Abu Dhabi
· AE

Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, Abu Zaby, United Arab Emirates

Abu Dhabi: Where Modernity Meets Tradition in a Dazzling Desert Oasis Escape to Abu Dhabi, the captivating capital of the UAE, where shimmering skyscrapers rise from the desert sands and age-old traditions intertwine wit…

#Capital City#Luxury#Modern Architecture#Desert Climate#Cultural Landmarks
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Abu Dhabi.

Top Hotels in Abu Dhabi

Top Flights to Abu Dhabi

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Abu Dhabi.

Tours

Louvre Abu Dhabi

A museum featuring inspiring art collections and exhibitions from around the world.

Emirates Palace

A luxurious hotel offering a glimpse into Arabian opulence, with beautiful gardens and gold-adorned interiors.

Cultural Visit to Qasr Al Hosn

Immerse yourself in the rich history of Abu Dhabi with a visit to Qasr Al Hosn, one of the city's oldest stone buildings, showcasing the UAE's cultural heritage.

Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital Tour

Discover the fascinating world of falcons with a guided tour of the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital. Learn about the history, significance, and care of these majestic birds.

Qasr Al Watan Tour

Explore the architectural splendour and cultural heritage of Qasr Al Watan, the Presidential Palace of the UAE.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

A stunning architectural marvel and one of the world's largest mosques, featuring 82 domes and exquisite white marble.

Shopping

Marina Mall

A popular shopping destination with a range of luxury and high-street brands as well as entertainment facilities.

The Galleria Al Maryah Island

An upscale shopping mall offering luxury brands, fine dining, and entertainment.

Outdoor

Yas Marina Circuit

A Formula 1 racing circuit that offers various exciting driving experiences and karting activities.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

An indoor amusement park offering thrilling rides and attractions themed around the famous car brand.

Saadiyat Beach

A pristine beach on Saadiyat Island offering serene relaxation with beautiful sea views.

Yas Waterworld

A water park offering adventurous rides and slides suitable for all ages.

Abu Dhabi Corniche Stroll

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the picturesque Corniche, with stunning views of the Arabian Gulf and the Abu Dhabi skyline.

Evening at Corniche Beach

Relax and unwind at Corniche Beach, enjoying the scenic views of Abu Dhabi's skyline and the Arabian Gulf.

Emirates Park Zoo Visit

Enjoy close encounters with various wildlife species at the interactive Emirates Park Zoo.

Desert Safari Adventure

Experience the thrill of dune bashing, camel riding, and traditional Bedouin camp activities in the Abu Dhabi desert.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Abu Dhabi.

Currency
Dhs | AED | United Arab Emirates Dirham
Population
1.5 million
Languages
Arabic, English, Hindi, Urdu
Average weather
Abu Dhabi
Jan
clear
24°14°
Feb
clear
25°15°
Mar
clear
28°18°
Apr
hot
33°21°
May
hot
38°25°
Jun
hot
40°28°
Jul
hot
42°31°
Aug
hot
42°31°
Sep
hot
39°28°
Oct
clear
35°24°
Nov
clear
30°20°
Dec
clear
25°16°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Abu Dhabi.

What people love

There are several pros to traveling to Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates. Here are some key points:

  1. Rich Cultural Experience: Abu Dhabi is known for its rich cultural heritage and traditions. Visitors can explore traditional markets, visit stunning mosques like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, and experience traditional Emirati hospitality.

  2. Modern Infrastructure: Abu Dhabi is a modern city with impressive infrastructure, including luxury hotels, shopping malls, and world-class restaurants. The city also boasts beautiful parks and gardens, perfect for leisurely strolls.

  3. Beautiful Beaches: Abu Dhabi is home to some beautiful beaches along its coastline, where visitors can relax, swim, or enjoy water sports activities.

  4. Luxurious Experiences: Abu Dhabi is known for its luxury experiences, from high-end shopping at designer boutiques to fine dining at Michelin-starred restaurants. The city also offers luxury hotels and spas for those looking to indulge.

  5. Cultural Attractions: In addition to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi is home to cultural attractions such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Qasr Al Hosn fort, and the Heritage Village, where visitors can learn about the history and culture of the region.

  6. Outdoor Activities: For outdoor enthusiasts, Abu Dhabi offers opportunities for desert safaris, dune bashing, camel riding, and even falconry experiences. The city also has golf courses, parks, and waterfront promenades for outdoor recreation.

  7. Family-Friendly: Abu Dhabi is a family-friendly destination with attractions such as theme parks like Ferrari World and Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, as well as indoor entertainment centers and children's museums.

Overall, Abu Dhabi offers a mix of traditional culture, modern amenities, and luxurious experiences, making it a diverse and exciting destination for travelers.

What to know

Traveling to Abu Dhabi, like any destination, has its own set of cons. Here are some potential downsides to consider when traveling to Abu Dhabi:

  1. High Cost of Living: Abu Dhabi is known for being an expensive city to live in and visit. Accommodation, dining, and entertainment can be costly compared to other destinations.

  2. Extreme Heat: Abu Dhabi experiences very high temperatures, especially during the summer months, which can be uncomfortable for some travelers not accustomed to such hot weather.

  3. Cultural Differences: Abu Dhabi is a conservative city with strict social norms and laws. Travelers should be mindful of local customs and etiquette to avoid unintentional offenses.

  4. Limited Public Transportation: While Abu Dhabi has a well-developed road network, public transportation options such as buses and taxis are available but may be limited compared to other major cities.

  5. Restrictions on Alcohol: Abu Dhabi has strict regulations regarding the sale and consumption of alcohol. It is important to be aware of these rules and to respect them while visiting the city.

  6. Language Barrier: While English is widely spoken in Abu Dhabi, there may still be some language barriers when communicating with locals, especially in more traditional areas.

  7. Traffic Congestion: Abu Dhabi can experience heavy traffic congestion, particularly during rush hours. Travelers may need to plan their journeys accordingly to avoid getting stuck in traffic.

  8. Sandstorms: Abu Dhabi is located in a desert region and occasionally experiences sandstorms, which can affect visibility and cause disruptions to travel plans.

It's important to note that these cons are general considerations and may not apply to every traveler's experience in Abu Dhabi. It's always a good idea to research and prepare for your trip to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.

Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. It was originally a small fishing village inhabited by the Bani Yas tribe until the 18th century when it became an important center for the pearl diving industry. In 1793, the Al Nahyan family, one of the ruling families of the UAE, established their rule over Abu Dhabi.

Significant events in Abu Dhabi's history include the signing of the General Maritime Treaty in 1820, which recognized Abu Dhabi as a Trucial State under the protection of the British Empire. This treaty ensured stability in the region and allowed Abu Dhabi to develop as a trading hub.

In 1971, Abu Dhabi, along with six other emirates, formed the United Arab Emirates, with Abu Dhabi being chosen as the capital city. This marked a significant milestone in the history of the region as it brought together the various emirates under one federation.

Historical figures that have played a significant role in Abu Dhabi's history include Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the UAE, who was instrumental in shaping the modern development of Abu Dhabi. His vision and leadership were crucial in transforming Abu Dhabi from a small desert town into a modern, vibrant city.

Important landmarks in Abu Dhabi include the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, which is a symbol of Islamic architecture and a popular tourist attraction. The Emirates Palace, a luxury hotel known for its opulent design and world-class amenities, is another iconic landmark in the city.

Abu Dhabi is also home to the Corniche, a picturesque waterfront promenade lined with parks, cafes, and public beaches. The Qasr Al Hosn, a historic fort and the oldest stone building in Abu Dhabi, is a cultural landmark that reflects the city's heritage and history.

Overall, Abu Dhabi's history is a fascinating tale of transformation and progress, from its humble beginnings as a fishing village to its current status as a modern, cosmopolitan city at the forefront of development and innovation in the Middle East.