Abu Dhabi is a conservative Islamic city that is very cosmopolitan in its outlook. Its traditional culture shares the same space as its unbelievable luxury. The capital of the United Arab Emirates offers fabulously luxurious experiences and plenty of adrenaline-jerking action as well. Abu Dhabi has a laid back vibe, and it is possible to tour the city on foot, unlike Dubai. Get ready for wonderful desert safaris, exotic experiences and incredible shopping and food. Use our travel guide to enjoy a smooth travel experience in Abu Dhabi.
When to Go to Abu Dhabi
If you’re not accustomed to the heat, travel from November through February, when it’s a lot cooler. If you’re a beach baby, visit Abu Dhabi during October, March or April, when it’s still hot but not overwhelmingly so. It’s best to avoid travel from late May through July and August, as it can be excruciatingly hot. Almost all attractions, except outdoor ones, are fully air-conditioned, so you can still enjoy your trip during the hot months. Also don’t visit the city during the holy month of Ramadan. During the entire month, even tourists aren’t allowed to eat or drink between dawn and dusk. Restaurants and cafes won’t serve during this period.
Getting Around In Abu Dhabi
By Taxi: Taxis are fairly cheap when you compare the rates to other developed countries. You can flag down the silver taxi anywhere in Abu Dhabi; their charges start at AED 5.00 or 6.00. Airport taxis are more expensive – but these are the only taxis you’ll get at the airport. The charges begin at AED 25. Tipping taxi cab drivers is not expected, but appreciated.
By Bus: Hazaa Bin Zayed Road has the main bus station. If you’re staying close to a month, it makes sense to buy a one-month Ojra pass.
By Car: You can rent a car and manage your own transport while in Abu Dhabi. However, be aware that the laws are very strict. Alcohol tests can be administered at random, and even if you’ve had no more than a single cup of wine, it’ll be sufficient grounds for one month’s incarceration.
On Foot: You can explore the city on foot, as long as you take care while crossing streets. Jaywalking is illegal in Abu Dhabi, and there are not many pedestrian crossings.
What to Wear
Abu Dhabi is much more conservative than Dubai. Also, it’s pretty hot, so it’s best to wear long and loose clothing made of cotton. Avoid tight, form-fitting clothing that can offend, and definitely avoid clothing that shows off your underwear or clothing that’s transparent. When you visit a mosque, be sure to cover your shoulders, arms and legs. Women should wear the abaya and a headscarf when visiting mosques. Swimsuits and shorts are acceptable only at the beach.
Local Laws: Take care not to consume alcohol outside of your hotel. Don’t carry alcoholic beverages to public places within Abu Dhabi. Also don’t hold hands, kiss or hug anyone of the opposite sex – Public Displays of Affection are considered offensive. Be sure to purchase a detailed Abu Dhabi travel guide before you get there.
Local and Cultural Attractions in Abu Dhabi
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
This is the largest mosque in the UAE, a shining bastion of beautiful white Macedonian marble, embedded with precious gold and semi-precious stones. You’ll be awed by the gorgeous pools surrounding the mosque. The main prayer hall contains the largest carpet and the largest chandelier in the world. You can visit the mosque from Saturday to Thursday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Qasr Al Hosn
Abu Dhabi’s oldest stone building, Qasr Al Hosn is the first permanent structure built by the emirates. Here you can understand how Abu Dhabi came about, via historic photographs, dioramas, and other artefacts. If you can, visit during the annual Qasr Al Hosn Festival that occurs every February.
- Abu Dhabi Corniche
Spend a relaxing at the Abu Dhabi Corniche, a 6 kilometre-long boardwalk along the beach. It’s the place to see and to be seen in Abu Dhabi. You can lounge on the beachside, cycle along the Corniche, or take a gander at the exquisite architecture all around. Visit the Corniche at sunset to enjoy the best views of the Abu Dhabi skyline. Enjoy dinner at the Lebanese Li Beirut, or the Asian Quest on the Corniche.
- Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
Ferrari World is the world’s first Ferrari-branded theme park that offers heart-racing thrills and spills for all ages. Enjoy around 20 adrenaline-jerking rides, including the Flying Aces, which flies at 120 km/h. Flying Aces has the world’s highest rollercoaster loops as well. Then there’s the Formula Rossa rollercoaster, dramatic acrobatic shows, an excellent Go-Karting track, and many more attractions at Ferrari World.
- Yas Marina Circuit
If you’re into car racing, you’ll want to visit Yas Marina Circuit, which hosts professional motorsport events. It’s where the annual Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix takes place. Be sure to check the events schedule to know what events will take place at the Yas Marina Circuit when you’re in town. You can also drive a professional Ferrari racing car on the Formula 1 circuit.
- Yas Waterworld
There’s nothing better to do when the sun is hot, than enjoy the waterslides at Yas Waterworld. You can enjoy over 40 rides and slides that span four thrill levels. So everyone in your family, from the littlest one to the oldest can have a great time here. You can also enjoy shopping, dining, and an array of events during the year.
- The Louvre Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi’s latest attraction, the Louvre Abu Dhabi is a magnificent museum that houses some of the greatest artworks in the world. Most of these artworks are on loan from international museums from Europe and other countries. The Louvre Abu Dhabi also displays famous artworks by local artists and a range of sculptures and art installations by famous artists.
- Saadiyat Beach Golf Club
If you love golf, don’t miss a visit to this beachfront golf course. You’ll love the greens of the course and the magnificent views. There are instructors who can help you perfect your score if you like. The golf course has a long practice range, three short-game areas, a private instructional area and a spacious putting green.
- Abu Dhabi Desert
The Abu Dhabi desert is an ancient landscape, and a desert safari Abu Dhabi is a wonderful way to explore it. You’ll get to enjoy various desert sports such as camel riding, dune bashing, quad biking and sand boarding. If you sign up for the evening or overnight desert safaris, you’ll get to enjoy fascinating cultural performances. Belly dancers and Tanura dancers will sway to exciting music, and henna artists will tattoo your hands and feet. This is followed by an incredible Emirati dinner in the night.
To sum it up
There’s more to enjoy in Abu Dhabi, than what we’ve been able to provide here. Be sure to plan a nice long trip to take in the many delights of this fascinating city.