You’ll Love These 16 Tours & Things To Do In Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is a city that offers a surprising mix of ultramodern architecture, luxurious attractions, and timeless desert landscapes. Its varied attractions mean there’s something for every traveler—whether you’re drawn by cultural landmarks, adrenaline-pumping adventures, or family-friendly entertainment.

We’re particularly fond of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture, and the Yas Marina Circuit, where you can get behind the wheel of a race car.

Exploring these highlights, along with unique experiences like the desert safaris and speedboat tours, makes Abu Dhabi a destination where every day can be different.

For a full taste of what’s on offer, read on as we highlight the best tours and things to do in the city, with honest insights on what makes each special.

Quick Overview

Abu Dhabi’s top activities cover a wide spectrum—from awe-inspiring cultural tours like visiting the Qasr Al Watan Palace to adrenaline-filled desert safaris such as the Desert Safari with BBQ, Camel Ride & Sandboarding.

For outdoor lovers, there are speedboat tours (Yas Island Guided Speedboat) and desert adventures (Dune Bashing Desert Safari). Family fun is available at Ferrari World (Ferrari World Entry) and the National Aquarium (Aquarium Tickets).

For history and architecture lovers, the Guided Walking Tour at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque offers an in-depth look at Islamic artistry (more details).

Now, let’s explore each of these top experiences in detail to help you decide which ones suit your travel style.

1. From Abu Dhabi: Grand Mosque, Royal Palace, and Etihad Tower

At number 1, this guided tour packs a punch with a focus on Abu Dhabi’s most iconic landmarks. You’ll start with the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, an architectural marvel known for its shining chandeliers and grand domes. The tour then takes you to Qasr Al Watan Palace (more details), where you’ll get a glimpse into Arabic heritage and governance.

Finally, a stop at Etihad Towers offers stunning panoramic views of the city, perfect for photos. A quick visit to the Louvre Abu Dhabi during the stop adds a cultural touch.

This tour is ideal for first-timers wanting a rundown of Abu Dhabi’s highlights. The reviews highlight a 4.9/5 rating out of 4474 reviews, underscoring its popularity and quality.

Bottom Line: A well-rounded introduction to Abu Dhabi’s most photogenic and culturally significant sites, perfect for those who want an efficient overview.

2. Abu Dhabi: Desert Safari with BBQ, Camel Ride & Sandboarding

For a classic desert experience, this desert safari offers a mix of adrenaline and relaxation. Climb aboard a 4WD to conquer towering sand dunes—an exhilarating ride that leaves you feeling like a true explorer. As the sun sets, the desert transforms into a stunning backdrop for photos. The safari includes a camel ride and sandboarding, providing authentic desert activities.

The evening camp features a barbecue buffet dinner, with Arabian kebabs and salads that satisfy even the biggest appetites. Traditional dance shows and shisha-smoking are optional cultural add-ons.

The tour boasts a 4.9/5 rating from almost 4,000 reviews, making it one of the most highly recommended desert excursions.

Bottom Line: Perfect for thrill-seekers and culture enthusiasts alike, this safari offers a genuine desert adventure with plenty of memorable moments.

3. Abu Dhabi: Morning Desert Tour, Camel Ride & Sandboarding

If you’re an early riser, this morning desert safari kicks off your day with dune bashing, sandboarding, and a camel ride. The tour provides a great way to beat the heat and enjoy the desert’s quiet beauty. You’ll experience dune bashing in a 4×4—an exciting way to feel the power of the desert sands.

Sandboarding lets you glide over the dunes, while the camel ride offers a peaceful contrast. This tour is available as a semi-private or private experience, allowing for a more personalized adventure.

With a 4.9/5 rating from over 3,000 reviews, it’s clear this tour delivers excitement and authenticity at a very good price point.

Bottom Line: For travelers who prefer an active morning outdoors, this tour delivers a quick but unforgettable desert experience.

4. Abu Dhabi: Yas Marina Circuit Guided Tour

At number 4, the Yas Marina Circuit guided tour gives you a rare behind-the-scenes look at one of the world’s most advanced Formula 1 tracks. You’ll walk through the pits, garages, and control rooms, gaining insights from guides who love sharing racing stories. Feel the thrill by standing on the podium where winners celebrate. You’ll also see iconic spots like the North Grandstand and Shams Tower.

This tour is perfect for motorsport fans who want to see the track from the inside, with a 4.7/5 rating from 1,785 reviews. It’s a high-value experience, especially if you’re curious about racing or engineering marvels.

Bottom Line: A must-do for race fans or those curious about Abu Dhabi’s high-speed side, with a solid reputation and engaging stories.

5. From Abu Dhabi: Dune Bashing Desert Safari

This dune bashing safari emphasizes the thrill of driving over desert dunes in a sturdy Land Cruiser. You’ll visit a camel farm en route and enjoy a desert sunset from atop a dune. The tour includes a traditional Arabic camp with Bedouin-style hospitality, Arabic coffee, and sweets. You’ll get the chance to smoke shisha and take photos dressed in traditional attire.

For an extra thrill, quad biking is available for an additional fee. Rated 4.8/5 from over 900 reviews, this tour appeals to those craving both adventure and culture.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a balanced mix of adrenaline, cultural touches, and desert scenery.

6. Abu Dhabi: Yas Island Self-Driving Guided Speedboat Tour

For the thrill of the water, this self-driving speedboat tour around Yas Island is a standout. You’ll pilot your own boat under the guidance of an expert and explore waterways like Mangrove Alley, where flamingos and other wildlife thrive.

The tour includes stops at famous landmarks like the Giant Statue and Heritage Island, blending natural beauty with iconic sights. It’s perfect for adventure lovers who want a hands-on experience.

The 4.8/5 rating from 881 reviews shows it’s a popular choice, especially for those wanting something active and different from land-based tours.

Bottom Line: A unique, adrenaline-pumping way to see Abu Dhabi’s coast and natural environment from a new perspective.

7. Abu Dhabi: Desert Safari with BBQ, Belly & Tannura Dance

This desert safari combines the excitement of dune bashing with lively entertainment. After a 4×4 dune-bashing ride, you visit a traditional Bedouin camp with belly dancing and Tannura performances. You can try on traditional Arabic costumes and get a henna tattoo.

The safari also includes a BBQ dinner featuring Arabic kebabs, salads, and sweets. For those seeking a full culture, this tour offers a rich experience with a 4.8/5 rating from 724 reviews.

Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting an immersive cultural night with entertainment, food, and desert adventures.

8. Abu Dhabi: Guided Speedboat Sightseeing Tour

This speedboat tour delivers a high-speed ride along Abu Dhabi’s coast, offering a fresh perspective of the skyline and waterfront landmarks. You’ll cruise past Yas Marina, Yas Beach, and Ferrari World, with panoramic views of impressive skyscrapers and natural spots like Al Raha Bay.

The experience is fast-paced and exciting, rated 4.7/5 from over 800 reviews, making it suitable for anyone craving an adrenaline rush and scenic vistas in one package.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a quick, exhilarating way to see Abu Dhabi’s coastline and skyline.

9. Abu Dhabi Traditional Desert Camp Experience And Quad Bike

Combine adventure and culture in this tour, which includes quad biking through the desert, plus visits to a camel farm. You’ll enjoy belly dancing, try on traditional costumes, and get a henna tattoo.

The tour emphasizes comfort while offering authentic Bedouin experiences, with a 4.8/5 rating from more than 600 reviews. The quad biking adds an extra layer of excitement, especially for those who want to explore the dunes more actively.

Bottom Line: A well-rounded desert experience combining adrenaline, tradition, and relaxation.

10. Abu Dhabi: Qasr Al Watan Palace & Garden Entry Ticket

This entry ticket grants you access to the Qasr Al Watan Palace, the Presidential complex renowned for its stunning architecture and lush gardens. Inside, you’ll explore the palace, the gardens, and the visitor centre, and learn about the institutions shaping the UAE.

The collection of Arabian craftsmanship and thousands of books make this a must-see for architecture and culture enthusiasts. It’s affordable at $18 and rated 4.7/5 by visitors who appreciate its beauty and educational value.

Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, immersive peek into Abu Dhabi’s political and artistic core.

11. Abu Dhabi: Half-Day Guided City Tour

This half-day city tour covers Abu Dhabi’s main sights, including the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, the Heritage Village, and Yas Island. An expert guide shares stories about the city’s transformation from desert town to modern metropolis.

You’ll drive past skyscrapers and luxury hotels along the Corniche and stop for photos at key points like the Dates Market. The 4.4/5 rating from 1250 reviews reflects its popularity with travelers seeking a concise overview.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those short on time who want a comprehensive snapshot of Abu Dhabi’s highlights.

12. Abu Dhabi: National Aquarium Entrance Ticket

The National Aquarium is the largest in the Middle East, offering a close-up look at over 46,000 marine animals across 10 zones. You’ll encounter sharks, rays, and tropical fish from oceans worldwide.

The aquarium provides options like a glass-bottom boat ride or a behind-the-scenes tour—perfect for families or anyone interested in marine life. Visitors praise the experience with a 4.6/5 rating, noting its size and variety.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for family outings or marine enthusiasts wanting an immersive underwater experience.

13. Abu Dhabi: Ferrari World Entry Ticket with Free Shuttle

For thrill-seekers, Ferrari World offers the world’s fastest roller coaster, Formula Rossa, reaching 240 km/h. The indoor park also features 44 rides and attractions, including the immersive Mission Ferrari 5D coaster and Yas Island’s first Zip Line.

The park’s Ferrari-inspired design makes it a fun visit for all ages, rated 4.2/5 from over 1,300 reviews. The included free shuttle makes logistics easier, and the diverse rides ensure everyone finds something to enjoy.

Bottom Line: A must for families and adrenaline junkies looking for high-speed fun in a Ferrari-themed setting.

14. Abu Dhabi: City Tour with Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and More

This comprehensive city tour hits major highlights like the Sheikh Zayed Mosque and Founder’s Memorial, plus a drive past the man-made islands of Saadiyat and Yas. You’ll learn about Abu Dhabi’s development and browse the Dates Market. With a cost of $46 and a focus on cultural and modern sights, it’s a good choice for travelers who want a balanced overview with informative commentary.

Bottom Line: A solid choice for a full-day introduction to Abu Dhabi’s top sights.

15. Abu Dhabi: Guided Walking Tour at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

This focused walking tour offers an intimate look at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, with highlights like the world’s largest hand-woven carpet and Swarovski crystal chandeliers. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore the magnificent architecture and learn about Islamic culture. At just $25, it’s a budget-friendly way to see one of Abu Dhabi’s most iconic landmarks up close and personal.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a detailed, in-depth experience of the mosque’s beauty and craftsmanship.

16. Abu Dhabi: Magical 4×4 Desert Tour Camel Ride & Sandboarding

This tour offers a thrilling ride over the dunes, with camel rides, sandboarding, and dune bashing. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, plus options for BBQ dinners and live entertainment like belly dancing. Rated 4.9/5 from 149 reviews, it’s a favorite for making desert adventures accessible and fun for everyone, including families.

Bottom Line: A highly-rated desert tour perfect for those seeking excitement, cultural experiences, and convenience.

How to Choose the Best Tour in Abu Dhabi

When selecting your Abu Dhabi experiences, consider your budget, interests, and time available. For a quick culture, the Sheikh Zayed Mosque walking tour offers an in-depth look without breaking the bank. If you’re after adventure, the desert safaris and speedboat tours deliver unforgettable thrills.

Families and adrenaline lovers alike will appreciate the Ferrari World or the National Aquarium. Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons or for popular attractions like the Yas Marina Circuit.

Abu Dhabi offers a fascinating array of tours that cater to all tastes—from cultural marvels and modern landmarks to sweeping deserts and high-speed adventures. Whether you’re a history buff, adrenaline junkie, or family traveler, you’ll find something to make your trip memorable.

For best results, match your interests with the experience that excites you most, and book ahead to secure your spot in these coveted activities. Whatever you choose, Abu Dhabi’s diverse array of tours promises a trip full of discovery and fun.