10 Best Things to Do in Abu Dhabi Airport While on Transit!
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Must Visit Attractions In Abu Dhabi
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Adventure Experiences In Abu Dhabi
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Places To Visit With Family

Things to Do in Abu Dhabi Airport

Abu Dhabi Airport, also known as Zayed International Airport, is a hub of experiences designed to elevate your journey. Whether you have a few hours or an extended layover, there are plenty of things to do in Abu Dhabi Airport to keep you entertained and relaxed.

Dive into duty-free shopping with a wide range of luxury brands like Mont Blanc and Rolex, offering perfumes, electronics, and more. If you are feeling hungry, choose from casual eateries like McDonald’s or indulge in a gourmet meal at Montreux Jazz Café. For a peaceful break, unwind at the airport lounges, where free Wi-Fi, snacks, and shower facilities create a perfect retreat.

Travellers with extra time can explore world-class attractions just a short drive away. Visit the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a masterpiece of white marble and intricate design. Thrill-seekers can head to Ferrari World for adrenaline-pumping rides, while Yas Waterworld offers family-friendly water adventures. Art enthusiasts will enjoy the Louvre Museum, home to captivating displays of global art.

With so many places to visit near Abu Dhabi Airport, your layover transforms into a memorable experience. From shopping and dining to iconic landmarks, the airport ensures every traveller’s time is well spent.

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Things to do in Abu Dhabi Airport

01

Go for Duty-Free shopping at the Airport

Walking through Abu Dhabi Airport’s duty-free area feels like stepping into a luxury shopping destination. Your layover can turn into a rewarding experience as you explore renowned brands like Rolex, Burberry, and Bulgari, all offering items at duty-free prices. The outlets in Terminals 1 and 3 also feature high-end perfumes, electronics, and designer accessories. You can try your luck with the Big Ticket Raffle, where cash prizes or luxury cars are up for grabs. For gifting or souvenirs, stores like Victoria’s Secret and Bath & Body Works offer excellent options, making shopping here a delightful part of your journey.

Timings: Open 24 hours

Location: Al Matar, Abu Dhabi International Airport, PO Box 20, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

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02

Eat at Cafes of the Airport

Satisfy your cravings at one of the many dining spots, one of the top things to do in Abu Dhabi Airport. From grabbing a quick snack at McDonald’s to trying gourmet meals at Montreux Jazz Café, there is something for everyone. Yumcha Asian Food serves delightful Asian dishes, while O’Learys Sports Bar offers hearty meals with a vibrant atmosphere. For a quick coffee break, head to Starbucks or Costa Coffee. Many cafes, like Urban Food Market, operate 24/7, ensuring you never run out of dining options no matter your schedule. The wide variety of eateries even caters to dietary preferences, from organic options to vegetarian delights.

Timings: Open 24 hours

Location: Al Matar, Abu Dhabi International Airport, PO Box 20, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Also Read: Adventurous Things to Do Abu Dhabi

03

Relax at the Airport Lounge

Finding comfort amidst travel chaos is easy at Abu Dhabi Airport’s premium lounges. Relaxing at Al Dhabi Lounge or Etihad Premium Lounge is among the most refreshing things to do near Abu Dhabi Airport. These lounges provide a serene retreat with luxurious seating, free Wi-Fi, and gourmet snacks. For long layovers, the shower facilities are available, letting you freshen up before your next flight. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, lounges like the Al Reem Lounge ensure an undisturbed experience. Lounges also offer workstations and charging points, making them perfect for both relaxation and productivity.

Timing: Open 24 hours

Location: Terminal 1 & 3 and Arrivals Hall, Al Matar, Abu Dhabi International Airport, PO Box 20, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

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04

Enjoy Free Wifi

When you have nothing to do, you can always find something to do on the internet. And you will be delighted to know that Abu Dhabi Airport complex features free unlimited WiFi facility for all.

Availing of this facility is one of the best things to do in Abu Dhabi Airport to avoid boredom. If you have a lot of idle time at the airport, use the WiFi facility to stream a movie, surf your social media, or post a check-in update on Facebook to let your friends know what you are up to.

All you have to do is follow the 3 simple steps that will connect you to the world of the internet.

Location: Abu Dhabi International Airport, Abu Dhabi.

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05

Pamper Yourself at TOSA Spa

Make the most of your time at Abu Dhabi Airport by letting a team of professionals take care of your wellness and beauty at TOSA Spa. The spa offers a wide selection of holistic treatments that will help your muscles and mind relax.

If you are in a rush, you can enjoy a 30-minute massage treatment. Or, if you have plenty of time to stay immersed in the world of relaxation, full body massages up to 120 minutes are available at TOSA Spa.

Besides, traditional therapies like aromatherapy and hot stone spa are also available here. Availing services at this spa is one of the most soothing things to do in Abu Dhabi Airport.   

Timings: Open 24 Hours

Location: Skypark Plaza, Terminal 3, Abu Dhabi International Airport

Price: Starts from AED 149.

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06

Visit Sephora Pop-Up Store

You will not find better things to do in Abu Dhabi Airport than visiting your favourite Sephora Pop-up Store and pampering yourself with unrivalled cosmetics. The international range of Sephora products is available here at duty-free prices which makes shopping here all the more fun.

From products that you may need to heal your skin to make-up accessories that will help you enhance your beauty by many notches, there is a lot to try and buy.

Location: Abu Dhabi International Airport, Abu Dhabi.

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Things to do near Abu Dhabi Airport

07

Enjoy Thrilling Rides at Ferrari World

A short drive from the airport takes you to Ferrari World, where  Formula Rossa, the world’s fastest roller coaster, is a major attraction. Family-friendly attractions like Junior GT and Tyre Twist ensure fun for all ages. Interactive exhibits celebrate Ferrari’s legacy, letting you delve into the world of motorsports. As one of the most thrilling things to do in Abu Dhabi near airport, the park also features Ferrari-themed souvenirs, ensuring a full day of entertainment. With over 40 record-breaking rides and attractions, Ferrari World offers something exciting for every visitor.

Timings: 11:00 a.m. to 08:00 p.m. (Monday, Thursday, Friday); 10:00 a.m. to 08:00 p.m. (Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday)

Location: Yas Island - YS1 - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates

Click here to Book: Full Day Ferrari World Trip

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08

Visit Sheikh Zayed Mosque

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a majestic masterpiece, is among the most serene places to visit near Abu Dhabi Airport. The mosque is adorned with 82 white marble domes, gold-plated chandeliers, and intricate floral designs. Inside the mosque, you can marvel at the world’s largest Persian carpet and learn about Islamic architecture on guided tours. It accommodates over 40,000 worshippers and welcomes visitors year-round. The reflective pools surrounding the mosque add to its tranquillity, making it not just a place of worship but also a cultural and architectural wonder worth exploring.

Timings: 09:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (Saturday to Thursday); 09:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m./03:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. (Friday)

Location: Al Rawdah - W54 - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates

Also Checkout & Book: A Guided Tour to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

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09

Visit Yas Waterworld

Indulge in some splashy fun at Yas Waterworld and immune yourself from the heat of Abu Dhabi as it is one of the most exciting things to do near Abu Dhabi Airport. Yas Waterworld is an Emirati-themed waterpark in the capital city featuring over 40 rides and attractions for kids as well as adults.

Whether you want to feel your heartbeat go wild as you indulge in whacky activities like Bandit Bomber or you prefer to participate in some light-hearted experiences like sliding down in Al Raha River, Yas Waterworld has something for everyone. The Slithers Slides, Hamlool's Humps, and Rush Rider are some of the most popular activities one must not miss out on.

Timings: 10 am to 10 pm

Location: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

Price: AED 250 per person.

Click here to Book: Trip to Yas Island Water Park

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10

Visit The Louvre Museum

A museum that is famous all over the world not only for what its galleries have on display but also for its exceptionally gorgeous structure surrounded by water, Louvre Museum in Abu Dhabi is an architect’s dream creation.

The exhibits at the museum are dedicated to a chronological and theme-based display of ancient and contemporary artworks from all across the world. The galleries spread across an area of 9,200 sqm, and are divided into permanent and temporary galleries that aim at educating visitors about the evolution of culture and traditions in the region and beyond.

Timings: 10 am to 8 pm

Location: Saadiyat Cultural District, Abu Dhabi

Price: AED 60 per person.

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People Also Ask About Abu Dhabi

  1. What are the best things to Do at Abu Dhabi Airport?

    1. Go on a shopping spree: Owing to its expansive size, Abu Dhabi’s sizable airport is home to a staggering number of stores; the Airport offers over 110 retail outlets and 24 diners to explore. What’s better is that the shopping here is entirely duty free, making it one of the cheapest places to shop at. 

    2. Treat yourself to a massage at Tosa Spa: Apart from its many shopping options, the Abu Dhabi airport also features a fully equipped spa of its own. The Tosa Spa comes with a select range of therapies and massages that promises to unwind you before your long journey onward. 

    3. Go snacking at the cafes: If you’re looking for a quick snack as you wait, the cafes at the Abu Dhabi airport will surely meet your taste. The cafe options here range across a variety of cuisine, where it be Indian or organic western options. 

    4. Relax at the Airport Lounge: If tired and looking for rest, one need only to seek out the premium Lounge at the Abu Dhabi Airport. All equipped with world class facilities and diner services, the lounges at the Airport are a great place to squeeze in a quick rest before one’s journey onward. 

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  2. What are the free things to do near Abu Dhabi Airport?

    1. Visit the Sheikh Zayed Mosque: The biggest spectacle in Abu Dhabi, the golden domes of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque are hard to miss. The architectural marvel is not only the city’s biggest landmark, but also one of the few free attractions here. 

    2. Witness stunning sand formations at Al Wathba: Out in the heart of Al Wathba’s desert dunes, one can witness sweeping layers of sand tossing on each other and merging into stunning sculptures.  The dunes serve as a great visit for photographers, and are best experienced during sunrise and sunset. 

    3. Take a walk along the Corniche: Abu Dhabi’s famed seaside promenade, the Corniche can be a great place for casual and romantic strolls alike. The Corniche is well known for its dramatic Gulf views; it features several cycling and walking trails as well. 

    4. Explore the art at Warehouse 421: Nestled at the heart of Mina Zayed, this repurposed warehouse now serves as a home to the local artists of Abu Dhabi. Warehouse 421 features exhibitions, events, workshops and film screenings from time to time, and is completely free for visitors.

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