Adventure in Abu Dhabi
Unleash your inner adventurer in Abu Dhabi! Soar on the world's fastest rollercoaster, conquer desert dunes, and race supercars with friends. Live your life to the extreme and let Abu Dhabi redefine excitement as you take the ride of a lifetime.
1. Thrilling theme parks
Live life on the edge this winter in Abu Dhabi! At Abu Dhabi's entertainment hub of Yas Island, experience heart-pounding rides, epic adventures, and family-friendly attractions that will leave you in awe. Spend a day with your heroes at the world's largest indoor theme park Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, ride the world's fastest rollercoaster at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and splash and slide at Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi.
2. Dune Bashing
With soaring dunes and impressive sand valleys, Abu Dhabi's desertscape is a playground for fans of adventure and adrenaline. Dune bashing is a fantastic way to explore the desert expanse outside the Liwa Oasis in Al Dhafra or the beautiful dunes of the Al Khaznah area between Abu Dhabi and the lush garden city of Al Ain.
A number of tour operators offer dune-bashing trips, plus you can take on the dunes when you stay at the luxurious five-star Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, set in the Empty Quarter (Rub' al Khali) desert, or Tilal Liwa Hotel, located on the edge of the desert. A half-day or overnight stay at the Arabian Nights Village also includes a dune-bashing experience.
Dune-bashing experiences often also feature camel rides, sandboarding, henna painting, trying on traditional clothing, falcon and sometimes Saluki (desert hunting dog) shows, and belly-dancing performances. It's best to check what's included with the tour operator or hotel ahead of making your booking.
3. Water Sports
Abu Dhabi's pristine waters and year-round sunshine make it a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Kayaking through the serene mangroves offers a peaceful escape, allowing paddlers to explore the region's rich biodiversity up close. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, wakeboarding provides the perfect blend of speed and skill, with several facilities catering to both beginners and seasoned riders. Surfing enthusiasts can catch waves at Wadi Adventure in Al Ain, home to the region's first man-made white-water rafting, kayaking, and surf facility.
Families looking for a fun-filled day can head to Yas Waterworld, an Emirati-themed waterpark boasting over 40 rides, slides, and attractions, including the world's largest surfable sheet wave. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or prefer leisurely activities, Abu Dhabi's diverse water sports scene promises unforgettable experiences for all.
4. Horse Riding
Abu Dhabi’s history and love of horses goes back centuries, with the Bedouins (nomadic Arab people) relying heavily on this loyal and majestic animal. Horse riding can be a stunning way to explore the emirate – with family, friends, colleagues or even on your own. With this in mind, the equestrian-loving UAE capital is home to a variety of indoor and outdoor training areas, from fully floodlit polo fields to world-class stables. Special beach rides and desert hacking are on offer, with beginners and experienced riders who want to polish their skills being able to take riding lessons tailored to meet their individual abilities and needs.
