DESTINATIONS middle east united arab emirates abu dhabi

Things to do in Abu Dhabi

The capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi offers a more traditional experience than a holiday in Dubai as well as numerous cultural and sporting adventures. Sure, you can enjoy trips into the desert to ride a camel, or even sleep under the stars, but you can also visit The Louvre Abu Dhabi that takes visitors on a journey through time to explore the development of different civilisations. There are plenty of water activities at Yas Water World, thrilling motoring-inspired rides at Ferrari World, the legendary Yas Marina Circuit where the Formula One Grand Prix Abu Dhabi is held every year – and much, much more.  

Things to do in Abu Dhabi 

  • Race around the Yas Marina Circuit in a 2-seater open cockpit Le Mans racing car. 
  • Ride the one of the highest rollercoasters on earth, the Flying Aces, at Ferrari World. 
  • Explore the iconic and decorative Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. 
  • Discover the incredible Al Ain Palace Museum to learn about the country’s ruling family. 
  • Enjoy sandboarding and dune bashing on a desert safari. 
  • Walk under a dome made of 8,000 metal stars at the Louvre Abu Dhabi. 
  • Meet Batman and other superheroes at Warner Bros. Worldâ„¢ Abu Dhabi. 
  • Ride on a hydromagnetic-powered 6-person tornado waterslide at Yas Waterworld. 
  • Discover the magical Al Ain Oasis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 
  • Enjoy an evening desert dinner and belly dancing. 
  • Spend the day exploring nearby Dubai. 
  • Ride a camel in the desert. 

Of course, there’s also excellent shopping in Abu Dhabi, great dining experiences in a variety of restaurants, a boat tour from the water to see the capital city from a different perspective, a falcon hospital to view the UAE’s masterful bird and spectacular Yas Island, home to numerous hotels and a beautiful beach. Thompsons Holidays can organise your Abu Dhabi holiday package, so give us a call for a dream travel experience. 

Know before you go...

  • The best time to visit Abu Dhabi is in the cooler months, April and May, or September and October. 
  • Summer (May to October), is extremely hot and humid. 
  • July and August are the hottest months. 

  • Flight duration from Johannesburg Abu Dhabi: 8 hours, 5 minutes.  
  • Getting around Abu Dhabi is easy using taxis and buses.
  • There is a local e-hailing taxi service available.

  • Islam is the official religion in the UAE. 
  • When visiting sacred sites and temples, dress conservatively. (See ‘What to pack’).  

  • Lightweight clothing in summer with layers for the cooler months.
  • Comfortable walking shoes. 
  • Sunscreen, lip balm, hat and sunglasses.  
  • Mini first aid kit and regular prescription medication.  
  • Hand sanitiser and insect repellent.  
  • Camera.  
  • Travel adaptor.  

  • Wherever possible, buy local food and souvenirs and support local artisans.  
  • Instead of using plastic bags, take fabric shopping bags with you.  
  • Respect each other's cultures and customs and avoid imposing your beliefs.   

  • Be safety conscious: don’t display cash or valuables. Leave jewellery and expensive watches at home.  
  • Keep your belongings safe – use the hotel safe for passports and valuables and watch out for pickpockets and bag snatchers when out and about. 
  • If passports or valuables are stolen, report the theft to the hotel/police immediately.
  • Contact the Thompsons Holidays 24-hour care line to assist. 

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