Although most holiday plans include extensive itineraries and never-ending bucket lists, there's no need to make a getaway to Abu Dhabi a stressful experience. In fact, those who are looking to enjoy a relaxing vacation free from everyday worries will find that Abu Dhabi offers holidaymakers an array of deeply rejuvenating activities and experiences. Here's a rundown of some of the best ways to unwind in style during a stay in the desert capital Abu Dhabi.

Image via Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara

There's nothing like spending time in the great outdoors to boost one's mood and aid relaxation. Abu Dhabi's Umm Al Emarat Park is where the picturesque Wisdom Garden is situated, a world away from the playgrounds and busier areas of the park. This Japanese garden laden with inspirational quotes from the UAE's founding father and former ruler Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, is where locals and tourists can find their inner Zen with the aid of the rock formations and plant life occupying the enclave.

Many health issues and mental fog that people experience can be attributed to sleep deprivation and sleep-related disorders. To help people get a good night's sleep, The Harley Street Medical Centre in Abu Dhabi offers a Sleep Clinic that can help with common sleep disorders such as narcolepsy, sleep apnea, snoring, and jet lag. This healing centre provides a perfect solution for anyone who needs to rest and recharge.

Travellers heading to Abu Dhabi can start their unwinding process from the confines of the Abu Dhabi Airport itself, thanks to the GoSleep pods that have been installed in the terminal. The Finnish invention designed to offer privacy and seclusion inside a busy airport terminal comes not only with a folded-flat bed but also a snooze kit to help one regain a tranquil state of mind.

Those who need to venture to greater lengths to reach inner peace can try the Point Zero Flotation Centre's immersion experience during a trip to Al Forsan Village. Depriving participants of distractions such as sounds, smells, light, taste and even the pull of gravity, the flotation tanks specialise in removing all external stimulations that get in the way of reaching one's core.

Those based at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara or any other rest can also sign up for a complete Abu Dhabi spa day, which not only includes facials and massages but also aromatherapy sessions. Although the treatments available at each spa are different, there is a host of soothing massages, body wraps and other healing therapies to choose from at every single venue.

Similar to the aesthetics of a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, the Chinese rituals associated with tea preparation and presentation can be a calming event to witness first-hand. Tea rooms across Abu Dhabi offer guests the chance to watch a tea specialist perform these ancient rituals with an eye for detail and a sense of timing that seems innate to each of the movements involved in the process. Experiencing a traditional tea ceremony provides not only a glimpse into Chinese culture but also an opportunity to appreciate the harmony and mindfulness embedded within each delicate gesture.

Visitors who love reading can find solace at the Abu Dhabi National Library. This is one of the most peaceful areas of the city and the serenity of the reading rooms is hard to find elsewhere in this busy metropolis. It’s the perfect place to spend a quiet afternoon in the company of your favourite books.