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Looking for relaxing things to do in Abu Dhabi? With its plethora of beautiful beaches, tranquil islands and luxurious resorts, there are plenty of ways to unwind
Abu Dhabi is a glistening jewel in the desert. The capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is famous for its soaring skyscrapers and vibrant art scene, and there are plenty of relaxing pastimes to take advantage of, too. When you’re not visiting interesting cultural attractions or trying your hand at adventure sports, you’ll want to chill out. Here are some of the most relaxing things to do in Abu Dhabi.
1. Soak up the sun on spectacular beaches
You don’t have to stray far from the glitzy city centre to reach the beach. Abu Dhabi is right on the Arabian Gulf, so you’ll find long stretches of soft white sand just steps from the skyscrapers and shopping malls. Going to the beach is one of the most relaxing things you can do in Abu Dhabi. You’ll often find a mix of locals and tourists splashing in the crystal clear waters. There are several to choose from, but some of our favourites are:
- Corniche Beach – this city centre beach is super clean and divided into three zones, each with a different vibe. Gates 2 and 3 are shielded by a fence and super safe for families, while Gate 1 is free to enter and ideal if you’re popping by solo or with friends
- Kai Beach – this public beach on Saadiyat Island is famous for its long stretch of pristine white sand. Try your hand at eco-friendly watersports, or simply flop down in a lounger with a tasty mocktail in hand.
- Saadiyat Public Beach – spanning the northern shore of Saadiyat Island, this tranquil stretch of soft, white sand could rival any private beach club. Rent a sun lounger, bring a picnic and swim until sunset (which is when the lifeguard finishes their shift)
- Soul Beach – this stretch of perfectly manicured sand on Saadiyat Island is studded with sunbeds to rent. Hungry? Scan the QR code on your sunbed to order food and drink direct to your spot, using the beach’s WhatsApp service
- Beach at Emirates Palace Hotel – many hotels in Abu Dhabi have their own private beaches, and the one at Emirates Palace Hotel is especially remarkable. It’s like a peaceful oasis, secluded from the crowds with direct access to the nearby marina.
2. Spend a day at Nurai Island
Just 15 minutes from the city centre by boat, Nurai Island is a sunny slice of paradise. As it’s a private island, you need to book a day pass to visit. But it’s well worth it to enjoy one of the most relaxing things to do in Abu Dhabi. The fee includes your boat transfer, as well as access to the club’s swimming pool and white sandy beach. You can also redeem the cost of your pass against food and drink, as well as spa treatments and adventure activities.
Want to stay overnight? Nurai Island Resort is the only hotel here, offering laid-back luxury in its beachfront villas designed with couples in mind. Settle down at the bar for a sundowner drink, or snuggle up for a movie at the outdoor cinema.
3. Visit Al Hudayriyat Island
If you prefer a more active style of relaxation, head to Al Hudayriyat Island. As well as beautiful beaches to lounge on, the island also offers plenty of ways to move your body. Why not rent a bike and enjoy a relaxing pedal around the seafront bike track? It’s well-lit, so you can even enjoy an evening cycle. Otherwise, join a game of beach volleyball, or rent a banana boat and take to the water. Once you’re done, you can kick back in an outdoor café and watch the sun set on Hudayriyat Beach.
4. Play a round of golf
Despite being in the desert, Abu Dhabi has six pay-to-play golf courses. So, if you’re visiting for a week, you can have a different experience almost every day. Play on the edge of the Arabian Gulf at the Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, at a course designed by Gary Player. Or take on Arabia’s only true links course – Yas Links. This rolling coastal course is designed by leading golf course architect Kyle Philips, inspired by seaside courses in Scotland. If you want to keep it casual, stay in the heart of the city with a visit to Abu Dhabi City Golf Club. It’s well-lit so you can play until 9pm, and it also has a two-tiered driving range if you just want to bash some balls.
5. Immerse yourself in nature at Al Ain Oasis
With its shady paths and lush greenery, Al Ain Oasis is one of the most relaxing places to visit in Abu Dhabi. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll among the date palms and fruit trees (banana, mango and fig) of this real-life desert oasis. If you’re lucky, you might even hear the babbling waters of the ancient irrigation system known as falaj. These waterways were developed and installed by the Bedouins around 3,000 years ago – and they still keep the trees and grasslands lush to this day.
6. Enjoy a desert retreat at Telal Resort Al Ain
Wake up among the rolling caramel-coloured dunes of Al Ain at this spectacular desert resort. As you stroll across the sands you’ll come across hoof-prints left by roaming Arabian oryx, reem and domani. There are plenty of ways to relax at this resort, whether you want to splash in the swimming pool or treat yourself to a spa experience. Then, try your hand at desert-based activities like sandboarding, camel riding and falconry.
7. Go glamping at PURA Eco Retreats
Getting back into nature is one of the top travel trends for 2023, and PURA Eco Retreats gives you the chance to do that while relaxing in Abu Dhabi. This adults-only glamping site offers the experience of sleeping under the stars while still having access to world-class dining. Each luxurious dome is equipped with king-size beds, luxury toiletries and private bathrooms. Spend evenings cuddled around the fire pit, and start your morning with yoga on the swimming pool deck – overlooking the lush greenery of the Jubail Mangrove Park. Get even deeper into the mangroves on a kayak, gliding through these remarkable coastal forests.
8. Enjoy retail therapy at The Galleria
With more than 400 stores – and over 100 places to grab a bite – The Galleria is one of the best places for an Abu Dhabi shopping spree. You’ll find a heady mix of high-end brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Burberry as well as high-street names such as Zara, H&M and &Other Stories. Once you’ve stocked up on luxury items at the mall, head to the 21-screen VOX cinema and put your feet up at a showing at the city’s only IMAX screen.
9. Catch the sunset at Café Del Mar
One of the best places to spend a relaxing day in Abu Dhabi is Café Del Mar on Yas Island. This outpost of Ibiza’s most famous beach bar offers all-day passes with access to the swimming pool. The entry fee includes food and drink, perfect for watching the sun set over the Arabian Gulf. Keep it light with ultra-fresh sushi platters, or tap into the bar’s Spanish roots with beautifully curated tapas plates. It wouldn’t be a trip to Abu Dhabi without some Emirati cuisine, and the café’s cold and hot mezze selections certainly tackle those cravings. Sample dishes like stuffed vine leaves, baba ghanoush and lamb sambousak with tzatziki.
10. Spend a relaxing day at Al Qana
This stylish waterfront neighbourhood is the place to see and be seen while relaxing in Abu Dhabi. Pick up some artisan chocolates at Fonce, or stock up on eco-friendly products at Concept Store. Afterwards, treat yourself to an indulgent massage at Pause Spa or a deluxe manicure at Ushi Nail Spa. There’s even a male-only Man Lab Spa, offering treatments ranging from hot stone massage to signature manicures. Afterwards, take a sunset boat ride around the Grand Canal on a traditional abra, which run from 5pm until 1am. Finish your evening with an artisan mocktail with a view, at the Rooftop Garden Lounge.
Get ready to relax in Abu Dhabi
With its luxurious eco-resorts, opulent spas and pristine beaches, Abu Dhabi is the perfect place to get away from it all. Search for flights with Skyscanner and start planning your indulgent break.
Read more
- Curious about the culture of Abu Dhabi? We list our favourite things to see and do in this incredible city
- Find adventure in Abu Dhabi: 10 unforgettable experiences you won’t want to miss
- Self-care travel tips: get your chilled out trip off to a great start with our tips for a relaxing flight.
