Today's Edition
TALAH TURK (ABU DHABI)
Abu Dhabi has once again taken centre stage as a top tourism destination, with the UK’s The Times describing it as the “unassuming Gulf city with more attractions than ever before.” The UAE’s capital is “accomplishing extraordinary things without much bluster or bling,” the publication noted, making it a must-visit for travellers who appreciate quiet luxury and high-quality experiences.
Highlighting Abu Dhabi’s busy annual calendar, the prestigious newspaper said there is always something to do in the destination, no matter the season. With “year-round sun, beaches, and desert trips”, the Emirati capital is effortlessly making its way onto global bucket lists. Its new museums and impressive collection of theme parks encourage both adventure lovers and culture enthusiasts to book their tickets sooner rather than later.
The Times also highlighted the city’s biggest news of the year, which is the opening of its “nation-defining Zayed National Museum,” scheduled to welcome visitors starting December 3. Designed by Norman Foster, “the latest architectural cave of wonders” is crowned with a majestic roof inspired by the tips of a falcon’s wings.
Also on the inauguration list of 2026 is the long-awaited Guggenheim Abu Dhabi.
Emiratis’ sense of identity and beautiful expression of cultural pride were also underscored in the feature, noting how the UAE’s citizens care deeply about their heritage.
Only in Abu Dhabi
It is impossible to curate a must-see itinerary for the emirate without mentioning its mangroves. “Abu Dhabi hasn’t turned its back on the sea,” The Times said, turning the spotlight on the Jubail Mangrove Park, a natural treasure just a 25-minute drive from the downtown area. The park was described as a great spot for a leisurely stroll or a “sunset kayak tour,” where visitors might spot flamingos and turtles.
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is not to be missed. “This cupolaed, polished white marble Moorish, Mogul, and Ottoman vernacular hybrid resembles nothing so much as an impossibly imagined storybook palace.” Sunset was suggested as the perfect time to go.
Finally, it would not be a five-star vacation without a five-star local dining experience, and The Times invited foodies to book a table at Erth, “the first Michelin-starred Emirati restaurant”. Not only is it an excellent recommendation to try the popular machboos, but it is also located inside Qasr Al Hosn, where visitors can do some sightseeing after eating.
A Two-Day Itinerary
For a 48-hour adventure across Abu Dhabi, the newspaper suggested going to the Zayed National Museum on the morning of day one, Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi after lunch, followed by Jubail Mangrove Park before dinner — to have the best of three worlds on a single day.
On the second day, get the excitement going with a visit to teamLab Phenomena, then the Louvre Abu Dhabi after lunch, and end the trip on a serene and spiritual note at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
