If you are looking for the best place to watch sunset in Abu Dhabi we have some incredible suggestions!
Abu Dhabi is a city with a varying landscape. From the desert dunes to skyscrapers, and beautiful beaches to intricate waterways around the Emirate.
Not to mention tonnes of venues which frame the sunset perfectly. Be it a rooftop bar, outdoor terrace or beach club!
The sunset holds a great deal of significance in the UAE as a Muslim country. Prayers and visits to the mosque are based around sunrise and sunset.
This is particularly pertinent during Ramadan when the Iftar (breaking of the fast) commences. Canons can be heard across the city when the sun sets during Ramadan.
Aside from the cultural significance of sunsets in Abu Dhabi, they are pretty beautiful too! Hues of deep orange, pink and occasionally purple can be seen.
The pink glow in the desert is next level beautiful over the golden sand. Let us take you on a journey to discover the best place to watch sunset in Abu Dhabi.
Sunset In Abu Dhabi
1. Wahat Al Karama
Wahat Al Karama is undoubtedly one of the best places to witness the mesmerising sunset views in Abu Dhabi.
Located near the iconic Grand Mosque, it is a peaceful memorial honouring the Emirati martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the country.
Although the memorial has an impressive design, the view of the mosque at sunset is what makes it truly special.
As the sun begins to set, the sky turns into a beautiful canvas of warm hues of red, orange, and yellow, creating a stunning spectacle.
The combination of the glowing sky and the beautifully lit memorial creates a magical atmosphere.
When visiting the mosque it can take some time to get from the car park through the mosque. Not to mention, it is important to dress in specific clothing.
Wahat Al Karama is very close to its car park and the same restrictions around hair covering do not apply.
Being in the mosque and looking at it from a distance are two totally different experiences. Hence, Wahat Al Karama makes it to the list of the best places to watch sunset in Abu Dhabi.
Location: 3rd St Khor – United Arab Emirates
Opening hours: 9 am to 1045 pm daily
2. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is an obvious contender for the best place to watch sunset in Abu Dhabi.
During Ramadan, parts of the mosque are closed at sunset. It is open throughout Ramadan, even to tourists. However, as the sun sets some special Iftar events take place.
Similarly, in the summer months from June through to September, it may be too hot to enjoy the sunset at the mosque.
However, throughout the rest of the year, it is truly magical, especially when nature turns on its colour show.
The mosque’s intricate architecture creates a mesmerizing place to watch the sunset. Not to mention the white marble domes reflect the vibrant colours, creating a serene atmosphere.
Wander around the mosque and catch the sun lighting up the courtyard before it disappears behind the minarets.
There are many different vantage points be it the gardens or courtyard to enjoy the sunset.
In fact, the main entrance frames the sunset with its beautiful arch and the minarets are perfectly positioned to capture some of the best shots.
Sheikh Zayed Mosque is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Abu Dhabi and must be on every itinerary.
Location: Al Rawdah – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Opening hours: 9 am to 10 pm daily closed on Fridays between 12 pm and 3 pm
3. Al Hudariyat Beach
Al Hudariyat Beach is perfectly positioned facing west for the epic sunset show! There is plenty of promenades to wander as well as a marina area.
The beach itself is one of a few free public beaches in Abu Dhabi and it’s surrounded by unique box park-style restaurants and cafes with cleverly shaded walkways for those warmer evenings.
One of the most unique features of Al Hudariyat Beach is the famous sign in the water. The sign spells out ‘Al Hudariyat’ in large, illuminated letters, creating an epic view against the backdrop of the setting sun.
It’s a popular spot for photography enthusiasts looking to capture the perfect sunset shot. Al Hudariyat is an ideal place to take a boat tour at sunset. There are a few options which depart from the marina area.
Location: Al Hudariyat Island – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
3. The Observation Deck
Located on the 74th floor of one of the tallest buildings in Abu Dhabi, the Observation Deck offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
It is often frequented for afternoon tea which is a lovely activity to watch the sun start to descend in beautiful surroundings with a touch of luxury and indulgence.
The sun disappears beyond the horizon of the Corniche coastline casting a glow along the Arabian gulf.
Other landmarks within the view include Emirates Palace and one of the latest editions to the hotel scene, The Rixos Marina.
Location: Conrad Tower 2, Level 74, Etihad Towers – Corniche W St – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
4. The Corniche
As we know the elevated view of the Corniche is pretty incredible. The Cornish is a 6-kilometre-long stretch of waterfront promenade to wander, cycle or skate along. It’s like the Santa Cruz of the Middle East.
The Corniche curves along the cost. The easterly end is best to see the sunset as it faces more westerly.
As waterfront promenades go, the Corniche has some incredibly manicured trees lining the pathway. There are many benches to relax along the way. At sunset, many families walk the promenade with their kids skating and skipping along.
There are many other attractions along the waterfront aside from the beach itself including places to stop for a coffee or a bite to eat.
The westerly end of the beach curls around into Abu Dhabi Marina where the Rixos dominates the skyline.
West Bay Beach Club is nestled in the corner of the Corniche and is a relaxing fun spot to catch the sunset whilst enjoying sundowners!
Location: Corniche Beach – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
5. Glo Rooftop Bar
Abu Dhabi is not short on incredible rooftop bars, however, Glo at The Rosewood is one of our favourites for a few reasons.
Located on the 4th floor of the hotel, the Glo rooftop bar offers a stunning outdoor venue next to a beautiful infinity pool with views of downtown Abu Dhabi.
The bar is dominated by Avatar-like sculptures creating a unique setting and makes the view even more interesting.
The Rosewood Abu Dhabi is based on Al Maryah Island and is interconnected with Galleria Mall. It’s surrounded by the Arabian Gulf with the city centre on the other side of the waterway.
Glo has a fantastic selection of bar nibbles and sundowners, not to mention comfy outdoor sofas to enjoy the show making it so much more relaxing. They regularly hold a variety of ladies’ nights which are quite popular.
The rooftop bar is an amazing spot to see the fireworks on New Year’s Eve and of course National Day.
Location: Rosewood Abu Dhabi Al Maryah Island – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Opening hours: 12 to 1 am daily and 12 to 2 am on Fridays and Saturdays.
6. Desert Safari Trip
One of the most authentic ways to experience a sunset in Abu Dhabi is by going on a desert safari trip in the evening.
There are several tour operators offering this experience with a variety of packages and options.
The desert safari trip usually starts in the late afternoon when the tour guide collects guests from their respective hotels in a 4×4 vehicle.
Everything is timed around sunset to ensure guests get to see the colour show before settling into camp for the evening.
The journey to the desert takes around 45 minutes along the highway towards Al Ain. The tour guide will go off-road into the desert after the highway journey.
Experience the adrenaline rush of dune bashing before a sunset photo opportunity.
The next stop is the camp where a number of different activities such as camel riding and dune boarding take place.
If you’ve had enough adrenaline after dune bashing, head inside the camp to enjoy some light refreshments and perch in the traditional Beduin living space to watch the sun set completely.
Other low-key activities include henna painting, shisha and of course the Arabic BBQ with lots of traditional food such as tabbouleh, fatoush, kebabs, shawarma, hummus and much more. Make sure to try the kunufa for dessert!
Check out the best desert safari trip for sunset here.
7. The Louvre
The Louvre Abu Dhabi is a spectacular piece of architecture in the Emirate perched on the waters of Saadiyat Island.
It’s the best place to watch sunset in Abu Dhabi for architecture buffs. The entire building plays with the sunlight through its geometric patterned dome-shaped roof.
As the sun passes over during the day, it creates different patterns with rays of light and shadows in the museum.
The sunset can be enjoyed from many different vantage points. Be it walking through the centre of the building and seeing the warm light peek through, or some guests go kayaking through the museum.
Yes, that’s right you can literally kayak through The Louvre. For a more sophisticated and relaxing experience, head to L’Art Lounge in the cooler months to enjoy the views of the sunset over the Arabian Gulf from the open-air terrace.
L’Art has a chill vibe with comfortable seating! Enjoy a variety of sundowners and bar nibbles whilst watching the sky turn from day to night.
The dome-shaped roof partially covers the bar area making it feel like a secret corner of the museum.
Word of note, the Louvre Abu Dhabi is closed on Mondays.
Location: Saadiyat – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Opening times: 10 am to 630 pm Tues to Thurs and extended hours until 8:30 pm Fri to Sun.
8. Jebel Hafeet Mercure Hotel
If you are visiting Al Ain, Jebel Hafeet sunset most certainly has to be on the itinerary. The rocky mountain sits on the border with Oman and is one of the highest peaks in Abu Dhabi.
Mercure Hotel is in a prime position right at the top of the mountain making it a stunning place to enjoy the sunset. Day guests are welcome to visit the restaurants which face out onto the view.
The winding road to the top is not for the faint-hearted. However, it is worth the journey for the view of Al Ain city below as the lights turn on and the sun goes down.
It’s most certainly the best place to watch sunset in Abu Dhabi outside of the main heart of the city.
It’s quite a unique view, there is nothing else quite like it in Abu Dhabi. The hotel is located at an altitude of 1,250 meters above sea level.
One of the restaurants sits quite literally at the edge of the cliff face, giving it some of the best views of the desert and rocky mountainous terrain below.
Despite its precarious position on top of a high mountain, there is plenty of space for kids to enjoy at the Mercure Hotel.
Location: Jabal Hafeet – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
9. Reem Central Park
Reem Central Park is one of the most popular public parks in Abu Dhabi, and it’s a great place to watch the sunset.
Located on Reem Island, the park offers a stunning view of the Al Maryah Island buildings and the nearby Gate Towers on Al Reem Island.
As the sun sets behind the buildings, the contrast between the modern architecture and the natural beauty of the mangroves is interesting to say the least.
The park has a few cafes with outdoor terraces, making it a lovely place to sit back, relax, and enjoy the view with a cup of coffee or a snack.
There are also a number of food trucks serving up everything from burgers to pizzas and ice cream.
Aside from the view, Reem Central Park has a range of activities including kayaking and SUP from the park beach which is another unique way to enjoy the sunset in Abu Dhabi.
The park is ideal for families with a children’s splash park, a huge BMX skate park and a playground!
Location: Al Reem Island – Shams Abu Dhabi – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
10. Eastern Mangroves
The Eastern Mangroves is a stunning natural wonder. Although the promenade faces east, there are a number of boat trips setting off from the marina close to sunset.
In fact, taking a boat trip close to sunset is one of the nicest ways to experience the Eastern Mangroves.
Many of the boat trips take to the open waters before meandering through the mangrove waterways. The buildings along the Corniche, Al Maryah Island and Al Reem can be seen in the distance.
There is plenty of wildlife to see along the way including herons, turtles, crabs and fish. Flamingos can occasionally be seen on the outskirts of the mangroves from around November although recently this has changed based on the climate.
One of the nicest parts of the Eastern Mangroves is a secluded beach. It can be busy on weekends, however, weekdays are a fantastic time to have it all to yourself!
Location: Al Salam Street, Sheikh Zayed Street, Eastern Mangroves – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
11. Jubail Mangroves Walkway
When it comes to having a leisurely walk at sunset, Jubail Mangroves boardwalk ticks a lot of boxes.
The boardwalk meanders above the mangroves with two different routes and it’s a relatively decent walk.
Similar to other areas with mangroves around the Emirate, it’s easy to see lots of marine and bird life along the way.
Not to mention, the lookout towers provide an elevated view of the mangroves and a quiet hideaway from the birds giving ample opportunity to take photos.
Since the trail goes in many different directions, it is amazing the see the sunset from lots of angles in the otherwise vast openness of the mangroves.
If time allows, it is worth planning to do the walk when it is high tide as it makes the mangroves more interesting.
Location: GFVR+FG – Al Jubail Island – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
What time does The Sunset In Abu Dhabi?
The time of sunset in Abu Dhabi varies depending on the time of year. However the longest days and shortest nights occur during the summer months.
During the summer months, from June to August, the sunset time in Abu Dhabi is usually around 7 to 7:30 pm. The latest sunset occurs in late June.
Summer sunsets can be enjoyed from some of the indoor venues including the Observation Deck in Conrad Etihad Towers. Or, maybe, from the comfort of a cooling swimming pool at the West Bay Beach Club!
In autumn, from September to November, the sunset time in Abu Dhabi is usually around 6 to 6:30 pm.
The weather in autumn is generally more comfortable, with lower humidity levels and cooler temperatures. Usually, sunset time is tolerable to be outside for most.
In the winter months, from December through to February, the sunset time in Abu Dhabi is usually around 5:30 to 6 pm.
The weather in winter is usually mild, with cooler temperatures and lower humidity levels. It is an ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities, especially when it comes to enjoying the sunset.
In the spring months, from March through to May, the sunset time in Abu Dhabi is usually around 6 to 7:00 pm. The weather in spring is usually pleasant, with warm temperatures and low humidity levels.
We hope you enjoyed reading this post about the best place to watch sunset in Abu Dhabi. Did you visit any of the spots mentioned at sunset? Leave a comment we love to hear from you.
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