latest car rental offers to find the option that best suits your plans.