Al Qana Waterfront, Abu Dhabi - a body of water with buildings in the background
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Al Qana Waterfront Abu Dhabi

4.7
·9k reviews·Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Al Qana is Abu Dhabi's premier waterfront destination, blending modern architecture with serene canal views, offering dining, entertainment, and the r...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evening hours

Cooler weather, illuminated views

CrowdMedium
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Al Qana Waterfront, Abu Dhabi - a body of water with buildings in the background

Al Qana Waterfront Abu Dhabi

Best Time

Evening hours

Cooler weather, illuminated views

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Al Qana is Abu Dhabi's premier waterfront destination, blending modern architecture with serene canal views, offering dining, entertainment, and the region's largest aquarium.

4.7
(9k reviews)

"A great area with different restaurants and trucks, wide varieties to select among. The view over there breath taking above the bridge."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Enjoy the Evening Ambiance

Al Qana shines at night with its illuminated promenade and stunning views.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Fun at the Aquarium

The National Aquarium is a hit with kids; consider boat rides and fish feeding for extra fun.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The National Aquarium

The National Aquarium

Al Qana

Explore the Middle East's largest aquarium, featuring diverse marine life and immersive exhibits like a rainforest.

InstagramReddit
Waterfront Promenade

Waterfront Promenade

Al Qana

Stroll along the scenic 2.4 km walkway, enjoying stunning marina views and the illuminated promenade at night.

Instagram+1
Diverse Dining Scene

Diverse Dining Scene

Al Qana

Indulge in a wide array of restaurants and cafes, from Japanese cuisine to Emirati flavors, many with waterfront views.

InstagramReddit
Grand Mosque Views

Grand Mosque Views

Al Qana

Enjoy picturesque views of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque from select spots along the waterfront.

InstagramReddit

Planning Your Visit

Evening Strolls & Sunset Views

Al Qana truly comes alive as the sun sets. The illuminated promenade offers breathtaking views, especially of the Grand Mosque. Plan your visit for the cooler evening hours to fully enjoy the waterfront ambiance and dining options. Instagram

Family Fun & Aquatic Adventures

With attractions like The National Aquarium and various play areas, Al Qana is a fantastic family destination. Consider booking aquarium tickets in advance, especially during peak times, to ensure a smooth experience for everyone. Reddit

Best Times

When
Evening hours
Why
Cooler weather, illuminated views
Crowd
Medium
When
Winter months
Why
Pleasant for walking & exploring
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere, dining
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

How to plan a great day in Abu Dhabi, because I honestly don’t know why Dubai gets so much more attention 😝 #abudhabi #uae #emirates #abudhabitiktok
@bykajaa
13.7K likes • 357.2K views

🎯 Enjoy the Evening Ambiance

Al Qana shines at night with its illuminated promenade and stunning views. Instagram+1

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Fun at the Aquarium

The National Aquarium is a hit with kids; consider boat rides and fish feeding for extra fun. Reddit

📍@aura matcha 🍵🌴💕 by @فاطمه جمال X Nasser Eats - Until the 16th of February / Pass by Al Qana, Abu Dhabi and try “Toffee bliss” & “Cloud 83” 🤟🏽🫡🍵 @عبدالله الملا 𓅓
@nasser.jd
9K likes • 197.6K views
In Al Qana, Abu dhabi ⚠️ Michelin Guide BREAKFAST TIME⚠️ @oiiabudhabi One of amazing Breakfast menu with sharing platter perfect for 2-3 people, enjoy the beautiful view of waterfront along with breakfast ⚠️Breakfast priced at AED 98/- with out any drinks #uae #munch_freak #abudhabi #alqana #breakfast #abudhabiblogger #abudhabiretail #influencer #oiiabudhabi #arab #english #englishbreakfast
munch_freak
71 likes • 3.9K views

🚗 Free Underground Parking

Take advantage of the convenient and free underground parking available at Al Qana. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Relaxing Waterfront Walks

Enjoy peaceful strolls along the canal, especially during cooler months. Reddit+1

Discovering the hidden gems of Al Qana in Abu Dhabi—where modern architecture meets serene waterfront views. From stunning walkways to vibrant cafes, every corner has a new adventure waiting. Can’t wait to see what this place has in store! 🌅✨ 🚌 Bus #X5 📍Al Qana, Abu Dhabi #AlQana #AbuDhabiExploration #TravelGoals #Wanderlust #uaeadventures #tararoadrip #abudhabi #minivlog #photography #livingal...
donazefil
822 likes • 117.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Enjoy the Evening Ambiance

Al Qana shines at night with its illuminated promenade and stunning views. Instagram+1

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Fun at the Aquarium

The National Aquarium is a hit with kids; consider boat rides and fish feeding for extra fun. Reddit

🚗 Free Underground Parking

Take advantage of the convenient and free underground parking available at Al Qana. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Relaxing Waterfront Walks

Enjoy peaceful strolls along the canal, especially during cooler months. Reddit+1

🎶 Sound System Note

Some venues might have loud music; be aware if you prefer quieter conversations. Reddit

🚗 Drive-Thru Dining Option

Experience a unique drive-thru dining option for a convenient meal. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(9k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Al Qana is widely praised as a beautiful and relaxing destination with a wide variety of restaurants and activities. Visitors love the breathtaking waterfront views, especially at sunset and night, and the convenience of free parking. While some find the music volume at certain venues a bit high, the overall experience is highly recommended for its modern ambiance and diverse offerings.

"A great area with different restaurants and trucks, wide varieties to select among,
Tried both break by Mara cafe and Ozo Japanese restaurant and space.
The view over there breath taking above the bridge, a great place to gather memories and take some pictures.
While be back again for sure ✨"

روضة القحطاني

"Its very good place to walk around the canal, very calm and relaxing, took a boat ride for 25 aed 20 minutes. Very stunning modern style pedestrian bridge to go on other side. Skh. Zayed mosque view is very amazing."

Ali Raza

"I really loved the National Aquarium! My favorite part was the rainforest, where an ibis was walking around with us. The aquarium is well-maintained and showcases a variety of aquatic and marine species. It was definitely worth spending time there with my kids. The highlight was the boat ride and fish feeding—it was such a fun experience for the whole family. Definitely worth a visit!"

VEENA NAMBYAR

What People Like

Beautiful waterfront views
Diverse dining options
Relaxing atmosphere

What People Dislike

Loud music at venues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Al Qana is easily accessible by car and is located near Al Maqta Bridge. Public transport options like the X5 bus are also available. Instagram Many visitors find it a short drive from popular landmarks like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Instagram

Yes, Al Qana offers free underground parking, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

Yes, the X5 bus route serves Al Qana, making it accessible for those relying on public transportation. Instagram

Al Qana is located just a short drive from the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, making it easy to combine visits. Instagram

You can explore Al Qana by walking along its scenic promenade, enjoying a boat ride, or even via a drive-thru experience. InstagramReddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the Al Qana waterfront area itself is generally free. However, individual attractions like The National Aquarium, cinemas, or specific events will require separate tickets. Instagram

While the promenade and many restaurants are open throughout the day and into the evening, specific attraction hours may vary. It's best to check the individual attraction's schedule. Instagram

Ticket prices for The National Aquarium can vary, but it's a popular family activity. Visitors have mentioned it's worth the cost for the experience. Reddit

Al Qana hosts various events, including musical performances. Sponge Cola has performed there, indicating a vibrant event calendar. TikTok

It is advisable to check the official websites of The National Aquarium and other attractions for online booking options to save time. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Al Qana boasts The National Aquarium, a cinema, an e-sports arena, VR games, and a beautiful waterfront promenade with many dining options. InstagramReddit

Yes, you can enjoy a boat ride along the canal at Al Qana for approximately 25 AED for 20 minutes, offering unique perspectives. Reddit+1

Expect stunning marina views, picturesque walkways, and beautiful sunset vistas, including a sight of the Grand Mosque. InstagramReddit+1

Absolutely! The National Aquarium is a major draw, and there are also play areas for children. Reddit

The 2.4 km scenic and picturesque walkways are perfect for a relaxing stroll, especially in the evening or cooler months. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Al Qana offers a diverse culinary scene, including Japanese (Ozo), Emirati (Earth Restaurant), and international options, with many featuring waterfront views. TikTokInstagramReddit

Yes, places like Oii Abu Dhabi offer Michelin Guide-recommended breakfast menus, including sharing platters with beautiful waterfront views. Instagram

Earth Restaurant is recommended for modern Emirati cuisine, and you can also find traditional flavors in dishes like Mashkeek, Dynamite Fries, and Lgymat. TikTokInstagram

Al Qana has several stylish cafes where you can enjoy drinks and relax, often with pleasant views. Reddit

Yes, Al Qana features a drive-thru dining experience, with Mashkeek being a recommended spot for its local traditional flavors. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The waterfront promenade, especially during sunset and at night when illuminated, offers stunning backdrops. Views of the Grand Mosque are also iconic. InstagramReddit+1

Absolutely, the waterfront location provides beautiful sunset views, making it a prime spot for photographers. Instagram

The modern architecture, the illuminated pedestrian bridge, and the diverse dining venues offer unique visual elements for photography. InstagramReddit

Golden hour for sunset and the evening when the promenade is illuminated are ideal times for capturing the beauty of Al Qana. TikTokInstagram

Photography is generally allowed inside The National Aquarium, allowing you to capture the diverse aquatic life. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Al Qana is a fantastic choice for families. The National Aquarium is a major highlight, offering engaging exhibits and interactive experiences like boat rides and fish feeding that kids adore. Reddit Beyond the aquarium, there are play areas to keep younger ones entertained. The free underground parking and the walkable promenade make it easy to navigate with children. Consider visiting during the day or early evening for a more relaxed experience. Reddit

couples

For a romantic evening, Al Qana offers a beautiful setting. Enjoy a stroll along the illuminated waterfront promenade as the sun sets, with stunning views of the marina and the Grand Mosque. Instagram+1 Many restaurants offer intimate dining experiences with waterfront views, perfect for a special meal. Reddit Consider a boat ride for a unique perspective of the area. Reddit

budget travelers

While Al Qana has upscale dining and attractions, there are ways to enjoy it on a budget. Walking the promenade is free and offers beautiful views. InstagramReddit You can find more affordable cafes and food trucks offering delicious local treats. Reddit The boat ride is relatively inexpensive at around 25 AED for 20 minutes. Reddit Plus, parking is free, saving on transportation costs. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The National Aquarium: A Must-Visit

The National Aquarium is a standout attraction at Al Qana, billed as the Middle East's largest. Visitors rave about its well-maintained exhibits and diverse range of aquatic and marine species. InstagramReddit Families particularly enjoy the immersive experiences, such as the rainforest area where an ibis roams freely, and interactive elements like boat rides and fish feeding. Reddit It's a comprehensive destination for learning about marine life and offers a memorable experience for all ages.

Plan to spend a good portion of your visit here, as there's much to see and do. The aquarium's design aims to be educational and engaging, making it more than just a display of fish. It's an opportunity to connect with the underwater world in a unique setting within Abu Dhabi. Reddit

Dining Delights at Al Qana

Al Qana is a culinary hotspot, offering a wide spectrum of dining experiences to suit every palate. From Michelin Guide-recommended breakfast spots like Oii Abu Dhabi, known for its sharing platters and waterfront views, to diverse international cuisines, there's something for everyone. TikTokInstagram You can savor modern Emirati dishes at Earth Restaurant or explore Japanese flavors at Ozo Japanese restaurant. Reddit

Beyond sit-down meals, Al Qana also offers unique options like a drive-thru dining experience, perfect for a quick and flavorful bite. Instagram Whether you're looking for a casual cafe to enjoy a coffee with a view or a fine dining experience, the waterfront setting enhances the overall enjoyment. Many establishments are praised for their fresh ingredients and delicious offerings, making Al Qana a destination for food lovers. Reddit+1

Evening Enchantment: The Waterfront Promenade

As dusk settles, Al Qana's waterfront promenade transforms into a magical setting. The 2.4-kilometer walkway becomes illuminated, creating a breathtaking ambiance perfect for evening strolls. Instagram+1 Visitors frequently highlight the stunning views, particularly the picturesque sight of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque across the water, which is especially captivating during sunset and into the night. InstagramReddit

This area is ideal for a relaxing evening, whether you're with family, on a date, or simply unwinding with friends. Instagram The modern architecture and the gentle lapping of the canal waters contribute to a serene yet vibrant atmosphere. It's a place where you can gather memories, take memorable photos, and soak in the beauty of Abu Dhabi's waterfront. Reddit

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