The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Trip to Abu Dhabi

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Top 5 Can’t Miss

Visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, welcoming travelers of all faiths. Experience fine dining at Erth, the first Emirati restaurant awarded a Michelin star. Immerse yourself in the arts at the Louvre Abu Dhabi, explore Al Ain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and don’t miss out on the iconic “viral Dubai chocolate bar” from Fix Dessert Chocolatier.

Abu Dhabi, often eclipsed by Dubai, stands out as the capital of the United Arab Emirates and offers a captivating mix of tradition and contemporary flair. From the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to the acclaimed Louvre Abu Dhabi, this city abounds in cultural and architectural wonders. It truly caters to a wide array of travelers, whether they seek adventure, immerse in culture, or simply wish to unwind.

“Unlike its neighboring emirate, the ambiance in Abu Dhabi is distinct. As the UAE’s financial and cultural epicenter, it reflects a more measured pace and a different approach to luxury,” said Mo Noubani, director at Travel Box International and a trusted advisor for Travel + Leisure. “The city showcases opulence, yet in a more understated manner compared to the vibrancy of Dubai.”

Tourism in Abu Dhabi has surged, welcoming more than 4.8 million visitors in 2024, marking a 26 percent increase from the previous year and illustrating the emirate’s growing appeal.

“The emirate boasts a wide range of attractions and unique experiences, stemming from its distinct environmental and geographic context,” Noubani elaborated. “Its rich history, vast cultural landscape, stunning architecture, beautiful coastlines, exciting theme parks, as well as an assortment of hotels, make it an essential destination on any travel enthusiast’s list.”

Here’s a guide on how to organize your trip to this vibrant city.

Best Hotels

Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental

The Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental stands as one of the most lauded hotels in Abu Dhabi, encapsulating grandeur with modern sophistication. Nestled along the picturesque Corniche, this iconic establishment offers breathtaking vistas of the Persian Gulf. Amenities include exquisite dining options such as Hakkasan, a Michelin-rated venue specializing in modern Cantonese cuisine, and Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi, which offers an Indian fine dining experience.

Anantara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi Hotel

Located beside serene mangroves, the Anantara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi Hotel offers a tranquil retreat while remaining close to the vibrant downtown. Guests can partake in unique activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding amidst the mangroves.

The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi

Nestled on the exquisite shores of Saadiyat Island, a mere 10 minutes from the city center, the St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort offers luxury accommodations with mesmerizing views of the Persian Gulf. Known for its signature “Arabian Snapper” cocktail, this property will soon welcome Café Ginori, introducing an Italian dining experience to its guests.

Things to Do

Abu Dhabi offers an abundance of activities. Visitors can unwind on idyllic beaches, enjoy the thrilling offerings of Yas Island, traverse the stunning deserts for experiences including sandboarding and camel rides, and visit Ferrari World or the innovative teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi. Here are some highlighted attractions to consider during your visit:

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is exemplified by its stunning Islamic architecture and craftsmanship, featuring 82 domes and expansive reflective pools. Visitors can appreciate its exquisite chandeliers decorated with countless Swarovski crystals and the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet. Open to everyone, visitors are reminded to adhere to the dress code provided on its website when buying tickets.

Qasr Al Watan

As the Presidential Palace, Qasr Al Watan showcases the UAE’s rich heritage and modern accomplishments. Opened to the public in 2019, it features remarkable architecture and lush gardens, with the Great Hall being an absolute visual highlight.

Mangrove National Park

Mangrove National Park allows visitors to explore a unique ecosystem characterized by lush mangroves and abundant wildlife, including herons and flamingos. Adventurers can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, or guided eco-tours that emphasize the significance of these vital wetlands.

Louvre Abu Dhabi

The renowned Louvre has a branch in Abu Dhabi: Louvre Abu Dhabi. Inaugurated in 2017, the museum fuses art and innovation under a magnificent dome that produces a “rain of light” effect. Its collection includes masterpieces by da Vinci, Monet, and Van Gogh, as well as significant historical artifacts. Aim to visit during golden hour for breathtaking sunset views.

Al Ain

Known as the “garden city,” Al Ain is a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated approximately 90 minutes from Abu Dhabi. The area features historic forts, lush oases, traditional souks, and camel markets—be sure to book your visit to the markets in advance. Adventurers can also explore Jebel Hafeet, the only mountain in the emirate, with stunning views accessible by foot, bike, or horseback.

Best Restaurants

The culinary scene in Abu Dhabi reflects the emirate’s rich cultural tapestry, emphasizing Middle Eastern and Arabic flavors while showcasing an array of international influences. Traditional dishes such as shawarma, falafel, and hummus are local favorites, accompanied by hearty meals like machboos (a spiced rice dish) and khuzi (slow-cooked lamb). A diverse range of restaurants offering Indian, Iranian, and Italian cuisines are also prevalent throughout the city.

Located at the Qasr Al Hosn cultural site, Erth is the first Emirati restaurant to receive a Michelin star, featuring dishes like Emirati spiced hasselback potatoes and braised lamb machboos.

Favorites of Noubani include Fresh Basil, featuring dining in complete darkness; the Asian eatery Li Jang; and Kopitiam by Chandy’s for a Malaysian culinary experience recognized by Michelin.

Arva Ahmed, founder of Frying Pan Adventures, shared her top picks including the beloved bakery Al Khabbaz, the popular pie shop Al Safwa, and Indonesian restaurant Rempah. For those wishing to delve deeper into the local cuisine, Frying Pan Adventures offers a special walking tour that combines food tasting with art appreciation. “The experience highlights the multiculturalism and harmony found here, both in taste and atmosphere,” Ahmed stated.

Don’t miss out on trying to obtain the “Can’t Get Knafeh of It” bar from Fix Dessert Chocolatier. This famous chocolate bar, originally from Dubai, is now available for delivery in Abu Dhabi through Deliveroo. Be sure to prepare for ordering as they tend to sell out quickly.

“Our bars are inspired by feelings and memories,” said Sarah Hamouda, founder of Fix Dessert Chocolatier. “We aim to recreate familiar desserts in a playful, chocolatey twist without losing their essence.” (Hamouda mentions her current favorite is the Catch Me If Pecan bar.)

Best Time to Visit

The ideal times to explore Abu Dhabi are during the spring, fall, and winter months, as the oppressive summer heat can reach 120 degrees Fahrenheit. For budget-conscious travelers, Noubani highlights that deals may be found between June and September. “The winter, particularly from December through April, is preferred due to the milder weather and bustling atmosphere as outdoor venues come alive,” he explained.

It’s also wise to consider Ramadan when planning your visit. “Many operators and venues adjust their hours and services during this sacred month,” Noubani noted, emphasizing that Ramadan’s dates vary each year according to the lunar calendar.

How to Get There

Travelers can arrive via Zayed International Airport (AUH), with Etihad Airways offering direct flights from cities such as New York City, Boston, Chicago, and Washington, D.C. Alternatively, Dubai International Airport (DXB) is located about an hour and a half away, catering to several flights operated by Emirates, the other national airline of the UAE.

How to Get Around

The best way to navigate Abu Dhabi is by car. Visitors can easily request a taxi via the Abu Dhabi taxi app or use ride-hailing services like Uber or the Dubai-based Careem.

Is Abu Dhabi Safe?
“It’s incredibly safe here; you could leave a wallet full of cash unattended and it would likely remain untouched,” Noubani stated. “It has earned the title of the safest city in the world according to Numbeo.” (As a female traveler, I have always felt safe while exploring.)

Local Etiquette and Culture

When visiting any foreign destination, it’s crucial to be respectful of the culture. As Noubani mentions, English is widely spoken in Abu Dhabi, especially in the service industry. All hotels, restaurants, and attractions provide information in both Arabic and English. While alcohol is available in hotels and specific supermarkets, visitors should adhere to dress codes at religious sites. Tipping is customary, typically around 10-15 percent, but is not mandatory.

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