19.11.2024
JOURNEY TO ABU DHABI
The United Arab Emirates welcomes around 20 million visitors annually. Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s capital, has become a popular and beloved tourist destination for Armenians, especially after Wizz Air launched affordable direct flights. Of course, the challenges of obtaining a Schengen visa also played a role in this trend. But what is there to do in Abu Dhabi? Where to go, what to see, and what experiences should you not miss?
Since Abu Dhabi doesn’t boast a long history of centuries-old cultural heritage, it’s more of a destination for modern entertainment and unique experiences. It feels like visiting an enormous mall where you can find everything. You could even say that the UAE is more a country of the future than one of the past.
WHAT TO DO IN ABU DHABI
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
This is not only one of the largest mosques in the world but also a magnificent reflection of the country’s wealth. With white domes, over a thousand columns adorned with amethyst and jasper, gold calligraphy, pools, Swarovski chandeliers, a vast prayer hall, and a courtyard featuring one of the largest marble mosaics in the world, it is truly a masterpiece. - Louvre Abu Dhabi
The most visited museum in the Arab world, Louvre Abu Dhabi, opened in 2007 as part of an agreement between France and the UAE. Spanning 9,200 square meters, it is located in the heart of the Saadiyat Cultural District. The museum features permanent and temporary galleries showcasing masterpieces from 17 of France’s most famous cultural institutions. Its collection spans global art from ancient times to the present day. - Qasr Al Hosn Fort
This historic 18th-century fort, one of Abu Dhabi’s oldest surviving structures, encapsulates the city’s entire history-from its beginnings as a center for fishing and pearl diving to its transformation into a modern metropolis. Exhibits in the museum include artifacts and archival materials dating back to the 6th millennium BCE. - Wahat Al Karama (Oasis of Dignity)
While visiting the mosque, don’t miss the nearby Wahat Al Karama memorial, dedicated to fallen soldiers. From here, you can enjoy stunning views of the mosque, especially during sunset. - Jubail Mangrove Park
Mangrove trees, endemic to Abu Dhabi, thrive in coastal saline waters. The park features a 2.3 km boardwalk, offering a serene escape from the bustling city. Kayaking through the mangroves is another unforgettable experience. - Masdar Eco-Community
Masdar is a sustainable urban development community that blends innovative technology with eco-friendly solutions. Home to 15,000 residents, it stands out for its use of clean technology and renewable energy. The area is designed for walking and enjoying time at cozy cafes. - Yas Island Theme Parks
Yas Island offers a variety of must-try experiences. Ferrari World features racing-themed attractions and the world’s fastest roller coaster. Yas WaterWorld provides a range of water attractions, while the recently opened SeaWorld Yas Island boasts one of the world’s largest aquariums. Warner Bros World is the world’s largest indoor theme park, featuring beloved Hollywood characters. For adventure lovers, CLYMB Abu Dhabi offers indoor climbing walls, artificial mountain hiking, and skydiving simulators. Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi’s largest shopping mall, is located here too. - Falcon Hospital and Emirates Zoo
Abu Dhabi is home to the world’s largest falcon hospital, treating 6,000 falcons annually and offering veterinary programs for other animals. Visitors can tour the facility, get up close with these majestic birds, and observe their care. The Emirates Zoo is perfect for family visits, with attractions like bird and wildlife gardens, a reptile house, a farm, an aquarium, and more. - Heritage Village
This traditional Bedouin village recreates the desert lifestyle before Abu Dhabi’s transformation into a modern city. Workshops on carpentry, pottery, and glassblowing showcase the daily lives of locals in the early 20th century. - Founder’s Memorial
This stunning memorial honors Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE’s founding father, on his 100th birthday. Its centerpiece is an impressive installation featuring 1,327 geometric shapes illuminated by 2,000 lights. The memorial is open 24/7.
FUTURE MUSEUMS - Guggenheim Abu Dhabi
Scheduled to open in 2025, this museum, built through international collaboration, will be a significant addition to Abu Dhabi’s cultural and tourist attractions. Located in the Saadiyat District, it will be the seventh Guggenheim Museum worldwide, showcasing an extraordinary art collection. - TeamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi
Set to open by the end of this year, this experiential art museum blends technology and art. Unlike other UAE museums, TeamLab Phenomena challenges traditional perceptions of art, offering a cutting-edge cultural experience. - Natural History Museum
Another gem in the Saadiyat Cultural District, this 35,000-square-meter museum will open in late 2025. It will house rare natural history artifacts, including "Stan," a T-Rex skeleton, the Murchison meteorite, and more. The museum’s galleries will explore topics like the evolution of the universe, Earth’s formation, and the origins of life on our planet.