For culture

Al Ain region 

The Al Ain region is a living oasis where culture, nature and adventure are all in reach – it embodies authentic Emirati hospitality. Meaning ’the spring’, the Al Ain region welcomes visitors to wander through lush landscapes, stroll through historic forts and embark on thrilling discoveries. Discover where the UAE’s story began with a unique glimpse into UAE culture, heritage and traditions:

- Clients can head to the tranquil Al Ain Oasis, known as the ’Green City’ which is spread over 1,200 hectares. Boasting 147,000 date palm trees, over 100 distinct types of vegetation and the timeless falaj irrigation system, it’s no wonder it stands proudly as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

- Next, visitors can head to the historic Al Jahili Fort, one of the largest forts in the UAE, which has now been transformed into a cultural centre and tourist attraction. 

- Your clients can end the evening with an overnight stay at Jebel Hafit Desert Park and choose from various camping options, from basic setups to luxurious air-conditioned glamping tents. 

For heritage

Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich heritage of Abu Dhabi, visit historic landmarks and learn about local customs and traditions:

- Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the first stop on this itinerary. Here, people from all walks of life come together to take in the architecture’s beauty and gain a deeper understanding of religion and culture in UAE. The mosque is one of the world’s largest and was the vision of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the emirate. He envisaged the creation of a welcoming and cultural haven that inspires people from all backgrounds. On their journey through the marbled halls, visitors will see one-of-a-kind treasures, including gold-plated Swarovski chandeliers, the courtyard’s vast marble mosaic artwork and reflective pools that mirror some of the many amethyst-and-jasper-embedded columns. 

- Next stop is Qasr Al Hosn, which is the city’s oldest stone building. Travellers can soak up the fascinating history of the UAE’s capital or spend their day admiring the artefacts and archival materials from 6,000 years ago. 

- For the final cultural visit of the day, clients can head to Qasr Al Watan. This is a working presidential palace and a majestic cultural landmark that invites visitors to discover the rich legacy of knowledge and tradition that has shaped the UAE’s journey. More than just a traditional palace, Qasr Al Watan boosts cultural understanding of the nation and emphasises its incredible history.

For adventure 

Yas Island 

Yas Island offers something for everyone. It’s a haven for thrill-seekers and families, with world-renowned theme parks and attractions like Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi and Yas Waterworld. For those seeking relaxation, Yas Island boasts pristine beaches, luxurious resorts, and a world-class golf course:

- Your clients can start the day feeling a rush at Yas Island’s theme parks, stepping into a world of their favourite characters and endless excitement at Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi. Interactive family-friendly attractions and live entertainment are guaranteed giggles for the younger ones, while shopping and dining venues keep the adults happy and energised.

- Next, visitors can beat the heat and head to Yas Waterworld, with more than 40 exhilarating rides offering a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. Brave travellers can give the world’s first and largest hydromagnetic-powered, 238-metre long, six-person tornado waterslide Dawwamma a go, followed by the insane three-metre-high waves on Bubble’s Barrel, which has the world’s largest surfable sheet wave for flow boards and bodyboards.

- Finally, they can tackle thrilling coasters and racing-themed rides at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. The state-of-the-art Yas Marina Circuit hosts the annual Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and sits at the centre of the action on Yas Island. 

For luxury

Shopping and dining

- Visitors can shop until they drop in the fanciest of ways by visiting Avenue at Etihad Towers, an exclusive retail boutique for high-end fashion and jewellery connoisseurs.

- Next, they can pop over to the Conrad Abu Dhabi for afternoon tea at Observation Deck at 300, with 360° views of Abu Dhabi and its stunning skyline.

- Once they’re fuelled up, suggest your clients wrap up their tour with a luxurious shopping trip at The Galleria, Al Maryah Island where they can spoil themselves with a choice of hundreds of designer brands.

- And to end the day, visitors can discover Abu Dhabi’s Michelin-starred fusion of flavours and cuisines, prepared by internationally acclaimed chefs at some of the most notable dining destinations across the emirate. Recommend Erth restaurant for a twist on Emirati food, Oii for Mediterranean flavours and T’azal for a culinary journey of Arabic flavours.

For more arts and culture 

Saadiyat Cultural District 

Saadiyat Cultural District Abu Dhabi is a unique constellation of museums, cultural institutions and collections that celebrate the achievements of the UAE. It is a centre for innovation and creativity. Offering one of the highest concentrations of cultural experiences, Saadiyat Cultural District is home to Louvre Abu Dhabi, teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, Manarat Al Saadiyat and more:

- Stepping inside the iconic Louvre Abu Dhabi, the first universal museum in the Arab World, visitors can witness the translation and fostering of a spirit of openness between cultures. As one of the premier cultural institutions in the heart of the Saadiyat Cultural District, this art lover’s dream displays works of historical, cultural and sociological significance from ancient times to the contemporary era.

- TeamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi is a 17,000 sq m multi-sensory art experience featuring immersive, large-scale exhibits that transport visitors on an extraordinary sensory journey. Butterflies, floating mirror balloons, cloud formations and more invite visitors to play, explore and change their perspective on life and the world around them. These artworks blend art, science, and technology and are designed to engage the senses.

- Saadiyat Island’s art, cultural activity and community events centre, Manarat Al Saadiyat, brings Saadiyat’s vision to life, encouraging visitors to come together and share, experiment, create their own art, discover exhibitions, exchange ideas, enjoy sumptuous food, or listen to talks. Meaning “a place of enlightenment” in Arabic, Manarat Al Saadiyat is home to the annual Abu Dhabi Art fair, as well as an outdoor events terrace, cafe and brasserie, three galleries for temporary exhibits, a photography studio, an art studio, 250-seat auditorium and a gift shop.