Abu Dhabi is the modern, cosmopolitan capital city of the United Arab Emirates.

While offering a unique and lavish holiday, Abu Dhabi promises to leave visitors wanting to come back for more with its action-packed activities and family-friendly attractions. Historical sites of wonder and beauty can be found right across this bustling city, while restorative beaches and secluded spots of nature also await. Culture explodes through the celebration of all who visit and live in this city, mixing the traditional and the modern in food, fashion and art. Here are our top 10 things to do in Abu Dhabi, where one summer isn’t enough.

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1. Embrace Theme Park Thrills

For those who enjoy a youthful pursuit, Abu Dhabi is home to a multitude of theme parks. Conveniently, Yas Island boasts many of the Emirate’s most action-packed attractions, perfect for adrenaline-seeking couples, family days out or fun with friends. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi houses more than 20 record-breaking rides. Feel the wind in your hair on the world’s fastest roller coaster, Formula Rossa, or butterflies in your stomach on the world’s highest loop, featured on the Flying Aces. Warner Bros. World™ appeals to superhero lovers, with its variety of themed sectors and 29 out of this world rides.

2. Enjoy A Cultural Awakening

In such an interesting country, history and culture is all around. For art lovers, Louvre Abu Dhabi is the perfect spot, located on Saadiyat Island. Be inspired by any of the 600 spectacular pieces on display. Stop by the Saadiyat Cultural District for an even more intimate look into culture during some of their community events. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the world’s largest, will render you breathless. Here, unity and diversity is celebrated through its unique architecture. The Al Jahili Fort in Al Ain’s garden city and Qasr Al Muwaiji are also focal points of Abu Dhabi’s history, culture and philosophy.

3. Go Wild At The Water Park

When looking to cool off from Abu Dhabi’s gorgeous weather, Yas Waterworld is the best pick. Water-lovers of all ages will find aquatic fun at the largest waterpark in Abu Dhabi, with more than 40 rapid rides and slides. Splash around or feel the adrenaline of the world’s largest tornado slide with your friends. Plummet 10 storeys from the park’s highest point on Hamlool’s Humps and freefall down the Liwa Loop. Relive a fundamental part of Abu Dhabi’s history by enjoying a pearl diving experience in search of oysters. After all that energy, refuel at any of the park’s snack shacks and diners or with a frozen treat.

4. Be Wowed By Animal Magic

For the animal lovers, Abu Dhabi does not disappoint. The famous Arabian Wildlife Park on Sir Bani Yas Island is home to more than 17,000 free-roaming animals. On their viewing platforms, guests can safely come eye-to-eye with some of the resident giraffes. Stop by Emirates Park Zoo and watch the big cats sprawl in the sun or the elephants playfully squirting themselves with water. Experience the dance of the Greater Flamingos at Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, where there are more than 4,000 in autumn and spring. Encounter marine life face-to-face and watch penguins, dolphins and sea lions play at Seaworld Abu Dhabi, also located on Yas Island.

5. Live The High Life

Reach new heights at CLYMB on Yas Island, the world’s biggest indoor skydiving and climbing experience. You can gear up and brave the monumental climbing walls or flip through different flying positions inside the thrilling fly chamber. Family fun is the main mission for Air Maniax as kids of all ages are welcome. Jump around to your heart’s content with your older children or enjoy toddler time in a special zone where your littles ones can experience the fun in safety. Bounce down the 40 metre Super Slide or engage in a battle of dodgeball at Bounce Abu Dhabi.

6. Hit The Shops

In need of some retail therapy? Abu Dhabi has a great selection of modern and traditional shops to explore. For a variety of stores and an unparalleled luxury experience, The Galleria is the place to go. Yas Mall offers a day out for the whole family, with its shops, kids play areas, cinemas and multiple dining options. Visit the traditional gold souk at the Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre & Gold Centre. While there are many high-end shops on offer, if you persevere you’ll find the hidden gem at the building's centre. If you are looking for something truly special to commemorate your holiday, a piece of gold jewellery would be perfect.

7. Get Active Outdoors

Circuit X on Hudayriat Island offers outdoor thrills for all ages. Shred the slopes at the skatepark and get your heart racing at one of the largest BMX parks in the UAE. Safety is paramount at Circuit X and helmets and appropriate footwear are a requirement on both parks. See the skyline in style at the ropes park, soaring on the 100m zipline. For younger children, the splash park may be more your style. This water park offers pools, fountains and a pirate ship. Kayak through the Jubail Mangrove Park, a stunning seclusion of nature, and spot dolphins and turtles.

8. Find Your Beach Bliss

Sunbathe or swim in the waters surrounding Abu Dhabi at any of the prestigious beaches. Al Bateen Beach overlooks Hudayriat Island and offers 800 metres of waterfront for you to indulge in some R&R alongside locals. Yas Beach is an idyllic spot located on the picturesque white sand of Yas Island. However, there is an entry fee for those not staying at one of the island's hotels. Take a trip to Kai Beach, one of the most desirable spots in the UAE, and spend hours enjoying water sports or having a refreshing drink. Feel safe on the shores of The Corniche, with a lifeguard keeping a watchful eye until sunset.

9. Discover The Delights Of The Desert

Complete your Arabian adventure by taking a trip to the desert. The Jebel Hafit Desert Park is the sight of incredible landscapes in Al Ain. At the base of Abu Dhabi’s tallest peak, visitors can hike or mountain bike across this vast terrain and investigate the rich history of this unique area. Encounter the beauty of the Liwa Oasis on a camel ride in the Rub’ al Khali, or the “Empty Quarter”. Complete the experience by camping under the stars the way a traditional Bedouin did. Uncover the spirit of Arabia by staying at the Qasr Al Sarab resort, an oasis in the centre of the Empty Quarter among the flame-coloured sands.

10. Feast On Authentic Emirati Cuisine

Take your tastebuds on a trip with the delights of Emirati cuisine. The rich flavour of Khuzi, roasted lamb with raisins and nuts, shows why it is the national dish of the UAE. Fish-lovers will be enticed by Al Madrooba, this carefully crafted meal of salted fish, spices and saffron is usually served during times of celebration. Sweet and salty unite in harmony in Balaleet, a common Emirati dish garnished with pistachios and rose syrup. Luqaimat is one of the most popular desserts in the UAE. These sweet, hard-shelled dumplings are often served in cafes and will leave you wanting more.