5 Iconic Abu Dhabi Attractions

Al Ras Al Akhdar, Abu Dhabi

Among the top Abu Dhabi landmark highlights is Qasr Al Watan, one of the only working presidential palaces of its kind in the world. Here, at the Palace of the Nation, visitors can explore the history and traditions of the UAE through a variety of curated exhibits showcasing arts, manuscripts and rare cultural artifacts that provide insight into the past, present, and future of the UAE.

Saadiyat Cultural District, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi

Formed from the partnership between the UAE and France in March 2007, Louvre Abu Dhabi is one of the top tourist landmarks in Abu Dhabi that celebrates the region's vibrant multicultural heritage and highlights shared stories of humanity and creativity. Visitors will find exhibitions of all kinds of material artistic expression: paintings, sculptures, archaeological finds, and contemporary installations from all over the world. There are also workshops, master classes, film screenings, and more.

Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi

Saadiyat Cultural District is a dynamic and inspiring destination that highlights creativity, innovation, knowledge and research while celebrating the achievements of the UAE, the region and the world. It is home to museums and cultural institutions, in addition to teamLab Phenomena, Louvre Abu Dhabi, such as Bassam Freiha Art Foundation, Manarat Al Saadiyat, and the soon-to-be-opened Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum and Natural History Museum, all of which are sure to be landmarks too.

Jebel Hafit, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi

For a change of pace – moving from modern to ancient worlds – head over to the foothills of the awe-inspiring Jebel Hafit mountain in the garden city of Al Ain (1.5 hours away from the capital) to witness the Jebel Hafit Tombs. The site offers guided tours to see 500 ancient tombs that are 5,000 years old – evidence of the beginning of the Bronze Age in the UAE. In 1959, Danish archaeologists excavated copper artifacts and ceramic vessels that indicated strong maritime trading across the Arabian Gulf.

Al Ain, Abu Dhabi

For a refreshing day in Abu Dhabi, visitors can bask in the lush space of UNESCO World heritage site Al Ain Oasis in the Garden City of Al Ain and explore the Oasis Garden, one of the most famous sights in Abu Dhabi. It consists of three distinct sub-gardens representing the venue's three ecosystems. These include the Pre-Oasis Garden featuring the agriculture of an oasis, the Orchard Garden where everyone can walk under date, pomegranate, fig, lemon and olives trees, and the Symbolic Garden which highlights the importance of the palm tree in the desert.