Abu Dhabi

United Arab Emirates (UAE), Middle East

Abu Dhabi is a dazzling fusion of modernity and tradition, famed for its stunning architecture, including the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Louvre Abu Dhabi. Visitors can experience luxurious shopping, vibrant cultural scenes, and thrilling activities like Ferrari World and desert safaris. The city is surrounded by beautiful coastlines, making it ideal for beach lovers, and offers rich heritage sites, perfect for history buffs.

Quick facts

Target stay

4-7 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Bateen

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

8 Best Things to Do in Abu Dhabi

1

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

An architectural masterpiece and spiritual landmark.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Louvre Abu Dhabi

A stunning museum blending art, culture, and history.

Booking required
3

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll along the Corniche

Beautiful waterfront with parks and scenic views.

No booking required
4

Est. 6 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Experience desert safari

Thrilling rides and cultural experiences in the desert.

Booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Emirates Palace

Luxurious hotel showcasing Arabian hospitality.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover Qasr Al Watan

Explore the presidential palace and its exhibitions.

Booking required
7

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Shop at Souk Qaryat Al Beri

Traditional marketplace with local crafts and cuisine.

No booking required
8

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at Saadiyat Beach

Beautiful beach with white sand and turquoise waters.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10-15%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

-16 (#201 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

UAE Dirham

Majority religion

Muslim

Language

Arabic

(80%+ speak English)

Best dishes to try

Khuzi

Spiced rice with slow-cooked lamb. (National dish)

Machboos

Saffron rice with meat or fish.

Harees

Wheat porridge with meat and spices.

Shawarma

Grilled meat wrap with vegetables.

Luqaimat

V

Sweet dumplings drizzled with syrup.

Phrases to learn

English

Arabic

Hello

Marhaban

(Mar-ha-ban)

Yes/No

Naam / La

(Nah-am / Lah)

Thank you

Shukran

(Shook-ran)

Excuse me

Afwan

(Ahf-wan)

How much?

Kam?

(Kam)