July 21, 2025 | Abu Dhabi, UAE: Abu Dhabi is definitely not one of those cities that leaves one breathless, but this guide to Abu Dhabi contains all the pertinent information about hotels, restaurants, and attractions in this wonderful city. If you are here, then you might be searching for what to do in Abu Dhabi. Maybe you are a new UAE resident, searching for some info, or maybe you are a writer such as myself, in an attempt to put the city into words. Whatever the reason you are here, remember this: Guide To Abu Dhabi, which holds more surprises than you can imagine once you look beyond the first impression.
1. When Should You Actually Visit?
The winter months (November to March) are an excellent time to travel to Abu Dhabi. During these months, the daytime temperature is 15-30° C and the humidity level is 55-65%. The weather is perfect for outdoor brunch, desert camps, and F1 final viewing. The only negative is that the hotels are the most expensive during these months, but the pleasant weather is worth it.
- Spring and Autumn (March to May, September to October) work really well too. You’ll experience day temperatures between 23-38°C with moderate humidity of 45-60%. These shoulder seasons offer better prices and cultural festivals are in full swing. Just watch out for humidity spikes in mid-May.
- Summer (June to August) is brutal with temperatures reaching 39-45°C and feeling much hotter with 70-90% humidity. However, this is when you’ll find bargain room rates and can enjoy indoor mega-malls without crowds. Just remember that outdoor touring becomes unbearable after 10 AM.
- Pro tip: Book late November if you want mild weather and Abu Dhabi Grand Prix parties, but reserve rooms six months out.
Whether you’re planning for winter charm or summer deals, this guide to Abu Dhabi ensures you’re packing at the right time and staying smart with bookings.
2. Getting Around the City
- Government silver taxis run by TransAD are everywhere and pretty reliable. They’re metered at AED 1.82 per kilometer and accept card payments 24/7. The drivers usually know all the main tourist spots.
- Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem work just like home and are often 10-15% cheaper during off-peak hours. In addition, passengers will be made aware of the fare beforehand, thus making it convenient to plan the budget.
- Public buses run on 124 routes through the city. Get a Hafilat card (AED 10 deposit) and pay just AED 2 per trip. It’s extremely cheap and takes you to most of the places that the tourists would enjoy visiting.
- Airport transfers are facilitated with the Airport Express (AED 35) fromAbu Dhabi International Airport to city center every half hour. It’s quick and fixed cost.
- Scheduled for 2030, the 18-station Abu Dhabi Metro is already in the process of being constructed and will provide a connection between Zayed City and Saadiyat Island, hence making transport easier.
This guide to Abu Dhabi provides useful tips on city planning, transportation, and how to move around like a local.
3. Where to Stay (and Actually Sleep Well)
Whether you’re looking for five-star luxury or a serene escape, this guide to Abu Dhabi covers the best accommodations for all budgets.
The Fancy Stuff
- Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental is situated on the Corniche and is like residing in an actual palace. The gold leaf, 1.3-kilometre private beach, and 8 restaurants all exceed AED 2,600 per night. That’s for that special something once-in-a-lifetime indulgence.
- The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi features Renaissance-arched windows with views of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque. The hotel features eight independent restaurants, an excellent spa, and lovely gardens ideal for evening strolls. Prices begin from around AED 1,750 per night.
- Zaya Nurai is an island getaway right near Saadiyat Island. The 12-minute boat ride is all included and the infinity pool villas are a minimum of AED 4,500 for one night. It is super romantic and intimate.
Modern City Vibes
- W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island sits right in the middle of all the action. The hotel overlooks the F1 track and features a neon-lit lobby atrium. It’s walking distance to theme parks and great for younger crowds who want nightlife.
- Anantara Eastern Mangroves offer a quiet spot that’s still close to everything. You can choose between city or nature views, and there’s a sunset kayak pier leading into the mangrove park. The pool area is really relaxing and provides a great middle ground between luxury and location.
4. Food That’ll Make You Want to Stay Forever
Dining is a significant part of any trip, and this guide to Abu Dhabi ensures you don’t miss out on top-rated spots or under-the-radar gems.
Michelin Star Excellence
- Talea by Antonio Guida earned an actual Michelin star and serves handmade tagliolini with Amalfi-lemon sorbet. The Italian food is worth the splurge, and the open kitchen lets you watch the magic happen. Family-style serving makes it feel special.
International Flavor Destinations
- Hakkasan at Emirates Palace offers Chinese fine dining in a gorgeous setting. Their wood-oven Peking duck is legendary, and the atmosphere is sophisticated but not stuffy. It’s perfect for special occasions.
- COYA at Four Seasons brings Peruvian party vibes with corn-slider bao and a pisco bar. The ceviche is absolutely fresh, and cocktails are works of art. It feels like celebrating even on a Tuesday.
- BB Social Dining at Rosewood does Asian fusion right with creative dim sum and their famous “Habibi Bao” stuffed with short-rib. The cool atmosphere attracts locals, which is always a good sign.
Local Gems Worth Finding
- NIRI at Mamsha Al Saadiyat is an informal setting with sea views. The Japanese restaurant boasts wonderful views, and the sushi is extremely fresh. It’s ideal for sunset evening dinner and has won awards for good reasons.
- Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi at Emirates Palace in Emirates Palace exudes Indian sophistication with their stunning varqui crab in truffle butter. The luxurious ambiance is complemented with the high-end cuisine, perfect to test sophisticated Indian food.
Dining is a major part of the experience, and this guide to Abu Dhabi makes sure you don’t miss out on top-rated spots or under-the-radar gems.
5. What You Absolutely Cannot Miss
If you do not know where to begin to explore, this guide to Abu Dhabi indicates the must-visit places you should see.
Eye-Candy Landmarks
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque boasts 82 domes, 24-carat chandeliers, and the world’s biggest hand-knotted carpet. It is free to visit, but book in advance for sunset hours when the golden light is a photographer’s paradise.
- Qasr Al Watan is the Presidential Palace with a 37-meter library dome and nightly light show. It gives you incredible insight into UAE culture and features over 50,000 books. The architecture is absolutely mind-blowing.
Culture Circuit
- Louvre Abu Dhabi showcases Jean Nouvel’s “rain-of-light” dome and hosts Da Vinci, Rothko, and rotating Gulf futurism shows. Even non-art people find it interesting, and that dome creates the coolest light patterns.
- Saadiyat Cultural District houses multiple museums in one area. The Guggenheim Abu Dhabi opens in 2026, and the Natural History Museum is under construction. It’s easy to spend a whole day here.
Family Thrills
- Yas Island serves as an entertainment centre with Ferrari World’s Formula Rossa reaching 240 km/h, Warner Bros. World indoor park, and Yas Waterworld’s 40 slides. There’s something for every age group.
6. Nightlife That Actually Delivers
Dance-All-Night Venues
- White Abu Dhabi on Al Maryah Island is the most exclusive club in the city with a 360° LED cube and global DJs. The dress code is strict but worth it for special nights out.
- Iris Yas Island offers rooftop beats with Marina sunset views and Pan-Med tapas. It’s good for both dinner and clubbing, with an open-air vibe that’s refreshing.
Sophisticated Evening Options
- Siddharta Lounge by Buddha-Bar Siddharta Lounge by Buddha-Bar is a sophisticated ambience with a view of an infinity pool and sushi. It is a good spot for watching the sunset while having good cocktails and Asian dishes.
- Buddha-Bar Beach on Saadiyat at Saadiyat transports you to the beach with fire-pit tables and soothing deep-house music. It’s a cozy spot to bask in the sand, perfect for a night out with your sweetheart.
7. Shopping: From Markets to Stores
- The Galleria Al Maryah features the Gulf’s largest Louis Vuitton plus an Apple Store Genius Bar. High-end designer brands fill this beautiful waterfront location, making it perfect for serious shopping.
- Yas Mall houses 370 brands with a good mix of prices. There’s a link bridge to Ferrari World, cinema, and entertainment options. You can easily spend a whole day here.
- Souk Qaryat Al Beri offers authentic Arabian market experience with abra-served waterways, spices, and oud perfumes. The traditional architecture and crafts make it good for unique souvenirs.
- Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre features 70 jewellers selling 22-carat gold bangles by weight. It’s a mix of modern and traditional with great options for gold and perfumes, plus handicrafts from local artisans.
From gold to designer finds, your shopping wishlist is covered in this comprehensive guide to Abu Dhabi.
8. Beyond the City: Day-Trip Ideas
- Al Ain Oasis takes a 90-minute drive and has 147,000 date palms with 3,000-year-old falaj channels. This UNESCO destination also includes a traditional camel market experience.
- This guide to Abu Dhabi doesn’t stop at city borders; nearby gems are worth the short trip.
- Sir Bani Yas Island by ferry and car takes 3 hours. It has an 11,000 free-roaming wild animal safari, including Arabian oryx. It’s perfect for nature lovers who want to view wildlife.
- Liwa Desert is 2.5 hours from Abu Dhabi. It has the 300-meter Moreeb Dune and Bedouin overnight camping. It’s best for those who love the desert and want authentic experiences.
- Mangrove National Park is only 15 minutes from the city by car and is perfect for kayaking with herons and young animals. It’s a serene nature spot close to the city.
9. Safety, Etiquette & Practicalities
Emergency Information
- Emergency numbers include 999 for police and 998 for ambulances, with bilingual operators available. Both services respond quickly and efficiently.
- Major hospitals include the Cleveland Clinic for cardiac care and Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City for trauma. Both offer world-class medical care.
Local Laws and Customs
- Alcohol rules permit consumption of alcohol in licensed establishments with a zero-tolerance policy towards drink-driving (0.0 BAC). Inns usually have a number of lounges and bars.
- Dress code Your knees and shoulders must be covered at malls and mosques. Beaches and pools are where you can swim in bikinis.
- Ramadan considerations Individuals do not eat or drink publicly from sunrise to sunset during Ramadan. However, private restaurants in hotels are open during the day.
- Tap water is desalinated and clean, yet locals still purchase bottled for flavor.
Connectivity & Money-Saving Hacks
- Tourist SIM cards from Etisalat or du offer e-SIM packs with 4GB for AED 49. Coverage is excellent throughout the city.
- Free Wi-Fi is available at all malls plus Louvre Abu Dhabi, with many buses now equipped.
- Transport contracts are the Hafilat daily bus limit of AED 5—ride as often as you want for great value.
- Meal deals consist of Michelin-starred restaurant corporate lunch packages for AED 145, and Entertainer 2-for-1 vouchers cut the cost of dinner in half.
- Packages at hotels offer Sunday-to-Wednesday stays to lower the price by 25% of weekend prices, or May or October stays to benefit from shoulder-season promotions.
10. Annual Events & Festivals Calendar
From sustainability summits to fireworks shows, this guide to Abu Dhabi keeps your calendar full of excitement year-round.
- January brings Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, a global climate summit with exhibitions at ADNEC.
- February features the Mother of the Nation (MOTN) Festival with Corniche fun-fair, art installations, and concerts.
- March hosts Al Ain Classical Music Festival with open-air concerts amidst walls of oases.
- July has the Liwa Date Festival,camel racing, and date-palm competitions.
- November showcases Abu Dhabi Art Fair at Manarat Al Saadiyat with contemporary booths.
- Late November sees the season finale of the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at Yas Marina with concerts during the week.
- November through February features the Sheikh Zayed Festival with 6,000 heritage shows and record-breaking fireworks.
Plan your travel dates better with this guide to Abu Dhabi, which outlines all the major events and local celebrations year-round.
11. Accessibility Notes
Abu Dhabi’s commitment to universal access means step-free entrances at new malls, low-floor buses with ramps, tactile paving at Louvre Abu Dhabi, wheelchairs for hire at Yas Island parks, and audible crosswalk signals downtown.
12. What to Pack (Quick Checklist)
- Breathable cottons and a light scarf for mosques
- UV 50+ sunscreen and sunglasses
- Reusable water bottle (most hotels have filtered dispensers)
- Universal power adapter (Type G sockets)
- Lightweight jacket for AC-blasted malls or 15°C winter nights
If you’re planning your first trip or your fifth, this guide to Abu Dhabi will always offer something new to explore.
Final Thoughts
This travel guide to Abu Dhabi has it all for a holiday you will never forget. The city blends tradition and fashion; if you are a luxury or culture person, an adventurer or a family fun person, there is something here for everyone. Whether you meet the friendly locals, taste the best cuisine, or enjoy your stay here, you will never forget your visit for quite some time after returning home.
Don’t try to do all of it there in one visit – select a few things that you especially like and do them in moderation. This short guide to Abu Dhabi should be enough; nevertheless, it is pleasant to listen to your gut and be prepared for any unexpected events when you happen to be there.
The city continues to evolve with something new to do, eat, and see being added daily. The Abu Dhabi guide is supplemented with the new information; nevertheless, it is reasonable to read the update in advance.
Before you leave, bookmark this guide to Abu Dhabi so you’re never more than a scroll away from tips, updates, and recommendations.
READ MORE: Your Guide to Nightlife in Abu Dhabi: 10+ Top Venues & Safety Tips
