VTL UAE will begin on 25 February — so go ahead and plan for that adventure in Abu Dhabi you’ve been dreaming of! We’re going straight for the Crown Jewel of UAE and pulling out the best attractions and food spots to visit when borders open.
Searching for your next great escapade via VTL UAE? As YouTroopers, we know that you don’t need to be asked twice when it comes to exploring an exotic holiday destination. More specifically, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi. This city-state truly has it all — from architectural marvels like the breathtaking Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and relatively-new Louvre Abu Dhabi, to wildlife parks and rollercoasters. Abu Dhabi is a unique blend of adventures and cultural activities, making it an attractive destination for those who dare to be different. Whether it’s taking your ‘gram game to the next level or challenging your inner adrenaline-junkie, we’ve captured the best of Abu Dhabi in this list.
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1. Buckle Up On Sir Bani Yas Island
Nature and wildlife drive on Sir Bani Yas Island
Whether you’re a seasoned adrenaline junkie or just looking for a good time, Sir Bani Yas Island is the place to be. Have a leisurely kayak through the mangroves or explore the seas on a paddleboard.
Mountain biking on Sir Bani Yas Island
Alternatively, crank that adrenaline up a few notches and have a race with your friends on a mountain bike! There’s also land sailing and hikes to hilltops that promise striking views. For nature lovers, the Arabian Wildlife Park offers a tailored 4×4 experience of the park that’s home to 13,000 free-roaming animals.
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2. Awaken The Force At Rub’ Al Khali
Daytime at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara
Also known as Liwa Desert or the Empty Quarter, Rub’ Al Khali is the largest sand desert in the world. More importantly, it’s Jakku, the home planet of Rey in Star Wars: The Force Awakens. In addition to having the perfect backdrop for the ‘gram, you can have an unforgettable experience dune-bashing or taking a camel trek.
Night time at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara
Want to get an authentic Arabian Nights experience? Why not camp overnight and experience the Bedouin lifestyle that’s oh so alluring. If camping isn’t your thing, check yourself in at the luxurious Qasr Al Sarab desert resort, which was also where the Star Wars production crew chose to stay. P.S. The Qasr Al Sarab was recently named the world’s most instagrammable hotel by Luxury Travel Advisor!
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3. Exhilarate Your Senses On Yas Island
Formula Rossa – the world’s fastest roller coaster at 250km/h
Home to the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Yas Marina Circuit allows you the opportunity to drive on the very same tracks as your favourite superstar racers did. If that’s not exhilarating enough, hop on the Formula Rossa at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and hold on tight. This beast goes to a top speed of 250 km/h in 5 seconds, making it the fastest roller coaster in the world!
Aerial view of Yas Island
If movies are more your jam, step into the world’s first-ever Warner Bros World for a one-of-a-kind immersive experience. If you prefer a different kind of thrill and excitement, Yas Mall is also a one-stop destination with over 400 shops (retail therapy!) and a 20-screen cinema. For those looking to try the local cuisine, Al-Fanar located in Yas Mall comes highly recommended for serving up authentic traditional Emirati dishes.
Stay up to date with the latest on VTL UAE here.
4. Hunt For Bargains At Souk Al Zafarana
Dried goods at Souk Al Zafaran
Shopping is considered an extreme sport to some and local souks in Abu Dhabi would be every bargain hunter’s dream. Souk Al Zafarana, situated in the emirate’s second city of Al Ain, is where modernity meets tradition. It’s the perfect place to buy everything from modern clothing to traditional Emirati handicrafts.
A special feature of Souk Al Zafarana is the Mubdia Village, a section exclusive to women and female shopkeepers. If bargain hunting as a team with your girl gang is your thing, there’s no better way to do it while supporting local Emirati businesswomen at the same time.
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5. Glam And ‘Gram At The Venetian Village
Aerial view of Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi
You’ve probably seen this stunning waterfront leisure destination nestled within the Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi – Grand Canal region on your Instagram feed. The Venetian Village sees Renaissance-inspired architecture, winding cobblestone streets and a view overlooking Khor Al Maqta. We recommend heading there before dusk to catch the last light before treating yourself to a delicious meal at one of the quaint restaurants dotted around the village. From authentic Japanese grill at Kaizen to celebrity chef Todd English’s Mediterranean fare, the Venetian Village provides an array of international culinary choices that would impress any foodie.
Venetian Village at Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi
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6. Indulge Like Royalty At Emirates Palace
Emirate Palace – luxurious beachfront property open to public
An iconic building in Abu Dhabi, this is a hotel fit for a king. Despite its grand design and status, Emirates Palace is actually only 13 years old. The Palace’s exterior is a sight to behold — but its interiors are simply divine. Covered in gold, mother of pearl and crystals, the hotel is also home to more than 1,000 chandeliers!
The hotel is not exclusive to guests, so visitors can wander through the halls and corridors and come by for an indulgent afternoon of tea or experience the award-winning Emirates Palace spa that features a traditional Moroccan Hammam.
Intricate details of the alluring Emirate Palace
Make sure you don’t leave without trying the famous 24 karat chocolate cake, 23 karat Emirates Palace cappuccino or the aptly named Ice Gold, a 23 karat dipped soft-serve ice cream cone.
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7. Enjoy Brunch At Shay Madhboot
Delicious, heartwarming Karak Chai
A hidden gem in Abu Dhabi, Shay Madhboot also means ‘perfect tea’ in Arabic. This little café made it onto the list because of their Karak Chai (milk tea). While you’ll never know what goes into their ‘perfect tea’, you can still indulge in their legendary brunch menu that’s both a feast for both your eyes and tastebuds!
Photo by: Abu Dhabi Confidential
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8. Be Inspired On Saadiyat Island
Saadiyat Island – a museum-city in the sea
Located just 500m off the coast of Abu Dhabi is Saadiyat Island (easily accessible by car or bus) — the place where culture-lovers come out to play. You might already know that this island is home to Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Middle Eastern sister of Musée du Louvre in Paris.
A museum-city in the sea, Louvre Abu Dhabi was designed by Pritzker Prize-winning French architect Jean Nouvel, and has 23 galleries telling a story about humanity in 12 inspiring chapters. The Louvre also offers 60-minute kayak tours around the stunning Louvre for those looking for a novel way to learn about the famed architecture.
The Louvre Abu Dhabi was designed by Jean Nouvel, a Pritzker Prize-winning French architect
If you’re feeling inspired and creative, head down to Manarat Al Saadiyat to take part in a class/workshop held by the Art Studio. For those who prefer to chill out, Saadiyat public beach is the perfect place to enjoy the white sand and turquoise waters. If you’re lucky to visit during nesting season, you might even catch sight of a Hawksbill sea turtle, the island’s first inhabitants!
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9. Discover Falconry At Falcon Hospital
Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital is the world’s largest and most advanced falcon hospital
If you think owl cafes are cute, the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital is going to blow your mind. Dubbed as the world’s largest and most advanced falcon hospital, it serves as a museum and a facility with free-flying falcons.
Take a guided tour around the hospital as they introduce their daily work at the facility, and you can even watch a falcon receive its ‘maintenance’. You’ll also learn about the history of falconry as a sport or even get up close and personal with these well-trained birds of prey.
Stay up to date with the latest on VTL UAE here.
10. Admire the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Sheikh Zayed Mosque is home to the world’s largest hand knotted carpet
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is undoubtedly one of the biggest attraction in Abu Dhabi. The entirety of the mosque is so grand that words and pictures just don’t do it justice. The mosque is home to the world’s largest hand knotted carpet, and one of the world’s largest chandeliers (they weigh 12,000kg and measure 10m x 15m).
Visit right before sunset, when the sun reflects off the white Macedonian marble, to capture a stunning picture. A sight to behold, this landmark is definitely the one you don’t want to miss.
However, do note that this is still a place of worship, and visitors are advised to follow the dress code. Abayas are available for the ladies, which come in various sizes and colours as well.
Be mesmerised by Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque’s charming architecture
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Visit Extraordinary Abu Dhabi Via VTL UAE
Now that you’re better acquainted with what to do on your Arabian adventure via VTL UAE — it’s time to start packing in advance! As always, whenever you make your bookings or spend overseas, be sure to use your YouTrip card to skip out on those pesky bank fees!
If you don’t have a YouTrip card yet, use <BLOG5> during your sign-up to enjoy a free S$5 in your account!
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Stay safe, and happy travels!
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