Abu Dhabi is the federal capital of the United Arab Emirates, a stunning collection of islands featuring colossal monuments, elegant museums, and opulent shopping malls. The city blends rich Islamic heritage with ultramodern architecture, from the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to the futuristic Louvre Abu Dhabi. With world-class theme parks, pristine beaches, and a thriving cultural scene, Abu Dhabi offers an extraordinary experience for every type of traveler.

Best time to visit Abu Dhabi

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The weather is pleasant between mid-fall and early spring, making it ideal for outdoor dining and activities. Summers are extremely hot, often exceeding 45°C, and are best avoided for outdoor exploration.

What to see in Abu Dhabi

01temple

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

The 8th largest mosque in the world, boasting 82 domes and stunning Islamic architecture. Open to non-Muslims with free guided tours available daily. Dress conservatively and women must cover their head.

FreeAbout 90 minculturehistoryrelaxation

AddressAl Rawdah - W54 - Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

4.8/5 on Google

Opening hours+

Saturday9 am–9 pm
Sunday9 am–9 pm
Monday9 am–9 pm
Tuesday9 am–9 pm
Wednesday9 am–9 pm
Thursday9 am–9 pm
Friday9 am–12 pm, 2:30–9 pm

Official website Open in Google Maps

02monument

Qasr Al Watan

The presidential palace opened to the public in 2019, featuring opulent Islamic architecture, a banquet hall, a library, and a museum of diplomatic gifts.

Paid entryAbout 90 minculturehistory

AddressAl Ras Al Akhdar - Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

4.8/5 on Google

Opening hours+

Friday10 am–5 pm

Official website Open in Google Maps

03museum

Louvre Abu Dhabi

The largest art museum in the Arabian Peninsula, featuring artworks from the Musée du Louvre and other French collections across 24,000 square metres on Saadiyat Island.

Paid entryAbout 120 minculturehistory

AddressSaadiyat, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

4.7/5 on Google

Opening hours+

Friday10 am–8:30 pm

Official website Open in Google Maps

04castle

Qasr al-Hosn

The oldest stone building in Abu Dhabi, a small fort first constructed in 1761 that served as the royal palace until 1966. Includes the Cultural Foundation and House of Artisans.

Paid entryAbout 60 minculturehistory

AddressRashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum St(2nd St), Al Hisn - W3 - Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

4.6/5 on Google

Opening hours+

Friday2–8 pm

Official website Open in Google Maps

05viewpoint

Corniche Road

Abu Dhabi's iconic main avenue curving along the spectacular waterfront, lined with beaches, parks, skyscrapers, and a dedicated walkway stretching for miles.

FreeAbout 90 minnature & outdoorsrelaxationculture

AddressAl Danah - E902 - Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Open in Google Maps

06other

Yas Island

Entertainment hub featuring a Formula 1 race track, Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld, a shopping mall, and multiple hotels.

Paid entryAbout 480 minadventureculturerelaxation

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07other

Emirates Palace

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08other

The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi

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09other

Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital

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10church

Abrahamic Family House

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11neighborhood

Masdar City

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12park

Umm Al Emarat Park

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13park

Khalifa Park

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14museum

Manarat al Saadiyat

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15other

Etihad Arena

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16market

Port Mina Zayed

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Where to eat in Abu Dhabi

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01International

Emirates Palace

Iconic luxury hotel offering the famous Palace Cappuccino sparkled with 23-karat gold flakes, along with upscale dining in a breathtaking palatial setting.

Price $$$Must try — Palace Cappuccino with 23-karat gold flakes

AddressWest Corniche Road, Al Ras Al Akhdar - Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

4.8/5 on Google

Official website Open in Google Maps

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02International

Souq Al Mina

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Things to do in Abu Dhabi

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

otherPaid entryAbout 300 min

A Ferrari-themed amusement park on Yas Island featuring the fastest roller coaster in the world and numerous Ferrari-inspired rides and attractions.

Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi

otherPaid entryAbout 300 min

An immersive indoor theme park on Yas Island featuring iconic Warner Bros. characters and thrilling rides for all ages.

Yas Waterworld

otherPaid entryAbout 300 min

A large water theme park on Yas Island offering a wide range of water slides, rides, and attractions for families and thrill-seekers.

SeaWorld Abu Dhabi

otherPaid entryAbout 300 min

A marine-themed park on Yas Island offering immersive ocean experiences, animal encounters, and thrilling rides.

Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation

otherFreeAbout 90 min

A cultural landmark hosting workshops, art exhibitions, children's programs, and cultural events throughout the year, with a well-stocked library.

Yas Marina Circuit

otherPaid entryAbout 120 min

The iconic Formula 1 race track on Yas Island, hosting the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and offering driving experiences and track tours for visitors.

Where to go near Abu Dhabi

Dubai →

Bus 2hCar 1h20

The commercial and tourism capital of the UAE, offering world-famous attractions like the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and vibrant nightlife.

Sharjah

A culturally rich emirate known for its museums, heritage areas, and arts scene, accessible via Dubai.

All United Arab Emirates guides

Dubai

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