How to get the most out of your vacation at Abu Dhabi

Often regarded as the most vibrant Middle Eastern tourist hub in the UAE, Abu Dhabi is a cultural and recreational hotspot for the masses. Regardless of the duration of your visit, having a grand old time in Abu Dhabi is dependent on the variety of attractions and activities one engages in during the holiday. From witnessing cultural marvels to spending time admiring picturesque views, here's how to make the most of a trip to this dynamic city.

1. Discover the Sheikh Zayed Mosque

As the city's most renowned attraction and cultural landmark, no trip to Abu Dhabi would be complete without a tour of The Grand Mosque. The religious epicentre which is officially named the Sheikh Zayed Mosque features exquisite white facades in shiny marbles while a whopping 82 domes are also part of this mammoth place of worship. Home to some of Abu Dhabi's most spectacular courtyards and pools of water, the Sheikh Zayed Mosque has long been considered the most aesthetically pleasing mosque on the planet. Ranked among the world's biggest mosques, the venue can accommodate an impressive 40,000 visitors simultaneously while the world's biggest carpet and the third biggest chandelier are also found here. Built at a cost of more than half a billion dollars the Swarovski crystals infused chandelier is a sight to behold.

FritzDaCat, Interior of Main Hall in Sheik Zayed Mosque, CC BY-SA 3.0

2. Sign Up for a Desert Safari

One of the true joys of being based in a desert capital is the many opportunities available to explore the arid landscapes of the desert. Abu Dhabi holidaymakers should not miss the chance to discover the desert sands which are found less than an hour away from the heart of the city in an off-road adventure like no other. Desert safaris are organized by a plethora of local tour operators and resorts and can last from a few hours to half a day while those who wish to camp out under the stars are also welcome to do so. The best time to go on a safari is during the evening hours when one can go sandboarding and dune bashing without the sun beating down on one's back. Other activities that are common during a desert safari include interacting with a falcon and camel rides while those who wish to experience a cultural showcase can also enjoy a belly dancing recital in a Bedouin camp.

3. Tour the Louvre

Tourists need not venture down to Paris to walk the halls of the world's finest museum as the Louvre has its only other instalment in Abu Dhabi. Having opened its doors to the public in 2017, the Louvre Abu Dhabi is no less impressive than its Parisian counterpart with the scale and the number of exquisite exhibits lining its confines. The beautifully designed interiors and exteriors of the museum alone are well worth the visit as the building is a masterpiece in its own right. Featuring the artwork of Van Gogh, Monet and Leonardo Da Vinci, the best time to visit the museum is on a weekday morning when one can have space to oneself. Keep in mind that the venue is closed on Mondays.

4. Take in the Sights of the Corniche

As one of the city's most scenic recreational spaces, the Abu Dhabi Corniche is the perfect location to spend an afternoon surrounded by ocean vistas. The coast stretches across 8km and those who wish to wine and dine on local treats or simply relax in the family beach area of the Corniche are welcome to do so. Cafes and restaurants line this part of the city while the promenade is ideal for enjoying quiet strolls and romantic walks.

Halamoudi, Abu Dhabi Corniche 10, CC BY-SA 4.0

5. Sail Away

As a city that consists of more than two hundred isles, there's no better way to uncover the beauty of Abu Dhabi than on a sightseeing boat tour. Visitors can catch a glimpse of the Emirates Palace, the Grand Mosque and the Yas Marina on this tranquil boating excursion. Those based at Anantara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi Hotel or any other 5 star hotels in Abu Dhabi can sign up for a cruise via their accommodation provider.