Wednesday 03 / June / 2026
Abu Dhabi: From sun-drenched beaches to desert adventures and cultural icons, Abu Dhabi is setting the standard for unmissable travel experiences. Inspired by the itinerary of Experience Abu Dhabi’s global brand ambassadors Chris Hemsworth and Elsa Pataky, this Hollywood star-approved guide brings together the Abu Dhabi destinations that made their trip unforgettable – easy to book, effortless to combineand designed to be shared.
Chris Hemsworth commented: “Every time we come back to Abu Dhabi, it surprises us. One day we’re standing beneath the dome at Louvre Abu Dhabi or visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, and the next we’re riding out into the desert or catching waves at Surf Abu Dhabi.
What I love is how easily it all fits together. You can move from culture to adventure in a single day and still carve out proper time as a family. That balance is what keeps drawing us back.”
Elsa Pataky adds: “Abu Dhabi has become somewhere we genuinely love returning to as a family. There’s a real sense of balance here, with space to explore, learn and slow down together. The children can experience everything from museums and beaches to the desert, and each visit feels like a new holiday. It’s rare to find a destination that offers something for every member of the family, while still feeling calm and welcoming. We always leave with new memories.”
Here are the experiences that’ll help you follow in the Hemsworths’ footsteps:
1. Walking through living history at Al Ain Oasis
Step into a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Al Ain Region, where shaded pathways, ancient falaj irrigation systems and thousands of date palms create a calm retreat from the city. It’s an experience that balances culture, nature and quiet discovery, perfect for families looking to slow down and reconnect.
2. Exploring Art Beneath the Dome at Louvre Abu Dhabi
An architectural icon set on the water, Louvre Abu Dhabi invites visitors to explore human creativity across civilisations and centuries. Wander beneath the iconic dome, move between light-filled galleries and experience a museum visit that feels as inspiring as it is immersive.
3. Explore faith and design at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
One of the world’s most beautiful mosques, this landmark offers a powerful introduction to Islamic culture and architecture. Visit during the day to appreciate the intricate details and craftsmanship or at sunset to catch the domes glistening under golden hour.
4. Turn up the adrenaline at Al Ain Adventure
From kayaking through wadis to outdoor activities surrounded by rugged landscapes, Al Ain Adventure brings out a different side to the emirate. It’s the perfect stop for travellers who want to mix nature, movement and fresh air into their itinerary.
5. Learn more about the UAE at Zayed National Museum
A cultural landmark dedicated to the UAE’s history and values, Zayed National Museum offers immersive storytelling through permanent galleries and temporary exhibitions. It provides context and depth for anyone wanting to understand Abu Dhabi beyond the surface, perfect for a family of curious minds.
6. Go off-road with a desert ATV experience
Trade paved roads for rolling dunes with a desert ATV adventure. It’s fast-paced, exhilarating and the perfect family-friendly activity, with options suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike.
7. Ride along the coast on horseback
Take in Abu Dhabi’s natural beauty from a different perspective with a guided horse-riding experience, whether along the beach or through the desert dunes. It’s the perfect way to unplug and spend time in nature.
8. Browse local crafts at Souq Al Qattara
Souq Al Qattara is a small cultural marketplace where visitors can browse locally made items and traditional products. It’s an easy stop to include while exploring Al Ain Region and offers an easy introduction to local crafts and community life.
9. Unwind on Saadiyat Beach
With soft white sand and clear, calm waters, Saadiyat Beach is one of Abu Dhabi’s most popular spots for a beach day. It’s ideal for morning swims, barefoot walks along the shore or simply carving out time to do nothing at all.
10. Dine under the stars in the desert
Desert dining experiences offer a relaxed way to spend an evening outdoors, combining local dishes with open-air settings in the dunes. It’s amust-add to an Abu Dhabi itinerary and a good way to experience the desert after dark.
11. Refuel at local favourites like Zoi Cafe and Nuri
From relaxed cafes to refined dining, Abu Dhabi’s food scene delivers variety without fuss. These local favourites offer easy stops between adventures, whether you are after a casual brunch or a polished evening out.
12. Explore our world at Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi
Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi introduces visitors to the story of life on Earth, from the origins of the universe to the evolution of humans and the natural environment. With large-scale exhibits and interactive displays, it’s perfect for families and curious travellers looking to balance cultural visits with educational experiences.
Inspired by the Hemsworth family’s journey, this itinerary shows how seamlessly Abu Dhabi brings together iconic sights, new experiences and moments designed to be shared. Ready to plan your trip and follow in Chris and Elsa’s footsteps? Head to visitabudhabi.ae/
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) drives the sustainable growth of Abu Dhabi’s culture and tourism sectors and its creative industries, fuelling economic progress and helping to achieve Abu Dhabi’s wider global ambitions.
By working in partnership with the organisations that define the emirate’s position as a leading international destination, DCT Abu Dhabi strives to unite the ecosystem around a shared vision of the emirate’s potential, coordinate effort and investment, deliver innovative solutions, and use the best tools, policies and systems to support the culture and tourism industries.
DCT Abu Dhabi’s vision is defined by the emirate’s people, heritage and landscape. We work to enhance Abu Dhabi’s status as a place of authenticity, innovation, and unparalleled experiences, represented by its living traditions of hospitality, pioneering initiatives and creative thought.
