4 Must-Visit Attractions Near Abu Dhabi International Airport

Dec 23, 2019 Clare Louise Travel Comments Off on 4 Must-Visit Attractions Near Abu Dhabi International Airport

---

Millions of passengers pass through the terminals of the Abu Dhabi International Airport every year. If you are a frequent international traveler, you may have gone through one of the many elegant halls and lounges of this Middle Eastern airport. You may have already taken advantage of the free Wi-Fi, gone on a shopping spree, or even checked out some of the nearby attractions to kill time.

But if this is your first time in the UAE, you might be wondering what you can do in this region. Perhaps you’re staying for over 12 hours, and you want to make the most of the experience. Where do you hang out?

Luckily, there are several attractions located a short distance away from the airport. Here are a few places which you can check out to pass the time. Some of them are also conveniently located near a top-notch Abu Dhabi International Airport hotel so you can relax after a long day of touring around the city.

1. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Visit one of the largest mosques in the world: the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Designed by Emirati, Italian, and British architects, this religious artifact features styles and elements from neighboring Muslim civilizations and countries such as Egypt, Pakistan, Turkey, and Morocco.

You don’t have to be Muslim to appreciate what the mosque has to offer. With intricately designed domes, reflective pools, halls that play with natural light, and some of the world’s largest carpets and chandeliers, there is something for everyone to enjoy here.

Entrance to this magnificent structure is free, but keep in mind that as an important religious landmark, guests are required to dress conservatively.

2. Louvre Abu Dhabi

Art aficionados can feel at home at the Louvre Abu Dhabi. Built in collaboration with the French government, the Louvre building itself features an amalgamation of styles and facets between the two cultures. Step inside and see masterpieces from some of history’s most renowned artists.

There are several ticket packages available to suit varying preferences. A one-day pass gives you access to the many galleries, exhibitions, and public spaces, including the Children’s Museum. Depending on the day you choose to visit, you may also get a chance to see one of the many multi-cultural performances, join a tour, or participate in a workshop – the choice is yours.

3. Yas Waterworld

Yas Island is home to some of the city’s hottest shopping and entertainment spots, one of which is Yas Waterworld. Occupying an area spanning the space of 15 football pitches, the waterpark includes over 40 rides, slides and other attractions, including the biggest hydromagnetic-powered water slide.

When traveling with kids or during the summer, Yas Waterworld is the ideal spot to cool off and have some fun. Located approximately 15 minutes from the airport, the waterpark is a recommended stop if you have an entire day available to make the most of your experience. Prices start at 250 AED per person.

4. Ferrari World

Whether you are an avid racing fan or just looking for something fun and a unique place to check out, Ferrari World delivers. There are plenty of attractions and rides that are unique to this amusement park. For kids, there’s the Tyre Twist, while adrenalin junkies can try out the Formula Rossa, currently the world’s fastest roller coaster on record.

Check it out whether you are traveling on your own, with a small group of friends or your family. Entrance fees start at 295 AED for adults and 230 AED for kids.

If you’re an avid racing fan with a few days to spare, why not see if you can catch the Formula 1™ Grand Prix™ races in Abu Dhabi? You can buy official ticket packages for F1™ experiences and get exclusive access to the sport’s biggest celebrities, check out the track, drive a supercar, and so much more. It is a luxury that is well worth the price for anyone who loves the F1™ races.

Getting around

Exploring Abu Dhabi is relatively easy as there are many transportation options available. One practical option is to ride one of many public air-conditioned A1 buses that connect the airport to the city center. Costing just 4 AED per person, riding the buses is an affordable way to see what Abu Dhabi offers.

For added comfort, you can also rent a car or take a taxi. Flag down rates start at 35 AED, which increases by 2.50 AED for each kilometer.

If you want a convenient but affordable way of seeing the sights, try one of the hop-on-hop-off buses. Routes can take you to some of the places listed here, including Ferrari World and Yas Island. Running 24 hours a day, you can go for a ride regardless of the time you arrive in Abu Dhabi.

Try out one or several of the attractions listed here and make the most of your stay in the city.

---

---

---