Travelling has different definitions for everyone. While some choose to travel to enjoy luxury and fun, others travel to learn about the intriguing history of a place. Although the United Arab Emirates is known for its opulence and splendour, the city holds an engrossing history and the heritage sites are proof of that. Here is a list of the ten best sites in Abu Dhabi that are a must-visit on your trip to the Emirates.
The top 10Â sites in Abu Dhabi are listed here for your perusal; each invites visitors on an enthralling voyage through time. These locations serve as reminders of the city’s rich cultural legacy, presenting a singular fusion of historical significance and contemporary appeal that you must see when visiting the Emirates.
The Top 10 Sites in Abu Dhabi:
Qasr Al Hosn
Qasr Al Hosn is one of the many popular historic sites in the city. It depicts the ancient story of transformation from a quaint fishing village and pearl hunting site into a modern city. Here you will find artefacts and archived materials that belong to the 6000 BC. The extensive restoration efforts undertaken over 11 years culminated in the museum’s opening in 2018, preserving and presenting the rich history encapsulated within Qasr Al Hosn.
Louvre Abu Dhabi
Louvre Museum Abu Dhabi, as we know, is a world-famous museum in Abu Dhabi. Although it is located away from the main city, the outstanding architectural work and the fascinating artefacts displayed here made the museum a tourist magnet. The museum’s layout, featuring informative galleries seamlessly paired with art, enhances the overall experience, making it a must-visit destination for enthusiasts and curious minds alike.
Emirates Heritage Club Heritage Village
It is a traditional Bedouin-style village, which displays how life was in Abu Dhabi before its transformation into a cosmopolitan city. Here, you will find exclusive attractions such as carpentry, pottery, a falaj irrigation system, and metal workspaces, which were the income source of the locals. Emirates Heritage Club looks after it since the organization is responsible for taking care of the Arabic culture and traditions in this modern era.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the biggest mosque across the globe and plays a crucial role in the lives of the locals. The incredible architecture of white domes, intricate detailing, and white minarets made it one of the iconic creations in the city. Besides, it is embedded with 1096 amethyst and jasper. Furthermore, the gold lead calligraphy on one of the domes looks out of the world. Other features to notice include reflective pools, Swarovski chandeliers, and a massive prayer hall.
Qasr Al Watan
Qasr Al Watan is another significant heritage site in Abu Dhabi. Although it is used for state business, tourists can visit when the palace is not used for official work. The palace is an embodiment of the fascinating Arabian architecture and is a new tourist spot in Abu Dhabi. Within Qasr Al Watan Abu Dhabi, visitors can marvel at a vast library and a grandiose king-size hall, adding to the richness of the experience.
Mosque of the First Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan
The Mosque of Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan is the biggest in the United Arab Emirates. Covering an area of 12 hectares, it is truly a wonderful creation at the heart of the city due to its impeccable architecture. Moreover, the features you will find in the museum have influences from other Islamic countries.
Etihad Towers
Another addition to the heritage sights is the Etihad Towers Abu Dhabi. It is a five-tower building. The entire building is a sign of luxury and offers exclusive entertainment opportunities. It includes luxury shopping, lodging, observation deck views, and more. It has three residential towers, an office tower, and a hotel tower. This building is one of the tallest creations in the city and is famous for offering some mind-blowing city views.
The Founder’s Memorial
The Founder’s Memorial is an amazing sculpture at the heart of Abu Dhabi. It is one of the renowned tourist attractions in the city and is open 24×7 for the public. The memorial celebrates the 100th anniversary of the UAE’s founder- Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The activity is in Arabic and English to learn more about this attraction.
Wahat Al Karama
This is a modern war memorial and a tourist attraction amidst the main city. It lets one admire the spellbinding views of the breathtaking Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. The stunning architecture is praiseworthy due to its unique design made out of a pond, poem, and quotations. Wahat Al Karama plays a significant role in describing the Emirate’s modern history.
Liwa Oasis Fort
Liwa Desert holds a captivating history. The oasis is present with the ruins of the Umm Husn Fort. However, other structures like Al Meel, Dhafeer, and Muzeira’a were rebuilt in the era of 1980s.  Spend a few hours here and see the rich historical tapestry woven into the very fabric of this desert region.
Final words
Abu Dhabi is not just about modernism since the city also hides an intriguing history. This list of Abu Dhabi tourist attractions will surely keep you interested. Each site invites you to immerse yourself in the stories that have woven the fabric of the city’s identity. Do let us know which location you are going to cover on your next trip, till then happy travelling!
