Relaxing Things to Do in Your Down Time on a Trip to Abu Dhabi

Grab a Bite at Zayed Port Market

Located in Mina Zayed, Zayed Port Market offers visitors and locals a unique blend of traditional culinary experience. At the heart of the market is the bustling Fish Market, where you can haggle with Fisherman for the freshest seafood or enjoy a variety of seafood from Gandofly, including the highly recommended fried calamari and barbecue shrimps. At Al Shader Restaurant and Grill you can savor a selection of seafood dishes, grilled meats, or vegetarian options as you unwind and take in the scenic views of Abu Dhabi, from their terrace. The area also features a range of eateries, from artisanal gelato shops to pizzerias serving homemade specialties. Beyond the food, Zayed Port Market provides a glimpse into the traditional Middle Eastern shopping experience and offers a mix of historical sites, art hubs, and modern amenities.

Stay In and Play at an Online Casino

After a day of exploring Abu Dhabi, stay in and relax, and catch up on your favorite casino games. While online gambling is not permitted within the UAE, many visitors can access the best Arab casino sites. Jamie Wright from Techopedia says these platforms allow you to access their sites using a VPN or cryptocurrency to preserve your anonymity. These sites offer a wide variety of entertaining casino games, including classics like blackjack and poker, allowing you to enjoy the thrill of a casino night in the comfort of your hotel room. It’s a convenient way to unwind and add a touch of excitement to your evening. However, always ensure you are aware of the legalities and risks involved. By taking precautions, you can enjoy a safe and entertaining real money online casino experience that suits your adventurous days in Abu Dhabi.

Soak up the Sun at Corniche Road

Corniche Road is a well-known and iconic road that runs along the northwestern coast of the country, providing endless views of the Arabian Gulf. The 8 km-long promenade features several landscape parks, fountains, and a Blue-Flag certified public beach, the perfect place to soak up the sun. The Corniche offers a variety of relaxing experiences, including cycling along the promenade, watersports, and walking along the dedicated pathways. You can hire a boat to get to the man-made Al Lulu Island to enjoy some quiet time on the beach, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Marina Mall has plenty of relaxing entertainment options, including bowling, an ice rink, and a cineplex. Corniche Road has several poolside cafes, juice bars, and a beachfront ice cream parlor to explore. 

Catch a Movie Under the Stars on Nurai Island

Nurai Island is located off the coast of Abu Dhabi and provides a serene and luxurious getaway with several activities and amenities to suit your preferences and tastes. Nurai Island is home to two outdoor cinemas, the Retro Beach Cinema and the Poolside Cinema. Retro Beach Cinema features classic movies under the stars that include unlimited soft drinks, fruit skewers, and popcorn. The Poolside Cinema offers swim-up movies in the pool, providing guests with the perfect blend of movies in a pool, under the night sky. The resort on Nurai Island hosts regular events, including unlimited pizza and movie nights, as well as taco and hops nights. Whether you enjoy adventure or the relaxation you deserve, the island offers a range of accommodations, including villas, resorts, and a spa to pamper yourself. 

Catch the Sunset at The Observation Deck at 300

The Observation Deck at 300 is on the 74th level in the Etihad Towers’ second tower. It is the highest vantage point of Abu Dhabi, offering uninterrupted and breathtaking views of the city skyline Corniche and Arabian Gulf. Enjoy a coffee and a treat at the cafe and catch the sunset during the golden hour. The cafe is a great place to enjoy the popular high tea service, which includes TWG Tea blends, freshly ground coffees, and sweet and savory treats. In addition to the high tea, guests can indulge in the cafe’s signature mocktails, the Etihad Sparkler, served while taking in the sunset. If you have a fear of heights, there are ample places in Abu Dhabi to catch the sunset. Jebel Hafit Desert Park, located just outside Al Ain is a popular destination for hiking enthusiasts to watch the sun set atop the mountains. The Abu Dhabi Evening Desert Safari tours include watching the sunset from Bedouin camp after a day spent dune bashing.

Spend a Night Stargazing in the Desert

Abu Dhabi has several spaces to enjoy stargazing. The Chill Space is a relaxing camping and glamping destination located in Delma. The camp has various camping and glamping options, allowing you to choose your level of comfort, such as a tent, a dome, or any other accommodation. Chill Space has several amenities and activities to help you relax and recharge. This includes nature walks, wellness-focused offerings, yoga, and stargazing. Al Quaa Milky Way Spot is known for being the darkest place in the UAE, making it the perfect location for overnight stargazing. It is situated approximately an hour outside of Abu Dhabi city and provides camping facilities, perfect to enjoy the night sky. Two hours outside of Abu Dhabi is Jebel Hafit Desert Part which offers higher altitudes and has less light pollution. The park has the Pura Eco Glamping resort and pitches, providing guests with a luxurious way to experience gazing at the stars.