Get ready, pack those outing bags
abu dhabi — The weather in the UAE has finally started to cool down, which means residents can now enjoy some of the best outdoor spots and activities in the country, including some recently discovered hidden gems. Here are the top 10 outdoor areas in Abu Dhabi:
Sir Bani Yas Island / Arabian Wildlife Park
The incredible wildlife of the UAE can be admired by residents and tourists visiting Sir Bani Yas Island.
Home to both indigenous and endangered animals that roam freely, the stunning Arabian Wildlife Park sheds light on the UAE’s tireless and extraordinary effort in helping preserve and protect wildlife, through its years of conservation and re-vegetation.
Activities on the stunning open environment include horseback, bicycling and scuba diving.
More than 13,000 animals can be spotted in the park, including cheetahs, giraffes, Golden Jackals, hyenas, gazelles, deers, geckos, the endangered Arabian Oryx, dolphins, sharks, sea turtles, as well as the only breeding turtle in the region — the Hawksbill Turtle.
Mangroves National Park
For those who love nature and animals, the Mangroves National Park is the place to be. Set within the mangrove forest, the area is a haven for outdoor lovers and for those who are in harmony with nature.
The tour around the stunning park will also give a glimpse of hundreds of birds, fish and other species, including the Greater Flamingo, the Western Reef Heron and the Mottled Crab.
Umm Al Emarat Park
The stunning, one-of-a-kind park is a continuation of the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who was known for his incredible efforts in helping preserve the nature and protection of wild life in the UAE.
The park, which is set on 14.5 hectares of tranquil landscape and luscious gardens, features attractions and facilities for families to enjoy during the cooler months.
Families can enjoy the outdoor areas in the animal barn and the children’s garden, which has comfy beanbags to relax in, especially during the weekly movie screenings. The park has even won the Green Flag Award for its sustainability, cleanliness, community involvement, safety, heritage and conservation.
Al Maryah Island
Al Maryah Island hosts some of the most exceptional luxury boutiques and dining experiences in the Capital, including Rosewood Abu Dhabi and the modern Four Seasons Abu Dhabi — both featuring spectacular outdoor areas to enjoy during the cooler season.
The waterfront promenade on the Island, which has outdoor restaurants on one side and water views on the other, is also a favourite for residents living near by.
The Island also hosts key events, including New Year’s Eve, National Day celebrations, Winter Wonderland and Chinese New Year.
Saadiyat Beach Club
One of the most happening spots in Abu Dhabi right now is Saadiyat Beach Club. The place located on Saadiyat Island, which literally means ‘Happy Island’, would certainly make anyone’s day.
The monthly Cachée pool parties are something to look out for — with live entertainment, music presented by renowned DJs and some jaw-dropping performances.
The blue and white indoor and outdoor themes, vast cabanas, gigantic infinity pool, incredible selection of restaurants and music surround system — which all flow with the luscious scenery, pearly white sand and eternal waters of the natural sea of Saadiyat — simply makes this place unforgettable.
Yas Marina
One of the most popular spots in the Capital, Yas Marina, is a place of delight for residents and tourists, particularly during the cooler days.
The area not only includes water sports and top restaurants and lounges — including Cipriani and Iris — but also walking grounds that provide water views, which are often packed with yachts.
Al Raha
The beautiful area of Al Raha Beach, which is minutes away from Yas Island and Saadiyat Island, includes a community of residential areas and numerous hotels and outdoor activities.
Each corner of Al Raha provides mesmerising views across the waters. It includes beach communities such as Al Bandar, which has a waterfront plaza, Al Muneera beachfront cafes and gardens, as well as Al Zeina, which has a wide selection of indoor and outdoor restaurants, including Dolmabahce — an unforgettable Turkish dining experience.
Asia de Cuba
The name sums up this unique place. Asia de Cuba incorporates a unique culinary fusion of Asian and Latin flavours, both in the menu and the theme of the lounge restaurant.
Located on the Corniche, the large outdoor area includes inviting cabanas to relax and unwind in, while watching the incredible views of the Arabian Gulf.
Yas Beach
Located on the sands of Yas Island, are some of the top residential favourites that includes a beach and swimming area for adults and children, popular eateries and Yas Beach Club. The popular beach club features an open-air DJ booth, cabanas, a restaurant and an infinity pool. Yas Beach is also a perfect place for water sports lovers with a wide selection of sailing, windsurfing, paddle boarding, kayaking and set skis.
Emirates Palace
Perhaps one of the most recognised and iconic tourist attractions of Abu Dhabi, Emirates Palace hosts some fantastic outdoor entertainment and relaxing spots to enjoy during the cooler weather.
The magnificent design of the pools, which features two slides and a spectacular waterfall, are some of the best in the UAE Capital.
Emirates Palace also has a range of dining selections, including Arabic, Asian and Italian. Mezlai Emirati Restaurant, which has beautiful outdoor cabanas, is a must-try for those looking for a dining experience that is steeped deep in the unique heritage and culture of the UAE.