Currency
UAE Dirham (AED)
Dialing Code
+971

Abu Dhabi

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The capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi, combines traditional Arabian culture with modern luxury. This city provides a plethora of architectural and cultural wonders to discover, from the renowned Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to the cutting-edge Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum.

Visiting Abu Dhabi

The capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi, is a dynamic metropolis that provides visitors with an exceptional travel experience. Abu Dhabi offers everything, from magnificent buildings to immaculate beaches. The renowned Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the lavish Emirates Palace Hotel, and the exhilarating Ferrari World theme park are just a few of the city's many top attractions. Abu Dhabi has a rich cultural past that may be explored through its many museums and galleries in addition to these well-known tourist destinations. Abu Dhabi is a must-visit location for any traveller looking for an exciting and wonderful vacation because of its pleasant environment, opulent lodgings, and limitless entertainment possibilities.

What To Do

A diverse selection of attractions and sites are available in the thriving metropolis of Abu Dhabi City to suit the interests of all kinds of visitors. Some of the top attractions in and around Abu Dhabi are listed below:

  1. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: One of the largest mosques in the world, the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a symbol of the rich cultural history of the area. There is no entrance fee and the mosque is open every day to guests.
  2. Emirates Palace Hotel: The Emirates Palace Hotel is a well-known establishment that represents elegance and luxury in Abu Dhabi. The hotel's spectacular architecture may be toured, and guests can enjoy the many culinary and entertainment options available. The cost of eating and spa services varies.
  3. Ferrari World: Any thrill seeker must visit Ferrari World, an exciting theme park. Several rapid rides and attractions, including the fastest roller coaster in the world, are available at Ferrari World. Adult admission tickets start at AED 295 ($80 USD).
  4. Yas Island: Yas Island is a centre for amusement with a number of places to visit, including a water park, a mall, and a movie theatre. In the Yas Island Arena, guests can play a round of golf or attend a performance.
  5. Qasr Al Watan: This lovely palace is a recent addition to Abu Dhabi's cultural landscape and provides a window into the past and present of the nation. Explore the magnificent gardens and architecture of the castle. Adult admission tickets start at AED 60 ($16 USD).
  6. Saadiyat Island: A number of museums, notably the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the soon-to-be-opened Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, are located on Saadiyat Island, a centre for culture. The island's pristine beaches and breathtaking natural beauty are also accessible to tourists.

What To Eat

The gastronomy scene in Abu Dhabi reflects the cultural diversity of the city. The following are some of the top dishes and beverages to try in Abu Dhabi:

  1. Shawarma: This well-known Middle Eastern street cuisine is made up of tender meat strips, usually lamb or chicken, that are wrapped in pita bread and served with salad, pickles, and sauces. Shawarma is a tasty and reasonably priced appetizer that is available at vendors all across Abu Dhabi.
  2. Luqaimat: Made with flour, sugar, and saffron and drenched in gooey syrup, this dessert is a staple of Emirati culture. These are the ideal way to end any meal and are typically served with a cup of Arabic coffee.
  3. Machboos: This filling rice meal, a mainstay in Emirati cooking, combines spicy rice with veggies and meat, typically lamb or chicken. It is often served with a salad and a serving of yoghurt.
  4. Arabic coffee: A must-try when visiting Abu Dhabi, this aromatic coffee is a staple in the Middle East. It's usually served with dates, which soften the bitterness of the coffee and provide a wonderful opportunity to experience Emirati hospitality.
  5. Camel milk: Camel milk is a well-liked beverage in Abu Dhabi and is renowned for its health advantages. It's frequently used in desserts like ice cream and cakes because it's low in fat and high in vitamins and minerals.
  6. Dates: In the Middle East, dates are a common dish, and Abu Dhabi is renowned for producing premium dates. They are often consumed with Arabic coffee as a dessert or as a snack.

Getting Around

The city of Abu Dhabi is contemporary and well-connected, and there are numerous ways to get around the area. Below are some of the most widely used modes of transportation in Abu Dhabi:

  1. Taxis: Using a taxi around Abu Dhabi is easy and reasonably priced. They can be hailed on the street or through ride-hailing applications and are generally available. Taxi fares are metered, and daytime and evening rates are different.
  2. Public buses: Abu Dhabi's substantial public bus network serves the majority of the city's neighbourhoods. The bus rates are reasonable, and the vehicles are air-conditioned and comfortable. The Al Wahda Mall is close to the main bus stop.
  3. Metro: Abu Dhabi Metro: This city's metro system is currently being built and is scheduled to operate in 2022. The airport, Yas Island, and Saadiyat Island are just a few of the major city hubs that will be connected by the metro.
  4. Car rental: Travelers who wish to explore Abu Dhabi and the neighbouring areas at their own leisure frequently choose to rent a car. The cost of renting a car in Abu Dhabi varies based on the type of vehicle and the length of the rental.
  5. Bicycle: Cycling is a terrific way to discover the many parks and seaside regions in Abu Dhabi, and there are many bike rental businesses in the city. Another eco-friendly and healthy mode of transportation is cycling.
  6. Water taxis: Taking a water taxi is a fascinating way to observe Abu Dhabi's waterways and beaches. They run in a number of city neighbourhoods, such as Yas Island and Al Maryah Island, and are a wonderful opportunity to take in the beauty while avoiding traffic.

When To Go

Abu Dhabi is a popular holiday destination all year round due to its beautiful climate and selection of activities. Your hobbies and travel plans will determine the best time to visit Abu Dhabi. The following is a list of the best times to visit Abu Dhabi:

The best months to visit Abu Dhabi are from October to April because of the mild and pleasant weather. As the temperature is typically between 20°C and 30°C, this is the best time to enjoy the city's outdoor attractions. During this time, additional celebrations and occasions like the Abu Dhabi Festival and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix also happen.

The hottest and muggiest months of Abu Dhabi are from May through September when highs frequently reach 40°C. There are still many indoor sights and activities to enjoy, such as shopping malls and museums, even though the weather may be uncomfortable for certain tourists. Also, since this is Abu Dhabi's off-season, it's possible that hotel and airfare costs will be lower.

Safety

With a low crime rate and a focus on security, Abu Dhabi is a safe city for travelers. To protect your safety while traveling, it's crucial to take some precautions, just like in any location. Here are some suggestions to bear in mind:

Be mindful of your surroundings: Be cautious when walking across the city, especially at night, and stay away from any locations that seem unsafe. Dress correctly. Abu Dhabi is a conservative city, so dressing modestly is crucial to show respect for the community. This entails covering your knees and shoulders when you're out in public.

It's crucial to educate oneself about Abu Dhabi's rigorous regulations regarding public behaviour before your trip. Obey local laws and customs. For instance, public demonstrations of affection are prohibited, and only hotels and restaurants with a license may offer alcohol. It's crucial to keep your possessions secure because petty theft might happen in tourist locations. Avoid flaunting expensive jewellery or carrying a lot of cash in public. Hire licensed taxis: Although Abu Dhabi's cabs are trustworthy and safe, it's crucial to stick with licensed providers and stay away from unregistered taxis.

Getting There

Abu Dhabi is a bustling, well-connected metropolis that is simple to get to from many locations across the globe. Here are some of the most well-liked modes of transportation for getting to Abu Dhabi:

  1. Aircraft: Abu Dhabi is home to the Abu Dhabi International Airport, which is a significant hub for numerous international carriers. Around 30 miles from the city centre, the airport is conveniently reachable by taxi, bus, or rental car.
  2. Cruise: Several cruise lines provide journeys that include Abu Dhabi, which is a popular destination on many cruise itineraries. Around 10 kilometres from the city centre, near Port Zayed, is where you'll find the main cruise terminal.
  3. Car: Driving to Abu Dhabi can be a practical choice if you're coming from a nearby nation. The UAE may be entered by a number of border crossings, and the roads are well-maintained and simple to use.
  4. Bus: From nearby nations including Saudi Arabia and Oman, a number of bus companies provide services to Abu Dhabi. Budget-conscious travellers may find this to be an economical alternative, but be ready for a longer trip.
  5. Train: There is currently no railway service to Abu Dhabi, but there are plans in place to create one soon that will connect the city with Dubai.