Abu Dhabi, the sister city of Dubai is marking its territory as one of the top tourist destinations in UAE due to its world class infrastructure and interesting attractions. Until yesterday, Abu Dhabi boasted of a city of conventions and exhibitions but today it gaining importance for entertainment and shopping also. Various areas and islands in Abu Dhabi are developed to promote tourism including the Corniche & Yas and Saadiyat Island. To provide in-depth information on the various things to do in Abu Dhabi, we have compiled a must visit list of top landmarks, bars, activities. Also, travellers will be informed on the various means of transportation and communication options in Abu Dhabi.

Top 10 Abu Dhabi Landmarks

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque:
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi personifies religious architecture in Abu Dhabi. The largest mosque in Abu Dhabi, it is a key place of worship during Eid when it is able to accommodate nearly 40,000 worshippers. Its architectural features include the world’s largest carpet, imported 24-carat gold plated chandeliers from Germany made of Swarovski crystals, calligraphy styles on the Qiba wall and unique lighting along the pools arcades. The mosque is open to all religions with complimentary ‘walk-in’ guided tours available from Saturday to Thursday.

Heritage Village:
Operated by the Emirates Heritage Club, Heritage Village provides introspection of a bygone traditional Middle Eastern village settled along an oasis. Traditional way of living including desert life, coffee pots, and tents made of goat’s hair, and falaj irrigation system can be observed at this open-air museum. Traditional metal skills are also demonstrated here where men work on pottery and metal work while women show their skills at weaving and spinning.

The Corniche:
The Abu Dhabi Corniche beach front shows off many facets of its personality, right from a premium housing location to a lengthy coast of sparkling blue beaches. In the past few years, the area has notably come into the limelight as a high profile entertainment and recreation centre. At one end of the Corniche is the breakwater where many tourists spend their weekends to rest and relax while the other end boasts of a port and souq’s. The Corniche welcomes many from regular joggers, picnickers to guests staying at luxury hotels.

Emirates Palace:
The Emirates Palace is an outstanding luxury hotel and a national landmark located in Abu Dhabi. The hotel itself is owned by the Abu Dhabi government but managed by the Kempinski Group. If money is not a problem, then a stay at this hotel is worth the penny since you’ll get to enjoy a mirror image of the Burj Al Arab in Dubai. The hotel features gold plated Swaroski crystal chandeliers, intricate glimmering domes and all the wealth of Abu Dhabi trapped in 302 Grand rooms and 92 magnificent suites.

Yas Island:
Abu Dhabi itself is an island neighboured by nearly 200 minor islands. A few of them have been developed for tourism of which one is Yas Island – home to the Yas Marina Circuit – the world-class F1 motor cross race track. It also features attractions like Yas Marina and Abu Dhabi golf course, Warner Bros. Movie World, Ferrari World, Yas Marina Hotel and a water park. The tourist destination is completed with inclusion of hotels, marinas, polo clubs, apartments, villas and food and beverage outlets. The Yas Island is just 30 minutes drive from Abu Dhabi.

Saadiyat Island:
As the Yas Island, Saadiyat Island is also fast developing as progressive tourist development off the coast of Abu Dhabi. The island will serve all from entrepreneurs to tourists by incorporating constructions to the likes of waterfront residences & hotels, international business hub and beachfront entertainment centres & attractions. Specifically, it will feature the Zayed National Museum, the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, Louvre Abu Dhabi, a performing arts centre and a maritime museum conceptualized by Pritzker prize-winners.

Al Maqtaa Fort & Palace:
This 200-year beige coloured fortress has all the traditional trappings of the local architecture when bandits ruled the place around the Al Maqtaa Bridge. The fort was built to protect and keep a close watch on the surrounding area and the waters. When visiting the fort/palace don’t forget to enjoy the wooden doors, sandy walls and on-site museum.

The Women’s Handicraft Centre:
The Women’s Handicraft Centre is a government centre promoting weaving, embroidery, sewing, basketry items made by women from the emirates. Demonstration and display of traditional styles of weaving are held at the workshops here where you can get to see the actual women work together their handicrafts items. Photography of women is not allowed without the concerned lady’s permission. Moreover, it is advisable that tourists concentrate on buying and clicking pictures of items like camel bags, ethnic costumes and other traditional craft items.

Al Bateen Shipyard:
Al Bateen Shipyard is an iconic landmark on the coast of Abu Dhabi which illustrates the traditional craft of Arabic boat making. Visitors can get to enjoy displays of how traditional Dhow sailing vessels are made by able local craftsmen. Also, this is one of the few places where dhows are still used to catch fish and prawns from the Gulf. The oldest occupied area of the UAE capital is developed to include signature waterfront destinations like the Fishermen’s Marina and the luxury five-star Al Bateen Wharf Hotel.

Qasr al-Husn Palace:
Built in 1761 by the ruling Al-Nahyan family Qasr al-Husn is the oldest standing stone building in Abu Dhabi. Also known as ‘white fort’ due its white walls formed during the early 19th century renovations, it remained the official government seat and royal palace until 1966. The building is presently undergoing restoration and is closed to the public.

Top 5 Bars

P.J. O’Reilly’s:
Completed submerged in Irish flavour, P.J. O’Reilly’s is one of the favourite joints to get hands on true blue bar food. Friday afternoon is an excellent time to visit this place when DJ’s play the music of town or better still a football match on weekends with burgers, fish & chips is a great idea as well.

Trader Vics:
Trader Vics is one of the places where theme plays a large role in attracting crowds. When you have an aesthetic Polynesian décor topped with large cocktail glasses, its no wonder tourists throng this place for appreciating the food and beverage department. The food is as delicious as the cocktails plus a live Cuban band keeps the spirits alive.

Captain’s Arms:
Captain’s Arms location at Le Meridien Abu Dhabi is one of the favourite meeting places of pub goers who like their beers the traditional, English way. With an outdoor seating area overlooking the Centre Garden, the wooden interiors amalgamated with comfy sofas and low-ceiling beams works their way around the hearts of British expats.

Hemingway’s:
It is the taste of South America that smothers pub goers at Hemingway’s, Hilton Abu Dhabi. Also encompassing a restaurant serving some fine fat layers of cheese and sauces from the Tex-Mex region, the guzzlers keep coming back for regulars like live music by The Newz, and broadcast of sporting events like Premier League and F1.

Heroes:
A classic, award winning pub at Crown Plaza, Heroes epitomizes what a bar-pub should be like – smoky, live sports, pub quizzes, generous list of cocktails & food portions and extended happy hours. Heroes serves the regular classic pub drinks but it excels in serving liberal sized burgers, pies, sandwiches and cheesecakes large enough to use a knife and fork.

Top 10 Activities

Desert Safari:
A Desert Safari is a must do activity in the land of the Arabs surrounded by sea and sand. Challenging mountains of sand dunes as you swirl up and down, the adrenalin rushing activity takes place in a four wheeler or a more sober camel ride. However, both rides provide equal thrills plus when pooled with a Bedouin camp site, barbecue, falconry demonstration, henna artist, belly dancing and sand boarding, the dune bashing activity takes on a completely new meaning.

The Corniche:
The Corniche is unarguably the most beautiful part of Abu Dhabi, a coastal promenade dotted by twinkling building and sandy beaches. The waterfront is impressively decorated with manicured gardens, fountains, entertainment options, state-of-the-art Park and a beach with softer sand. Just come to the Corniche to rest and relax as you watch bicyclers, joggers and the adventurous sea surfers enjoy their day out.

Dhow Cruise:
Dhow Cruise gives an insight of how Abu Dhabi was before commercialization set in. A trip on a traditional Dhow boat sets along to mesmerize tourists with various attractions of the city and its skyline. Various Dhow cruise companies organize sunrise and sunset cruises in addition to specialized cruises for large parties.

Camel Racing:
Sounds odd to the ears but camel racing for Arabs is similar to what horse racing is for the Westerners. Seeing the camels run gallop at a speed of 20kph/12mph during the camel racing season is a wonderful sight for the eyes. Visit the camel racetrack near Abu Dhabi to enjoy this sport. The rules differ but the fervour is the same.

Falconry – the sport of Kings:
Falcons were originally used by the Sheikhs as a hunting medium but later on they assumed a role of a popular sport and status symbol among the ruling class. There are various ways of enjoying the sport say by booking a tour of the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital where one can get to see free-flying falcons. Also, Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) organize various competitions and beauty contests for falcons.

Scuba-diving & Snorkelling:
The area around Fujairah or Mussandam, a three hour drive from Abu Dhabi is famous for its reefs, wrecks and deep water trenches. Persian Gulf around this area is an excellent topographic point to enjoy scuba diving and snorkelling to pay a visit to the local fishes and aquatic animals. If you are still unversed with the idea, join a diving school.

Al Ain Zoo:
The Al Ain Zoo and Wildlife Centre is where children could get to interact with over 4,000 animals and over 180 endangered species. Located at Jebel Hafeet the zoo houses the usual animals like tigers, lions and elephants but more importantly the indigenous Arabian Oryx and sand gazelle. There is a picnic and playground space along with a cafeteria. One could also book a train tour of the wildlife area.

Yas Links & Marina Circuit:
The Yas Links golf course designed by world renowned architect Kyle Phillips, is a classic golf course on the Yas Island sporting a typical English style golf link. The golf course features highlights to the likes of Andalucían styled Golf Club, alluring open terraces with sea views, sports lounge and Barranca fine-dining restaurant which has an entrance to two outdoor terraces and a private dining room.

The Yas Marina Circuit designed by Hermann Tilke is a Formula One race track situated on the Yas Island. The circuit inaugurated in 2009 plays hosts to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, a F1 race. Designed to resemble an Arabian version of Monaco, the motor sports venue boasts of a complete list of facilities including meetings, conferences and exhibitions venue, a Ferrari theme park, a water park, as well as residential areas, hotels and beaches.

Gold and Carpet Shopping:
A land where taxes know no meaning obviously makes it a safe haven for shopholics. Abu Dhabi is the trading ground for all crafts and souvenirs arriving from other Mid East countries and Asia. However, if you want to something authentic that will gather the memories of your trip then buy Perisan carpets from the Carpet Souk at the port end of Mina Road and gold jewellery on 4th Street in Madinat Zayed.

Noukhada Kayaking Tours:
Noukhada Kayaking Tours by an adventure company of the same name promotes eco-tourism in Abu Dhabi through activities like kayaking, sailing, blokarting and trail biking. Their various tours include expeditions in the mangroves of Abu Dhabi. Try an overnighter, bird watching, fishing and circumnavigation of the Yas Island tours.

Top Abu Dhabi FAQ's

Q.1) When is the best time to visit Abu Dhabi?

Ans: Abu Dhabi experiences a cool & temperate climate from December to March when temperatures don’t rise above an average of 22° C. January is the coolest month with an average temperature of 18° C.

Q.2) Abu Dhabi is located in which region of the Gulf?

Ans: Abu Dhabi is the largest emirate and the capital of United Arab Emirates. It is positioned on the north-eastern part of the Persian Gulf in the Arabian Peninsula. Actually Abu Dhabi is an island, 250 meters away from mainland connected by the Maqta and Mussafah Bridges.

Q.3) In which time zone is Abu Dhabi placed? Does it observe daylight saving?

Ans: The UAE standard time zone is UTC +4 i.e. it is 4 hours ahead of GMT. UAE doesn’t observe daylight saving.

Q.4) What is the electric current voltage in Abu Dhabi?

Ans: The electric current voltage in Abu Dhabi is 220/240V at 50 Hz. If one needs to use 110V, 60 Hz, a common practice in US, a transformer (converter) is necessary. Also, since square three-pin sockets are used, an adapter to plug in flat pin appliances is essential. Most hotels will provide you with an adapter.

Q.5) As a Mid East country what is the official language of Abu Dhabi? Will an English speaking tourist face any problems in the city?

Ans: The official language of Abu Dhabi is Arabic, but English is widely spoken and understood by the locals. Besides English and Arabic, many hotels, airlines, restaurants and malls employ staff that is conversant in multiple languages.

Q.6) I am coming to Abu Dhabi with my laptop, do malls and public areas offer wireless internet access?

Ans: Most of the malls, public places, restaurants and hotels offer Wi-Fi access. Otherwise, tourists can check their emails or browse through wired access available at hotel rooms or in internet cafes.

Q.7) If I want to call my family or friends through public pay booths, how efficient are they?

Ans: Public pay phones are available throughout Abu Dhabi where they accept coins of 50 fils and one dirham. Also pre paid phone card are available for Dhs 30 or Dhs 45 at grocery stores, bookshops and Etisalat offices. Phone cards are available for both public phone booth and mobile phones.

Q.8) What is regarded as appropriate dressing for Non-Muslims in Abu Dhabi?

Ans: Abu Dhabi is tolerant towards tourist’s personal style of dressing. However visitors should try and avoid wearing very revealing clothes like shorts, sleeveless tops, short skirts so as to not offend and respect local culture and traditions.

Q.9) In restaurants, what tipping practices are followed?

Ans: Though not required, tipping is commonly practised in Abu Dhabi. Most of the restaurants add 16% service charge to the bill but if they do not do so, 10% of the total bill is expected as gratuities. Hotel porters, helpers at superstores and malls are generally paid a tip of Dhs 2.

Q.10) How safe is Abu Dhabi for tourists?

Ans: Since punishment for crimes in Abu Dhabi is strictly enforced, there are virtually zero crime rates in the city. The emirate is completely safe for tourists who can call the following emergency numbers in distress:

Ambulance: 998

Police: 999 / 02-4461461

Fire: 997

Helicopter: 999

Q.11) Do tourists have to follow any restrictions during the month of Ramadan?

Ans: Ramadan is the ninth holy Islamic month when Muslims fast and pray from dawn to dusk. They abstain from food, drinking and smoking and all activities not accepted by Islam. Smoking, eating and drinking in not allowed in public until the fast is broken with an Iftar feast.

Q.12) Is photography restricted in Abu Dhabi?

Ans: There are very few photography restrictions in Abu Dhabi except photos of UAE nationals, Muslim women, military and government buildings are not allowed.

Q.13) What are the visa requirements for UAE?

Ans: Please visit our Visa Requirements page for more details.

Q.14) When I go for shopping, any suggestions on what should I should shop for?

Ans: Abu Dhabi is famous for its gold jewellery, Persian carpets and tax free imported goods. Since sales tax and any other tax are missing on luxury items, shoppers could grab these items at a heavy discount. Also try the local handicrafts and food produces like dates.

Q.15) What are the official working hours in Abu Dhabi?

Ans: Government offices are open from 7:30 am to 3:00 pm – Monday to Thursday while private offices operate from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. Some offices have a 3-4 hour break in the afternoon after which they resume work at 4:00 or 5:00 pm until 9:00 pm.

Getting Around in Abu Dhabi

With Abu Dhabi brimming with so many attractions and activities, use of some kind of public transport is essential. While the bus and taxi system is fully competent through a well-networked channel of vehicles, its cars that rule the roads. Moreover, the emirate doesn’t have a rail system plus walking or cycling on the roads in the scorching heat is not possible. Hiring a car and driving around the attractions is a preferred mode by many as it doesn’t bind you within the timetables of government transport system. Car rental company vehicles are the latest & reliable with most offering GPS systems in their cars. Getting around in a car is very easy since the signboards bilingual blue or green signs keep the driver updated on the directions.

Bus System

The bus system in Abu Dhabi is affordable and easily accessible for any traveller visiting the capital of UAE. Operated by the Department of Transport (DoT), a complex network of bluish, air conditioned buses function around Abu Dhabi city and its suburbs, Al Ain and Madinat Zayed. These handicap friendly means of transport can be accessed from different points of the city, but the main station is on Hazaa Bin Zayed Road. You can catch a bus as well pick up a taxi as the bus stand also serves as a taxi stand for inter emirate taxi services. In Abu Dhabi city, the bus service runs daily between 5:00 AM to midnight and until 2:00 AM on weekends. Passengers can purchase an ‘Ojra’ bus pass classified as one trip ticket, one month pass, senior citizen and special need.

Taxis

The taxi transportation system in Abu Dhabi is well developed as a result of Centre for Regulation of Transport by Hire Cars (TransAD), the organization who regulates the taxis in the emirate. Travellers will encounter three types of taxis in Abu Dhabi: pink taxis driven by women and specially meant for women and child passengers, gold and white older taxis and silver new taxis. Over a period of time, the silver taxis will scale down the gold and white taxis. The taxis follow a unified metre system, yet there are many who will prefer to decide the fare in advance. Taxis can be hailed from almost any area and at shopping centre taxi stands or booked by calling 600 535353. Inter emirate taxis are available at the main bus station on Hazaa Bin Zayed Road, on the intersection of Al Muroor and Defence road.

Car Rental

There are many car rental companies operating in Abu Dhabi, but it is better to rely on the big ones as their cars are reliable and they offer immediate emergency services. Online booking is a great idea where the car will pick you from the airport, hotel as well drive you to various attractions. Also, rather than driving personally on the congested roads, it’s better to rent a car with a driver. However, if you prefer to drive on your own, then you will need a passport copy, credit card and international driving licence before hiring a vehicle. Furthermore, if you are in Abu Dhabi on a resident visa, then you will need to have a valid UAE driving licence for hiring a car.

Communication in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is the capital of UAE due to which the telecom and networking sector in the emirate is well developed. Travellers in the city can always keep themselves updated through various mediums of communication such as mobile phone, landline phone, newspapers, post, radio and internet. The telecom and internet services across the emirate are provided by The Emirates Telecommunications Company (Etisalat). Etisalat offers various phone services essentially Blackberry, 3G and fixed line services with off-peak hour rates. Internet both fixed and wireless is available across Abu Dhabi and Al Ain in both residences and hotels. Most hotels in Abu Dhabi provide Wi-Fi access areas and conference lounges. Public areas like shopping centres, airports have also started offering Wi-Fi access. One can also visit a nearby internet café to browse the net for a fixed hourly rate.

Emirates Post is the only postal service provider in UAE with 22 offices across the emirate for inter city and international mail and courier services. Post office timings vary as some are open till late in the evening while some close in the afternoon. Hotel desks also aid in post services.

The Abu Dhabi media includes various publishing houses printing both English and Arabic language daily newspapers as well monthly publications. The most famous among them are Gulf News, Khaleej Times and Al Ittihad. Foreign newspapers are also available in Abu Dhabi.