Abu Dhabi offers an enchanting mix of thrills, relaxation and culture, from its vibrant and lively city to the majestic desert landscapes and lush green oases beyond.
In Abu Dhabi visitors can explore amazing sites, make memories together, soak up the sun and find a piece of paradise. Thanks to its broad offering the emirate has plenty to attract a wide range of clients, and many of the key attractions are all within close proximity to one another.
Those seeking history and culture can dive into the UAE’s rich heritage, exploring iconic museums and ancient forts. If it’s thrills customers are after, highlight exhilarating dune bashing experiences and desert islands. Plus, there are a wealth of options for families, with entertaining theme parks, unique reserves, desert experiences and plenty of water-based fun along Abu Dhabi’s 700km shoreline.
And this welcoming destination is within easy reach, as it takes less than seven hours to fly from London to Abu Dhabi International Airport, including on the UAE’s national carrier Etihad Airways.
Here we’ve rounded up five ways to inspire your clients in Abu Dhabi.
The Corniche stretches across 8km of manicured waterfront, boasting children’s play areas, cycle and pedestrian pathways, cafes and restaurants. It’s one of the best places to soak up Abu Dhabi’s sunshine and the immaculate 2km Corniche Beach offers turquoise water, soft white sand and a beautiful seaside boardwalk overlooking the picturesque Arabian Gulf.
A short drive brings you to Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, which has an open-door policy, welcoming visitors from around the world. The spectacular architecture features 82 domes, carved from radiant white marble.
And take time to visit the cultural landmark of Qasr Al Watan, which is a working presidential palace, showcasing the knowledge and tradition that has shaped the UAE. Don’t miss the popular and family-friendly Palace In Motion event. This 30-minute light and sound show takes place each night from 8pm.
The action-packed Yas Island is located 30 minutes from the city, and is packed with entertainment. The Yas Marina Circuit hosts the annual Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, and visitors can choose from a host of supercar driving experiences, or walk, run and cycle around the track.
There’s also world-famous theme parks, including the world’s largest indoor theme park, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi. While Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is home to the world’s fastest rollercoaster and the highest rollercoaster loop, housed under a striking Ferrari-red roof. Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi has more than 40 popular rides and slides, with options suitable for all ages.
Visitors can also enjoy Yas Island’s golf course, beautiful beach, stunning hotels and impressive shopping mall.
The serene paradise of Saadiyat Island offers a spectrum of cultural activities, from the iconic Louvre Abu Dhabi to the art, cultural activity and community events centre of Manarat Al Saadiyat. These will soon be joined by the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and Zayed National Museum.
Sadiyaat Island’s white sandy beaches are dotted with pockets of greenery, and are home to critically endangered Hawksbill turtles. Visitors can also play a round at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club or browse the many shops.
Known as the Empty Quarter, the desert accounts for 70% of Abu Dhabi's land, making it the world's largest uninterrupted sand mass. Head west to explore the Al Dhafra region, which is the gateway to the Empty Quarter, with its dramatic sandy dunes.
Visitors can choose from a variety of desert experiences, including Jeep safaris, dune bashing, quad biking, fat biking and sandboarding. And discover the Bedouin way of life by joining a desert safari. Expect delicious Arabic food, traditional entertainment and camel riding.
It's easy to forget that you're in the desert during a visit to the lush garden city of Al Ain, a Unesco World Heritage Site which is watered via an ancient irrigation system. Admire the date palms and fruit trees in the Al Ain Oasis, while Al Ain Zoo is home to more than 4,000 animals, including the Arabian oryx, giraffes, rhinos, hippos, tigers and lions.
The family-friendly Al Ain adventure park offers an incredible range of activities, from rafting and kayaking to surfing and wakeboarding. Plus, there’s an 18-obstacle, two-level airpark, a 1,200-metre long zip line, and a 14-metre high giant swing.
Whether clients want an exhilarating break, a fun-filled family escape or to immerse themselves in culture and history, they will be greeted with the exquisite Emirati hospitality, sunny climes and array of activities Abu Dhabi is famed for.
Keen to learn more about Abu Dhabi? Watch our webinar and pick up even more selling tips.