Dive into the Abu Dhabi Story Through Its Iconic Landmarks

One thing that put UAE on the global map was its boundary-pushing architecture, and Abu Dhabi being is home to some stunning jewels. From heritage buildings to award-winning marvels, read below to experience the elevation of Abu Dhabi to a global hub of business and culture.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

When gold-plated chandeliers and iconic marble mosaic artworks come together, you know it’s already legendary. Add to it 82 Moroccan-designed white marble domes, the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet and crystal-embedded columns, and you’re in for an absolute treat. Named after the visionary founding father of UAE, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, this mosque has an open-door policy and welcomes people from all walks of life to experience Emirati culture in a unique way. We recommend a tour once the sun goes down, to enjoy the mosque light up exquisitely.

Louvre Abu Dhabi

The Arab World’s first universal museum, Louvre Abu Dhabi’s design is inspired from the traditional Arabic dome blending heritage with modern innovation. This iconic museum exhibits the juxtaposition of different civilisations’ creative output while illustrating the similarities and exchanges from the shared human experience. While the art pieces will definitely wow you, the ‘rain of light’ phenomenon—the sunlight projecting a spotted pattern through the latticed-roof—will steal your heart.

Qasr Al Watan

A working Presidential palace, a design that pays tribute to UAE’s rich Arabian history and a library that houses the books and manuscripts detailing UAE’s history—Qasr Al Watan is truly a ‘Palace of the Nation’. Sign up for the spectacular light and sound show that celebrates UAE’s journey in three beautiful acts, explore the Qasr Al Watan Library and the House of Knowledge, visit the Spirit of Collaboration area and more, for an immersive tour.

Etihad Towers

A five-tower complex overlooking the Arabian Gulf, Etihad Towers hosts residential apartments, shopping outlets, office space, restaurants and more, and is a benchmark for luxury. A hub for local and foreign travellers alike, the towers are a melting pot of civilisation and definitely demands a visit for the discerning traveller. The Observation Deck at 300 is a must-visit to enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the city.

Capital Gate

Also known as the ‘The Leaning Tower of Abu Dhabi’, Capital Gate is a slightly tilted 35-storey glass building. While the iconic tower makes for a stunning backdrop for your social media shares, the Andaz Capital Gate hotel located in the premises, redefine luxury. Swing by for a unique experience that blends together Emirati and international lifestyle.

Aldar HQ

Designed as a homage to Abu Dhabi’s maritime history, this is Arabia’s first circular building inspired by the clamshell. Due to its unique shape, the Aldar HQ has been named One of the World’s Most Dazzling Offices by Emporis – an international building organisation. That’s not all. The Aldar HQ is one of the first eco-friendly buildings of Abu Dhabi made of recyclable material and houses a district cooling plant as well as efficient lighting and water distribution systems. A first-of-its-kind subterranean automated vacuum-waste collection system is also incorporated to reuse all the building's waste products, making this building a landmark in UAE’s aim to achieve sustainable living standards.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi pays homage to the iconic brand with the design reflecting the famous sinuous form of the Ferrari GT chassis with the brand’s signature colour and double curves.  A multi-sensory celebration of a design icon, this magnificent building reflects both the brand’s integrity and Abu Dhabi’s ambitions. With an insulate metal roof and glass façade to reduce heat, this building uniquely stands out, and is an absolute delight to watch from an airplane flying above.

That’s not all. When it comes to architectural marvels, Abu Dhabi continues making iconic and inspiring buildings—making the list of getaways to explore, go on. Plan a trip today, and experience it all.