Things To Do
in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates, is known for its modern skyline, luxurious lifestyle, and rich cultural heritage. It is home to significant attractions such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the world's largest mosques, and the Louvre Abu Dhabi, showcasing a global collection of art and artifacts.
The city also serves as a hub for business and finance in the region, reflecting the UAE's rapid economic growth and development.
- "Marhaban" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Afwan" - You're welcome
- "Inshallah" - God willing
- "Ahlan wa sahlan" - Welcome
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $60
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $7
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Marvel at its beautiful architecture and intricate designs during a guided tour.
Enjoy a traditional Emirati lunch at a nearby restaurant. Afterward, explore the cultural district of Saadiyat Island and visit the Louvre Abu Dhabi.
Head to the Corniche to relax by the beach and watch the sunset. Conclude your day with a delicious dinner at a waterfront restaurant.
Take a leisurely walk along the Abu Dhabi Corniche, enjoying the scenic views of the city skyline. Stop by the playgrounds and public gardens for some fresh air.
Visit the Emirates Palace for a luxurious lunch and a tour of the magnificent hotel. Spend some time at the nearby Marina Mall for shopping.
Enjoy an evening stroll along the Corniche and grab a bite at one of the many cafes. Don't miss out on the stunning views of the city lights as they come to life.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and modern architecture.
- High standard of living and safety.
- Tax-free income for residents.
- Expansive shopping malls and entertainment options.
- Diverse dining experiences with international cuisine.
- Extreme weather conditions, especially in summer.
- High cost of living and expensive housing.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Cultural restrictions regarding alcohol and public behavior.
- Dependence on expatriate labor and market fluctuations.
Best Activities in Abu Dhabi
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy dune bashing, camel riding, sunset views, and traditional Bedouin-style camping in the desert.
Experience driving and karting activities on the famous Formula 1 track, or watch thrilling races and events.
Relax on the sandy shore, engage in water sports, or take a stroll along the picturesque Corniche waterfront.
Explore the tranquil mangrove forests by kayak, observing diverse wildlife and enjoying the serene natural surroundings.
Tours
Uncover the best of Abu Dhabi with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Abu Dhabi
Visit one of these nice places.
One of the most stunning architectural marvels in Abu Dhabi, offering beautiful photo opportunities with its marble domes, intricate carvings, and reflective pools.
Beautiful stretch of beach with a picturesque view of the Arabian Gulf and the Abu Dhabi skyline, perfect for capturing sunset and cityscape photos.
Historic fort and cultural site offering a unique blend of traditional and modern architecture, providing great photo opportunities of the fort and surrounding area.
Located on the 74th floor of Jumeirah at Ethiad Towers, this observation deck offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and coastline, perfect for capturing Abu Dhabi's skyline.
For motorsport enthusiasts, this circuit provides opportunities to capture the adrenaline of race cars on the track and the futuristic Yas Viceroy hotel in the background.
Food in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant rice dish with tender meat (usually chicken, lamb, or fish) infused with spices such as saffron, cinnamon, and dried limes, often garnished with nuts and fried onions. Recommended to try at Al Arish restaurant.
Must-Try!
Small, sweet dumplings drizzled with date syrup or honey, and sprinkled with sesame seeds. Best enjoyed at Al Mina Arabic Restaurant for an authentic taste.
A savory porridge made of wheat and meat, slow-cooked to a creamy consistency and seasoned with ghee. Sample this hearty dish at Li Beirut restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Abu Dhabi better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a wide array of freshly caught seafood, where you can savor grilled fish and prawns cooked to perfection by the local vendors.
This market not only showcases intricate gold jewelry but also hosts a variety of food stalls serving traditional snacks like falafel, shawarma, and kebabs that are popular among locals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Abu Dhabi, it is important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or public places. For both men and women, clothing should cover the shoulders and knees. Women should also consider wearing a headscarf in certain settings.
When meeting someone in Abu Dhabi, it is customary to greet them with a handshake. However, for interactions with people of the opposite gender, it's best to wait for them to extend their hand first. Additionally, the traditional greeting is 'As-salamu alaykum' which means 'peace be upon you.'
Abu Dhabi follows Islamic traditions, so it's important to be respectful of Islamic customs and practices. This includes refraining from public displays of affection, avoiding alcohol consumption in public places, and being mindful of religious holidays and fasting periods.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Abu Dhabi with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Abu Dhabi
Ensure a smooth experience
In Abu Dhabi, tipping is not expected but is appreciated for good service. Many restaurants and hotels include a service charge in the bill, so it's important to check before tipping extra. In general, a 10% tip is considered generous for exceptional service.
Cash is widely accepted in Abu Dhabi, but credit cards are also commonly used, especially in larger businesses. It's important to note that some smaller shops and businesses may only accept cash. Contactless payment methods are also gaining popularity, making transactions faster and more convenient.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Abu Dhabi.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Ideal time to visit Abu Dhabi as the weather is warm and pleasant, and it's the season for various outdoor activities and events.
Another great time to visit as the temperatures are cooler, and there are cultural festivals and events to enjoy.
Winter sees milder temperatures, making it comfortable for outdoor exploration and beach activities.
Abu Dhabi at Night
Hiking in Abu Dhabi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Jebel Hafit is a prominent mountain located on the border of Abu Dhabi and Oman. At over 1,200 meters high, it offers stunning views and various hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging.
Liwa Oasis, part of the Empty Quarter, provides numerous opportunities for hiking and exploring the vast dunes. The area is known for its natural beauty and desert landscapes.
Al Ain, located about 1.5 hours from Abu Dhabi, offers several picturesque hiking trails, including those in the Al Ain National Museum Park and the lush Al Ain Zoo area.
Located in Al Ain, Wadi Adventure features several hiking trails alongside a man-made whitewater rafting and kayaking facility, providing a mix of adventurous activities.
This unique area offers easy walking and hiking routes amidst beautiful wetlands, rich biodiversity, and stunning nature views. Ideal for nature lovers and bird watching.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Abu Dhabi through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Abu Dhabi by plane.
The main international airport serving Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates.
One of the busiest airports in the world, located in Dubai, approximately 140 km from Abu Dhabi.
Located in Dubai World Central, this airport is about 150 km from Abu Dhabi and is expected to handle significant passenger traffic in the future.
Located in Muscat, Oman, this airport is roughly 450 km away from Abu Dhabi.
Situated in Bahrain, this airport is around 700 km from Abu Dhabi, serving as a major hub in the Gulf region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Citizens of the United Arab Emirates, they make up a significant but minority portion of the overall population.
Includes a large number of individuals from countries like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, forming a substantial part of the workforce.
Individuals from other Arab nations such as Egypt, Jordan, and Lebanon, contributing to both the workforce and the cultural landscape.
Includes individuals from Europe, North America, and Australia, often employed in managerial positions or specialized sectors.
Includes expatriates from Southeast Asia and East Asia, such as the Philippines, China, and Thailand, largely employed in various sectors.
The Soul of Abu Dhabi
Discover the essence of Abu Dhabi through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Abu Dhabi, with a rich history and many local clubs and national events.
The Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is one of the most prestigious motor racing events held annually at the Yas Marina Circuit.
A traditional sport in the UAE, camel racing draws large crowds, and there are dedicated tracks for races featuring trained camels.
An age-old tradition in the UAE, falconry involves training falcons for hunting and is celebrated through competitions and exhibitions.
Cricket has gained popularity in Abu Dhabi, with many expatriates playing and local tournaments being held.
Tennis is increasingly popular, with various tournaments and events attracting international players.
Abu Dhabi is home to several world-class golf courses, hosting international tournaments such as the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship.
Basketball has a strong following in Abu Dhabi with local leagues and youth programs encouraging participation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Abu Dhabi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Abu Dhabi are attentive to vegetarian and vegan preferences, with a variety of dishes featuring fresh vegetables, legumes, and plant-based ingredients. Notable options include the vibrant salads and mezze platters at Byblos Sur Mer and the vegetarian tasting menu at Hakkasan.
Several establishments in Abu Dhabi cater to gluten-free diets, offering dishes made from gluten-free grains and alternative flours. Zuma is known for its gluten-free menu, encompassing a range of contemporary Japanese dishes prepared with meticulous care.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Abu Dhabi with these cultural adventures.
