We’ve all had those days. You know the ones—endless scrolling, bingeing a series you don’t even like anymore, or holding a mini debate with yourself about whether three iced coffees before lunch is a personality trait or a warning sign.
But here’s the thing: boredom has no place in Abu Dhabi. This city is a playground for thrill-seekers, foodies, culture lovers, and anyone looking for a reason to step away from the couch. Whether you want an adrenaline spike, a creative spark, or just a memory worth bragging about, here are 11 ways to swap your “meh” for “wow.”
1. Ride record-breaking waves at Surf Abu Dhabi
Think your weekend needs a splash of excitement? Surf Abu Dhabi on Hudayriyat Island is basically the Disneyland of surfing—except instead of Mickey Mouse, you get the world’s highest artificial wave. Seriously.
- Why it’s awesome: It holds world records for the longest ride, the largest barrel, and the highest man-made wave.
- Who it’s for: Everyone. Beginners can book a 45-minute lesson (Dhs600) with 12 waves included, while seasoned surfers can carve 24 waves in 90 minutes for Dhs3,500.
- Vibe check: Luxe beach villa meets adrenaline rush.
Where: Surf Abu Dhabi
When: Open daily 7 AM–10 PM
Price: From Dhs350.
2. Get lost in moving art at teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi
If your brain feels like it’s buffering, this is your reset button. At teamLab, art isn’t something you just look at—it moves, glows, and reacts to you.
- Highlights: Touch walls that ripple with light, walk through rooms that respond to sound, and watch patterns form in real-time in exhibits like Spontaneous Order in Chaos.
- Why you’ll love it: Every visit is unique, and it’s part magic show, part science lab, part “OMG I need to post this on Stories.”
Where: teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi
When: Daily 10 AM–7 PM
Price: Dhs150 adults, Dhs50 kids.
3. Fly without an airplane at CLYMB
Ready to yeet gravity out the window? CLYMB is home to the world’s largest indoor skydiving chamber and the region’s tallest indoor climbing wall.
- Why try it: You get the thrill of skydiving without, you know, jumping out of a plane.
- Pro tip: Upgrade to the combo ticket (Dhs315) for double the bragging rights—flying and scaling a massive wall in one day.
Where: CLYMB, Yas Mall, Yas Island
When: Monday- Thursday: 12PM- 9PM, Friday- Saturday: 12PM- 10PM, Sunday: 11AM- 10PM.
Price: From Dhs235.
4. Smash your stress at The Smash Room
Some days require herbal tea. Other days demand that you obliterate a washing machine with a bat.
- What to expect: Helmets on, weapons ready, and absolute destruction. You can smash TVs, printers, glass bottles, and even CPUs.
- Special deal: Their summer package lets four friends destroy 50 glass items, a washing machine, a TV, and more for Dhs1,164.94. That’s basically group therapy with zero awkward feelings.
Where: The Smash Room, Al Rawdah Street W58
When: Monday- Thursday: 12:30PM- 10PM, Friday- Sunday: 12:30PM- 11PM
Price: From Dhs69.
5. Feast like a local foodie
If the weather’s making you hide indoors, lean into it with Abu Dhabi’s culinary scene. From award-winning fine dining to new homegrown gems, the city is basically one giant tasting menu.
- Where to start: Google the Abu Dhabi Restaurant for the best spots.
- Insider tip: Always pick indoor seating in summer—your ice cream shouldn’t melt before dessert arrives.
6. Make a splash at Yas Waterworld
Remember how much fun water parks were as a kid? Turns out, sliding at 40 km/h still works as an instant happiness hack for adults.
- Why it’s iconic: 40+ rides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and a 2025 expansion adding 12 brand-new slides.
- Mood booster: Screaming your way down a slide is the cheapest therapy session you’ll ever have.
Where: Yas Waterworld, Yas Island
When: Daily 10 AM–7 PM
Price: Dhs295 adults, Dhs250 kids.
7. Sail into your yacht life era
Nothing says “main character energy” like sunbathing on a yacht in Abu Dhabi.
- Easy plan: Grab your friends, rent a boat (options range from casual day cruisers to ultra-luxe yachts), and post a Boomerang that says “living my best life.”
- Extra flex: Sunset rides = golden hour photos = instant Instagram clout.
8. Play golf with a view at Yas Links
Think golf is boring? Try playing next to the Arabian Gulf while sea breezes mess up your hair like you’re in a movie.
- Why go: Yas Links is the Middle East’s first true links course and home to the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship.
- Beginner friendly: Check out the 9-hole par 3 for a casual swing, then refuel at Crafty Fox gastropub with unbeatable views.
Where: Yas Links, Yas Island
Price: Dhs440–550.
9. Create pottery at Studio Coe
For a calmer kind of boredom cure, swap swiping for sculpting.
- What you’ll do: Learn wheel-throwing, hand-building, or glazing to create mugs, bowls, or even mini Pokémon.
- Why it’s cool: You leave with a handmade keepsake—and probably some clay on your nose.
Where: Studio Coe, Manarat Al Saadiyat.
Price: From Dhs105.
10. Dine in total darkness at Fresh Basil
This is dinner… with a twist. At Bab Al Qasr, you eat a three-course meal in complete darkness.
- What happens: Night-vision-equipped staff guide you to your table, and suddenly your taste buds are the stars of the show.
- Why try it: Food tastes totally different when your brain isn’t distracted by how pretty it looks on the plate.
Where: Fresh Basil
When: Mon–Sat, 7:45 PM–11 PM
Price: Dhs399.
11. Unleash your inner racer at Yas Marina Circuit
You don’t need an F1 contract to hit the iconic Yas track.
- Your options: Drive an Aston Martin GT4, race a Formula Yas 3000, or cling on as a passenger while a pro takes you on a high-speed spin.
- Next-level detail: Some experiences track your heart rate and even create a 3D avatar of your “driver persona.” Basically, Mario Kart IRL.
Where: Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi
Price: From Dhs950.
Final Word: Abu Dhabi Doesn’t Do Boring
So next time you’re stuck in a scrolling spiral, remember—this city has a boredom cure for every mood. Whether you’re smashing printers, surfing man-made waves, making pottery, or dining in pitch black, Abu Dhabi is ready to turn any “meh” day into a “did that really happen?” story.
