10 Best Things to Do for Couples in Abu Dhabi

Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental is an ideal destination for an upscale honeymoon or anniversary. Or plan to host your big day in this luxury hotel. Ceremonies can be held in the elegant ballroom or outside among the fountains.

Enjoy private beach access during your stay at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, which is located within its own marina in Abu Dhabi. The spa is another can’t-miss activity if you’re looking to dial up the romance for you and your sweetheart. Try the relaxing Moroccan hammam ritual for a unique cleansing experience that uses steam.

There’s certainly something to love about the ambiance on a dhow dinner cruise. Dhows, traditional wooden boats from northern Africa and the Middle East, offer visitors of Abu Dhabi a chance to explore the Persian Gulf in a historic way.  

While watching the sunset or the twinkling night sky, passengers are paraded around the Abu Dhabi Marina Mall for a glimmering view of the skyline. Expect a multi-course meal or buffet while on board. Dinner offerings will depend on the tour company so make sure you check the menu in advance.

Experience a unique and romantic vacation at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. As the name suggests, this luxury resort is in the desert, along the edge of the Qasr Al Sarab protected area. Guests are blown away by the stunning views that surround the resort. Take in the unparalleled desert landscape while at any of the open-air restaurants, serving traditional Middle Eastern food.

At Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort, you and your partner can make memories trying something new together, like archery, desert yoga, or driving through sand dunes. Staying elsewhere? Day passes are available to give you access to the resort’s endless amenities.

Booking a room at the St. Regis Abu Dhabi can make special occasions sparkle in your memory for years to come. The beach resort has all the amenities you expect in a hotel, from a fitness center and restaurants to a pool. But there’s also so much more, like a world-class spa and award-winning golf course. Kick off your romantic couple’s vacation with a champagne toast in the Crystal Lounge.

The accommodations at St. Regis are also divine. The suites, in particular, include fine art detailing that will make you feel like royalty. And of course, you won’t want to miss spending time on nearby Corniche beach and the warm waters of the Arabian Sea.

At the Jebel Hafeet desert safari, you and your loved one can customize your stay exactly how you want. Choose from 3 safari packages: a basic package for adventurous couples ready to bring their own camping equipment; fully serviced camping in Bedouin tents for couples who would rather kick back, which includes breakfast; or glamping in a fully furnished and air-conditioned tent for couples who want to be pampered.

During the day, explore Abu Dhabi’s tallest mountain, Jebel Hafeet. See the breathtaking sights by bike, horse, or camel. At night you can gaze at the clear skies together and admire the stars in a way you can’t in the city.

With all there is to do on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island, every night can be a date night. From festivals and concerts to spending time together at a floating beach club, it’s a couples’ paradise. Why not check out Ferrari World or Yas Waterworld?

You can visit the leisure island for the day or stay in one of the many hotels and resorts. Many of the hotel properties also offer enticing package deals that will get you admission into theme parks and special events. Looking for less thrill and more chill? You can’t go wrong with a day spent at the beach or the pool on Yas Island.

If Paris is for lovers, then the Louvre Abu Dhabi is the place for couples when visiting the Middle East. Explore the impressive art collection for a romantic date day. Tour guides are also present to help you streamline your visit and catch the highlights.

Take your date even further by attending drawing and painting classes. And don’t miss the chance to learn about the museum’s stunning architecture on a unique kayak tour around the building from its spot on Saadiyat Island.

Take your sweetheart for afternoon tea and view Abu Dhabi from the city’s highest vantage point, Observation Deck at 300. It offers panoramic city views from the 74th floor of the second Etihad Tower in the Conrad Hotel.

Take your time at the 984-ft-high (300-meter-high) lounge, as the sights are worth appreciating. The deck is furnished with chic, modern seating where you can relax with a glass of wine or a cup of tea from the Observation Deck’s famous tea selection. You’ll need reservations, so make sure you book your table at least a day in advance.

For couples who like to stay active, Saadiyat Beach Club has so much to do. You don’t need a membership to get in, as the club offers affordable day passes. At the beach club, you can bond over a game of double padel tennis while making new friends with fellow couples. Alternatively, lounge in a cabana, or swim in the glittering sea or pool.

You may come for the pristine and exclusive beach, but you and your loved one will want to stay for the food. Head to Safina Restaurant on Thursdays for oyster day or La Salle Bistro for fine French dining. End your day with a nightcap at the beach bar.

Set sail off Corniche Beach for a romantic date with your loved one. The serene, scenic beach has some of the best views in Abu Dhabi, especially at sunset. Here you can hold on tight while jet skiing across the warm Persian Gulf waters or rent a boat for a relaxing tour of the marina.

The 5-mile-long (8-km-long) beach itself is well-maintained and peppered with palm trees for shade. Want a break from the sand? Head to one of the beachside cafes or explore further along the paved bike path. Note that there is a small fee to enter Corniche Beach and additional fees for loungers and umbrellas.