Around Abu Dhabi

Around Abu Dhabi are places worth taking a car or taxi for half a day: a flamingo reserve, the falcon hospital, a hands-on zoo, a car museum and the wildlife island of Sir Bani Yas. They lie in different directions from the city, so you cannot see them all in one day.

What is where

Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, south-east of the city, is the UAE's first protected wetland, where thousands of greater flamingos gather in winter. It opens seasonally, roughly from October to April, and only on Thursdays and Saturdays. The Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, near the airport, shows how falcons are treated and cared for — one of the most unusual tours in the emirate. Emirates Park Zoo, on the mainland north of the city, is a private hands-on zoo and a good trip with children.

Furthest away are the Emirates National Auto Museum in the desert, about 60 km south (open Wednesday to Monday, closed on Tuesdays), and Sir Bani Yas Island, 250 km west, with its wildlife park; the island is reached by ferry or plane.

How to get there

Public transport barely reaches these places, so a car or taxi is best. Al Wathba, the falcon hospital and the zoo are 30–45 minutes from the centre, the car museum about an hour, and for Sir Bani Yas allow a whole day or an overnight stay on the island.