Top 10 activities in Abu Dhabi for a smashing summer

With temperatures outside soaring to 45°C and beyond in the capital city, summer is here in all its scorching glory. With summer, of course, comes vacation when students get the much anticipated annual break. Two months off from school means that families get plenty of time on their hands to indulge in some fun summertime activities. 

There is so much to do and so much to see in Abu Dhabi and being spoiled for choice might leave you and your family in a fix. If you’re unable to decide how to spend summer in the capital, fear not, for we have compiled a list of the top ten things you can do in Abu Dhabi to have a memorable summer in 2021. Bear in mind this list is just the tip of Abu Dhabi’s tourist iceberg!

Top indoor activities in Abu Dhabi

Fear the heat? These indoor finds are for you! For those who want to have a good time minus the unwanted tan, there are a plethora of indoor activities in Abu Dhabi, all in comfortable, air-conditioned environments: 

• Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

For all our adrenaline junkies out there, Ferrari World is the best place to get that rush and enjoy fantastic thrills. Home to the world’s fastest roller coaster and a long list of other daring rides, this sprawling indoor theme park located on Yas Island is the land of everything fast and, well, Ferrari. You can learn all about the iconic car brand, dine on some fine, authentic Italian grub, and even keep your kids entertained with fun-size, child-friendly rides, and activities like driving mini Ferraris and changing tires like a pit stop pro. A full day of fun is guaranteed.

Book your tickets here.

• Louvre Abu Dhabi

One of the world’s most revered sanctuaries of culture and history, the Louvre Abu Dhabi is where art beats. From large galleries to the museum itself, everything in the museum is a priceless work of art. Louvre Abu Dhabi is located on Saadiyat Island and is home to more than 600 pieces of art, both contemporary and of historical significance. It is a true haven for art lovers and, in addition to the works on permanent display, hosts numerous exhibits, events, and workshops to keep Abu Dhabi’s art community engaged. Soak up some history, indulge in French fine dining at Fouquet’s, and appreciate art for its true beauty at Louvre Abu Dhabi.

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• Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi

Another great indoor amusement park on Yas Island, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi is perfect for cinephiles with a fondness for thrills. The park is themed and features iconic characters from the Warner Bros. cinematic universes like Looney Tunes, DC Comics, The Flintstones, and others. For all the passionate Superman and Batman fans, you can step into real life Metropolis and Gotham City for a fully immersive and action-packed experience. 

Book your tickets here.

• CLYMB Abu Dhabi

Adventurous sporting activities don’t always have to be outdoors, thanks to CLYMB Abu Dhabi. This indoor skydiving and wall climbing centre is the perfect place to scoop up some once-in-a-lifetime chances. It boasts the world’s biggest indoor skydiving chamber and the region’s tallest climbing wall so a fully unique experience is guaranteed. If you’re a beginner, you can choose from five other height ranges, expertly guided by professionals so you can have an exciting, safe climb or skydive. 

Book your tickets here.

• Cinema Space

Cinema Space, an independent initiative to bring classic cinema back into the spotlight, is the perfect place to go to if you want to witness works of cinematic art that aren’t part of the mainstream. Showing gorgeous restored classics and contemporary films from all over the world, Cinema Space is where you can find old and fresh, fiction and nonfiction narrative storytelling from local and international filmmakers. A celebration of the art of film preservation, Cinema Space offers shows in person and online at zero cost. 

Click here for more information about shows and timings.

Top outdoor activities in Abu Dhabi

Soak up the sun! Summer is the best time to head to the beach, ride a jet ski, or cannonball into a pool. If you love spending time in the sun, these outdoor spots are for you! 

• Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi

Located on Yas Island, Yas WaterWorld Abu Dhabi is the perfect combination of thrills with over 40 water rides for people of all ages. This iconic water park requires a whole day’s visit to experience all the exciting attractions. You can surf the world’s largest sheet wave, ride the world’s longest water coaster, or glide over the water park in the world’s only water park suspended roller coaster. With free entry for children under 12 years and a dedicated ladies’ day for full privacy and fun, Yas WaterWorld is a fine summer fun destination. 

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• Rhino Rides 

The Mangrove National Park located at the edge of Abu Dhabi is considered a hotspot of biodiversity. This forest is one of the most prominent natural landmarks of the country and is a carefully protected reserve. Rhino Rides gives you a chance to traverse into the mangroves on your own speed boat. You can witness the native plant and animal life accompanied by your own guide. Take your pick from six different tours at different times of the day and appreciate nature’s beauty at its finest. 

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• Corniche Beach

Located in the heart of the capital, Corniche Beach is the most popular beach for all downtown residents of Abu Dhabi. Not only does this white sand beach have unmatched views of the beautiful waters of the Arabian Gulf but it also has tracks for jogging and cycling, as well as manicured gardens. Beachgoers can find all luxury facilities like cabanas, loungers, umbrellas, showers, and changing rooms. The beach has a free section and two paid sections, ideal for families and big groups. Take a refreshing dip in the water, grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants on the boardwalk, and engage in thrilling water sports only at Corniche Beach. 

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• Dhabian Equestrian Club

An equestrian experience like no other, Dhabian Equestrian Club offers special horse rides by the beach. It is a great opportunity to connect with the majestic creatures and learn a skill at the same time, as first-time beach riders are given lessons after a thorough eligibility assessment to ensure safety and security. The three-hour rides are comprehensive learning opportunities in the art of horseback riding with a break for refreshments. Don’t forget to take an Instagram-worthy photograph or two! 

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• Liwa Oasis 

For a full immersion into Abu Dhabi’s natural beauty and history, Liwa Oasis is the place to visit. The wider oasis region is located in the western region of the emirate at the edge of The Empty Quarter and is a peaceful haven away from the noise of the city. A number of top hotels and resorts are situated in the oasis and visitors can engage in exciting activities like dune bashing and other desert tours. Visiting Liwa is taking a step into native Bedouin culture, evidenced by the many historical forts, farms, and ancestral homes of the Bani Yas tribe. It is a truly unique experience. 

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