Where to stay in Abu Dhabi? The capital of the UAE is a lively city comprising more than 200 islands. Each area has its unique character.
Downtown Abu Dhabi is in the middle of the city. It’s where the Emirate started to grow after oil was found in the 1980s. New neighbourhoods have been added as it has grown, and many were designed with leisure trips in mind. And Yas Island is one of these places. It’s great for kids because it has so many theme parks. For beach lovers, Saadiyat Island is the place to go. It’s the capital’s picture-postcard setting and has a good dose of culture.
Here is a list of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi
Yas Island – Best neighbourhood for families
Yas Island, on the eastern edge of the Emirate, is famous for having the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix every year. This event brings F1 cars, super yachts, and motorsports fans to town. The island is always busy because it’s home to several theme parks, such as Ferrari World, which has the fastest roller coaster in the world (Formula Rossa). The world’s first Warner Bros. theme park and the world’s first Warner Bros. hotel are here. Bugs Bunny is there to bring room service. Yas Waterworld is a huge water park with an Emirati theme where you can cool off on hot days. Yas Bay, the island’s busy beachfront promenade with unique places to eat and drink, is the best place to spend an evening. The Lighthouse and Art Market are two suggestions.
Saadiyat Island – Best beachside neighbourhood
There are golden beaches and unbelievably clear blue water on Saadiyat Island. The water is so clean that people have seen dolphins playing just off the shore. Many high-end motels are there, so it’s a good spot for travellers who want to relax and enjoy the sun. You should still go even if you can’t afford to stay on the island. Soul Beach is open to everyone, and the Mamsha waterfront promenade is full of shops, bars and restaurants. For fun Jamaican beach vibes, check out Ting Irie.
Saadiyat Island is well-kept and has lots of swaying palm trees. The Louvre Abu Dhabi, a world-class art museum with 12 carefully chosen rooms, is also there for culture lovers. The Abrahamic Family House, which opened in 2023, is meant to help people of different religions understand each other better. The Manarat Al Saadiyat, covered in Islamic art, has a full schedule of arts events, film screenings, and workshops.
Corniche – Best locale for waterfront vistas
The Corniche runs along the northwest shore of Abu Dhabi and is a busy area. It’s one of the few places in the city where you can always see people walking, biking, swimming, and running, even in the middle of summer. On the other side of the road, families go outside in the early morning or late afternoon to enjoy the cooler weather, which brings a number of parks and green areas to life.
The Corniche is lined with hotels of all prices, from the oldest hotel in the city, the Al Ain Palace, to the five-star St. Regis Abu Dhabi, built like a skyscraper. Just past that, at the end of Abu Dhabi Island, you can find Emirates House Mandarin Oriental, famous for its gold-dusted cappuccinos, and Qasr Al Watan. People can learn more about the country’s interesting history in this presidential house.
Downtown Abu Dhabi – Best neighbourhood for a glimpse of the past
Downtown Abu Dhabi is the closest city hub to the Emirate. The area mixes old and new buildings, resorts, cheap hotels, shopping malls, restaurants, bars, cafes, and cultural sites. People visiting the city for the first time and wanting to see what it was like before all the shiny new buildings went up should choose this site. Qasr Al Hosn is a good choice for history buffs because it is Abu Dhabi’s oldest building and the usual centre of the country’s capital.
You can also find food from almost every country downtown, from Indian and Pakistani to Ethiopian, Filipino, Chinese, and more. The variety of foods served shows how varied the people who live in the city are. Many hotels in this part of town are older, and some are starting to show it. However, the room rates are lower because of this, so it can be a good choice if you want to stay at a resort but don’t want to spend much money.
Al Maryah Island – Best neighbourhood for retail therapy
The Galleria is the city’s most posh mall, and Al Maryah is the place for high-end shopping. The Luxury Collection has shops from Tiffany and Cartier, and the area is also home to several high-end restaurants, such as Coya, the sister restaurant to the fancy London location. But it’s not all high-end shops; there are also high-street stores here, and when the weather is nice, there’s a market outside on the weekends. Since this is also the financial area, it’s usually busier during the week and less busy on the weekends. Al Reem Island is a natural island connected to Al Maryah by a bridge. It is mostly private and home to Snow Abu Dhabi, a huge indoor snow park where it is always -2°C (28°F).
Khor Al Maqta – Best as a base for sightseeing
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is Khor Al Maqta’s most famous feature. It is between the bridges connecting Abu Dhabi to its surrounding islands. The beautiful white marble building that dominates the city is an important piece of architecture and a must-see for tourists who want to learn more about the country’s Islamic culture.
A few hotels on the mainland have private beaches, blue swimming pools, and great views of the mosque. A rebuilt part of the city called Al Qana is not far away. It is home to the National Aquarium Abu Dhabi, full of sea life. In the evening, the walkways around this area come to life with locals going for a walk or food. Khor Al Maqta is in the middle of the city, almost as far from Downtown Abu Dhabi as it is from Yas Island. This makes it a good choice for people who want to see a lot of different neighbourhoods.
Things To Do In Abu Dhabi
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi is made of white marble and has beautiful domes and intricate floral designs on the outside.
The mosque’s main prayer hall has the world’s biggest hand-knotted carpet and beautiful chandeliers made with millions of Swarovski crystals.
The mosque was named after Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who helped start the UAE.
Not only is it a place of prayer, but it is also a cultural treasure. People of all religions and countries are welcome to enjoy its beauty and learn about Islamic culture.
The mosque’s beautiful atmosphere is also enhanced by the peaceful gardens and reflecting pools that circle it.
If you only have time for one thing, visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi. That’s the country’s biggest mosque.
The mosque is split in two: one side is only for praying, and the other is for people to come and look around.
Also, remember that this is one of the UAE’s most famous sights, so get ready for many people.
The Louvre Abu Dhabi
The Louvre Abu Dhabi shines like a light of art and culture on the peaceful shores of Saadiyat Island.
With its amazing latticed dome, this architectural masterpiece sets the tone for an amazing cultural trip.
The latticed dome is meant to let light through, so it looks like the roof is made of palm branches, which is what the roofs of Oasis used to be.
Its walls hide a treasure trove of art and culture, with collections that span ages and continents.
The museum has everything from ancient sculptures to famous works of art. It encourages communication between cultures and civilisations and shows how creative people are all linked.
With its focus on education and a wide range of exhibitions and cultural events, the Louvre Abu Dhabi symbolises how people worldwide can work together to celebrate our common history.
Heritage Village
The Heritage Village is an interesting look into the Emirate’s past and a living reminder of its rich cultural history.
This beautiful outdoor museum recreates a traditional oasis town on Marina Mall Island, right in the middle of the city.
Small houses are in a living camp, an old-style market, a mosque, and other things.
Here, artists showcase old crafts like weaving, metalwork, and pottery, giving visitors a glimpse into the customs of the area’s artists.
Also, people can walk around the buildings and look for crafts and gifts in the market.
It’s free to get into the Heritage Village.
An old desert village and looking into the country’s past are very interesting.
The Emirates Palace
Even though it’s called the Emirates Palace, it’s a hotel. This hotel costs a lot—one of the costliest in the world.
The domes, arches, and intricate details in the design of the Emirates Palace give it a royal grandeur.
When guests walk inside, they are met by rooms that are fit for royalty, complete with fancy furniture and modern conveniences.
Also, the private beachfront and beautifully landscaped grounds make this a peaceful haven.
Inside its fancy walls, you can find many places to eat, spa treatments, and other activities.
One of the reasons this hotel is so famous (and pricey) is that the ceiling is covered in real gold leaves.
Also, there are more than 1,000 Swarovski lights all over the building.
You can get a snack and a coffee at a few different shops, and everyone is welcome to use them.
You can also see the Emirates Palace lit up at night, which is a great experience.
Observation Deck At 300 (Etihad Towers)
The view from the Observation Deck at 300 is amazing. From one high place, you can see the whole city.
The view from the 74th floor of Tower 2 of the Etihad Towers is stunning. It offers a wide view of the Arabian Gulf and the busy city below.
The Etihad Towers, which are right in front of the Emirates Palace, were shown in the movie Furious 7.
You can see the Emirates Palace, Qasr Al Watan, and the Corniche Area (beach promenade) from the viewing deck.
The Marina Mall, the new Atlantis Hotel, and the Heritage Village can be seen to the right.
People can enjoy a variety of tasty foods at the restaurant next door while enjoying the beautiful views.
The food and drinks we bought at the café were delicious and well worth the money.
Qasr Al Watan/The Presidential Palace
Qasr Al Watan is a masterpiece of architecture and a symbol of the United Arab Emirates’ political and cultural history.
It is a masterpiece of Arabian design, with beautiful domes, elaborate mosaics, and ornate carvings that show how well the building was made. It is also known as the Presidential Palace.
Exploring the country’s grand buildings, libraries, and exhibition spaces can help visitors learn about its history, culture, and government.
Some of the most important places to see inside are the Great Hall, the Presidential Banquet Room, the Qasr Al Watan Library, and the Presidential Gifts Room.
The Great Hall is one of the most beautiful rooms you will ever see because of how well it was built and how many details were used.
Qasr Al Watan is also surrounded by water, which makes it even more beautiful.
Yas Waterworld
Yas Waterworld is an exciting water park that families and people looking for excitement and love.
The water park is based on the story of “The Legend of the Lost Pearl,” about a town called Qaryat Al Jewana that became famous and rich after finding a huge pearl.
This water park is on Yas Island and has many water activities.
There are thrilling slides (Liwa Loop) and wave pools (Bubbles Barrel), as well as calm river rides (Al Raha River) and play areas for kids (Tot’s Playground).
There are 40 different water rides spread out over 37 acres.
Through its special events, shops, and restaurants, the park shows that it cares about providing enjoyment.
If you’d like, you can also rent your own Al Waha Cabana, a big tent with free towels, a small fridge, VIP butler service, and easy access to all the entertainment in the park.
Yas Waterworld is in the middle of Abu Dhabi’s entertainment district and offers a thrilling and memorable day of water adventures.
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is a dream come true for car fans and an exciting journey for people of all ages.
This famous theme park on Yas Island is a stunning tribute to Ferrari’s legendary history.
Ferrari World offers more than 40 rides and activities, including the world’s fastest roller coaster, which can reach 240 km/h in 4.9 seconds.
The tallest space-frame building ever built on Earth and the world’s highest loop ride (63 meters at a 51-degree slope at 120 km/h).
There are a lot of exciting things to do at the park, from crazy roller coasters like the Formula Rossa, which holds the world record, to real-life racing simulators that put you in a Formula 1 car.
Along with the exciting rides, Ferrari World has an amazing collection of old and new Ferrari cars.
The park is also great for families because it has kid-friendly activities, shops, and eating places.
Because of this, it’s a great place for car fans and people who want to have a fun and exciting day in the middle of Abu Dhabi.
Abu Dhabi Corniche
Walking along the Abu Dhabi Corniche, you’ll see the Arabian Gulf. It’s right in the middle of the UAE’s city.
With its wide views of the Gulf Seas and the modern skyline of Abu Dhabi, it provides a beautiful backdrop for many activities.
Everyone can find what they’re looking for on the Corniche. There’s a running or bike track for fitness fans, a picnic area for families, and a beach for beach lovers.
It also has parks with nice views, play areas for kids, and many cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy your food while enjoying the view.
The Abu Dhabi Corniche is about 8 km long. On one side, you can enjoy the beautiful water; on the other, you can see the many high-end hotels.
Desert Safari
On a desert tour, you’ll be taken deep into the Arabian Desert, where the dunes roll and stretch for miles.
The exciting dune-bashing part of the trip starts with skilled drivers in 4×4 jeeps navigating the rough terrain.
The desert is also a beautiful place to take pictures, and watching the sun go down over the hills is truly amazing.
Cultural activities like henna drawing and falconry can also help you learn about the area’s history.
The safari ends with a stop at a desert camp, where you can enjoy a delicious Arabian BBQ dinner and live entertainment under the stars. This will be a memorable part of your trip to Abu Dhabi.
Advice on how to get around Abu Dhabi?
An excellent transport system makes getting around Abu Dhabi pretty simple.
The roads are also in good shape, and many street signs help you find your way.
For getting around the city, these are the main ways to get around:
Taxis: In Abu Dhabi, taxis are easy to get around. They are safe, have meters, and can be called from the street or hired through an app.
Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Careem are available in Abu Dhabi and can be used instead of cars.
Buses: Abu Dhabi has a large public bus system in most parts of the city. The cars have air conditioning and are a cheap way to get around.
Rental Cars: You can rent a car to be flexible and save time. The roads are well taken care of in the city, and driving is easy since most people in the UAE drive; that is the most common way to get around.
Cycling and Walking: The city centre of Abu Dhabi, especially the Corniche and downtown, has well-kept streets that make it easy for people to walk and ride bikes. Bicycle tracks are also available; you can rent bikes from several places.
When is the best time to go to Abu Dhabi?
Your preferences for the weather and the things you’d like to do will help you decide when to visit Abu Dhabi.
For many, winter (November to February) is the best time to visit Abu Dhabi. The afternoon temperatures range from the mid-70s to the low 80s Fahrenheit (about 24°C to 28°C), which is nice and mild. It’s great for doing things outside, seeing sights, and enjoying the city’s sights without being too hot.
Spring (March–April): Spring is another great time to go. The temperatures are still nice, from the high 70s to the low 90s Fahrenheit (around 25°C to 35°C). It’s a great time to go on trips outside, like desert tours and trips to the beach.
Summer: Abu Dhabi’s summer is very hot from May to September, with daytime temperatures often going above 100°F (38°C). When it’s humid outside, it can be hard to do things. If you want to visit during this time, be ready to do things inside, shop, and enjoy cool places. When the summer comes around, hotel prices will go down.
Autumn (October): It can still be pretty hot in early October, but as the month goes on, the weather starts to cool down, making it a time between summer and winter. This might be a good time to go if you want to enjoy warm weather without the hottest parts of summer.
Should you go to Abu Dhabi?
In conclusion, Abu Dhabi is a place you should visit with our Cheap Flights to Abu Dhabi.
This city is always changing and has a unique mix of old and new.
It’s where old traditions, modern technology, and design blend perfectly.
Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, has a lot to offer tourists. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is truly amazing, and the Louvre Abu Dhabi is one of the best museums in the world.
Its friendly people, beautiful scenery, and rich history make it an interesting place that begs to be explored and discovered.
Abu Dhabi has a diverse and friendly atmosphere that will make your trip more enjoyable, whether you are interested in history, art, adventure, or just enjoying the better things in life.
Where to stay in Abu Dhabi – FAQS
Where can you stay in Abu Dhabi for a honeymoon?
If you’re on a honeymoon or a love trip to Abu Dhabi, the best places to stay are high-end hotels with their beaches. For instance, the Four Seasons Hotel on Maryah Island is a great spot for a hopeless lover. The hotel is near a path along the water that links it to a high-end hotel and a shopping mall. The Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri is another fine hotel that comes highly suggested.
Where is the best place for a family to stay in Abu Dhabi?
Yas Island
The Yas Island area offers many family-friendly activities. Beach Rotana is linked to Abu Dhabi Mall, which has a kid’s pool and play areas both inside and outside. Here is where you should stay if you want to shop. Hotels and villas on the beach are also great choices.
Where should you stay if you want to swim and go to the beach in Abu Dhabi?
Al Khor Street–Al Maqta, the Corniche, Saadiyat Island
The best places to do many fun things are the Corniche, Saadiyat Island, and Al Khor Street–Al Maqta. You can go jet-skiing, go-karting, windsurfing, cycling, banana boats, and parasailing.
How Long Should You Stay in Abu Dhabi?
How long you should stay in Abu Dhabi depends on what you want to do and your interests.
Whether you want to see a lot of the city or take it easy during your Visit.
Here are some suggestions for you in general:
Short Stay (1-2 Days): If you don’t have much time, a one- to two-day trip can give you a taste of the best of Abu Dhabi. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and the Corniche are all famous places you can visit. This is good for a stay or a quick trip to the city.
Standard Visit (3–4 Days): If you want to see more of Abu Dhabi, you might want to stay there for three to four days. This lets you see the main sights, eat at nice restaurants, go on a desert tour, and learn about the culture and history of the area.
Longer Stay (5+ Days): You can enjoy Abu Dhabi if you stay there for a week or more. If you want to explore the city’s sights without rushing, you can do so at your own pace. You can also take day trips to nearby places like Al Ain or the desert oasis of Liwa.
Should you visit Dubai or Abu Dhabi?
Which city you choose, between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, depends on your tastes, interests, and the kind of experience you want.
There are many interesting things to see and do in both places, so here is a comparison to help you decide:
Dubai:
New and fancy: Dubai is famous for its futuristic skyline, famous sites like the Burj Khalifa, and high-end shopping areas like the Dubai Mall.
Shopping Heaven: If you love shopping, Dubai has some of the world’s best places to do it, from traditional souks to high-end brand shops.
For fun things to do, the city has theme parks like Dubai Parks and Resorts, entertainment centres like IMG Worlds of Adventure, and lively nightlife.
Dining Options: Dubai has a huge variety of restaurants, including ones from around the world, ones with famous chefs, and even street food.
Abu Dhabi:
Cultural Heritage: The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Louvre Abu Dhabi are two of the most famous buildings in Abu Dhabi, which is the cultural capital of the UAE. They show art, history, and construction.
Desert experiences: Abu Dhabi is a great place to start for desert experiences like camel rides, desert safaris, and learning about Bedouin culture. However, you can also do this from Dubai.
Relaxation: If you’d rather take it easy, Abu Dhabi has beautiful beaches on the Corniche and Yas Island where you can relax.
The city has family-friendly attractions, such as Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, and the Ferrari World theme park.
Ultimately, Dubai might be better if you like shopping, high-end living, and a lively, modern vibe.
In contrast, Abu Dhabi offers a wide range of sites for people interested in culture, history, and desert life.
Also, many tourists choose to see both towns because they are only a short drive apart and give you a full picture of the UAE.
Should you take a day trip from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?
Consider taking a day trip from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, especially if you don’t have much time but still want to see some of the capital city’s best attractions.
The driving distance between the two towns is about 90 to 120 minutes, so it is possible to go to both in one day.
You must carefully plan your schedule and rank the places you want to see to get the most out of your day trip.
