Abu Dhabi, the political centre and capital of the United Arab Emirates, seamlessly blends a rich cultural heritage with cutting-edge modern attractions. Its diverse offerings, ranging from architectural wonders like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to the high-octane thrills of the theme parks in Yas Island Abu Dhabi, make it an unparalleled travel destination.

There are a lot of places to visit in Abu Dhabi, especially on Yas Island. Yas Island stands out as a hub of entertainment and recreation and is an ideal destination for families and thrill-seekers.

Include the following in your Abu Dhabi must-visit bucket list.

1. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Address: Al Rawdah, Abu Dhabi

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the world's largest mosques, stands guard at the entrance to Abu Dhabi City Island. It is an enchanting vision for anyone travelling to the city, as it is visible from the three primary bridges (i.e., Maqta, Mussafah, and Sheikh Zayed Bridge) that connect the city island to the mainland.

It is an architectural masterpiece, a showcase of Islamic culture and artistry. Here are its key features:

Domes

The mosque has 82 domes of various sizes. Each has pure white marble cladding, onion-shaped crowns, and crescent finials with gold-glass mosaic designs. The interior of each dome is adorned with traditional Moroccan artwork.

Courtyard

The courtyard or Sahan spans 17,400 square metres. Designed by British artist Kevin Dean, it is made up of the finest pieces of marble, and features mosaics of tulips, lilies, iris, and other flowers that grow in the Middle East.

Marble

The grand mosque's marble cladding stands out for its pure white colour. The mosque also features superior-quality marble in its interiors, such as in the main prayer hall where it is adorned with geometric and floral designs.

Minarets

The mosque has four minarets, each rising to 106 metres. The minarets have three geometric shapes (e.g., square, octagon and cylinder) to reflect the Mameluke, Ottoman and Fatimid architectural styles.

Carpet

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque's main prayer hall is home to the world's largest hand-knotted carpet, the work of 1,200 artisans. It took eight months to design, 12 months to create, and about four months to weave, piece together, trim, and transport the 5,700 sq.m., 70% wool and 30% cotton carpet.

Lunar Illumination

The mosque has a unique lighting system, so the mosque's white marble facade and domes reflect the phases of the moon.

2. Qasr Al Watan

Address: Al Ras Al Akhdar, Abu Dhabi

Qasr Al Watan is a white granite and limestone palace located in the Presidential Palace compound. It is where the UAE receives foreign dignitaries and tells the public about the journey of the UAE as a nation, the Emiratis' cultural heritage and the Arab people's contribution to science, arts, humanities, literature, and other areas of knowledge.

The following are the highlights of Qasr Al Watan:

The Great Hall

The Great Hall is majestic, featuring a 37-metre diameter central dome. It showcases traditional Arabian craftsmanship and artistry in its archways and the mosaic patterns on its floors, walls and ceilings.

Presidential Gifts & Souvenirs

The Presidential Gifts & Souvenirs area exhibits the unique gifts the UAE has received from other nations.

Presidential Banquet

The Presidential Banquet is for holding banquets to welcome foreign dignitaries. Visit it to learn about the customs and protocols of presidential events.

Spirit of Collaboration

The Spirit of Collaboration is a circular hall with a remarkable crystal chandelier. It is where the UAE Cabinet, the Arab League, the Gulf Cooperation Council, and the Federal Supreme Council regularly meet.

Al Barza

Al Barza is a grand majlis or sitting room. Traditionally, a majlis is where members of the community gather and meet to discuss issues and current affairs, receive and entertain guests, and socialise.

Qasr Al Watan Library

Qasr Al Watan Library has a massive collection of around 50,000 books in print and even more in digital format. It is a fully functional library open to the reading public.

House of Knowledge

The House of Knowledge exhibits the Arab people's contribution to human knowledge, including science, humanities, literature, and the arts.

The Power of Words

The Power of Words is a spherical sculpture by Mattar Bin Lahej featuring a calligraphy of Sheikh Zayed's words.

Palace in Motion

Palace in Motion is a nightly light and sound show that projects the UAE nation's journey onto the palace's majestic façade.

3. Yas Island Theme Parks

Address: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

If there's one thing you must never miss in Abu Dhabi, it's Yas Island, particularly its theme parks. The four theme parks in Yas Island Abu Dhabi are some of the best in the world.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is a tribute to the Ferrari brand and a celebration of speed and innovation. The world's first Ferrari-inspired theme park, it promises an adrenaline rush with more than 40 rides and attractions. Do not miss Formula Rossa, the fastest roller coaster in the world.

Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi

Stepping into Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi will take you back to afternoons watching your favourite cartoon shows on television. The world's largest indoor theme park, Warner Bros. World has six lands, including Metropolis and Gotham. A Harry Potter-themed land is also in the works.

Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi

Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi takes water adventures to a new level. Spanning 15 hectares, this water park offers more than 40 rides and slides. You should try Dawwama, Cinesplash, Liwa Loop, and Jebel Drop.

SeaWorld Abu Dhabi

An ode to marine life, SeaWorld has the world's largest aquarium. It mimics its marine residents' natural habitats in realms such as Antarctica, Arctic, Endless Ocean, MicroOcean, One Ocean, Rocky Point,Tropical Ocean, and Abu Dhabi Ocean. The Manta Coaster is a must-try for roller coaster fans.

See Abu Dhabi's Must-Visit Places

Abu Dhabi has a rich and varied selection of experiences. Visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to appreciate traditional Islamic architecture, and explore Qasr Al Watan to learn about the UAE's history and the significance of Arab scholarship.

Visit Yas Island Abu Dhabi, too, and experience its world-class theme parks.

3 Must-Visit Destinations in Abu Dhabi