Things To Do in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, sits off the mainland on an island in the Persian (Arabian) Gulf. Its focus on oil exports and commerce is reflected by the skyline’s modern towers and shopping megacenters such as Abu Dhabi and Marina malls. Beneath white-marble domes, the vast Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque features an immense Persian carpet, crystal chandeliers and capacity for 41,000 worshipers.

During our stay in Dubai (read my last post), we took a day trip to Abu Dhabi. As an avid user of the Viator app, I found a 9 hour tour that picks you up from the hotel and takes you to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, lunch at The Foundry, Ferrari World, Yas Mall, which is Abu Dhabi’s largest shopping center, check out city views from the Corniche and see the lavish Emirates Palace hotel, and shop at the Central Souk. Also, Heritage Village shows you how people in Abu Dhabi lived before their reconstruction of a more modern lifestyle.

Here’s a breakdown on where to go:

The Foundry

It is located in the Tsogo Sun Hotel. The Foundry Restaurant can be viewed as two restaurants in one spectacular setting. By day, The Foundry is a spacious breakfast and lunch venue serving a delicious buffet and a set menu business lunch. At night, The Foundry transforms into an intimate and stylish à la carte steakhouse serving the finest cuts of meat in the city.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

It is mostly an indoor amusement park on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. It is the first Ferrari-branded theme park and has the record for the largest space frame structure ever built. Formula Rossa, the world's fastest roller coaster, is also located here.

Heritage Village

This is the reconstruction of a traditional desert village with crafts workshops & monthly cultural festivals. Several small shops to buy souvenirs from, some benches to enjoy the park area, open beach area to take pictures of the city skyline. Small parking lot available. This was one of our stops during our tour.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is located in Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates. The largest mosque in the country, it is the key place of worship for daily, Friday and Eid prayers. During Eid, it may be visited by more than 41,000 people. You must cover your body when if/ you decide to go. We didn’t purchase clothing there since we wore our own. You will NOT be allowed in if you’re not dressed properly.