5 Luxurious Things to Do in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi isn't all sand and sun. Here you can splurge in style and enjoy a luxurious getaway. So many extravagant and exciting activities await in the capital of the United Arab Emirates. Add these five luxury experiences to your Abu Dhabi itinerary.
 

1. Visit the Largest Mosque in United Arab Emirates

Located in the heart of Abu Dhabi, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center stands out with its white Sivec marble finish. Sourced from Macedonia, this marble is considered among the purest in the world. It took almost 12 years to build the mosque, which opened to the public in December 2007. It can accommodate over 40,000 worshippers. Its main dome is the largest in the world, towering 85 meters high and spanning 32.8 meters in diameter. Over 1,000 Iranian craftsmen hand-knit the 5,625-square meter carpet in the main prayer hall.

Address: Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street
 

2. Stay in the Emirates Suite at the InterContinental Abu Dhabi

Stay in the Emirates Suite at the InterContinental Abu Dhabi and experience five-star accommodations. Stretch out in a 91-square meter bedroom with panoramic views of both the Arabian Gulf and the city's stunning skyline. When you book this room, you can look forward to complimentary breakfast and exclusive access to the club lounge. You can also choose from several fine dining options at the hotel as well as beach and pool areas where you can hang out and relax.

Address: King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz, Al Saud Street
 

3. Have Afternoon Tea at the Emirates Palace

What makes this afternoon tea experience so fancy is Le Café's signature Palace Cappuccino topped with edible 24-carat gold flakes. The tea set for two also includes a fine tea selection, freshly baked scones, sandwiches, desserts, and optional glasses of champagne for an additional cost. Demand is high, so book your afternoon tea reservation at the Emirates Palace at least a day in advance.

Address: Emirates Palace Abu Dhabi, West Corniche Road
 

4. Drive a Luxury Car on a Real Race Track

Formula 1 fans can have the ride of their dreams at the Yas Marina Circuit. You can choose the Aston Martin GT4, Mercedes-AMG, Jaguar F-type S Coupe, Chevrolet Camaro, or the Formula Yas 3000 for an exhilarating ride. Prices vary depending on the car type.

If you don't know how or don't want to drive, you can still get the same experience as a passenger riding your vehicle of choice with a professional driver. You can also check the schedule of the Grand Prix races at the circuit to watch a live Formula 1 race from the main grandstand.

Address: Yas Marina, Yas Leisure Drive

Want to enjoy your car a bit longer? It's also possible to rent a luxury car in Abu Dhabi to cruise around the city with.
 

5. Experience an Evening Desert Safari

Several companies can arrange a unique safari experience for you in Abu Dhabi. A tour typically includes dune bashing, sand boarding, camel riding, sunset watching, and seeing gazelles and other desert animals up close. You can also experience the thrill of riding a quad bike for an additional cost. Another highlight is a romantic dinner set in a Bedouin tent with live belly dancing. The dinner ends with a relaxing shisha session, making for an authentic desert dining experience.
 

Those are just five of the many luxury experiences you can have in Abu Dhabi. Which one will you try?
 

This post was brought to you in collaboration with IHG.