Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is often overshadowed by its flashier neighbour Dubai – but many travellers end up preferring it. The city is calmer and greener, with world-class museums, spectacular architecture, beautiful beaches and some of the biggest theme parks in the region. Here is our Abu Dhabi travel guide to help you plan your trip.
From pearl-diving village to modern capital
Abu Dhabi began as a small settlement that lived from fishing and pearl diving in the Gulf. The discovery of oil in the late 1950s transformed it, and within a few decades it had become a modern capital of skyscrapers, wide boulevards and an international population.
Top attractions in Abu Dhabi
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
One of the largest and most beautiful mosques in the world, able to hold more than 40,000 worshippers. Its white marble domes, floral inlays, gold details and enormous crystal chandeliers are breathtaking, especially at sunset. Entry is free, but visitors must dress modestly and book a time slot in advance.
Louvre Abu Dhabi
A world-class museum on Saadiyat Island, showing art and artefacts from every period and culture. The building itself is a masterpiece, with a vast dome that seems to float above the water and creates a “rain of light” below.
The Abrahamic Family House
Also on Saadiyat Island, this complex brings together a mosque, a church and a synagogue – the Moses Ben Maimon Synagogue – side by side, as a symbol of coexistence. It is a moving visit, especially for Jewish travellers.
Yas Island: Ferrari World and more
Yas Island is the city’s entertainment hub. Ferrari World is home to one of the fastest roller coasters on the planet, and the island also has Warner Bros. World, the Yas Waterworld water park, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi and the Formula 1 circuit.
Qasr Al Watan
The grand presidential palace is open to visitors, with spectacular halls and exhibitions on Arab heritage and governance.
For tickets, you can book attractions in Abu Dhabi online, or see our own round-up of attractions in Abu Dhabi.
Food
Abu Dhabi has a huge range of restaurants, from traditional Emirati cooking to international fine dining. Dishes worth trying include machboos (spiced rice with meat or fish), harees (slow-cooked wheat and meat) and luqaimat (sweet dumplings drizzled with date syrup). Kosher-keeping travellers can find kosher food options in the city – check current availability before you travel.
Outdoors and leisure
Desert safari
A 4×4 drive into the dunes, usually with sandboarding, camel rides and dinner at a desert camp.
Islands and beaches
Saadiyat Island has some of the finest beaches in the UAE, with white sand and clear water, while the Corniche offers a long city beach and promenade. The mangroves east of the city are great for kayaking.
Shopping and nightlife
Malls such as Yas Mall, The Galleria and Marina Mall bring together international brands, restaurants and family entertainment – see our guide to malls in Abu Dhabi. In the evening, the city offers stylish rooftop bars, hotel restaurants and waterfront cafés.
Tips for visiting Abu Dhabi
- When to go: October to April is the most pleasant time. Summer is extremely hot – see our guide to the weather in the UAE month by month.
- Dress respectfully: cover shoulders and knees at religious sites and in traditional areas.
- Getting around: taxis are affordable, or hire a car – see car rental in Abu Dhabi.
- Combine with Dubai: the two cities are about 90 minutes apart by road.
Travelling as a family? Start with Abu Dhabi with kids. Flying in? Compare Emirates and flydubai.
