Best Outdoor Activities in Abu Dhabi | The ADR Guide
Winter is here, and it's the perfect time to get out and explore more of Abu Dhabi. From walking through mangroves and exploring the city's parks to cycling trails, water sports, and family days out - here are our picks of the best outdoor activities in Abu Dhabi.
NATURE | PARKS | ADVENTURE | FAMILY-FRIENDLY
Nature
Jubail Mangrove Park
Trade the city views for a walk through Abu Dhabi's mangroves at Jubail Mangrove Park. A winding boardwalk takes you through the protected mangrove forest, where you can get a closer look at the ecosystem and the wildlife that calls it home. Keep an eye out for flamingos, herons, and other bird species, while the tidal channels are home to fish, crabs, and other marine life.
While you’re there, you can book a ranger-led boardwalk experience, try kayaking, or explore the waterways on an electric dragon boat. Other options include private electric catamaran rides, self-drive boat tours, plus scenic boat trips. Some experiences also run at sunrise and sunset, depending on availability.
Before you leave, you can also pick up a jar of Jubail Mangrove Honey, harvested once a year from the island's native mangroves and sold exclusively at the park.
Where: Jubail Island, Abu Dhabi
Timings: 7:00 am - 9:00 pm
Location here
More info here
Al Ain Oasis
A walk through Al Ain Oasis takes you along shaded paths, past traditional farms, and under rows of date palms. Spread across 1,200 hectares, the oasis is home to more than 147,000 date palms, making it quite a contrast to the surrounding desert landscape. You can spend a few hours exploring the pathways and taking in this historic part of Al Ain.
The oasis is still watered using the traditional falaj irrigation system, with some of its channels dating back around 3,000 years. These channels carry water through the farms and support more than 100 varieties of plants, just as they have for generations.
You can explore on foot, hire a bicycle or hop on an electric buggy to cover more of the oasis. There's also a free Eco-Centre with interactive exhibits about the oasis, its history and ecosystem. If you're there later in the day, the pathways are illuminated in the evening, so you can explore after sunset, too.
We took the 1.5 hour trip and spent the day exploring the oasis. Watch our reel here.
More info here
Jebel Hafit Desert Park
There’s more to Jebel Hafit than the drive up the mountain. At its foot, Jebel Hafit Desert Park has a nine-kilometre stretch of rugged terrain to explore, with options for hiking, mountain biking, horse riding, camel rides, and guided buggy tours. You can also take a closer look at the area's history at the Jebel Hafit Tombs, which date back around 5,000 years.
You can visit for the day or make a night of it with one of the park's camping and glamping options. Bring your own tent, book a Bedouin-style tent or spend the night in an air-conditioned bubble tent, with the mountain landscape all around you.
More info here
Parks
Abu Dhabi Corniche
The Abu Dhabi Corniche is one of those spots you can visit for a bit of fresh air, whether that's a morning walk, an evening cycle or a few hours at the beach. The eight-kilometre stretch has dedicated paths for walkers and cyclists, with landscaped parks, children's play areas and benches dotted along the way. There are also plenty of spots to enjoy views of the sea.
Corniche Beach has separate sections for families and the public, along with facilities such as showers, changing rooms and sun loungers. You'll also pass some of the city's well-known landmarks, including Etihad Towers and the city skyline. If you're heading there around sunset, it's a great place to snap a few pics.
There are bike rental stations along the promenade, with different types of bicycles available, including options for children.
Near Gate 4, you'll also find a free 30-metre reflexology pathway made up of smooth river stones. Walk across the stones barefoot or in socks for a foot massage-like experience, with handrails along the three sections for support.
Location here
Umm Al Emarat Park
Umm Al Emarat Park is a lovely spot for some time outdoors, with landscaped gardens, shaded walkways, and open spaces to explore. You can visit the Animal Barn to see the resident animals, take the kids to the play areas or wander through the Botanical Garden. There's also more happening around the park this winter, with Cinema in the Park screenings every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and The Park Market setting up stalls every Friday and Saturday. You can catch a film on the lawn, browse local businesses or pick up something to eat while you're there.
Where: Umm Al Emarat Park, Abu Dhabi
Timing: 8:00 am to midnight daily
Price: AED 10 entry
Buy your ticket here
More info here
Reem Central Park
Reem Central Park is a great spot to get some fresh air slightly away from the city. The waterfront park has walking paths along the canal, open lawns, and views across the water, along with a sandy stretch by the waterfront. There's plenty to keep you active, with a skatepark, climbing wall, and sports courts, while kids can enjoy the shaded playgrounds and water features. Look out for the public art installations dotted around the grounds, too.
When it's time for a break, there are cafés and restaurants nearby where you can grab a coffee or a bite to eat.
Where: Reem Central Park, Al Reem Island
Timing: 6:00 am to 11:00 pm
Price: Free entry; parking charges apply
Location here
Sheikha Fatima Park
If you're around Al Bateen, Sheikha Fatima Park has a little bit of everything for an outdoor afternoon. There's quite a bit to see and do, from landscaped gardens and walking paths to three zones with activities for different ages. Kids can splash around at the water play area, try the toddler and boulder play areas, or burn off some energy at the multi-use sports space. There's also a skatepark, a dedicated dog area, and fitness facilities.
Once you've had a look around, you can browse the concept shops or stop for a coffee and a bite to eat at one of the cafés or restaurants. While you're there, look out for six murals by local and international artists as part of the park's Art in the Park trail.
Where: Sheikha Fatima Park, Al Bateen
Location here
Timings: 6:00 am to 11:00 pm
Price: Free entry
More info here
Adventure
Al Wathba Cycle Track
If you're up for a long bike ride cycle away from the city, head to Al Wathba Cycle Track. With desert landscapes, water views, and lovely sunsets along the way, there's plenty to take in as you ride. You can start with an 8km loop if you're new to cycling or take on the longer 30km route if you're up for more of a challenge. The track is also illuminated, so you can keep cycling after dark.
Location here
Al Ain Adventure
For something a little more adventurous, Al Ain Adventure has a line-up of activities to try, including white-water rafting, inflatable kayaking, tubing and surfing in its wave pool. You can also take on Aqua Island, try the Splash Quest play zone or spend some time at the Oasis Pool.
If you'd rather explore on land, there's a guided 2.5km hike at the foot of Jebel Hafeet, with views across the mountain landscape. The trail is open to those aged eight and above and is included with both the Adventure Pass and Splash Pass. You can also try 4x4 off-road driving, with an instructor guiding you along rugged trails for an hour.
Where: Al Ain Adventure, Al Ain
Timings: Monday to Friday, 12pm to 6pm; Saturday and Sunday, 10am to 7pm
Price: From AED 65
More info here
Surf Abu Dhabi
You don't need to travel far to catch a wave in Abu Dhabi. Surf Abu Dhabi on Hudayriyat Island has sessions for different skill levels, from first-time surfers learning the basics with a coach to more experienced surfers looking to work on their turns. You can start with the gentle Beach Break or Cocoa Beach waves, move up to the faster Point Break, or take on Kelly's Wave if you're an advanced surfer - designed by Kelly Slater, the pro-surf champion.
Once you're done surfing, head to Nalu Surf Club for a bite to eat. The restaurant serves Latin American and Asian-inspired dishes, with options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You can also spend some time by the pool before calling it a day. If you're after something less casual, Ilios Beach Club next door serves Mediterranean and Japanese-inspired dishes.
More info here
Abu Dhabi Parasail
Get a bird's-eye view of Abu Dhabi's coastline with a parasailing trip along the Corniche. You'll be lifted up to 500 feet above the water, with views stretching across the coast and out towards the horizon. The experience uses a winch system, which means you take off and land directly from the boat rather than from the beach. You can go solo or share the ride, with options for one, two, or three people.
Where: Abu Dhabi Corniche
Price: From AED 300
More info here
Al Forsan International Sports Resort
There's no shortage of activities to try at Al Forsan International Sports Resort in Khalifa City. Get behind the wheel on its 1.2km go-karting circuit, hit the water for wakeboarding at the cable wake park, or book a horse-riding session at the equestrian centre. If you'd rather keep your feet on the ground, you can also try paintball, archery, padel, or get a game of football or basketball going.
The resort also offers off-road driving experiences and a range of other water activities.
Where: Al Forsan International Sports Resort, Khalifa City
Timings: 10:00 am to 11:00 pm
More info here
Family-Friendly
Circuit X, Hudayriyat Island
Take the kids to Circuit X at Marsana on Hudayriyat Island for some water-filled fun at the Splash Park. There's a pirate ship, fountains, water sprays and wet and dry play areas for children aged one to 12. The park also has a pool, shaded spaces and a dedicated party area.
If you're more into wheels than water, the Skate Park is now free to enter. Bring your skateboard, scooter or inline skates and have a go at its three bowls, ledges, handrails, quarter pipes and street-style features. There are areas for different skill levels, so you don't need to be an expert to give it a go. Just remember that safety equipment is mandatory.
Where: Marsana, Hudayriyat Island
More info here
Yas Waterworld
A day at Yas Waterworld means plenty of time in the water, with rides and slides for different ages and thrill levels. Challenge your crew to a race on Al Falaj Race, take on the twists and turns of Mataha Madness, or see who comes up with the best strategy for Water Wars. If you'd rather take a break between rides, hop into a tube and float along the Lazy River. Kids have their own play areas, too, including Marah Fortress, where a giant bucket sends a splash over everyone below.
You'll find plenty of places to grab a bite without leaving the park. Dockside Dining serves pasta and pizza, while Gahwat Nasser has coffee, cookies, and lighter bites. For something cold, stop by Skinny Frozen Treats for frozen lemonade, fresh juices, or ice cream.
More info here
Kayak around Louvre Abu Dhabi
Swap the galleries for a kayak and see Louvre Abu Dhabi from the water. The guided tour takes you around the museum, giving you a closer look at its architecture and the famous dome from out on the water.
You don't need to have kayaked before, as the team will take you through a safety and paddle briefing before you start. Children aged six to 12 can join too, as long as they're with a parent or guardian.
Where: Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island
Price: AED 126
Book your spot here
