Music of the Spheres- Abu Dhabi

Are you a Coldplay fan? Then, you must be aware of their ongoing Music of the Spheres World Tour. This concert promotes their ninth and tenth studio albums, Music of the Spheres and Moon Music. The rock band will tour many countries and cities, including the renowned Abu Dhabi. UAE‘s capital will see Coldplay performing at the Zayed Sports City Stadium on January 11, 12, and 14. Tickets start at Dhs195 ($53) and go up to Dhs 3,980 ($1083). In addition to attending this exciting concert, why don’t you explore the beautiful Abu Dhabi? Our blog will guide you on the city’s best attractions, restaurants, and hotels.

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Top Things To Do In Abu Dhabi

Many people are often confused about whether Abu Dhabi is a country or a city. It is one of seven emirates that form the United Arab Emirates. This city is known for its iconic architecture, desert beauty, towering skyscrapers, opulent malls, and luxurious hotels. It offers visitors many sightseeing, shopping, dining, and entertainment opportunities. Hence, we present the best things to do in Abu Dhabi down below:

Marvel at the Architectural Grandeur of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

• Address: Al Rawdah – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 9 AM – 10 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

You can never miss the grand Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque while on your Music of the Spheres—Abu Dhabi trip. It is named after the late UAE founder, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. His dream to create a mosque that mirrors the moderation of Islam was the motto behind the foundation of this gigantic cultural landmark. The mosque’s construction began on November 5, 1996, and was completed in 2007. It features 82 domes, 24-carat-gold gilded chandeliers, over 1,000 columns, and the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet. It offers free entry to all Muslim and non-Muslim visitors.

Tour Qasr Al Watan

• Address: Al Ras Al Akhdar – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 10 AM – 5:15 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

Visit Qasr Al Watan, UAE’s presidential palace and a leading tourist attraction. The pristine ‘Palace of the Nation’ provides insight into Emirati governance and culture through its exhibits. Visitors can tour several zones, including A Memory from the Palace, The Great Hall, Presidential Gifts, Spirit of Collaboration, The Presidential Banquet, House of Knowledge, and Qasr Al Watan Library. Likewise, the palace hosts a light show, the Palace in Motion, every 30 minutes after sundown. This 15-minute light and sound show is projected onto the palace’s exterior.

Discover Your Favorite Rides At Warner Bros. World

• Address: Yas Island – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 11 AM – 7 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

Warner Bros. World is one of the world’s largest indoor theme parks spread across 1,650,000 square feet. It features six themed lands with 29+ state-of-the-art exhilarating rides and family-friendly attractions. The Flintstones Bedrock River Adventure features a scenic boat tour of Bedrock, where you will take in prehistoric sights and sounds. Next, the Fast and Furry-ous roller coaster is based on the same-titled Warner Bros. cartoon. Visitors will also enjoy riding The Jetsons Cosmic Orbiter, Marvin the Martian Crater Crashers, and Tom and Jerry: Swiss Cheese Spin.

Find Kid-Friendly Activities At Yas Island

• Address: Yas Island – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates; Google Map
• Things to do: Dining, Riding Roller Coasters, Beach day
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

Yas Island is a family destination featuring tons of kid-friendly attractions. These include amusement parks like Warner Bros. World, Yas Waterworld, and Seaworld Abu Dhabi. Likewise, Yas Beach offers an idyllic gateway to your entire family. It features white sand, crystal clear waters, and natural mangrove surroundings. If you are a Formula 1 fan or fond of racing, head to the state-of-the-art Yas Marina Circuit. It hosts the annual Formula 1® Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and offers driving experiences.

Enjoy Thrilling Rides At Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

• Address: Yas Island – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 12 PM – 8 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

Live the Ferrari feeling at the Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. It is one of the family-friendly attractions in Yas Island and is home to the world’s fastest roller coaster, the world’s tallest space structure ever built, and the highest looping ride. This Ferrari-branded theme park has over 40 record-breaking attractions, including Fiorano GT Challenge, Flying Aces, Mission Ferrari, and the world’s fastest roller coaster, Formula Rossa. Get your adrenaline pumping and experience the feeling of being a Scuderia Ferrari driver here.

Experience Retail Therapy At Yas Mall

• Address: Yas Island – ياس غرب – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 10 AM – 10 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

Since you are already in Yas Island, you might as well visit the Yas Mall. It is the ultimate shopping destination, featuring over 370 international brands. Whether you want to buy clothing, accessories, footwear, cosmetics, home appliances, stationery items, or gifts, this mall is your one-stop destination. It also offers 68 dining options, ranging from fast food chains to cafes and upscale restaurants. Furthermore, the mall houses various entertainment venues, including a cinema, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, and several indoor attractions for kids.

Meet Your Favorite Animals At Emirates Park Zoo

• Address: 12th St – Al Bahyah – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 9 AM – 9 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram
• Ticket Price: AED 52.38 ($14.26)

You can never go wrong with a zoo. Hence, add a trip to Emirates Park Zoo & Resort to your Music of the Spheres – Abu Dhabi itinerary. It offers sanctuary to over 1,500 animals and 200+ diverse species. You can see both herbivores and carnivores animals here, including the African Lion, Amur Tiger, Bengal Tiger, Jaguar, Giraffe, Indian Elephant, Camel, Donkey, Alpaca, Crowned Crane, Golden Eagle, and African Spoonbill. Visitors can enjoy breakfast with giraffes or parrots, lunch with big cats, and dinner with elephants. They can also feed hippos, elephants, and giraffes with the help of an instructor.

Explore The Stunning Abu Dhabi Corniche

• Address: Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates; Google Map
• Top Destinations: Corniche Beach
• Things To Do: Walking, Dining, Biking

Stroll through the picturesque Abu Dhabi Corniche. This 8 km-long iconic road has cycle and pedestrian pathways, kids’ play areas, and many restaurants. You can explore the area on foot or rent a bike and cycle around. Expect a lively atmosphere and stunning views of the skyscrapers and lush landscapes. You can also visit the gorgeous Corniche Beach, an outdoor paradise in the city. This family-friendly beach features white sand and turquoise waters. With manicured gardens in the background and the beautiful waterfront, you can relax and soak in some sun.

Shop Till You Drop At Marina Mall

• Address: Marina Mall Ring Rd – Al Kasir – Al Marina – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 10 AM – 10 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

Abu Dhabi offers many shopping opportunities, including at the Marina Mall. This shopping complex, opened in 2001, has become a leading shopping destination. It houses over 400 retail and service outlets in its 122,000 square meters. These include designer and high-street fashion brands, specialty shops, beauty department stores, electronics stores, and a hypermarket. The mall also houses bank offices, a bowling alley, a cinema, a Mercedes-Benz car showroom, and a children’s entertainment venue. It is only a 3-minute stroll from the Abu Dhabi Corniche.

Learn A Thing Or Two At Abu Dhabi Heritage Village

• Address: Near Marina Mall – Abu Dhabi Theatre Rd, Corniche – Breakwater Rd – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 9 AM – 4 PM
• Entry Fee: Free Entry

Located right next to Marina Mall is Abu Dhabi Heritage Village, or Emirates Heritage Village. This reconstructed traditional village offers a glimpse into the pre-oil Emirates lifestyle. It shows visitors how the UAE was before its 20th-century oil boom. This village features an old-world souk (market), camps, a mosque, and a fort. Visitors can shop for souvenirs, check out artifacts, and watch craftsmen and artisans make pottery and metalwork, blow glass, and weave fabric on a loom.

Enjoy Shopping at Abu Dhabi Mall

• Address: Al Zahiyah – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 10 AM – 10 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

One can never have enough of shopping. Hence, we present another famous shopping destination, the Abu Dhabi Mall. It houses over 200 shops from local to international brands selling clothing, accessories, jewelry, bath and body works, and home appliances. Likewise, the mall’s food court features coffee houses, bakeries, Baskin-Robins, and traditional restaurants. Visitors can also catch the latest releases at VOX Cinemas at Abu Dhabi Mall.

See Art Exhibitions Of Louvre Abu Dhabi

• Address: Saadiyat – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 10 AM – 6:30 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

UAE’s Louvre Abu Dhabi is a renowned art museum worldwide. It was launched in 2007 in collaboration between UAE and France. This museum focuses on ‘universalism’ and showcases artworks from around the globe. It hosts temporary and permanent exhibitions. The latter features 8,000-year-old Ain Ghazal statues, The Tower of Babel, Fibula from Domagnano Treasure, and The Bezique Game. The museum is known for its spectacular architecture, the quality of its temporary exhibitions, and the richness of its permanent collection.

Al Ain Full Day Trip from Abu Dhabi with Lunch

• Duration: 9 hours
• Price: $270~
• Free Cancellation

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If you are on an extended trip, add a few day trips to your Abu Dhabi itinerary. This Al Ain Full Day Trip from Abu Dhabi takes you to the picturesque Al Ain City with a local guide. You will travel through the desert to the UAE’s oasis ‘Garden City.’ You will visit two historical forts and see their preserved architecture. This 9-hour Viator tour takes you to the camel and livestock market, where you will gain insight into the traditional lifestyle and camel race circuit. Finally, you will travel up Jebel Hafeet Mountain for epic city views.

Best Restaurants In Abu Dhabi

You should never travel on an empty stomach, especially in cities like Abu Dhabi, whose culinary scene is as diverse as its population. Here, you can expect to savor authentic Emirati dishes like Harees, Lugaymat, Madrooba, Machboos, Chabab, Regag, and Thareed. This traditional Arabic cuisine also has Persian, Indian, and Mediterranean influences. Visitors will find everything from high-end sushi restaurants to Thai, Indian, Italian, and Korean eateries. Here, we present some of the top restaurants in Abu Dhabi.

Al Mrzab

• Address: Airport Road, behind the National Theatre – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 7 AM – 11 PM
• Social Media: Official Instagram

Explore Abu Dhabi’s culinary scene in its Al Mrzab Traditional Restaurant. This establishment offers an authentic Emirati dining experience, where guests can eat on comfy floor cushions around low tables or at dining tables. It serves authentic Emirati and Kuwaiti dishes like harees, majbous, mutaban, murabyan, and mutabbaq. Chefs prepare each dish using quality ingredients. The result is mouthwatering Emirati and Kuwaiti fare that is flavorful, spicy, and super tasty.

MAZI Abu Dhabi

• Address: Resort – The St. Regis – Al Saadiyat Island – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 12 PM – 3 PM, 7 PM – 11 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

Experience contemporary Greek cuisine with a modern twist at MAZI Abu Dhabi. Mazi, meaning together in Greek, revives the country’s sharing culinary tradition. The chefs take inspiration from tradition and childhood memories and reinterpret them by playing with the ingredients and textures. The result is modernized Greek dishes with an authentic flavor and a modern touch. This establishment caters to gluten-free and vegan dietary requirements.

Em Sherif Sea Café

• Address: Rosewood Hotel – Al Maryah Island – Abu Dhabi Global Market Square – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 12:30 PM – 12 AM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

Are you ready to try delicious Lebanese dishes in Abu Dhabi? Em Sherif Sea Café pays a culinary tribute to the Earth and sea. It creates mouthwatering seafood using the freshest ingredients and Mediterranean flavors. The restaurant has four locations in the Middle East, including Beirut, Manama, Abu Dhabi, and Riyadh. Each one offers an elegant ambiance and well-balanced Lebanese-Mediterranean dishes.

99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant Abu Dhabi

• Address: Four Seasons Hotel, The Galleria Al Maryah Island – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 12 PM – 3:30 PM, 7 PM – 12 AM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

Next, we have one of the best Japanese restaurants in Abu Dhabi. 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant Abu Dhabi is a one Michelin-star establishment serving Haute Japanese cuisine. You can expect high-quality and meticulously prepared Japanese dishes. The menu features Alaskan king crab gunkan, Lobster maki with sake, Toro tuna maki, Anchovy and sardine nigiri, Turbot flambe nigiri, Alaskan black cod au gratin, wild boar gyozas, capumiso soup, Tiger prawn tempura, and roasted suckling pig toban Jan. 99 Sushi Bar also has branches in Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao, Dubai, Marbella, and Rabat.

Punjab Grill

• Address: Punjab Grill The Ritz-Carlton Grand Canal – 3rd St – Al Rawdah – Khor Al Maqta’a – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 12:30 PM – 11:45 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

Regarding flavors, hardly any cuisine can compare to Indian cuisine. Colorful, vibrant, and flavorful dishes will keep you licking your fingers. Punjabi Grill is a top contemporary Indian restaurant with branches worldwide. It serves authentic northwest Indian dishes like Laban fritters, berry salad, Punjabi samosa, Achari Paneer Tikka, Chicken Tikka, Kashmiri Lamb Chop, Butter Chicken, Raan-e-Sikandari, and Mutton Biryani. This restaurant’s curry is out of the world and has been highly mentioned by many food blogs. You should also try Indian desserts like Malai Pista Kulfi, Pann Ki Rasmalai, and a refreshing Indian beverage, Lassi.

Where To Stay In Abu Dhabi?

If you are going to attend the Music of the Spheres—Abu Dhabi concert, you must be concerned about accommodation. This city offers a wide variety of options, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hotels. We have handpicked some of the best options considering all the factors like location, price, and amenities.

Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi

We start our list with the magnificent Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental. It is an architectural masterpiece with gold, silver, and glass mosaic decor. Upon arrival, you will feel like stepping into royalty. This five-star property’s beachfront location offers stunning water views. Its private beach area allows guests to relax in one of the most picturesque spots in Abu Dhabi.

This hotel’s spacious rooms scream splendor and luxury. Each suite is furnished with the highest levels of comfort and features luxurious bedding, marble bathrooms, 24-hour butler service, and modern amenities. Likewise, guests can access the on-site spa, fitness center, two swimming pools, lush gardens, and a kids’ club. The best part of Emirates Palace is its 12 dining outlets. Diners can enjoy the world’s finest cuisines, from Lebanese to Cantonese, American, Italian, and international.

The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi

Enjoy a 5-star stay at the St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi. This resort offers direct access to its private beach on Saadiyat Island. Guests can sunbathe at the beach or enjoy pampering at the on-site spa, which offers curated spa treatments in 12 treatment rooms. They can also rewind in the 25-meter indoor pool or three outdoor pools. The state-of-the-art gym is also at guests’ disposal throughout their stay.

This beachfront hotel offers spacious guestrooms and suites with tasteful amenities. Each room has a Mediterranean-style decor, beds with luxury duvets and pillows, tea/coffee facilities, a TV, and a private bathroom with a double sink, a rain shower, and a free-standing tub. Furthermore, the hotel offers a remarkable dining experience in its six unique restaurants. The renowned MAZI Abu Dhabi is also located here.

The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal

Escape to the luxurious Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal. With the gorgeous Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in the background, this property faces a never-ending sea. It offers a private beach area where guests can relax and sunbathe. Likewise, this hotel has 57 acres of lush, manicured gardens and shimmering pools. Its on-site spa, fitness center, and health club are designed to offer the ultimate comfort and world-class service.

The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi features 504 luxury rooms and suites, 11 Rabdan villas, and 4 plunge pool villas. These accommodations are spread across 10 Venetian-inspired buildings and feature Arabic Luxury and Italian-inspired styles. Moreover, guests can embark on a memorable culinary adventure at the hotel. They will find many options, from al fresco dining to a steakhouse, an Asian restaurant, and a bar.

The Abu Dhabi EDITION

Experience luxury and splendor at The Abu Dhabi EDITION in Downtown Abu Dhabi at the Al Bateen Marina. This 5-star property has everything you want, from spacious accommodation to two swimming pools, conference and meeting facilities, wellness programs, dining spaces, and a three-story nightclub. You can sweat out at the on-site fitness center and enjoy soothing massages and revitalizing body treatments at the spa.

This property features 198 guest rooms and 57 exclusively serviced residences. Each unit is elegantly designed using a sophisticated neutral palette. All rooms have grey oak timber flooring, marble bathrooms, and luxury amenities. Furthermore, the Abu Dhabi EDITION has three signature restaurants: the Oak Room (a steakhouse), MARKET at EDITION (a healthy lifestyle restaurant serving international cuisine), and Library Bar (an intimate space for post-work and post-dinner drinks).

Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island

Next, Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island offers a one-of-a-kind experience. This property’s beautiful location on Luxe Island offers a stunning city skyline and water views. Its 200 rooms and suites face the sparkling waves of the Arabian Gulf. Each accommodation features sophisticated residential-style interiors, a spa-like bathroom, and many modern amenities.

The hotel offers 5-star facilities, including an outdoor swimming pool, a fully equipped fitness center, a terrace, and a spa. The Pearl Spa and Wellness offers healing massages, hydra facials, MarocMaroc Hammam rituals, low-touch therapies, and signature spa treatments. Likewise, the elegant ballrooms and meeting rooms are available for hosting meetings, conferences, corporate functions, celebrations, and private parties. Six on-site restaurants, including 99 Sushi Bar Abu Dhabi, are at guests’ disposal.

Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel And Villas

Make your Music of the Spheres—Abu Dhabi expedition more enjoyable with a luxurious stay at Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas. It is located on a 6-mile stretch of private beach on Saadiyat Island. After checking in, you can lounge around the pristine shores of Saadiyat and work on your tan. You can also refresh and rewind in any of the five swimming pools. Other hotel amenities include a tennis court, a spa, a health club, and padel courts.

This 5-star property features 306 luxuriously appointed guest rooms, suites, and villas. Each unit exudes a residential feel, features many modern amenities, and offers stunning views of the pool, landscaped garden, or the Arabian Sea. Furthermore, five on-site dining outlets offer an exceptional dining experience. From casual al fresco options to elegant fine dining, these restaurants cater to guests’ various preferences.

Conclusion

From the architectural masterpiece Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to the family destination Yas Island, Abu Dhabi has exciting attractions for everyone. Its landscape offers opportunities for different types of desert safaris, while its historic mosques and temples give visitors insight into their Emirati traditions and culture. Likewise, the city’s rich food scene offers a satisfying experience for travelers of all ages. There are also many thrilling and fun experiences for children. The upcoming Music of the Spheres concert is a golden opportunity for those looking forward to traveling to Abu Dhabi.