As the capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi has prime choices for any visitor. It is a distinctly Arab city that may not be as cosmopolitan as others are, but it certainly has held on to its laid-back and local Emirati feel. However, that does not mean that you wouldn’t have anything worthy of your time. In fact, it’s just the opposite. Here are the 5 things to do in Abu Dhabi.
Visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center
If only one word can be used to describe the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center, it would be opulent. Such opulence that won’t cost you a lot because they provide free guided tours in English. You just need to wear appropriate attire, so you could enter this architectural masterpiece. From the exterior to its interior, this building captures the fascination of the visitors. At a certain angle, you will see the attention given to detail and symmetry. It’s simply an unassuming, calming and spotless façade, but once you step inside, you will feel like stepping into an entirely different world. The way I see it, it is a world that bursts in different colors and mesmerizing patterns from ceilings to floors.
Visit the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital
You might think this is a typo and ask, “Did I just read hospital? Why a hospital?”. But how many places do you know have a hospital mainly for falcons? It’s even possible you have not seen this impressive raptor in real life. A tour of the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital is both an entertaining and educational event to participate in.
Visit the Yas Marina Circuit
If speed is more your thing, then the Yas Marina Circuit should be right on top of your itinerary. A visit here could mean being on the driver’s seat of a beast of a machine. You could go a lap or two driving a Formula 3000 on an F1 circuit, which is something that not a lot can say they have done.
Visit the Observation Deck at 300
Abu Dhabi is already full of wonderful sights at the ground leve,l but when you go to the Observation Deck at 300, it just becomes phenomenal. An aerial view of the city provides guests a unique way of appreciating the nostalgically attractive mosques and the neighboring contemporary mega-structures. Comparing and contrasting these buildings, at the same time seeing the harmony makes it even more delightful when you’re served great-tasting food and exquisite tea at any time of day.
Visit Ferrari World
Whether you’re a Ferrari aficionado or not, you’ll probably come across a lot of things you’ll find exhilarating at Ferrari World. You’ll see on display the different car models that have made Ferrari synonymous to speed and elegance. You can even see what lies beneath the hood that gives it its power. This state-of-the-art amusement park also boasts of amazing rides for its patrons with one which stands out worldwide, the Formula Rossa. This famous ride is the world’s fastest roller coaster. Its top speed clocks at 240 kilometers per hour or approximately 150 miles per hour which it can reach in just about five seconds.
Abu Dhabi may look and feel laid-back, but this city packs quite a punch when it comes to giving their visitors a great time. Want somewhere quiet enough to meditate in? Want to know what it’s like to be a race car driver? Just a look at the five things to do in Abu Dhabi would give you the answers and more.