Things To Do
in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is a vibrant metropolis known for its modern architecture, luxurious shopping, and rich cultural heritage. Nestled on an island in the Persian Gulf, it boasts stunning waterfronts and a mix of traditional and contemporary attractions. The city is home to iconic landmarks such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Louvre Abu Dhabi, showcasing both religious and artistic significance.

With its warm climate and diverse population, Abu Dhabi offers a unique blend of traditional Arab culture and cosmopolitan lifestyle.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Wonders
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, where you can admire its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Head to the Louvre Abu Dhabi to explore its impressive collection of art and artifacts from various cultures while enjoying the beautiful waterfront views.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll along the Corniche, followed by dinner at a local seafood restaurant.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Take a trip to Yas Island to visit Ferrari World, where you can experience thrilling rides and the world's fastest roller coaster.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at Yas Beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying water sports.

evening
:

Enjoy a night out at one of the city's vibrant rooftop bars, offering stunning views of the skyline.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15-35
Coffee$3-6
🚕Taxi Fare (within city)$8-15
🏨Hotel (per night)$100-200
🎟️Attraction Entrance Fee$10-30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and attractions.
  • Modern infrastructure and amenities.
  • Low crime rate and safe environment.
  • Extreme heat during summer months.
  • Public transportation options are limited compared to other major cities.
  • Higher cost of living compared to neighboring regions.
  • "Marhaba" - Hello
  • "Shukran" - Thank you
  • "Afwan" - You're welcome
  • "Ma'a salama" - Goodbye
  • "Min fadlak" - Please

Places to Visit in Abu Dhabi

Visit one of these nice places.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

This architectural marvel is perfect for capturing intricate Islamic design and stunning white marble.

Emirates Palace

The grandeur of this luxurious hotel provides a beautiful backdrop for photography, especially at sunset.

Louvre Abu Dhabi

The unique architecture combined with the waterfront setting makes it an ideal location for striking photographs.

Culinary Guide

Food in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi offers a rich culinary landscape that reflects its multicultural population, featuring traditional Emirati dishes as well as international cuisine.

Abu Dhabi Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Al Harees

A traditional dish made from wheat and meat, cooked slowly until it reaches a porridge-like consistency.

Must-Try!

Shawarma

A popular street food consisting of marinated meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie and served in flatbread.

Machboos

A spiced rice dish, similar to biryani, usually made with chicken, fish, or lamb.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Souk Qaryat Al Beri

A traditional market with stalls selling spices, sweets, and local delicacies, perfect for sampling authentic Emirati flavors.

Al Ain Camel Market

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this unique market where you can see and purchase camels, along with traditional handicrafts and snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Abu Dhabi has a desert climate characterized by extremely hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can soar above 40°C (104°F) from June to August, making outdoor activities challenging. Winters are pleasantly warm, averaging between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), ideal for sightseeing. Rain is infrequent, primarily occurring between November and March, but when it does rain, it can lead to cooler temperatures and refreshing breezes.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Code

While Abu Dhabi is cosmopolitan, modest dress is recommended, particularly in religious sites.

Public Behavior

Public displays of affection are frowned upon, and it's important to be respectful in public spaces.

Ramadan Customs

During Ramadan, it's customary to refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours.

Safety Guide

Safety

Abu Dhabi is considered one of the safest cities in the world, with a low crime rate. However, visitors should still exercise general safety precautions such as securing their belongings and being cautious in crowded areas. Emergency services are efficient, and the city is well-policed, ensuring a safe environment for tourists.

Tipping in Abu Dhabi

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated, usually around 10-15% in restaurants, though it is not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are readily available throughout the city.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (December - February)

Mild temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C make it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Spring (March - May)

Temperatures begin to rise, averaging between 20°C to 35°C, making it suitable for shorter outdoor activities.

Summer (June - August)

Extremely hot temperatures often exceeding 40°C, best to stay indoors during peak hours and enjoy evening activities.

Autumn (September - November)

Temperatures cool down to comfortable levels, ranging from 25°C to 35°C, ideal for exploring the city.

Nightlife Guide

Abu Dhabi at Night

Abu Dhabi's nightlife scene is diverse and vibrant, offering everything from upscale lounges and nightclubs to relaxed beach bars. Popular areas include Yas Island, where you can find lively venues like White Abu Dhabi and the Yas Marina. Many hotels also host events and live music, making it easy to find entertainment suited to different tastes. The nightlife generally starts late, with most venues filling up after 10 PM.

Hiking in Abu Dhabi

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Jebel Hafeet

Located about 30 km from Abu Dhabi, this mountain offers several hiking trails with breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Al Ain Oasis

This UNESCO World Heritage site features shaded pathways and easy trails through lush palm groves and ancient falaj irrigation systems.

Airports

How to reach Abu Dhabi by plane.

Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH)

Located about 30 minutes from the city center, this international airport serves as a major hub for both domestic and international flights, offering a range of amenities for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Abu Dhabi is a relatively walkable city, particularly in areas like the Corniche and around major attractions. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, but the heat can make walking uncomfortable during peak hours. Many attractions are within a short distance from each other, making it feasible to explore on foot, especially in the cooler months. However, some areas may require using taxis or other forms of transportation due to their distance or lack of pedestrian paths.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Emirati Nationals

The local population, known as Emiratis, make up a small percentage of the total population but play a crucial role in the cultural and political landscape.

Expatriates

A large portion of the population consists of expatriates from various countries, contributing to the multicultural environment of the city.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in the UAE, with local teams and international competitions drawing large crowds.

Camel Racing

A traditional sport that is unique to the region, camel racing is a popular event, especially during the cooler months.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Abu Dhabi can be heavy during peak hours, particularly on major roads leading to and from the city. Public transportation includes buses and taxis, with the latter being a popular choice for tourists for convenience. The city is also implementing a metro system, which will improve connectivity in the future. It's advisable to plan your travel times accordingly to avoid congestion.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Abu Dhabi.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check if they are prepared according to your dietary needs.

Halal Food

All food served in Abu Dhabi is halal, making it suitable for Muslim visitors.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Abu Dhabi boasts a high standard of healthcare, with numerous hospitals and clinics offering a wide range of services. Medical facilities are modern and well-equipped, with many healthcare professionals trained internationally. Visitors are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, as private healthcare can be costly. Emergency services are also efficient and widely available throughout the city.

Discover United Arab Emirates

Read more in our United Arab Emirates 2025 Travel Guide.

United Arab Emirates Travel Guide