16 Best Places to Visit in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is the capital of UAE and one of the safest cities in the world. As a local guide living between Dubai and Abu Dhabi for 35 years, I guide many women travelers, families, and solo visitors every month.

Abu Dhabi is calmer than Dubai, more cultural, and very clean. It has over 200 islands, world-class mosques, museums, beaches, and desert areas.

Quick Abu Dhabi Facts

• Capital of UAE
• One of world’s top 10 safest cities
• More than 80% green landscaped areas
• 1.5 hours drive from Dubai
• Very comfortable for women travelers

Many tourists combine Abu Dhabi trip with Dubai experiences like premium desert safari or city tours.

16 Best Places to Visit in Abu Dhabi

1. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

The heart of Abu Dhabi.

• Capacity: 40,000 worshippers
• White marble from Macedonia
• World’s largest hand-woven carpet

Women must wear modest clothes; abaya provided.
Read full clothing guidance: Dress Code in Dubai

2. Louvre Abu Dhabi

A global cultural icon.

• Opened: 2017
• 600+ artworks
• Floating dome design

Very peaceful place for women travelers.

Art lovers also enjoy easy UAE drawings inspired by UAE culture.

3. Qasr Al Watan (Presidential Palace)

Shows Emirati governance and heritage.

• Grand halls
• Library access
• Evening light show

Excellent learning place for families.

4. Corniche Beach

Free public beach.

• Clean water
• Jogging track
• Family zones

Comparable to free attractions in Dubai.

5. Emirates Palace (Exterior & Grounds)

Luxury symbol of UAE.

• Gold interiors
• Open gardens
• Photo-friendly area

Similar luxury photo vibes as photoshoot places in Dubai.

6. Yas Island

Entertainment hub.

• Yas Mall
• Marina views
• Walking areas

Good for women shopping & relaxing.

7. Ferrari World (Outside Area)

Even without tickets, worth visiting.

• World’s fastest roller coaster
• Iconic red architecture

8. Yas Marina Circuit

Formula 1 racing track.

• Evening walks allowed
• Beautiful night views
• Cafes nearby

9. Saadiyat Beach

Natural white sand beach.

• Turtle nesting area
• Calm atmosphere
• Luxury surroundings

10. Heritage Village

Learn Emirati lifestyle.

• Old houses
• Handicrafts
• Cultural demos

Perfect cultural stop before desert camping sites in Dubai.

11. Mangrove National Park

Eco-tourism attraction.

• Kayaking
• Bird watching
• Peaceful environment

Very popular with women seeking calm nature.

12. Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital (Visitor Area)

Unique experience.

• Learn falcon care
• Cultural education
• Family-friendly

13. Marina Mall Observation Deck

Free city views.

• Sea + city skyline
• Easy access
• Shopping nearby

14. Al Bateen Beach

Quiet beach, local favorite.

• Less crowd
• Clean facilities
• Relaxing atmosphere

15. Umm Al Emarat Park

Green oasis.

• Family areas
• Shaded walkways
• Events & gardens

Great for families like Dubai kids activities.

16. Desert View Drive (Abu Dhabi Outskirts)

Beautiful desert scenery.

• Sunset views
• Photography spot
• Peaceful drive

Works well with desert photoshoot ideas.

Abu Dhabi Places

Place	Best For	Women-Friendly	Entry Fee
Grand Mosque	Culture	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	Free
Louvre	Art	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	Paid
Corniche	Relax	⭐⭐⭐⭐	Free
Yas Island	Entertainment	⭐⭐⭐⭐	Mixed
Mangroves	Nature	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	Low

Pros & Cons of Visiting Abu Dhabi

Pros

• Very safe for women
• Clean & peaceful
• Cultural depth
• Less crowded than Dubai

Cons

• Limited nightlife
• Attractions spread out
• Taxi needed for many places

Best Time to Visit Abu Dhabi

Season	Recommendation
Nov–Mar	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Best
Apr–May	⭐⭐⭐
Jun–Sep	⭐⭐ (Hot)

For hot months, combine with best summer activities in Dubai.

What to Wear (Women Advice)

• Modest clothing in mosques
• Light fabrics
• Comfortable shoes

Also helpful: Desert Safari Adventure Outfit Ideas if continuing to desert tours.

10 Detailed FAQs (Women-Focused)

1. Is Abu Dhabi safe for solo women?

Yes, extremely safe with strict laws and respectful culture.

2. Do women need abaya everywhere?

No, only inside mosques.

3. Is Abu Dhabi cheaper than Dubai?

Yes, food and transport are slightly cheaper.

4. Can I visit Abu Dhabi in one day from Dubai?

Yes, many do day trips.

5. Are beaches free in Abu Dhabi?

Yes, many public beaches are free.

6. Can I take photos freely?

Yes, avoid photographing people without permission.

7. Is nightlife available?

Limited, but cafes and lounges exist.

8. Are taxis safe for women?

Yes, very safe.

9. Is Abu Dhabi good for families?

Yes, very family-oriented.

10. Can I combine Abu Dhabi with adventure tours?

Yes, many travelers do Abu Dhabi sightseeing + Dubai dune buggy or quad bike tours.

Explore UAE with Local Experts

Whether Abu Dhabi culture or Dubai adventure, TripScape Tourism helps you travel safely and comfortably.

✔ City tours
✔ Desert safari
✔ Family dune buggy experiences
✔ Women-friendly guides

Visit tripscapetourism.com
Local knowledge. Trusted experiences.