First Time in Abu Dhabi
The capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Abu Dhabi, is home to fascinating museums, a thriving restaurant scene, and rich culture. The people are friendly, it’s an incredibly safe city, and there are plenty of outdoor experiences to be had.
There’s lots to do here too, including visiting some of the world’s most amazing theme parks as well as tours of the UAE’s most recognisable landmarks, such as the Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque.
If it’s your first time in this city, which mixes futuristic technology with Arabian charm, then this guide will give you all the information you need for a memorable trip.
We’ve put together our top tips for getting around and things to do in Abu Dhabi, plus some insights into how to navigate the cultural differences between the UAE and the UK. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know for your first trip to Abu Dhabi.
How long should I spend in Abu Dhabi?
There are plenty of experiences to be had in Abu Dhabi, and it’s best to spend a few days here to ensure that you don’t feel rushed. With all the sightseeing you’ll be doing, you’ll also want to factor in some time to chill – you are on holiday, after all!
We recommend spending at least four days in Abu Dhabi.
Stopover in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is also a popular stopover location from the UK on the way to the other side of the world. Flights to places like Australia, Thailand, New Zealand, or Bali can be booked with a stopover in Abu Dhabi. Spending a couple of nights in Abu Dhabi will allow you to see some of the major sights, and you’ll get to tick another destination off your list.
Etihad Airways even offer complimentary hotel stays when you book a flight with a stopover in Abu Dhabi to actively encourage you to see the city.
How to get to Abu Dhabi from the UK
The closest airport to the city is Zayed International Airport (AUH). The airport has been awarded the Best Airport in the Middle East because of its state-of-the-art facilities and exceptional services (source: Etihad), and it’s also thought to be one of the most beautiful airports in the world.
You can fly direct to Abu Dhabi from London Heathrow, London Gatwick, and Manchester airports with airlines like British Airways, Qatar Airways and Etihad, who are based in Abu Dhabi.
You can also fly into Dubai International Airport (DXB) and then make your way to Abu Dhabi from there. The airports are about an hour and a half’s drive apart. Emirates and Etihad offer a shuttle service between the two for anyone flying with them.
Once you land in Abu Dhabi, there are several options for getting to your accommodation, including taxi, bus, and Uber.
Where to stay in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi offers a wide range of accommodation to suit every traveller. From more budget-friendly places to stay, like rental apartments, to some of the most luxurious hotels in the world, both service and facility standards here are high.
Yas Island
This artificial island is the perfect base for a family holiday, and it’s just a few minutes from the airport. There are a host of attractions here that both little kids and big kids will love, including Ferrari World, SeaWorld, Warner Bros. World™️, and Yas Waterworld.
If theme parks are number one on your Abu Dhabi bucket list, then this is the best place to stay. There’s no shortage of accommodation here, so there are lots of options to choose from.
Best for: families and thrill-seekers
Downtown
Downtown is one of the best places for first-time visitors to Abu Dhabi to stay. Here, you’ll get a taste for what Abu Dhabi was like before the rapid development of recent years with Qasr Al Hosn fort, the oldest structure in the city.
Downtown has malls, restaurants, and coffee shops, and it’s close to other areas like Corniche, Urban Park, and Lake Park, so there’s plenty to see nearby.
Best for: first-time visitors
Corniche Beach
The beach here was created on land reclaimed from the sea and now stretches over 6 miles (9 kilometres). This seaside paradise is one of the most scenic places to stay in Abu Dhabi and features the skyline as its backdrop.
There are paths for strolling and cycling, plus sunbeds and parasols to rent on the beach, so it’s an excellent spot for a chilled break.
Best for: beach lovers and relaxing breaks
Saadiyat Island
On this lovely beach resort, you’ll find museums like the Zayed National Museum, where you can see the changes in the UAE over the years. There’s also the Louvre and the Guggenheim here.
For fun activities, you can try beach yoga, sailing, windsurfing, and golf. There’s even an area designated for the protection of the island’s hawksbill turtles.
Best for: culture vultures
Abu Dhabi weather
Because of its location in the Arabian Gulf, Abu Dhabi has a very hot and dry climate. There is very little rain. During summer, temperatures can reach average highs of 42°C (108°F), with nights dropping to around 28°C.
In winter, the weather can be cooler, with average temperatures of 18°C (64°F) and highs of 24°C (75°F). February is the wettest month, but even then it only sees, on average, 20mm of rain each year.
When is the best time to visit Abu Dhabi?
The best time to visit Abu Dhabi is when the temperatures are slightly cooler, between November and March. Abu Dhabi is a great destination for escaping the UK weather and getting some winter sun during January and February.
What should I wear in Abu Dhabi?
As the UAE is a Muslim country, it’s important to understand the local customs when it comes to what to wear. Although the dress code isn’t strict everywhere you go, you should be respectful of the culture.
It can get very hot here, so wearing lightweight clothing made of breathable materials can really help.
How women should dress in Abu Dhabi
Dressing modestly is appreciated here, and you should keep your shoulders and legs covered to below the knees in places like malls and museums as a sign of respect.
If you’re going into a mosque, you need to cover your head, wear full-length trousers or a skirt, and cover your arms. If you’re not appropriately covered, you’ll be given something to wear when you arrive.
How men should dress in Abu Dhabi
In most places in Abu Dhabi, men can wear a t-shirt and shorts. If you are visiting a mosque, you will need to wear trousers and sleeves that are longer than your elbow. Again, you’ll be given something to wear when you arrive if you’re not appropriately covered.
Drinking in Abu Dhabi
In Abu Dhabi, alcohol is only available in hotels and in bars or restaurants that are attached to hotels. You can also buy alcohol at specific shops to consume in your hotel, and tourists do not need a license to do this. Drinking in public is prohibited.
What is the currency in Abu Dhabi?
The currency in Abu Dhabi and the rest of the United Arab Emirates is the UAE dirham. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted throughout the city, although you may wish to have some cash available for tips or for smaller shops.
How to get around in Abu Dhabi
There are several ways to get around Abu Dhabi, including:
Bus
The most cost-effective way to travel, buses run 24 hours a day and are air-conditioned. Routes cover most of the city, and you can use a Hafilat Smart Card for contactless payment
Water taxi
Water taxis operate around the islands
Taxi
Taxis here are relatively cheap compared to other cities in the world. You can hail these in the street or order via an app
Uber
You can also get a taxi service from Uber. You order your ride on the app and pay the fare in advance
Cycling
There are designated cycling tracks and city bikes that you can pick up from over 50 docking stations throughout the city
Rent a car
If you want to get out of Abu Dhabi and explore further afield, renting a car is the best way to do this
Things to do in Abu Dhabi
There’s so much to do in Abu Dhabi, from exploring the breathtaking mosques to relaxing on one of its pristine beaches. Orlando might be the theme park capital of the world, but Abu Dhabi is hot on its heels with some of the world’s best theme parks and water parks.
Summary: things to do in Abu Dhabi
- Ferrari World
- Sea World Yas Island
- Warner Bros. World™️
- Yas Waterworld
- Hop-on hop-off bus tour
Ferrari World
If you feel the need for speed, then head straight to Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. Here you’ll find out more about this iconic Italian luxury sports car brand through immersive exhibits.
Thrill seekers will love it here as it’s home to the fastest roller coaster in the world – Formula Rossa. With a top speed of 149 miles per hour (240 kilometres per hour), dizzying heights of 171 feet (52 metres), and 4.8G g-force, it’s the ultimate must-ride for coaster lovers.
SeaWorld Yas Island
Come and see over 100,000 marine creatures in this vibrant underwater world. SeaWorld Yas Island Abu Dhabi has something for every member of the family, from interactive exhibits to hands-on experiences and heart-pounding rides. You’ll spot fish, dolphins, and even sharks up close and learn more about their conservation and care with the trainer talks here.
Warner Bros. World™️
Get out of the sun and visit Warner Bros. World™️ Abu Dhabi, one of the largest indoor theme parks in the world. Take to the skies with soaring superheroes, embark on exciting adventures, and experience a whole world of thrills.
From the zany world of Looney Tunes to the dark streets of Gotham City, there’s so much to discover here.
Yas Waterworld
Situated on the vibrant Yas Island, Yas Waterworld is a huge aquatic playground that caters to all ages, no matter whether you love throwing yourself down waterslides or prefer some chill time around the pool.
Yas Waterworld has thrills galore, including the Bandit Bomber, the first interactive roller coaster waterslide in the area, Jebel Drop, a huge freefall slide, and Dawwama, a high-speed tornado water ride.
If you want something more laidback, the tranquil currents of the Al Rahah River with its gentle waves are for you. Little paddlers will love Marah Fortress, a playground with slides and water cannons.
Hop-on Hop-off bus tour
The Hop-on Hop-off Abu Dhabi Big Bus Tour is a fantastic way to see some of the best sights in the city, including the Presidential Palace, Emirates Palace Hotel, Heritage Village, and the Abu Dhabi Mall.
Included in your ticket is a Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Tour. This is the largest mosque in the country and is a key place of worship for the local community.
Top tip: A hop-on hop-off bus tour is also a great way to get around the city, so it’s worth buying a ticket if you’re planning to do a day of sightseeing in Abu Dhabi.
Yas Marina Circuit
Yas Marina Circuit is where the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix takes place. You can visit the circuit all year round for guided tours of the track and facilities – aside from race weekend! You can also hire a bike and cycle around the track – feel free to make car noises as you ride!
Now that you’ve got everything you need for your first trip to Abu Dhabi, take a look at our Abu Dhabi attraction tickets and start planning your itinerary.