Weird & Unusual Attractions in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

1. The Whale of Musaffah

A giant whale-shaped building used as an art gallery, showcasing local and international artists.

Artistic Hub: Serves as a platform for emerging and established artists to display their works.
Unique Architecture: Designed to resemble a whale, creating an eye-catching landmark in the city.
Cultural Exchange: Promotes cultural exchange by showcasing diverse art forms and ideas.

A museum on Saadiyat Island featuring a stunning dome that resembles the Arabic 'open book'.

Global Art Collection: Houses works from various civilizations and artists, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
Architectural Marvel: Its unique dome design allows sunlight to filter through, creating a magical, ethereal experience.
Cultural Dialogue: Fosters cultural dialogue by showcasing artworks from diverse regions and eras.

A bustling market along Abu Dhabi's corniche where you can buy camels and other livestock.

Traditional Experience: Offers a unique, traditional experience that showcases the Emirati way of life.
Livestock Trading: A chance to witness camel and livestock trading firsthand.
Local Culture Immersion: Provides an opportunity to interact with local traders and learn about their customs.

An annual cultural festival held at the historic Qasr Al Hosn Fort celebrating Emirati heritage and arts.

Heritage Preservation: Helps preserve and promote the rich Emirati culture and history.
Artistic Showcase: Offers a platform for local artists to showcase their talents in various art forms.
Cultural Exchange: Promotes cultural exchange by inviting international artists and performers.

A traditional Emirati village showcasing the region's architecture, craftsmanship, and way of life.

Cultural Immersion: Allows visitors to immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of Abu Dhabi.
Architectural Preservation: Preserves traditional Emirati architecture, providing insight into the region's building practices.
Artisanal Workshops: Offers workshops and demonstrations of traditional craftsmanship techniques.

A luxury hotel on Saadiyat Island featuring a stunning sun-shaped design.

Architectural Marvel: Its unique sun-shaped design makes it an iconic landmark in Abu Dhabi's skyline.
Luxury Accommodation: Offers high-end, luxury accommodation with world-class amenities.
Sustainable Practices: Incorporates sustainable practices and eco-friendly features into its design.

A hospital dedicated to the treatment and care of falcons in Abu Dhabi.

Falcon Conservation: Promotes the conservation and well-being of falcons, a symbol of Arabian culture.
Medical Innovations: Utilizes cutting-edge medical technologies to treat and care for injured or sick falcons.
Educational Opportunities: Offers educational programs about falconry, its history, and cultural significance.

A botanical garden in the heart of the desert showcasing rare plants from around the world.

Botanical Diversity: Showcases a vast variety of plant species from different regions, making it a must-visit for botany enthusiasts.
Desert Oasis: Provides a peaceful oasis in the desert, offering visitors a serene retreat.
Climate Control: Maintains optimal temperatures and humidity levels for the well-being of its plants.

A museum dedicated to the history and culture of camel racing in the United Arab Emirates.

Historical Preservation: Helps preserve the rich history of camel racing in the region.
Racing Traditions: Showcases the traditions, techniques, and rituals associated with camel racing.
Camel Racing Artifacts: Displays various artifacts related to camel racing, including saddles, whips, and training tools.

A museum showcasing the private collection of Sheikh Hamad bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, including over 200 classic and vintage vehicles.

Automobile History: Offers insight into the evolution of automobiles through its vast collection.
Sheikh's Collection: Showcases the personal collection of Sheikh Hamad bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, a renowned car enthusiast.
Unique Vehicles: Includes unique and rare vehicles, such as amphibious cars and armored vehicles.

A large zoo in Al Ain featuring a wide range of animals from various regions.

Animal Conservation: Promotes the conservation and protection of various species.
Wide Range of Animals: Showcases a diverse range of animals, including endangered species.
Educational Programs: Offers educational programs about wildlife and conservation efforts.

A protected area in the desert showcasing various plant and animal species adapted to survive in extreme conditions.

Desert Wildlife: Offers opportunities to observe various desert-adapted animals, such as sand foxes and Arabian oryx.
Natural Beauty: Showcases the stunning natural beauty of the desert landscapes.
Conservation Efforts: Supports conservation efforts to protect and preserve the delicate desert ecosystem.

A museum showcasing the history and culture of the United Arab Emirates through various artifacts and documents.

Historical Preservation: Helps preserve the rich history and cultural heritage of the United Arab Emirates.
Documentary Collection: Houses a vast collection of documents, photographs, and artifacts related to the UAE's history.
Educational Opportunities: Offers educational programs about the UAE's history, culture, and traditions.

A historical fort in Dubai that houses the Dubai Museum, showcasing the history of the Emirate.

Historical Preservation: Helps preserve and promote the rich history of Dubai.
Dubai Museum Experience: Offers visitors a chance to explore the history of Dubai through various exhibits.
Architectural Significance: Showcases traditional Emirati architecture and design elements.

An observation deck on the 74th floor of the Etihad Towers offering panoramic views of Abu Dhabi.

Panoramic Views: Offers stunning, unobstructed views of Abu Dhabi's skyline and beyond.
Unique Architecture: Allows visitors to appreciate the unique architecture of the Etihad Towers from a bird's-eye view.
Evening Light Show: Features an evening light show that illuminates the towers and surrounding area in beautiful colors.