Abu Dhabi, UAE » Entertainment » Activities

When it comes to entertainment and adventure, Abu Dhabi offers plenty of activities. The scorching heat and suffocating humidity may create some problem during the summer and early autumn months for outdoor activities, however the climate during the rest of the year is cooler and drier. Abu Dhabi has a wide range of indoor and outdoor activities to keep tourists amused throughout the year.

Camel Safari:

This is a popular activity amongst tourists. Lots of tour operators in the city organise Camel safaris. The inland deserts such as the Liwa and Al Ain Oasis offer stunning views, with historical backgrounds and traditional camel rides.


Cycling:

Though cycling is a common mean of transportation for the locals, it has become a favourite leisure activity these days. Abu Dhabi provides many bicycle lanes that go through the skilfully developed public parks, gardens and roads in the city.


Fishing:

Fishing in Abu Dhabi is a unique experience. Catch fishes like the local favourite hammour or the Sailfish, Queen Fish, Shari, Kingfish, Dorado, etc. Though, fishing is not allowed in all areas of the city so it is recommended to be guided by a tour operator. There are many tour operators in the city offering half-day fishing trips to suitable areas, which includes a modern fishing boat, fishing equipment, and an instructor.

Golf:

Abu Dhabi has some excellent golf clubs that feature world-class facilities for players. The challenging PGA championship golf courses are also available for the visitors. The Abu Dhabi Golf Club is the most popular club among the tourists. It includes an 18-hole course and a 9-hole course that appeal to all golfers.


What used to be known as the Abu Dhabi Golf & Equestrian Club is now called the Abu Dhabi City Golf Club. In 2009, the club under went a complete refurbishment with improvements to its famous 9 hole grass course, making it a more thrilling and challenging golfing experience. The Abu Dhabi City Golf Club has not only been upgraded with top of the range facilities, but it is also renowned for being the only club in Abu Dhabi to offer a floodlit course, making it possible for those with busy schedules to even play during the evening, with tee times up to 8.30pm.


Abu Dhabi’s Golf Clubs:

  • Abu Dhabi Golf Club, Umm Al Nar. Tel. 02 558 8990
  • Abu Dhabi City Golf Club, Al Mushrif. Tel. 02 445 9600
  • Al Ghazal Golf Club, near Abu Dhabi Airport. Tel. 02 575 8040
  • Al Dhafra Golf Links, Al Ruwais. Tel. 02 877 1600
  • Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, Saadiyat Island. Tel. 02 558 8990


Ice Skating:

Lots of indoor and outdoor skating rinks with artificial cooling systems can be found in Abu Dhabi.

For example, Zayed Sports City is an ideal centre for all the family. This is located in Al Safarat, which is at the southern end of the island. This is a huge sports complex, complete with an ice rink and a football stadium. The cool ice rink is a good way to get active during those hot summer months without getting extremely hot. The complex also includes a variety of other amenities such as bumper cars and video games.

Tel. 02 444 8458


Powerboat Racing:

This is a popular adventurous sport among tourists and locals. The UIM Formula One Power Boat Race is regularly organised in the city, which promotes water sports activities in the Middle East. The competition is held every year in the month of May and competitors from all around the world come here to show their skills. The Abu Dhabi International Marine Sports Club is the organising body for local and international water sports and jet ski races.

Tel. 02 681 5566

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling:

Scuba diving and snorkeling in the wonderful waters of the Persian Gulf is one of the most stunning and adventurous activities in Abu Dhabi. The all year round warm sea temperature gives the opportunity to watch and study an astonishing variety of fishes, sea mammals and other marine life in the crystal clear water. There is certainly no risk involved in this activity as sea in Abu Dhabi is said to be safe for tranquil snorkeling and scuba diving for all levels.

A popular diving centre in Abu Dhabi is the Sub Aqua Club, Al Meena.

Tel. 02 673 1111

Skiing:

Water and sand skiing is a favourite pass time activity in Abu Dhabi. For sand skiing, the tall sand dunes in Abu Dhabi provide excellent ski slopes and many safari tour operators around the city provide this opportunity. Water Skiing in Abu Dhabi can be just as exciting and unforgettable.

Wadi Bashing:

Add this activity in the list of “things to do” in Abu Dhabi, as Wadi Bashing is an exhilarating sport activity which offers great fun for the tourists out for adventure. Experience the thrill of driving a 4WD at crazy speeds on a dry and rocky riverbed. There are many tour operators in the city offering trips to suitable locations.

Walking:

Walking is the best way to explore the city. Many visitors on tour in Abu Dhabi enjoy walking in the evening as their leisure activity. Walking in Abu Dhabi offers a chance to carefully observe the brilliance of the city's landscapes, and many important attractions are being renovated to make them pedestrian friendly.

The Corniche which runs along the east and west side of the island allows tourists to stroll around in their own time to admire the intriguing greenery and architecture.

Other activities available in Abu Dhabi include:


Rock Climbing


Sky Diving


Mountain Biking