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Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Destination Guide

Abu Dhabi

United Arab Emirates

Best things to do in Abu Dhabi

40 curated attractions in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Handpicked for every kind of traveler.

Best time

November - April

Average temp

29°C/84°F

Budget

Expensive

Safety

Very safe

About Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, serves as the financial hub of the country and a showcase of modern architecture, with a skyline dominated by glass-clad towers. The city’s development was fueled by the discovery of oil, and its wealth is visible everywhere, from the opulent shopping malls to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Visitors are often drawn to its rich cultural offerings, such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi, a museum that brings global art to the desert. Beyond culture, there's the thrill of Ferrari World and Yas Waterworld, plus an abundance of luxury hotels for those who prefer the high life. Nature enthusiasts can explore Sir Bani Yas Island, known for its wildlife sanctuary, while the Heritage Village offers a glimpse into traditional Emirati life. This blend of modernity and tradition is what makes Abu Dhabi a unique destination in the region.

Who it's for

Ideal for those seeking a luxurious getaway with cultural experiences. Not a place for budget travelers: expect high prices and luxury service. If you're after a nightlife or the chaos of a busy market, you might find it a bit too calm.

Getting around

Public transport: Very Good

  • The city center is compact enough to explore on foot, but you'll likely need a taxi or rideshare for longer distances
  • The public transport is rated very good, with buses and a metro system in the works
  • Abu Dhabi International Airport is about 30 minutes away from the city centre
  • Expect to spend a bit of time waiting for a taxi during peak hours
SeaWorld Abu Dhabi

SeaWorld Abu Dhabi

Entertainment
Family Park

Family Park

City parks
Saadiyat Island

Saadiyat Island

Islands
Sir Bani Yas Island

Sir Bani Yas Island

Islands
teamLab Phenomena

teamLab Phenomena

Cultural
Abrahamic Family House

Abrahamic Family House

Cultural
Liwa Oasis

Liwa Oasis

Deserts & dunes
Jubail Mangrove Park

Jubail Mangrove Park

Nature
Jet Car UAE

Jet Car UAE

Adventure
Zayed National Museum

Zayed National Museum

Cultural & Heritage Sites
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Mosques
Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival

Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival

Festivals & celebrations
Qasr Al Watan

Qasr Al Watan

Castles & palaces
UAE Presidential Palace

UAE Presidential Palace

Castles & palaces
Emirates Palace

Emirates Palace

Castles & palaces
National Aquarium

National Aquarium

Wildlife Experiences
Louvre Abu Dhabi

Louvre Abu Dhabi

Art museums & galleries
Al Qana

Al Qana

Aquariums
Surf Abu Dhabi

Surf Abu Dhabi

Sports and Recreation Venues
Observation Deck at 300

Observation Deck at 300

Observation decks & city views
Yas Marina Circuit

Yas Marina Circuit

Stadiums & sports venues
Qasr Al Hosn

Qasr Al Hosn

Forts & citadels
Warner Bros. World™ Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

Warner Bros. World™ Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

Theme parks
Umm Al Emarat Park

Umm Al Emarat Park

City parks
Sheikh Zayed Bridge

Sheikh Zayed Bridge

Bridges
Yas Mall

Yas Mall

Malls & department stores
Arabian Wildlife Park

Arabian Wildlife Park

Wildlife sanctuaries
Manarat Al Saadiyat

Manarat Al Saadiyat

Art museums & galleries
BAPS Hindu Mandir

BAPS Hindu Mandir

Religious Sites
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

Theme parks
Yas Waterworld

Yas Waterworld

Water parks
Emirates Park Zoo and Resort

Emirates Park Zoo and Resort

Zoos
Abu Dhabi Mall

Abu Dhabi Mall

Malls & department stores
Mangrove National Park

Mangrove National Park

National parks & nature reserves
Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital

Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital

Wildlife sanctuaries
Marina Mall Abu Dhabi

Marina Mall Abu Dhabi

Malls & department stores
Heritage Village

Heritage Village

Traditional villages
Forestry Belt

Forestry Belt

Natural Wonders
Emirates National Auto Museum

Emirates National Auto Museum

Cultural
Snow Abu Dhabi

Snow Abu Dhabi

Family-Friendly Attractions

Where to eat in Abu Dhabi

The places worth planning a meal around.

Fouquet's

Fouquet's

★ 4.6 · 1,101 reviews

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