Abu Dhabi is filled with incredible places, exciting dining destinations, nature and beautiful views. For 7 years I have called this beautiful city my home, and I can’t express how much I love exploring its charms. Pictures speak louder than words, so I’m delighted to share some of my favourite spots in the city for that perfect Instagram snap!
SHEIKH ZAYED GRAND MOSQUE
Rated as the #1 destination in Abu Dhabi on TripAdvisor, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the 3rd largest mosque in the world, radiating grandeur. It’s beautiful marble infrastructure as well as elegant interiors featuring crystal chandeliers and the world’s largest carpet, make it one of the best sights in the city.
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LOUVRE ABU DHABI
No visit to the Capital is complete, without a visit to the newly opened Louvre Abu Dhabi – especially to admire that stunning dome!
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SAADIYAT ISLAND
Boasting clear blue waters facing the Arabian Sea, Saadiyat Island is one of my favourite places to find peace and tranquility. If you are lucky, you can spot hawksbill turtles and dolphins in their natural habitats 🙂
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EMIRATES PALACE
The most luxurious hotel, is none other than a real palace! I love the glittery posh ambiance in this hotel, and nothing screams luxury more than a 24 karat gold cappuccino, or ice cream for that matter!
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AL SEEF VILLAGE MALL
Abu Dhabi is filled with shopping malls offering everything you can dream of, however I fell in love with the quirky and cute elements at Al Seef Village Mall, like these coloured umbrellas 🙂
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ABU DHABI CORNICHE
One of my favourite places has always been the Corniche, which is spread along 10km of pedestrian paths along the beautiful sea. I have watching countless breathtaking sunsets there.
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AL MARASY – AL BATEEN
How many shades of blue can you count in the picture below? Located in the upcoming Al Marasy district, this gorgeous wharf is a beautiful place to enjoy views, fresh air, and yummy bites.
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UMM AL EMARAT PARK
Abu Dhabi’s largest park, is another one of my favourite places for tranquility – it features a lovely amphitheater, beautiful walking paths and even a petting zoo!
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ART HOUSE CAFE
I discovered this little cafe a few years ago and absolutely love everything about it! Almost every piece of furniture is made out of recycled products where anyone can be fully immersed in creativity and a sense of community.
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EASTERN MANGROVES PROMENADE
One of my favourite places to spend on the weekends is strolling along the promenade and enjoying the beautiful views of the protected mangroves. This beautiful spot also offers water activities like kayaking and eco donut boat rides, as well as a range of restaurants.
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ABRAS AT SHANGRI-LA ABU DHABI
This beautiful canal system is designed to resemble the oasis, and is such a tranquil spot for relaxing, while cruising through the compounds of the gorgeous Shangri La Abu Dhabi and Souk Qaryat Al Beri.
![](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/53a927_b86e1ddf680d4df8a783351114d51362~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_980,h_551,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/53a927_b86e1ddf680d4df8a783351114d51362~mv2.jpg)
Photo credit: Kiwi Collection
YAS MARINA
I have always had a fascination and deep connection with water and Yas Marina provides the perfect backdrop for just that. Not to mention, that incredible salty scent of the sea where all your senses simply give in to relaxation.
![](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/53a927_2c5c0f1b04b24acc83f3714607a5026e~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_980,h_551,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/53a927_2c5c0f1b04b24acc83f3714607a5026e~mv2.jpg)
ABU DHABI DESERT
I always make it a point to visit the desert at least once every year – the tranquility and peace which come with watching the sun set over the dunes is an unmissable sight. Oh – and of course to cuddle camels 🙂
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What are your favourite places in Abu Dhabi?
xo,
Marina
More information:
Art House Cafe: http://www.instagram.com/arthousecafead
Eastern Mangroves Promenade: http://www.easternmangrovespromenade.ae
Yas Marina: http://www.yasmarina.ae
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: http://www.szgmc.gov.ae
Louvre Abu Dhabi: http://www.louvreabudhabi.ae
Al Seef Village Mall: http://www.alseefvillagemall.ae
Emirates Palace: http://www.kempinski.com
Saadiyat Beach: http://www.saadiyat.ae
Abu Dhabi Corniche: http://www.visitabudhabi.ae
Umm Al Emarat Park: http://www.ummalemaratpark.ae
Abu Dhabi Desert: http://www.visitabudhabi.ae
Disclaimer: All views are my own and all photographs are © My Sweet Escapes.
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