“Get your motor runnin’. Head out on the highway.” Not literally a highway, but start your adrenaline-fueled day in Abu Dhabi at Ferrari World, open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. This indoor theme park, the first Ferrari theme park in the world, is famous for its record-breaking ride, Formula Rossa, the fastest roller coaster on the planet.
Afterwards, keep the energy up with a drive past Yas Marina Circuit, home of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, as you leave Yas Island—about a 30-minute drive from the city center. Yas Island also hosts luxury hotels, an arena and a wide selection of restaurants, making it an entertainment hub worth exploring.
Head next to the Abu Dhabi Corniche, a scenic waterfront stretch ideal for both adventure and relaxation. For a burst of speed, hop on a Yellow Boat tour along the four-mile strip to see parks and beaches from the water. If you prefer something calmer, stroll the Corniche’s waterfront promenade at your own pace and enjoy landscaped parks, fountains and people-watching.
After a busy morning, take a break for lunch at Le Vendome Brasserie in Emirates Palace. More than a hotel, Emirates Palace is a landmark of opulence and a must-see in Abu Dhabi—an elegant setting that leads naturally to a cultural highlight of the city.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is Abu Dhabi’s architectural and spiritual centerpiece, initiated by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan in the 1990s. Built from materials sourced worldwide, the mosque can accommodate over 40,000 worshippers. Its graceful design features 82 domes, marble inlaid with semi-precious stones and the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet. The mosque welcomes visitors daily, with conservative dress required; women may borrow abayas and shaylas on site. Guided tours are offered Sunday through Thursday at 10 a.m., 11 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.; Friday at 4:30 p.m. and 8 p.m.; and Saturday at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 2 p.m., 4:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. Visiting hours run from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Shopping in Abu Dhabi ranges from contemporary malls to traditional souks, catering to every taste. Popular purchases include handwoven carpets, gold jewelry and local edible specialties—camel’s milk chocolate and premium dates are among the treats that make for memorable souvenirs.
For a glimpse of Abu Dhabi’s future, finish your day on Saadiyat Island, located just off the coast and undergoing a dramatic cultural and residential transformation. The island is planned to include world-class museums and cultural institutions, and Manarat Al Saadiyat provides an informative introduction to the area’s development. The visitor center’s permanent exhibition, “The Saadiyat Story,” offers an interactive overview of the island’s history and its vision as a cultural destination with galleries, event space and a theater.
With such a diverse range of attractions—historic, cultural and adrenaline-packed—Abu Dhabi deserves more than a single day on any travel itinerary. Allow extra time to explore the city’s varied experiences and upcoming additions.
Abu Dhabi Tourism
visitabudhabi.ae
Emirates Palace
kempinski.com
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
ferrariworldabudhabi.com
Saadiyat Island
saadiyat.ae
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
szgmc.ae
Yas Island
yasisland.ae
Yellow Boats
theyellowboats.com