{"id":3688,"date":"2021-11-30T15:09:30","date_gmt":"2021-11-30T07:09:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/en-SG\/?p=3688"},"modified":"2025-08-13T10:27:02","modified_gmt":"2025-08-13T02:27:02","slug":"10-best-things-to-do-in-abu-dhabi","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/blog\/10-best-things-to-do-in-abu-dhabi\/","title":{"rendered":"VTL UAE: 10 Best Things to Do in Abu Dhabi 2022"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

VTL UAE will begin on 25 February \u2014 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.<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Searching for your next great escapade via VTL UAE? As YouTroopers, we know that you don\u2019t 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 \u2014 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 \u2018gram game to the next level or challenging your inner adrenaline-junkie, we’ve captured the best of Abu Dhabi in this list.

\ud83d\udc9c VTL Checklist:<\/strong>
#1: Singapore Vaccinated Travel Lane Updates: What You Need to Know<\/a><\/strong>
#2:<\/strong> Ultimate Guide to VTL Travel From Singapore<\/strong><\/strong><\/a><\/strong>
#3:<\/strong> Best COVID-19 Travel Insurance: Policies For VTL Travel<\/a><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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1. Buckle Up On Sir Bani Yas Island <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Nature and wildlife drive on Sir Bani Yas Island<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Whether you’re a seasoned adrenaline junkie or just looking for a good time, Sir Bani Yas Island<\/span><\/a> is the place to be. Have a leisurely kayak through the mangroves or explore the seas on a paddleboard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Mountain biking on Sir Bani Yas Island<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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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.

Stay up to date with the latest on VTL UAE here<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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2. Awaken The Force At Rub’ Al Khali<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Daytime at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Also known as Liwa Desert or the Empty Quarter, Rub\u2019 Al Khali is the largest sand desert in the world. More importantly, it’s Jakku<\/em>, the home planet of Rey in Star Wars: The Force Awakens. In addition to having the perfect backdrop for the \u2018gram<\/em>, you can have an unforgettable experience dune-bashing or taking a camel trek. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Night time at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Want to get an authentic Arabian Nights experience? Why not camp overnight and experience the Bedouin lifestyle that’s oh so alluring<\/em>. If camping isn’t your thing, check yourself in at the luxurious Qasr Al Sarab desert resort<\/span><\/a>, 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<\/em> hotel by Luxury Travel Advisor!

Stay up to date with the latest on VTL UAE here<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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3. Exhilarate Your Senses On Yas Island<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Formula Rossa \u2013 the world’s fastest roller coaster at 250km\/h<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Home to the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Yas Marina Circuit<\/span><\/a> 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<\/span><\/a> 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! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Aerial view of Yas Island<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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If movies are more your jam, step into the world\u2019s first-ever Warner Bros World<\/span><\/a> 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<\/span><\/a> 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<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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4. Hunt For Bargains At Souk Al Zafarana <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Dried goods at Souk Al Zafaran<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Shopping is considered an extreme sport to some and local souks<\/em> in Abu Dhabi would be every bargain hunter\u2019s dream. Souk Al Zafarana, situated in the emirate\u2019s 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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.

Stay up to date with the latest on VTL UAE here<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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5. Glam And ‘Gram At The Venetian Village<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Aerial view of Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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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<\/span><\/a> 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\u2019s Mediterranean fare, the Venetian Village provides an array of international culinary choices that would impress any foodie.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Venetian Village at Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Stay up to date with the latest on VTL UAE here<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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6. Indulge Like Royalty At Emirates Palace<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Emirate Palace \u2013 luxurious beachfront property open to public<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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An iconic building in Abu Dhabi, this is a hotel fit for a king. Despite its grand design and status, Emirates Palace<\/span><\/a> is actually only 13 years old. The Palace\u2019s exterior is a sight to behold \u2014 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! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Intricate details of the alluring Emirate Palace<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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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.

Stay up to date with the latest on VTL UAE here<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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7. Enjoy Brunch At Shay Madhboot<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Delicious, heartwarming Karak Chai<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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A hidden gem in Abu Dhabi, Shay Madhboot<\/span><\/a> also means \u2018perfect tea\u2019 in Arabic. This little caf\u00e9 made it onto the list because of their Karak Chai (milk tea). While you’ll never know what goes into their \u2018perfect tea\u2019, you can still indulge in their legendary brunch menu that’s both a feast for both your eyes and tastebuds! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Photo by: Abu Dhabi Confidential<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Stay up to date with the latest on VTL UAE here<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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8. Be Inspired On Saadiyat Island<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Saadiyat Island \u2013 a museum-city in the sea<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Located just 500m off the coast of Abu Dhabi is Saadiyat Island (easily accessible by car or bus) \u2014 the place where culture-lovers come out to play. You might already know that this island is home to Louvre Abu Dhabi<\/span><\/a>, the Middle Eastern sister of Mus\u00e9e du Louvre in Paris. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The Louvre Abu Dhabi was designed by Jean Nouvel, a Pritzker Prize-winning French architect<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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If you\u2019re feeling inspired and creative, head down to Manarat Al Saadiyat<\/span><\/a> 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\u2019re lucky to visit during nesting season, you might even catch sight of a Hawksbill sea turtle, the island\u2019s first inhabitants!

Stay up to date with the latest on VTL UAE here<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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9. Discover Falconry At Falcon Hospital<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital is the world’s largest and most advanced falcon hospital<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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If you think owl cafes are cute, the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital is going to blow your mind. Dubbed as the world\u2019s largest and most advanced falcon hospital, it serves as a museum and a facility with free-flying falcons. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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 \u2018maintenance\u2019. 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<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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10. Admire the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Sheikh Zayed Mosque is home to the world’s largest hand knotted carpet<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque<\/span><\/a> 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\u2019s largest hand knotted carpet, and one of the world\u2019s largest chandeliers (they weigh 12,000kg and measure 10m x 15m). <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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 <\/em>one you don\u2019t want to miss. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Be mesmerised by Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque’s charming architecture<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Stay up to date with the latest on VTL UAE here<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Visit Extraordinary Abu Dhabi Via VTL UAE<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Now that you\u2019re better acquainted with what to do on your Arabian adventure via VTL UAE \u2014 it\u2019s 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<\/a>!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you don\u2019t have a YouTrip card yet, use <BLOG5<\/a>> during your sign-up to enjoy a free S$5 in your account! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more great tips and guides like this, join our Telegram(@YouTripSG)<\/a> and subscribe to our free weekly newsletter here<\/a> or down below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Stay safe, and happy travels!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Related Articles:<\/strong>

JB: How to Escape the Crowd (Weekend Itinerary Guide)<\/span><\/a><\/strong>
25 Best Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh City (2025)<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Discover Abu Dhabi, the Crown Jewel of UAE!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":8,"featured_media":34393,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[623,624],"tags":[39159],"class_list":["post-3688","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-lifestyle","category-travel","tag-vtl"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3688","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/8"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3688"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3688\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/34393"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3688"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3688"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3688"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}