ENTERTAINMENT IN ABU DHABI AND AROUND

Abu Dhabi offers plenty of ways to enjoy your free time and experience something special. The same goes for Dubai, which is about 75 minutes away by car. 

Abu Dhabi

Here's a list of top entertainment options in Abu Dhabi, featuring a variety of activities and attractions that cater to different interests:

Yas Island

This is a major entertainment hub in Abu Dhabi, home to several world-renowned theme parks including:

• Ferrari World Abu Dhabi: Primarily an indoor amusement park that holds the distinction of being the first theme park dedicated to the Ferrari brand globally. Among its numerous attractions, it features Formula Rossa, renowned as the fastest roller coaster in the world.

• Yas Waterworld: This waterword is celebrated for its Emirati-themed water park adventures. It offers more than 40 thrilling rides, slides, and attractions, making it a favourite for both adrenaline seekers and families looking for a fun day out.

• Warner Bros: This park brings to life the excitement of Warner Bros characters and stories through rides, family-friendly attractions, and interactive experiences across six themed lands. These include Gotham City, Metropolis, Cartoon Junction, Bedrock, Dynamite Gulch, and Warner Bros. Plaza, each offering a unique backdrop and thrilling adventures.

Louvre Abu Dhabi
This iconic museum displays artworks from around the world and hosts regular temporary exhibitions and cultural events. Website: Louvre Abu Dhabi.

Etihad Arena
Located on Yas Island, this venue hosts a variety of events, from concerts and sports competitions to comedy shows. Highlights for 2024 include performances by Scorpions and the Abu Dhabi Comedy Week featuring famous comedians. Website: Etihad Arena.

The Galleria Al Maryah Island
A luxury shopping and dining destination that also offers family-friendly entertainment options including a cinema and regular cultural events. Website: The Galleria.

Saadiyat Cultural District
Planned to be the cultural centrepiece of Abu Dhabi, featuring museums, art galleries, and educational institutions. The Zayed National Museum and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi are set to join the district soon. Website: Saadiyat Cultural District.

Qasr Al Hosn
The oldest stone building in Abu Dhabi offers a deep dive into the emirate’s past with museum exhibits, traditional workshops, and cultural events. Website: Qasr Al Hosn.

Bassam Freiha Art Foundation
A new addition to the cultural scene on Saadiyat Island, showcasing rarely seen works of art from private collections locally and internationally. Website: Bassam Freiha Art Foundation.

Dubai

Dubai offers a dynamic mix of attractions and entertainment experiences that cater to all interests and ages. You can get to Dubai from Abu Dhabi relatively easily with a taxi (ride abound 75 minutes). Here are the top entertainment options in Dubai:

Burj Khalifa
Experience breathtaking views from the tallest building in the world (829.8 metres). The observation decks on the 124th, 125th, and 148th floors offer panoramic views of the city and beyond. Website: Burj Khalifa.

Dubai Mall
More than just a shopping destination, Dubai Mall features attractions like the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, which houses thousands of aquatic animals—website: Dubai Mall.

Dubai Fountain
Enjoy spectacular musical water displays in the heart of Downtown Dubai, set to a range of melodies from around the world. Website: Dubai Fountain.

Dubai Miracle Garden
Visit the world's largest natural flower garden, featuring over 50 million flowers in stunning sculptures and designs. Website: Dubai Miracle Garden.

La Perle by Dragone
Experience this unique live show with breathtaking stunts, special effects, and performances in an aqua-theatre. Website: La Perle by Dragone.

Mall of the Emirates
Mall of the Emirates, often referred to simply as Emirates Mall, is a multi-level shopping mall located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It's renowned for its wide range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. One of its most famous attractions is Ski Dubai, an indoor ski resort and snow park, which is the first of its kind in the Middle East. Website: Mall of the Emirates.

Real Madrid World
The first football theme park of its kind, featuring rides and attractions themed around the famous football club. Website: Dubai Parks and Resorts.

ARTE Museum Dubai
An immersive art experience with works displayed through advanced digital methods, ideal for art enthusiasts. Website: ARTE Museum Dubai.