8 Must-Have Thrilling Experiences in Abu Dhabi!

Deah Gulwani

Last updated: May 16, 2023

Abu Dhabi wins you over with its rich culture and glittering skyline. But there’s so much more to this city than its architectural wonders, malls and skyscrapers. This breathtaking destination is not just a treat for the eyes, but a place for the adventure-seeking souls out there too!

Here are eight thrilling experiences in Abu Dhabi that you’ll want to add to your bucket list ASAP:

 1. Al Ain Adventure

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Whitewater rafting, kayaking, surfing, wakeboarding, ziplining, wall climbing – if these words make your heart race with excitement, we know just the spot for you! Located at the base of Jebel Hafit mountain, Al Ain Adventure is a first-of-its-kind facility in the Middle East that you can’t miss.

2. Scuba Diving at Al Mahara

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Abu Dhabi is an archipelago made up of nearly 200 islands – which makes it a great place to dive! You can explore the local marine life with Al Mahara, a diving center run by professionals who have been teaching for over 15 years. Venture into coral-rich sites and fall in love with the sea like never before! Spot a wide array of fish species, rare turtles, dugongs, black tip reef sharks, honeycomb eels and pufferfish.

3. Yas Island

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When you think of thrills and excitement, think of Yas Island. Abu Dhabi’s entertainment hub is home to theme parks, waterslides, a dream world for car lovers and your favorite fictional movie characters!

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is your best bet if you live for that adrenaline rush. Featuring 29 state-of-the-art thrill rides, you can soar high with a 30-minute ziplining experience through the iconic Flying Aces loop, or tackle the world’s fastest rollercoaster, the Formula Rossa, which reaches speeds of up to 240kmph!

Are you a fan of DC superheroes and iconic cartoons? Then you’re in for an absolute treat at Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi! The world’s largest indoor theme park is packed with thrill rides, family-friendly attractions and some of the world’s most iconic characters – including Batman, Wonder Woman, Scooby-Doo and more – across six immersive lands.

4. Skydiving

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Think Abu Dhabi’s sights are impressive from the ground? Wait till you experience the emirate from 13,000 feet above! Let the adrenaline flow through you as you soar through the air at the speeds of 200 km/h. Get ready to feel on top of the world! 

5. Desert Safari & Dune Buggies

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The beauty and magic of Abu Dhabi’s iconic desert dunes are an essential experience when visiting the emirate. What better way to explore than by desert safari or dune buggy? Afterwards, enjoy Arabian-style refreshments and a tasty barbeque at a traditional Bedouin desert camp.
 
6. Sea Plane Tour
Admire the gorgeous aerial views of the Arabian Gulf on a 30-minute sea plane tour. Board at Yas Marina and get a bird’s-eye view of the Emirates Palace, Corniche beachfront, Nurai Island, downtown’s skyscrapers and more!

7. Meals with Wildlife at the Emirates Park Zoo

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Why settle for breakfast in bed when you can have breakfast with giraffes? Or brunch with big cats? AND dinner with elephants? We promise that meals don’t get more interesting than the ones at Emirates Park Zoo!

8. Mangrove National Park

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If kayaking is something that floats your boat, this national park is the place to be. It’s home to almost 75% of the total mangrove forest area in the UAE. Whether you want to go with friends, family or even on a solo date, this spot passes the vibe check.

There’s also the option of going stand-up paddle-boarding or even hopping on a private boat tour with licensed tour operators like Seahawk Water Sports, Noukhada and Al Mahara Diving.

Are you excited to visit Abu Dhabi yet? Get ready to embark on an adventure like no other!