Abu Dhabi, UAE: a cultural hotspot
Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is a vibrant city and the cultural heart. It’s a place where tradition meets modernity in a stunning blend of culture, luxury, and natural beauty. Abu Dhabi is known for its impressive architecture, beautiful beaches, vast deserts, and a unique arts scene.
Abu Dhabi in a nutshell
Best things to see & do – Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, Theme Parks Desert Safari
Best time to visit – October & November to avoid the crowds, December until February for milder temperatures
Best beaches – Saadiyat Beach, Corniche Beach, Yas Beach, Nurai Island Beach, Hudayriat Island Beach
Where to stay – Andaz Abu Dhabi Capital Gate, Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi, The Abu Dhabi EDITION, Emirates Palace Abu Dhabi
Where to eat – Hakkasan, Fouquet’s, Coya, Butcher & Still, Cyan, Beach House
How to get around – Traffic in Abu Dhabi is not as busy as in other cities in the UAE, so it is easy to travel by rental car, cab or Uber. Buses are also available as a means of public transportation.
Best things to see and do
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the world’s largest and most stunning mosques, known for its impressive architecture, white marble, and serene atmosphere. Make sure to check the dresscode prior to your visit. Of course it is possible to buy the traditional clothing such as a Shayla for woman at the shops just before the entrance. There is not really a best time to visit but you have to book tickets online with a timeslot before entering the mosque. The entry is free. We arrived around 11:30 am. As the entire central area is blocked and visitors are not allowed to enter, it is easy to take photos of the mosque, even when it is busy!
Louvre Abu Dhabi is definitely a must visit, even if you’re not that interested in art. The building is a stunning architectural masterpiece and is home for a world-class art collection with global and Islamic influences. After you have completed the tour of paintings, statues and other exhibits, you will reach the world-famous outdoor area of the museum. The unique ceiling design makes the play of light here simply unique. The entry is around 15 € and tickets can be booked online or directly at the museum.
Saadiyat Island is the art & culture district of Abu Dhabi with stunning beaches and many great resorts such as the Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi. It is the perfect part for a relaxing day at a beach club or a dinner by the sea.
Abu Dhabi has some famous Theme Parks nearby, such as the Ferrari World Abu Dhabi or the Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi. The Ferrari World is located on Yas Island and is known for the world’s fastest roller coaster. The Warner Bros World is an immersive experience based on beloved Warner Bros. characters and stories.
Last but not least Abu Dhabi is sourrounded by desert and there are many possibilities to do a Desert Safari. Since our time in the city was very limited we didn’t manage to do one but everything we heard about desert safaris its definitely a great experience!
Best beaches
Saadiyat Beach is known for its white sand and turquoise waters. This beautiful beach is part of Saadiyat Island and is great for swimming, sunbathing, and spotting dolphins or turtles. It's also home to well known resorts and beach clubs such as the Park Hyatt Beach House, Kai Beach and Saadiyat Beach Club.
Corniche Beach is located along Abu Dhabi’s famous Corniche Road, this family-friendly beach offers clear waters, lifeguards, and views of the city skyline. It has separate sections for families.
Yas Beach on Yas Island is ideal for a relaxing beach day or a water sports adventure. Nearby you will also find various beach cabanas, bars and a vibrant nightlife.
Nurai Island Beach is the perfect beach for tranquility and relaxing moments. It is accessible by boat only since it is located on a private island. Definitely the perfect place for a calming city escape.
Hudayriat Island Beach is a vibrant beach with many great beach clubs but is also known for water sports and beach adventures. The most famous beach clubs there are Ilios and Nalu Surf Club.
Where to stay
Andaz Abu Dhabi is a 5-star boutique hotel located in the iconic Capital Gate building and is known for its unique guinness world records leaning design. It combines modern aesthetics with Arabian influences and offers spacious, colorful designed rooms and suites with stunning views of the city skyline and the Arabian Gulf. Its the perfect address if your searching a great hotel for a city & sightseeing trip.
Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi is nestled on the shores of Saadiyat Island and offers the perfect accommodation for a luxury beach getaway. There are various dining options, a huge resort area with different pools and direct beach access, perfect for a relaxing holiday.
The Abu Dhabi EDITION is a modern hotel that combines luxury and sophistication. It is located in the vibrant Abu Dhabi waterfront, and offers beautifully designed rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows and stunning views from the rooftop bar. Its the perfect hotel if you’re seeking luxury combined with great dining options for your Abu Dhabi trip.
Emirates Palace Abu Dhabi is definitely the most iconic place to stay since its renowned as one of the world’s most luxurious hotels. It is set along a private stretch of a stunning beach and offers various rooms and suites, each designed with a blend of modern luxury and Arabian heritage. There’s also a vegan room, beachfront suites and unique palace suites. The hotel also offers a variety of gourmet dining options as well as a great pool and various spa facilities. Simply a must-visit destination if you’re seeking an unforgettable and high end luxurious experience in the heart of Abu Dhabi.
Where to eat & drink
The Beach House at the Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi is located directly at the beach and has a restaurant area, a lounge area and a beach area with various snacks while sunbathing on the sunbeds. The restaurant area is definitely perfect for a lunch by the beach or a great dinner by the sea.
From the 18 Degrees Rooftop Bar located at the Andaz Abu Dhabi Capital Gate you can enjoy a stunning view over the city from above as well as a beautiful sunset. Just next to the bar there is the restaurant Cyan which offers delicious international but also middle eastern dinner wth a huge menu.
Hakkasan is the Adress for a exquisite and luxurious dinner. The restaurant offers delicious dishes inspired by asian flavours in simply a stunning and glamourous atmosphere. It’s located at the Emirates Palace.
Brasserie Fouquet’s is a world-famous Michelin Star restaurant which is located at the Louvre Abu Dhabi. The french restaurant is is inspired by the parisian dining vibe and offers lunch and dinner in a simply unique ambiance.
Coya can be found in The Galleria at Al Maryah Island and is the perfect place for latin american cuisine with a touch of asian flavours.
Butcher & Still is the top address for great steaks in Abu Dhabi. Located in the Four Seasons hotel it combines delicious signature dishes with a simply amazing vibe.
How to get around
Renting a car is a popular option if you want to explore the city on your own or if you are planning various excursions outside the city. There are numerous international and local car rental companies with offices at the airport and in the city. You will need a valid international driving license to rent a car. Traffic in Abu Dhabi is generally manageable and most roads are well maintained, making driving pleasant. It is recommended that you catch up on the traffic rules before your visit to avoid penalties for wrong-way driving. Parking is usually easy to find in Abu Dhabi, as many shopping malls, hotels and public facilities offer ample parking. In some areas you can also park on the street, but be aware of any parking bans to avoid fines.
Uber and Careem are widely available in Abu Dhabi, providing a convenient alternative to traditional taxis. Abu Dhabi also has a great taxi service, with taxis available at designated stands, hotels, and shopping malls or by calling a taxi company. Many drivers speak English.
Also the Public Bus Network is an affordable and efficient way to get around the city. The modern buses cover various routes, connecting major attractions, residential areas, and the airport. To get around by bus you need to purchase a Hafilat Card to pay for bus fares, which can be recharged at various locations throughout the city.
Walking – In recent years, Abu Dhabi has been expanding its cycling paths and pedestrian walkways, especially along the Corniche and in newly developed areas.