Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates and the largest of its seven emirates. Often overshadowed by its glitzier neighbor Dubai, Abu Dhabi offers a more refined and authentic experience.
It’s a city where cutting-edge skyscrapers and luxurious resorts rise beside grand mosques, ancient traditions, and tranquil deserts. With its blend of futuristic architecture, world-class museums, and deeply rooted Arabian culture.
Abu Dhabi welcomes travelers with both modern sophistication and warm, time-honored hospitality.
Top 5 Sights in Abu Dhabi
Sight
Description
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
A breathtaking architectural masterpiece and one of the world’s largest mosques. Known for its white marble domes, chandeliers, and peaceful ambiance.
Louvre Abu Dhabi
A world-class art and civilization museum on Saadiyat Island, blending global exhibits with a stunning dome design that filters sunlight like stars.
Qasr Al Watan
The Presidential Palace open to the public, showcasing exquisite interiors, calligraphy, and insights into Emirati governance and culture.
Yas Island
Entertainment hub with Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, and Warner Bros. World — perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike.
The Corniche
A scenic waterfront stretch ideal for walking, cycling, and beach time. Offers city views, clean public beaches, and sunset vibes.
Perfect Beaches in the city
Beach
Description
Corniche Beach
Popular public beach with designated family and quiet zones, lifeguards, and a long promenade. Great for walking, swimming, and relaxing.
Saadiyat Public Beach
Natural white-sand beach known for its cleanliness, clear waters, and turtle nesting areas. Ideal for nature lovers and peaceful swims.
Yas Beach
Private beach club on Yas Island offering water sports, loungers, mangrove kayaking, and resort vibes. Free for hotel guests.
Al Bateen Beach
Quiet public beach with great sunset views, volleyball courts, and a women-only section. Loved by locals and families.
Hudayriat Island Beach
Family-friendly island beach with sports areas, food trucks, cycling paths, and a relaxed, modern vibe. Free to access.
How to spend a day
Time
Activity
Description
Morning
🌴 Stroll the Abu Dhabi Corniche
Walk or cycle along the scenic seafront. Enjoy landscaped paths, public beaches, and views of the Arabian Gulf. Ideal for a peaceful start to the day.
Late Morning
🏖️ Relax at Saadiyat Public Beach
Unwind on soft white sand, swim in clear waters, or simply sunbathe. A calm, natural setting with clean facilities and gentle waves.
Afternoon to Evening
🐪 Go on a Desert Safari
Head into the desert for dune bashing, sandboarding, and camel rides. End the day with a BBQ dinner and traditional entertainment in a Bedouin-style camp.
The largest shopping malls in Abu Dhabi
Mall
Description
Yas Mall
The largest mall in Abu Dhabi, located on Yas Island. Features international brands, a massive food court, VOX Cinemas, and direct access to Ferrari World.
The Galleria Al Maryah Island
A luxury shopping and dining destination with high-end brands like Chanel and Rolex, plus fine dining restaurants and sea views.
Marina Mall
A long-standing favorite near the Corniche, offering a mix of retail, dining, an indoor trampoline park, and a viewing tower.
Abu Dhabi Mall
Centrally located with 200+ stores, cafés, a cinema, and direct connection to Beach Rotana Hotel. Great for mid-range shopping.
Al Wahda Mall
Popular with locals, this large city-center mall offers affordable brands, electronics, and supermarkets — great for everyday shopping.
Food Scene
What to Eat
Description & Tips
Machboos
A spiced rice dish with meat or fish, similar to biryani but with local Emirati flavors. Rich, hearty, and usually served family-style.
Luqaimat
Sweet fried dough balls, crispy on the outside, soft inside, drizzled with date syrup or honey. A popular traditional dessert.
Harees
A creamy wheat and meat porridge, slow-cooked and commonly served during Ramadan or family gatherings. Comfort food in local culture.
Arabic Coffee (Gahwa)
Served with dates, this lightly spiced coffee (cardamom-based) is a symbol of Emirati hospitality. Often offered free in cultural centers.
Where to Eat
Try Al Fanar Restaurant, Mezlai at Emirates Palace for upscale Emirati cuisine, or Al Mandi & Madhbi House for casual local eats. Also, explore souks and food courts for authentic street flavors.
Organizing your trip to the capital of UAE
Category
Details
When to Visit
The best time is November to March, when the weather is cooler (20–26°C). Avoid peak summer (June–August), as temperatures can exceed 45°C.
How to Get There
Fly into Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH), served by major global airlines. Alternatively, land in Dubai and travel 90–120 minutes by bus, taxi, or private car.
Visa Requirements
Citizens of the EU, UK, USA, and many others get a visa on arrival.
Local Culture
Emirati society is respectful and traditional. Dress modestly in public, avoid public displays of affection, and be aware of Islamic customs, especially during Ramadan.
Currency & Payments
The local currency is the UAE Dirham (AED). Credit cards are widely accepted. Cash is useful for taxis, small shops, and souks.
Language
Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken in shops, hotels, and tourist areas.
Connectivity
Buy a local SIM card at the airport (Etisalat or Du). Most hotels, malls, and cafés offer free Wi-Fi.
Health & Safety
Abu Dhabi is very safe, clean, and modern. Tap water is generally safe, but bottled water is recommended. Travel insurance is advised.
