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Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi 🇦🇪

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, offers a fascinating blend of traditional charm and modern luxury. Located on the Persian Gulf, this city is richer in historical depth than its flashy neighbor Dubai and offers a more subdued but equally impressive experience. Abu Dhabi’s skyline is characterized by modern skyscrapers and cultural architecture, such as the breathtaking Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in the world. This white marble masterpiece attracts visitors from all over the world with its magnificent prayer rooms and lush gardens. Abu Dhabi’s cultural heritage is also at home in the Qasr Al Hosn, the city’s oldest stone building, which serves as a museum and tells the history of the Emirates. The city also houses the Louvre Abu Dhabi, an art museum that builds cultural bridges between the East and the West with works of art from different civilizations and eras.

Culinary enthusiasts can indulge in Abu Dhabi with an array of eateries offering both traditional and international cuisine. From luxurious restaurants at the Emirates Palace Hotel to the atmospheric food stalls along the Corniche, every meal promises a tasty adventure. For shopping enthusiasts, Abu Dhabi offers several options, from the luxury boutiques in Yas Mall to traditional markets such as the Carpet Souk and Date Market, where you can haggle for local treasures. Adventurous visitors can explore the vast emptiness of the Rub’ al Khali Desert, the largest continuous sand desert in the world, with activities such as dune bashing and camel riding. Yas Island, in turn, offers world-class entertainment, with attractions such as Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld and the Yas Marina Circuit, which hosts the annual Abu Dhabi Formula One Grand Prix.

Abu Dhabi is also strongly committed to arts and culture with events such as the Abu Dhabi Film Festival and the Abu Dhabi Art Fair, which attract artists and art lovers from around the world. With its luxurious resorts and hotels, including the iconic Etihad Towers, Abu Dhabi offers unparalleled hospitality that makes every visitor feel special and welcomed. In this city, tradition and future come together in a unique Arabic tapestry, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the richness of the Gulf region.

Everything for your trip

Click and compare flight tickets to Abu Dhabi through Tix.nl. Determine your own departure and arrival city and plan your optimal trip.

Plan your regional transportation together with 12go.asia. The Asian platform to arrange your local public transportation.

View and book the best activities in Abu Dhabi through Tripadvisor. From city tours to snorkeling trips, there is something for everyone.

Book the finest hotels, hostels or other accommodation options through Tripadvisor. Wide choice for every unique trip.

Travel prepared and make sure you have had all your vaccinations for Abu Dhabi. Schedule can be done through the GGD.

Before you go, see if the country you are going to has a visa policy. You can arrange this yourself online or at the airport upon arrival.

Good to know!

Country

UAE

Language

Arabic

Time difference

Summer time 2h, winter time 3h

Currency

Dirham

Abu Dhabi has a desert climate, making it sunny almost year-round. The best time to visit Abu Dhabi is from November to March, when temperatures are more pleasant and the heat is less intense. During the summer months, especially from June to September, it can get extremely hot, making outdoor activities less appealing.

In terms of transportation, Abu Dhabi offers a range of modern and efficient options. The city has no metro, but has an extensive bus network and numerous cabs, including ride-sharing services such as Uber and Careem. For longer distances within the United Arab Emirates, travelers can opt for rental cars or domestic flights.

In Abu Dhabi, food lovers can enjoy a mix of traditional Arab dishes and international cuisines. Local specialties such as shawarma, falafel, and khouzi (a dish of lamb stuffed with rice, nuts and raisins) are popular choices. Seafood is also an essential part of Emirati cuisine, often prepared with a mix of spices that highlight the flavors of the Gulf region. For an authentic experience, visit the traditional souks where you can sample fresh dates, local cheeses and other regional delicacies. Luxury hotels also offer a wide range of gastronomic experiences, from high-end French to Asian cuisines.

Important holidays in Abu Dhabi include Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, which involve large family gatherings and public celebrations after Ramadan. National Day on Dec. 2 is a celebration of the United Arab Emirates’ independence from Britain in 1971. This day is celebrated with parades, folk dances, and national pride. During these holidays, public transportation may be busier and there are special events, which is useful to consider when planning a trip.

Where to stay

Find the perfect stay in Abu Dhabi.

Find your perfect stay in Abu Dhabi. Whether you seek the opulence and comfort of a five-star hotel, the exclusivity of a luxury apartment or the extraordinary experience of a designer hotel, we have carefully selected one for you. Discover the ideal base for your adventures in this dynamic city and enjoy a stay as impressive as your trip itself. Book now and start your journey with the perfect home base in the heart of luxury.

Tours & activities

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