Best 10 Landmarks in Abu Dhabi

Whether you call them landmarks, must-see spots, tourist attractions, or architectural marvels, these iconic sites in Abu Dhabi are definitely worth a visit and should be at the top of any discerning traveler’s itinerary. Abu Dhabi beautifully showcases the fusion of captivating heritage and modern architecture. Visitors are often awestruck by the city's wealth and grandeur, which reflect the UAE’s status as a global hub. So, let’s explore the best 10 landmarks in Abu Dhabi that are truly worth the hype!

The architect Jean Nouvel created this initial universal Arab World museum, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, by taking inspiration from the classic Arabic dome. Its 9,200 square meters of space, which houses more than 600 treasures, flawlessly combines tradition and contemporary innovation. The museum's centerpiece is the recognizable 180-meter, eight-layer star-patterned dome, that lets light in and creates an eye-catching "rain of light" design on the floors as well as walls. Moreover, the museum's audiovisual guide is a good resource if you want to understand more about the architectural idea of the Louvre Abu Dhabi.

Capital Gate is a must-see landmark in Abu Dhabi and offers a stunning backdrop for photography. Often referred to as the “Leaning Tower,” this architectural marvel features a striking slant of silver steel and shimmering glass that cuts across the city’s skyline. Standing at an impressive 160 meters (524.9 feet) tall, it leans at an angle of 18 degrees to the west. In 2010, it was recognized by the Guinness World Records as the world’s furthest-leaning man-made building, showcasing both remarkable engineering and design.

The Sheikh Zayed Bridge, which spans 843 meters and links the metropolis to the mainland, is a well-known landmark in the city of Abu Dhabi. It was built by the great British Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid and features steel arches and a suspended deck that resembles the roaring Gulf waves and the sweeping arcs of sand dunes.  

The Grand Mosque of Sheikh Zayed is the largest mosque in Abu Dhabi and one of the largest in the world. Founded by Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan to celebrate cultural diversity, it is open to all visitors. The mosque features 82 stunning white marble domes designed in a Moroccan style, as well as the largest hand-woven carpet in the world. Inside, you’ll find gold-coated Swarovski chandeliers and a courtyard adorned with one of the largest marble mosaic artworks globally, crafted by Italian artisans. Both its exterior and interior designs showcase a remarkable blend of international artistic collaboration.

Etihad Towers is a stunning five-building complex located near the Abu Dhabi Corniche, representing one of the finest examples of modern architecture in the city’s skyline. Offering breathtaking views of the metropolis and the Arabian Gulf, it serves as a comprehensive destination for living, working, dining, and leisure. For the best panoramic views of the city, be sure to visit the impressive Observation Deck at 300. Staying at the luxurious five-star Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Hotel will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the experience of this architectural gem.

Emirates Palace, one of Abu Dhabi's most iconic landmarks, is designed with a profound appreciation for Arabian traditions. A five-star stay at this luxurious hotel promises to be unforgettable, featuring meticulously maintained grounds that span an impressive 100 acres and a main palace building that stretches over a kilometer in length. Inside, you’ll find 1,002 stunning chandeliers, 394 elegantly appointed rooms and royal suites adorned with mother-of-pearl and crystals, and 114 magnificent domes, all contributing to the unique charm of its interiors.

Travel back in time with a visit to Qasr Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi's most significant historical site. This fort was once the residence of the royal family and is home to the oldest existing building in the region—a watchtower constructed around the 1760s. The recently renovated Qasr Al Hosn features two notable structures: the Inner Fort, originally built in 1795, and the Outer Palace, constructed between 1939 and 1945. Today, it serves as a national monument that not only housed Abu Dhabi’s freshwater well but also overlooked important shipping routes. Qasr Al Hosn narrates the rich history and development of this fascinating city.

Explore the UAE's rich history at the magnificent Qasr Al Watan, a cultural monument and operational presidential palace constructed of limestone along with white granite. With more than five thousand geometric mosaic walls as well as floor patterns, the famous 'Palace of the Nation' features striking exhibitions and distinctive chambers that honor traditional Arabian history and creativity. One of the biggest domes in the entire world and a mirror display by Mattar bin Lahej (an artist from the Emirates) may be seen in its Great Hall. Lastly, visit the Spirit of Collaboration space, which represents the UAE's dedication to equality with its circular design and 350,000 crystal-embellished chandeliers.

And who could forget Al Bahr Towers while making a list of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi? Al Bahr Towers is where its fascinating design will astound both adults and children. Architect Abdulmajid Karanouh along with Aedas Architects took significant inspiration from nature and local culture to design these eco-friendly skyscrapers, resulting in the 29-story circular twin towers, featuring a Mashrabiya-style façade. Controlled by a sophisticated programming system, the honeycomb-pattern panels expand and compress in reaction to the sun's course.

Aldar HQ serves as among the best attractions in Abu Dhabi, notable for being the first-round building in the Arab world. Designed by Marwan Zgheib, founder of MZ Architects, its clamshell shape pays homage to Abu Dhabi's rich maritime history. The building features two massive circular convex walls of glass, connected by a narrow strip of glazing, and rises to a height of 100 meters. Its round form symbolizes coherence, stability, and rationality. The international building organization Emporis has recognized Aldar HQ’s distinctive design as one of the most captivating corporate offices in the world.