Choose your own adventure in Abu Dhabi

Fringed on one side by dramatic desert dunes and on the other by turquoise sea and golden, soft-sand beaches, Abu Dhabi has countless things to see and do. But the allure of this prosperous, pristine and exceptionally safe city extends far beyond its blissful weather and natural beauty. The capital of the booming United Arab Emirates, its cultural scene is ever expanding, with new, world-class museums mingling with centuries-old traditions, while those in search of an adrenaline rush or seeking to soothe body and soul will find a wealth of experiences, no matter the budget.

So, whether your perfect vacation revolves around culture, adventure or wellness, scroll down to find your tailored itinerary—and our pick of the best spots to stay.

Beyond the borders of the city, Abu Dhabi’s seemingly endless sand dunes don’t just provide incredibly photogenic backdrops for your social feeds. They’re also a playground for “dune-bashing”—zipping up and down towering dunes in hardy 4x4s, sometimes at shriek-inducing speed—alongside sand-skiing and sandboarding, balmy barbecue dinners by flickering firepits, and phenomenal stargazing. All of this can be combined on a desert safari experience.

And there’s plenty more for adrenaline seekers, including high-velocity skydiving—worth it for the spellbinding views of the desert and sea from 13,000 feet. Back on solid ground, wear comfortable shoes to explore the 40-plus attractions at Ferrari World. This Yas Island theme park (one of several, with a Disneyland also planned) includes Formula Rossa, the world’s fastest roller coaster, Instagram-worthy opportunities to drive your own Ferrari, and the region’s first all-electric go-kart circuit.

Stay: Anantara Al Sahel Villa Resort is right beside the spectacular Arabian Wildlife Park on Sir Bani Yas Island.

If your idea of a perfect vacation is all about pampering, you’ll find plenty to tempt you here. Typically found in high-end hotels (where you’ll also be spoiled with decadent dining), Abu Dhabi’s countless spas promise impeccable facilities and cutting-edge treatments. Sweep away your jet lag with a world-class treatment at the glistening, opulent Remede Spa at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi or try one of the locally inspired treatments at Chi, The Spa, the standalone space at Shangri-La, Qaryat Al Beri, from a softening body wrap using ghassoul, a North African mineral clay, up to the blissful, four-hour “Arabian Desert Escape”—the ultimate head-to-toe package. Or, check into the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, where the “Essence of Abu Dhabi” treatment begins with a purifying scrub followed by a reviving massage using gold dust.

It’s easy to feel the rejuvenating power of nature without traveling far, as a tangle of lush mangrove forests sits in the shallow waters that fringe the city. Kayaking tours drift peacefully through these leafy channels, where you might spot flamingos and turtles. Keen to stretch your legs? Head to Yas Island’s world-famous motor-racing track, which moonlights twice weekly as a jogging and cycling circuit, one of the world’s most dramatic workout settings—and entry is free.

Stay: The Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental’s waterfront location—and superb spa—make it a must for wellness fans.

Abu Dhabi’s ambition to become one of the world’s preeminent cultural destinations is clear in the emerging Saadiyat Cultural District, an island precinct with an ever-growing constellation of stellar museums and galleries, not least the spectacular Louvre Abu Dhabi. Alongside key masterpieces loaned by its Paris sibling, this Jean Nouvel-designed landmark reflects the capital’s international character, with artifacts drawn from prehistoric times to the present day. Nearby, the forthcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi’s collection will focus on African and Asian works from the 1960s onwards. Just as impressive will be the Frank Gehry-designed building itself, a colossal, playful jumble of tubes and blocks.

For a similarly astounding encounter with the wonders of Islamic architecture, visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a towering testament to human endeavor featuring gleaming mosaics, jewel-embedded columns, and an intricate, hand-knotted carpet woven by 1,300 artisans. Later, tour the House of Artisans at Qasr Al Hosn, found in the city’s oldest stone building. Here, locals give fascinating demonstrations of the region’s age-old crafts, from decorative and delicate Al Sadu weaving to net making—essential for the Emirate’s fishing industry.

Stay: The refined Rosewood Abu Dhabi, just minutes from Saadiyat Cultural District.