Tour operator
Big Bus Tours Abu Dhabi
Open-top hop-on hop-off sightseeing buses linking 14 stops from Abu Dhabi Mall to Qasr Al Hosn, with a separate shuttle to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
Seawings Abu Dhabi
Scenic seaplane flights from the water at Yas Marina, with a 30-minute Abu Dhabi Classic Tour over Emirates Palace, Ferrari World and the mangroves.
At a glance
- Type
- Seaplane sightseeing flights
- Area
- Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Good to know
- Nine-seat amphibious seaplane
- Take-off and landing on water
- Private charters
Why we recommend it
Seawings offers one of the most memorable ways to see Abu Dhabi: from a seaplane that takes off and lands on the water at Yas Marina. The Visit Abu Dhabi tourism board describes it as the only seaplane tour operator in the Arabian Gulf, and its flights give a clear sense of how the capital is spread across an archipelago of islands, creeks and mangroves.
The signature flight from Abu Dhabi is the Seawings Abu Dhabi Classic Tour, a scenic flight of about 30 minutes over some of the city's best-known sights. Highlights include Emirates Palace on the Corniche, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi on Yas Island and the green expanses of the mangroves, along with the islands and the coastline in between. Private charters are also available for special occasions or for groups who want a tailored route.
The aircraft is a nine-seat Cessna 208 amphibious seaplane, so flights feel personal. The take-off from the water is part of the thrill, and the relatively low altitude of a sightseeing flight means you see far more detail than from a commercial plane. Photographers should sit on the side recommended by the crew for the route, and keep camera straps secure.
The flight suits couples, families with older children, photographers and anyone celebrating a special occasion. Because the aircraft is small, it is affected by weather and wind, so flights can be rescheduled if conditions are unsuitable; build some flexibility into your plans and check the policy when you book. Weight and luggage limits typically apply on small aircraft, so ask about these in advance, and arrive at the water base in good time for the safety briefing.
Yas Marina is on Yas Island, close to Yas Marina Circuit and the island's theme parks, so a flight can easily be combined with a day at Ferrari World or Warner Bros. World, or with dinner at one of the marina's restaurants. Contact Seawings by phone or through its social media channels to check schedules and availability. Clear mornings in the cooler months from late October to April usually give the best visibility over the islands.
Seawings Abu Dhabi FAQs
Where do Seawings flights depart in Abu Dhabi?
From the water at Yas Marina on Yas Island.
How long is the flight?
The Abu Dhabi Classic Tour lasts about 30 minutes.
What will you see?
Highlights include Emirates Palace, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, the mangroves and the islands of the archipelago.
What aircraft is used?
A nine-seat Cessna 208 amphibious seaplane.
Are private charters available?
Yes.
Can flights be cancelled for weather?
Small seaplanes depend on suitable conditions, so check the rescheduling policy when you book.
When is the best time to fly?
Clear mornings in the cooler months usually give the best visibility.