Abu Dhabi Travel Guide

Visit Abu Dhabi, and explore its culturally rich heritage, natural beauty, best things to do, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, safety norms and much more. Read on to know more.


1 Visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Qasr Al Hosn
2 Explore the natural beauty of Saadiyat Island and Sir Bani Yas Island
3 Take a desert safari and experience traditional Bedouin culture
4 Visit Louvre Abu Dhabi and other cultural attractions
5 Shop at the luxurious malls and markets
6 Go on a dhow cruise and enjoy the city’s skyline
7 Relax at one of the city’s spas or beaches

Food and Drink Scene of Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi’s food scene reflects the blend of various cultures that have made it their home. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Machboos - a traditional Emirati dish made with spiced rice, meat, and vegetables.
  2. Luqaimat - Emirati dumplings served with honey or syrup.
  3. Shawarma - a Middle Eastern sandwich filled with grilled meat, vegetables, and sauce.

Local Beverages

  1. Arabic Coffee - a strong coffee served with dates, a gesture of hospitality in the Emirati culture.
  2. Laban - a refreshing yogurt drink that acts as a coolant in the hot weather.

Where to Stay in Abu Dhabi: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Abu Dhabi has a vast range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  1. Emirates Palace - a luxurious 7-star hotel that is one of the most iconic landmarks of Abu Dhabi.
  2. Beach Rotana - a 5-star hotel located in the city center, perfect for those who prefer to stay in the heart of the city.
  3. Hostel Corniche - a budget-friendly option that offers both dormitory and private rooms.

What to Buy in Abu Dhabi: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Abu Dhabi offers some unique souvenirs and local products that make for perfect gifts to bring back home. Some of the recommended items are:

  1. Dates - a sweet delicacy and an important part of the Emirati culture.
  2. Arabian Perfumes - a range of fragrances that are exclusive to the Middle East.
  3. Camel Milk Chocolate - a local delicacy that combines the unique taste of camel milk with chocolate.

Local Culture and Customs of Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is a city influenced by its Islamic and Bedouin roots. It is important to be respectful of the local culture and customs. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  1. Dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques and other religious sites.
  2. Avoid public displays of affection.
  3. During the holy month of Ramadan, refrain from eating, drinking or smoking in public areas.

Best Time to Visit Abu Dhabi

The best time to visit Abu Dhabi is from November to April, when the weather is relatively cooler and pleasant.

Do’s and Don’ts of Abu Dhabi

Do:

  1. Respect the local culture and customs.
  2. Be mindful of your dressing and attire.
  3. Keep in mind the prayer timings if visiting religious sites.

Don’t:

  1. Display public affection.
  2. Use inappropriate language or gestures.

Safety and Health

Safety in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is quite safe for tourists, and the crime rate is low. However, it’s important to keep in mind the following:

  1. Take care of your valuables and belongings in public areas.
  2. Be vigilant when using taxis and public transport.

Health in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi has a good healthcare system, with both public and private hospitals. However, it’s important to have travel insurance and take precautions such as staying hydrated in the hot weather.

Getting to Abu Dhabi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Abu Dhabi is well-connected to various international locations, and there are multiple ways to get here.

Airports Near Abu Dhabi

  1. Abu Dhabi International Airport - the main gateway to the city.
  2. Dubai International Airport - a major airport in the UAE, located about 90 minutes from Abu Dhabi.

Bus Stations Near Abu Dhabi

  1. Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station - located in the city center.
  2. Mussafah Bus Station - located in the industrial area.

Other Options

  1. Private Taxis - easily available in the city.
  2. Car Rentals - available at the airport.

How to Get Around in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi has a range of options for travelers to get around:

  1. Taxis - plentiful and reasonably priced.
  2. Public Buses - run by the Department of Transport and are a more economical option.
  3. Car Rentals - easily available.

Where to Go Next from Abu Dhabi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Abu Dhabi is well-connected to other destinations in the UAE, and some recommended ones are:

  1. Dubai - the well-known emirate that is home to various attractions such as the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall.
  2. Al Ain - a city located in the Abu Dhabi emirate that is known for its gardens and natural beauty.
  3. Fujairah - a coastal city that boasts of stunning beaches and adventurous activities such as diving and snorkeling.

Conclusion

Abu Dhabi is a city that offers a perfect mix of tradition and modernity. It’s a destination that must be on every traveler’s list, with its impressive architecture, natural beauty, cultural heritage, and delicious food. Plan your trip to Abu Dhabi and make unforgettable memories.

Abu Dhabi as seen from space. Abu Dhabi as seen from space. Abu Dhabi skyline at night showing Emirates Palace and Etihad Towers in the background. Abu Dhabi skyline at night showing Emirates Palace and Etihad Towers in the background. Abu Dhabi Airport Abu Dhabi Airport E11 highway, also called Sheikh Zayed road, towards Abu Dhabi from Dubai. E11 highway, also called Sheikh Zayed road, towards Abu Dhabi from Dubai. Abu Dhabi parking meter. Abu Dhabi parking meter. Abu Dhabi route 56 public transport bus. Abu Dhabi route 56 public transport bus. Sheikh Zayed Mosque, the largest mosque in the UAE. Sheikh Zayed Mosque, the largest mosque in the UAE. Qasr Al Watan is the presidential palace of the United Arab Emirates. Qasr Al Watan is the presidential palace of the United Arab Emirates. The Corniche road is a great place to take a breath from the city hustle and bustle. The Corniche road is a great place to take a breath from the city hustle and bustle. Swim in surprisingly clear water at the Corniche Swim in surprisingly clear water at the Corniche Discover the desert with a 4x4 Discover the desert with a 4x4 The turquoise waters surrounding Abu Dhabi islands along the Corniche, with the Marina Mall in the background The turquoise waters surrounding Abu Dhabi islands along the Corniche, with the Marina Mall in the background The Souk at the World Trade Center. Once a historic district within the heart of the city – the old Central Market - The Souk is now a fully integrated, mixed-use development with a mall, a modern souk, offices and residences. The Souk at the World Trade Center. Once a historic district within the heart of the city – the old Central Market - The Souk is now a fully integrated, mixed-use development with a mall, a modern souk, offices and residences. Harees at Al Fanar restaurant, one of the few restaurants that serves traditional Eastern Arabian Emirati food. Harees at Al Fanar restaurant, one of the few restaurants that serves traditional Eastern Arabian Emirati food. Popular Emirati dessert called Lugaimat. Popular Emirati dessert called Lugaimat. Chicken Tikka Biryani served by an Indian restaurant in an Abu Dhabi mall. Chicken Tikka Biryani served by an Indian restaurant in an Abu Dhabi mall. Fast Track Lobby Bar at the Radisson Blu Hotel. Fast Track Lobby Bar at the Radisson Blu Hotel. The over-the-top opulence of the Emirates Palace The over-the-top opulence of the Emirates Palace Le Meridien Hotel, one of the first 5 star hotels in Abu Dhabi. The hotel was inaugurated by Queen Elizabeth II and Sheikh Zayed in 1979. Le Meridien Hotel, one of the first 5 star hotels in Abu Dhabi. The hotel was inaugurated by Queen Elizabeth II and Sheikh Zayed in 1979. The Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi Grand Canal. The Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi Grand Canal.