Al Hudayriat island is west of Abu Dhabi, across the 1.3km long suspension Hudayriyat bridge from Al Bateen. The unique and iconic bridge leading you to the island is often called the ‘road to nowhere’ locally.
However, this is most certainly, no longer the case. What was once baron land quickly became an adventure and leisure hub in the city with plenty of activities. Especially in the months, we can spend time outdoors.
There is plenty to discover, from cycling tracks to BMX parks and beachfront promenades. Not to mention Hudayriyat glamping, which is ideal for a staycay and unique for visiting Abu Dhabi tourists.
Like Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hudayriyat Island was once home to Arabian pearl divers. This tradition dates back 7000 years, so it’s no surprise Al Hudayriyat has much history.
Efforts have been made to protect Al Hudayriyat island through its Heritage Trail; more about that in a moment.
These days, Al Hudayriyat is quickly transforming into a lifestyle district with many sporting activities, cafes and restaurants along the shores of the beautiful beach.
Not to mention, some incredible plans will bring even more things to do on Al Hudayriyat Island. Some of these include a velodrome and an extension to the beach.
So without further ado, let’s dive in and discover the best things to do on Al Hudayriyat Island.
Hudayriyat Island Activities
Circuit X High Ropes
Circuit X have many attractions and things to do on Al Hudayriyat Island. First, let’s take a look at the high ropes adventure park!! Note that all Circuit X attractions are in different locations on the island. Each has an entrance fee.
The ropes park on Al Hudayriyat Island is an adventure experience for adults and children alike.
Featuring three levels of difficulty with challenging obstacles against stunning sea views.
It’s important to note there are restrictions on age and weight. The Green Circuit for 7-10-year-olds, the Blue Circuit for 11-14-year-olds, and the Black Circuit for 15-year-olds and above.
Don’t forget to bring closed-toed shoes and wear comfortable clothing for this adventure.
The course features 31 obstacles across three levels, including highlights like a 100-meter zipline, a 50-foot climbing wall with three lanes, and a thrilling 13-meter free fall jump.
One of the best times to visit is just before sunset, when the views along the obstacle course are beautiful at this time of day.
Circuit BMX Park
The BMX Park is in the same area as the high ropes and is another asset of the Circuit X company.
Riders can experience the thrill of freestyle biking on our brand-new BMX Pump Track. Whether you’re pulling off daring 360s or bar spins, the track is varied, welcoming beginners and advanced BMX enthusiasts.
Riders must be at least 7 years old, wear closed-toe shoes, and wear bicycle helmets. An adult must supervise those under 12 years old.
As one of the largest asphalt pump tracks in the UAE, the BMX Park features 15 thrilling track elements designed to challenge.
The track is supervised by trained coaches, ensuring an enjoyable experience for riders of all skill levels.
Circuit X’s BMX Park allows riders to push their limits and showcase their freestyle biking talents in a controlled environment.
With BMX bikes and protective gear available for rent, all you need to bring is your sense of adventure and a willingness to ride the ramps.
Circuit X Skate Park
The Circuit X Skate Park is the ideal hangout spot with its overhead shade, making it accessible for larger proportions of the day.
Whether you’re nailing 360s or perfecting your kick-flips, this hot spot in the city is where you can flaunt those epic tricks and prepare to reign supreme on the skate scene.
Plus, with professional-level coaching, skaters can hone their techniques and take their abilities to new heights.
Children need to be a minimum age of 5 years, mandatory helmet and safety equipment usage, and closed-toe shoes are a must.
With three bowls of varying difficulty, ledges, handrails, quarter pipes, street-style walls, bridges, and a dedicated training area, it’s the best place to skate in the city.
Circuit X Splash Park & Pool
If you are looking for something a little cooler on a warm day, especially with kids, check out the Circuit X Splash Park, which also has a relaxing pool for parents.
Kids can check out the Pirates Playground, run through water fountains on the splash pad, or climb the interesting frame. Don’t forget to bring swimwear.
There are changing rooms onsite and a few benches perched around the edges to keep an eye on the kids.
Those aged 1-3 must have a parent or guardian present. Older children aged 4 and above can enjoy supervised fun independently.
The process of registering the kids is a little lengthy, however all the details get saved to your phone number to make it easier for the next time.
Similarly, all the information can be picked up from your phone number across all the Circuit X outlets.
Hudayriyat Mar Vista Beach
Hudayriyat Beach in Abu Dhabi is a free beach, perfect for a stroll along its promenade, especially on a refreshing evening.
As one of the few free beaches in the city, it offers an ideal spot to catch stunning sunsets, as it is west-facing. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent, ensuring a comfortable day by the sea.
Hire a Boat To Explore The Water
There are a few different options for hiring a boat on Hudayriyat. The offices are close to the harbour where many options can be found.
From electric car boats to peddle swans, the speed boat is more sophisticated, which takes you around the waters of nearby Al Maya Island.
This option comes with a captain, whereas the smaller electric options are taken out independently and are restricted within the boundary of the Al Hudayriat sign, which is perched in the water. It’s one of the most iconic spots on the island.
Aqua Park Marsana
Aqua Park Marsana is a fun experience for adults and kids alike. This inflatable water park off the beach on Al Hudayriyat Island provides fun slides and children-friendly zones.
With provided towels, life jackets, and lifeguards on duty, all you need to do is bring your swimwear. Try to take on the obstacle without falling; good balance is the best skill to have to master Aqua Park Mariana.
Al Hudayriyat Cycling Trail
There are more than six options for cycling trails around the island, some are more difficult than others allowing this with varied ability to join in.
The loops range from 3 km to 10 km, and you can add an overwater bridge to make it more scenic. Many riders arrive with their bike. However, there is a rental shop with all the gear if you want to rent a bike.
There are washrooms, shaded rest areas along the way, and water stations to fill up your bottle.
Savour Delicious Gelato
No trip to Al Hudayriyat Island is complete without visiting the Cento % Gelato van. It’s the perfect snack for kids after the skate or splash park.
The gelato is incredibly tasty and comes in vegan options, it has to be one of the most instagrammable ice-creams in town with the backdrop of the Arabian Gulf and the cute wafer disc for design!
Glamping At Bab Al Nojoum Hudayriyat
Nestled on the picturesque shores of Hudayriyat Island, Bab Al Nojoum Hudayriyat offers a unique glamping experience that seamlessly blends rustic charm with high-end comforts.
Amidst the natural landscapes of Al Nojoum Hudayriyat, guests are treated to lavish tents and villas.
Enjoy guided walks, kayaking adventures, or simply lounging on the beach. Indulge in culinary delights with gourmet dining options and beachside picnics, complemented by exclusive amenities such as spa treatments, infinity pools, and private terraces.
Book a stay at Bab Al Nojoum here.
321 Sports
321 Sports is one of Abu Dhabi’s world-class sporting facilities, spanning over 750,000 sq ft.
Enjoy various thrilling water and land-based activities such as kayaking, paddle-boarding, beach volleyball, and more.
Adjacent to the vibrant sports complex lies the iconic 321 Hub building, a fitness with a gym, functional gym, sauna, plunge pool, yoga studio, bike store, nursery, and cafe. This dynamic hub caters to athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike.
Hudayriyat Heritage Trail
The public Hudayriyat Heritage Trail safeguards significant archaeological finds on the island.
Among these are shell middens, offering insight into the pearl fishermen’s past livelihoods. Discoveries of dugongs and sharks underscore the community’s reliance on marine resources.
This unique archaeological journey intertwines with nature, featuring winding pathways and tidal boardwalks.
As visitors pass through the historical timeline, they encounter contemporary sculptures with views of the Arabian Gulf.
Alongside artefacts like pottery and fishing nets, educational nodes provide insights into the traditional Bedouin lifestyle and their environmental adaptations.
Make The Most of The Al Hudayriyat Restaurants
Hudayriyat Island boasts a culinary scene with a handful of restaurants offering a range of dining experiences to suit every palate.
Adding a unique twist to the dining scene on Hudayriyat Island is the concept of drive-thru food trucks.
Parked along the island’s waterfront promenade, these colourful trucks offer a convenient and casual dining experience, allowing guests to enjoy gourmet street food from their vehicles.
From juicy burgers and crispy fries to artisanal pizzas and indulgent desserts, the drive-thru food trucks showcase diverse culinary delights, making them a popular choice for families, friends, and foodies alike.
The best spot to try is I LOVE BURGERS, a drive-through restaurant offering a selection of gourmet burgers and sides.
Whether you’re looking to grab a quick bite on the go or enjoy a leisurely meal with a view, the drive-thru food trucks on Hudayriyat Island offer a fun and flavourful dining experience that will satisfy any craving.
Alternatively, head to some of the top-rated restaurants and cafes listed here:
Nice Restaurants & Cafes on Al Hudayriyat Island
- Ader Restaurant and Grill: Offers a variety of grilled dishes and traditional Middle Eastern cuisine in a casual dining atmosphere.
- Mashakee & Steak: Specializing in steak and grilled meats with a waterfront setting, it provides a fine dining experience.
- Shrimp Pot: Known for its fresh seafood offerings and seafood platters, providing a relaxed dining experience.
- Rushfit Mahar Abu Dhabi: A seafood restaurant offering a fusion of flavours with a beachfront location, perfect for a casual meal.
- Marmoura Lebanese Restaurant and Lounge: Provides authentic Lebanese cuisine and shisha in a relaxed lounge atmosphere.
- Factory Xpress: Offers a variety of American classics and fast-food favourites with a focus on quality ingredients.
- Kurepu: A dessert shop specializing in artisanal desserts, cakes, and pastries with a cosy ambience.
- Café Mondo: A vibrant restaurant serving international cuisine and speciality coffees in a lively atmosphere.
- La Cocinna: A restaurant serving a fusion of Latin American and Mediterranean cuisine in a relaxed setting.
- 28 Degrees Restaurant at Bab Al Nojoum Hudayriyat: Offers a diverse menu of international dishes with stunning waterfront views.
- Muncheeze: A popular spot for American-style comfort food, including grilled sandwiches and burgers.
- Breath by the beach: Provides a beachside dining experience with a menu featuring light bites and refreshing drinks.
- Momomia cafe: A cosy café serving Indian-inspired dishes and speciality teas and coffees.
- Loyal café: A chic café offering a selection of light meals, salads, and beverages in a trendy setting.
Many of the restaurants are based along Marsana Al Hudayryiat. If you’ve ever been to La Mer in Dubai, it has a similar feel with colourful overhead shades, sculptures, street art and a feel of sustainability with what looks like converted shipping containers come cafe.
It is a unique concept for Abu Dhabi and a super pretty design. Another unique spot is DRVN cafe. It’s no surprise from the name this restaurant has several automobile memorabilia, such as classic cars right inside the restaurant.
Have Dessert At The Cupcake ATM
On Hudayriyat Island
If you are looking for a unique sweet treat you have to experience the Cupcake ATM on Hudayriyat Island. This innovative concept merges convenience with indulgence, offering a selection of freshly baked cupcakes at your fingertips, 24/7.
From classic flavours like vanilla and chocolate to more exotic creations such as red velvet and salted caramel, they are a little naughty but worth it.
Whether you’re strolling along the island’s promenade or enjoying a leisurely day at the beach, the Cupcake ATM is close to Shrimp Pot.
Frequently Asked Questions About Al Hudayriyat Island
Is there entry fee for Hudayriyat Island ?
There is no fee to Al Hudayriyat Island, and there are a number of free attractions including the Heritage Trail and the beach. Equally, a number of the attractions do cost but the island is worth a visit regardless.
What time can you swim at Hudayriyat beach?
The hours to swim are usually 8am until 7pm, however this may differ in season as usually there is not swimming after sunset.
Which bus number goes to Hudayriyat island?
You can take the bus from Hamdan Street to Hudayriyat Island. It’s the line 040 and takes approximately 40 minutes and costs between 9 and 12 AED.
What can we expect next on Al Hudayriyat Island?
The masterplan will expand Abu Dhabi’s coastline by 53.5 kilometers, incorporating 16 kilometers of beaches.
This will enhance Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a premier lifestyle destination, integrating tourism, leisure, sports, and urban accessibility.
Al Hudayriyat Island project will feature various attractions, including Velodrome Abu Dhabi and Surf Abu Dhabi, along with diverse sports, commercial, and leisure facilities. Additionally, it will host the Emirate’s largest urban park and a 220-kilometer network of cycling tracks.