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Abu Dhabi is more than just a city. Apart from its shimmering architecture and rich cultural heritage, the UAE capital also has surprising nature and wildlife, so getting out to enjoy Abu Dhabi nature is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts. These can be enjoyed through a variety of activities ranging from walking and mountain biking to scuba diving, free diving, 4×4 safaris, horseback riding, and much more.
Things to do in Abu Dhabi
1. Interact with the UAE’s national pride.
- Sheikh Zayed had a strong affection for falcons and was deeply concerned about their welfare. His goal was to rehabilitate them and reintegrate them into society.
- The Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital grew out of that vision, and it now treats over 11,000 birds. Visit the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, a 45-minute drive from the city, to meet the UAE’s national bird. Under supervision, take a guided tour of the hospital and hold a falcon.
2. Discover the desert’s golden dunes.
- The massive Rub’ al Khali desert, the world’s second-largest, crosses four borders: Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates.
- The expansive area is popularly known as the Empty Quarter and is commonly visited from the Abu Dhabi side.
- The luxurious Qasr Al Sarab, which houses nine ultra-fast Peregrine and Saker falcons, hosts falcon and Saluki shows.
3. Enter the realm of nature.
- The protected Al Wathba Wetland Reserve highlights natural areas in Abu Dhabi. The reserve, which was once a coastal salt flat known as sabkha, is now a mix of natural and man-made lakes where many different species thrive.
- A 30-minute drive from Abu Dhabi’s city center, take a leisurely stroll along one of the two available pathways to get a closer look at the island’s main residents, the Greater Flamingos.
- There are also over 250 bird species, 37 plant species, and a diverse range of aquatic life to photograph.
4. Abu Dhabi Desert Safari
- Seeing the sunset and sunrise through the endless sands of Abu Dhabi’s deserts is an experience that everyone should have at least once in their lives.
- Aside from the safari, visitors can participate in Camel Riding, Quad Biking, Sand Boarding, Dune Bashing, and other exciting and entertaining activities.
5. Heritage Park
- The charming Heritage Park in Abu Dhabi, located near the Mina Zayed port, is ideal for a solitary evening stroll or a stroll with loved ones.
- The park, which is surrounded by colorful flowers, elegant fountains, and a walking path, also has large stone formations and a defense tower.
6. Spend time with the jungle’s kings
- Feed the budgies, hang out with the penguins, and chase the cheetahs in an unforgettable experience. The Al Ain Zoo, founded in 1968 by the late Sheikh Zayed, is a popular family destination that has welcomed millions of visitors over the years.
- The zoo, which is about an hour and a half drive from Abu Dhabi, is also a center for the conservation of endangered species such as the Arabian Oryx.
7. Discover peace in the heart of culture
- Nature is easy to find in Abu Dhabi, but you must spend time exploring and learning about its significance.
- The Mangrove National Park, which is part of the Sheikh Zayed Protected Areas, is a biodiversity hotspot, accounting for approximately 75% of the total mangrove forest area in the UAE.
- You may see flamingos, herons, and other bird or plant species while rowing. Take your time taking in the sights and enjoying this important part of nature.
8. Day at sea
- Abu Dhabi has an abundance of marine life due to its archipelago of over 200 islands. There are plenty of prime snorkeling and diving spots for everyone, from beginners to experts, where you can discover sea creatures, coral reefs, shipwrecks, and more.
- If you prefer to keep your head above water, the city’s waterfront is ideal for kayaking, SUP, sailing, or jet skiing.
9. Experience island life
- Sir Bani Yas Island, the largest island three hours away from Abu Dhabi, is a stunning example of Abu Dhabi’s nature.
- This pristine conservation haven, founded by His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, is home to giraffes, cheetahs, oryx, and many other species. When visiting this private Abu Dhabi nature reserve, you can visit archaeological sites, including a 1,400-year-old Christian monastery; explore the wildlife on a 4×4; relax at the Desert Island Resort & Spa; or dive to see the vibrant coral reefs at the Al Mahara Diving Centre.
10. Mushrif Central Park
- Mushrif Central Park in Abu Dhabi, also known as Umm Al Emarat Park, is one of the city’s oldest and largest parks.
- The park, which spans 14.5 hectares of land, offers a variety of educational and recreational opportunities. The park is frequently referred to as a “People’s Park,” and there is plenty to do for people of all ages.
11. A leisure, entertainment, and cultural island
- The beautiful Saadiyat Island, an island of leisure, entertainment, and cultural discoveries, is only a seven-minute drive from downtown Abu Dhabi.
- The island, which is home to free-roaming gazelles and beautiful white sand beaches, is also home to the critically endangered Hawksbill turtles, which use it as a nesting ground.
