Abu Dhabi holidays combine fancy with fun - think boujee hotels, bangin' beaches and world-class theme parks.
Highlights
Epic beaches, including some Blue-Flag stunners
A desert climate with year-round sunshine
Home to the fun-packed Ferrari World theme park
Culture at every corner
What are the best beaches in Abu Dhabi?
It might be a capital city, but this place is still all about that beach action. With sizzlin' sun and desert dunes, it'd be kind of rude not to. The toasty temps keep tourists coming back for more, and paired with all those soft, golden sands...you're onto a winner. Check out these beachy spots on your holiday to Abu Dhabi:
Saadiyat Beach – a swanky bit of coast that's totally calling your name, with soft white sands, clear waters that act as a haven for the local turtles, and a bunch of handy extras like a beachy shop, lockers, changing rooms and a café for snacks
Corniche Beach – a whopper of a beach with a Blue-Flag status, pristine sands, cheap sunbeds, epic views of the skyline, a dedicated family zone, and on-site public loos which are always handy
Yas Beach – if you're staying in a Yas Island hotel then you'll have FREE access to this beach, offering clear waters surrounded by scenic mangroves, swish beach clubs, lush cabanas, an infinity pool, and bars for drinks and nibbles (we recommend the pink lemonade for a delish refresher)
Al Bateen Beach – a cute little spot with quiet shores ideal for fishing, swimming or enjoying a waterfront picnic with views of Hudayriat Island and the bridge that arches over to the west of Abu Dhabi
Kai Beach – decked out with perfect white sands, this public beach is a bit spenny to enter, but it's giving all the boujee boho vibes, with sunbeds included with your entry fee, a menu where you can order snacks and mocktails, and on-site changing rooms and loos
Hudayriat Island Beach - this manmade islet is a swish new beach spot that you can reach via the bridge from the west of Abu Dhabi, ideal for watersports and still kept relatively under the radar, so it's usually less crowded than other beaches
What are the top hotels in Abu Dhabi?
Abu Dhabi holidays have the boujee beach life down to a T, and we're sure you'll be pleased to know they have the hotels to match. 5 stars are the norm around here, with everything from epic infinity pools to show-stopping restaurants and top-tier entertainment. Check these guys out:
Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort - a luxury resort with 3 pools to dunk into, a private beach on your doorstep, a tapas lounge, an outdoor Arabian restaurant, and a swanky spa for all your pamper needs
Traders Hotel Qaryat Al Beri Abu Dhabi - a swish hotel with a gorg outdoor pool, its own private beachfront, a beach lounge and exclusive facilities for anyone who books a Traders Club Room!
Le Meridien Abu Dhabi - this mega resort nails the chilled vibe, with its own stretch of beach, a swanky pool area, a choice of bars and restaurants, and a handy location close to the Abu Dhabi mall.
The Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi Grand Canal - you can't go wrong with the Ritz, and this one's kitted out with stylish rooms, a relaxing pool area, a bunch of restaurants (including a steakhouse and an Italian café), and a spa for the ultimate self-care sesh.
The St. Regis Saadiyat Island - this place has 3 cracking pools to dip into, activities for the whole fam (including a games room), an on-site spa, and a range of bar and restaurant options for all your cravings.
Popular Abu Dhabi hotels
Weather in Abu Dhabi
JAN
19°C
FEB
21°C
MAR
23°C
APR
28°C
MAY
32°C
JUN
34°C
JUL
35°C
AUG
36°C
SEP
33°C
OCT
30°C
NOV
25°C
DEC
21°C
Now, imagine a place where the sun doesn’t just pop by for a quick hello. Oh no. In Abu Dhabi, the sun basically throws a non-stop rooftop bash all year round. We're talking blistering summer temps soaring up to 40°C or more. Yeah, it's the kind of heat where even your sunglasses might need suncream. And winters? Think of them as that cool friend you have, always around a pleasant 25°C, offering a much-needed respite from the summer sizzle.
So, wondering when to hit up this desert dreamland? If you're eager to soak in all that lavish warmth (and possibly flaunt that new hat), then brace yourself for the May to September stretch. But if you prefer wandering the sand dunes without the risk of turning into a roast, aim for the cooler months of November to March. Spring and Autumn offer that balance of hot, hot, hot but cool enough to explore, too.
View destination on a map
FAQs
How long does it take to fly to Abu Dhabi?
It takes around 7.5 hours to fly to Abu Dhabi from the UK/Ireland, but trust us - those views and those beaches are well worth it!
What's the time difference between the UK/Ireland and Abu Dhabi?
The local time in Abu Dhabi is 3 hours ahead of the UK/Ireland.
What language do they speak in Abu Dhabi?
The official language spoken in Abu Dhabi is Arabic.
What currency do they use in Abu Dhabi?
The official currency used in Abu Dhabi is the UAE Dirham.
Row, row, dhow your boat
You don't need us to tell you how great sunset cruises are. It's a boat trip. At sunset. It's romantic. It's scenic. It's goals. Well, dhow boats are traditional wooden boats in Abu Dhabi that date back to when the city was a hub for the pearl-diving industry. You can sip traditional Arabic coffee and tuck into a delish dinner while gazing at the skyline, just in time to star-gaze before you hit the docks again. Bliss.
Say 'Yas' to a shopping trip
We wouldn't normally pay shopping with such high regard (over beaching and poolside-perching), but this place is the biggest mall in Abu Dhabi - so we thought it deserved a moment. Put your walking shoes on and prepare to get lost (several times), because this place is huge (like, 2.5 million square feet huge), stacked with 370 international brands, 68 different bars and restaurants, and a 24-screen cinema. All we can say to that is, yaaaaas!
Make a splash at Yas Waterworld
You'll find this epic waterpark on Yas Island - just 20 minutes from the city centre, and it's PACKED with attractions and daredevil rides for the whole fam. It's home to the world's first biggest hydromagnetic-powered 238-metre long, six-person tornado waterslide (phew, that was a mouthful!), as well as 'Bubble's Barrel,' which has the world's biggest surfable sheet wave for boards and bodyboards. Don't stress, there's also a lazy river if you prefer to keep it chill, and plenty of smaller rides for the little kiddos.
Snap some salty pics
Long Salt Lake in the Al Wathba region of Abu Dhabi has taken social media by storm in the last few years. Why? Well, look at the photos and you'll see for yourself. It's an Instagrammer's dream. We'll admit, it's a bit off the beaten track, but totally worth it. No one quite knows how the strange little salt mushrooms formed in a man-made channel of water, but we can tell you that they make for a pretty great photo op.
Feel the Louvre
Nope, not the one in Paris. Obviously. But this art museum does share the same name (all with France's permission, don't worry), and it's all about celebrating an openness between cultures. Aside from housing a bunch of gorg art pieces to gawp at, the building itself is a masterpiece in its own right, designed by Pritzker-prize-winner - Jean Nouvel. The design plays around with water and reflective surfaces in a cool structure that symbolises its unique location between the sands of Saadiyat Island and the waters of the Arabian Gulf. Just trust us, it's beaut.
Make some furry friends at the Arabian Wildlife Park
Located on Sir Bani Yas Island, this natural attraction is home to over 17,000 free-roaming animals. You can expect to come eye-to-eye with deer, antelope and ostriches on the walking tours, while mini safaris are available to take you even deeper into the park to see giraffes and cheetahs. There's also a great beach nearby (trust us to bring it back to beaches), and a bunch of restaurants to try.
What events can I go to in Abu Dhabi?
When it comes to holidays in Abu Dhabi, the events calendar is popping off like fireworks on New Year's Eve. Think high-speed thrills, cultural chills and everything in between - all housed in the buzzing city. Keep your eyes peeled for these annual showstoppers:
Al Ain Air Championship (January) - a high-flying event where you can watch daredevil pilots perform aerobatics and jaw-dropping stunts in the skies over Al Ain
Abu Dhabi Festival (March) - a month-long festival celebrating all things culture and creativity, with everything from classical music and opera to contemporary dance and visual art
Mother of the Nation Festival (March) - a vibrant festival celebrating Emirati women and all their achievements, with live music and family-friendly activities right along the beachfront
Abu Dhabi International Jazz Festival (April - May) - a week-long celebration of all things jazz, with famous performers, dancers and Latin musicians taking to the stage
Liwa Date Festival (July) - you're gonna want to head to the Liwa Oasis for this iconic festival celebrating the region's fave fruit, with contests, tastings and traditional Emirati performances - it's as sweet as it gets!
Abu Dhabi International Boat Show (October) - welcome to the world of luxury yachts, super boats and watersports - the perfect event for sea-lovers and anyone who likes to daydream about the boujee life (guilty)
Taste of Abu Dhabi (November) - buckle up foodies, because this event brings together the city's best restaurants and chefs to showcase delish food with cooking demos, tastings and live entertainment
Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (November) - watch thrilling races with world-class drivers at the Yas Marina Circuit, alongside concerts from international superstars
Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival (November - December) - a deep-dive into the Emirate heritage and culture, featuring traditional crafts, music and dance in honour of the UAE's founding father - Sheikh Zayed
Abu Dhabi Shopping Festival (December) - forget January sales, Abu Dhabi's all about December sales, with the Department of Culture and Tourism holding this shopping festival every year across hundreds of malls, and discounts as high as 75% off!
Where is the best nightlife in Abu Dhabi?
Nightlife in Abu Dhabi is a proper mix of swanky lounges, rooftop bars and beach clubs where the beats are as hot as the weather. Whether you’re up for dancing the night away or chilling with a fancy mocktail, don’t miss out on these top nightlife spots:
MAD on Yas Island - the biggest indoor nightclub in the UAE, hosting international DJs, jaw-dropping light shows and a dancefloor that's always packed
Buddha-Bar Beach Abu Dhabi - a chic beachfront bar at St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, decked out with swanky décor, chilled beats from the DJ, and delish drinks
Skylite Rooftop Lounge - you'll find this place up on the rooftop of Yas Viceroy, bringing the glitzy, neon vibes with comfy cabanas, a tempting cocktail menu and epic views of the Yas Marina Circuit
Iris Yas Island - a hotspot for the cool kids, serving live music, DJ sets, top-tier drinks and an outdoor terrace so you can kick back with the stars above you
Hemingway's - a cosy pub located at the Radisson Blu, dishing out refreshing pints and proper pub grub, with live sports on the big screens
Rush - this place is the only nightclub in the world to straddle an F1 racetrack, with bangin' tunes, sleek vibes and a buzzing party atmosphere
Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE - an iconic beach club that brings some Ibiza vibes to Abu Dhabi, with international DJ sets, beachfront parties, and a Med-themed menu
Ray's Bar - you'll find this epic bar on the 62nd floor of Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, serving up swanky cocktails, stylish vibes and jaw-dropping views
McGettigan's AUH - an Irish pub with a proper good atmosphere, offering live music, delish pub food and pints on tap
Stars 'N' Bars - a lively sports bar on Yas Island that has a bit of everything - live music, DJ sets, arcade games and big screens for catching your fave sports
What’s the food like in Abu Dhabi?
Feasting in Abu Dhabi is like one big fat flavour fiesta. Think succulent meats, aromatic spices and sweet treats that’ll have your taste buds singing. If you find yourself browsing the menu while you're out there, keep an eye out for these tasty classics:
Shawarma - the UAE's answer to a sandwich, with juicy marinated meat (usually chicken or lamb), wrapped in soft flatbread and stuffed with pickles, garlic sauce and veggies. We're drooling.
Machboos - a flavour-packed rice dish similar to biryani, made with tender meat, fragrant spices and dried lime for the ultimate comfort food
Harees - a traditional dish made with wheat and meat, slow-cooked to a creamy consistency
Balaleet - a brekkie dish that combines sweet and savoury in the best possible way, think vermicelli noodles cooked with sugar, cardamom and saffron, and topped off with a fried egg. Don't knock it 'til you try it!
Luqaimat - sweet, doughy dumplings (we're already sold) that are fried until golden and drizzled with either date syrup or honey
Esh Asarya - one of Abu Dhabi's most famous desserts, made with sweet pieces of bread smothered in cream and served with chopped pistachios. It's like the Arabian answer to bread and butter pudding!
Now you know what local dishes to look out for, but what about where to dine? Well, you won't be short of restaurants in this city, that's for sure, but we thought we'd shine a spotlight on these top restaurants in Abu Dhabi:
Al Fanar Restaurant & Café - this place is like stepping back in time for a traditional Emirati dining experience, with old-school décor and a menu stacked with classic dishes
Li Beirut - an upscale restaurant dishing up Lebanese classics with a modern twist - think posh vibes, gorg views and the perfect setting for date night
Zuma - delish Japanese food served in the heart of Abu Dhabi, with a stylish vibe and a menu that mixes traditional and contemporary flavours. We've heard the sushi and robata grill are top-tier.
Mezlai - your go-to for a spot of luxury dining in the Emirates Palace, with a menu that celebrates authentic Emirate flavours
Al Arish - a casual eatery that serves everything from seafood to classic harees in a cosy setting
Places to visit
Mangrove National Park
Fancy ditching the city buzz and towering skyscrapers? This national park is your ticket to some peace and quiet away from it all. Protected by the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi (EAD), it's the perfect spot for a nature walk. Some of the mangroves reach up to 15 feet, and the forests are full of wildlife, from crabs and turtles to herons and flamingos. Although, beyond that, there are actually over 60 species of bird to be found here, so twitchers...prepare yourselves. You can explore the park via the cool wooden walkways, or hop in a kayak to experience the mangroves from water-level. Either way, you're in for a pretty zen-tastic time.
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
A massive amusement park themed around Ferraris? Why the heck not? There's loads to dive into at this place, but for starters, it's got a few records under its belt: home to the world's fastest rollercoaster (Formula Rossa), and the world's tallest non-inverting loop (Flying Aces). Maybe not one for the motion-stick crew... Don't worry, though. The park is designed with the kiddos in mind, so there are plenty of smaller rides to hop on, live shows to enjoy, racing memorabilia to buy, PLUS their famous driving experiences, where you can cruise the streets of Abu Dhabi in an actual Ferrari. Oh, and of course there are restaurants on site so you can fuel up between rides and make a day of it. Bosh.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
You've probably seen pics of this place. It's one of the UAE's most famous attractions - a stunning white mosque serving as a central place of worship. Because of that, you'll need to be respectful during your visit (it's advised to wear loose-fitting clothing that covers legs and arms, and women will need to wear a headscarf). You might also want to bring a pair of sunnies, because all that white marble is bright! The good news is, entry is completely free, and there are regular guided bus tours that run to the mosque each day.
Key facts about Abu Dhabi
Language
Arabic
Currency
UAE Dirham
Time Difference
+3 hrs
Flight Time
7.5 hrs
Do I need any vaccinations to visit Abu Dhabi?
We recommend checking with your healthcare provider for all of the up-to-date vaccination info before booking your holiday.
Do I need a visa to visit Abu Dhabi?
You'll need to get a visitor's visa before you arrive in the United Arab Emirates. If you're a dual national, we recommend contacting the UAE Embassy for advice on entry requirements before you travel.
Do I need to pay tax on my holiday to Abu Dhabi?
You'll need to pay a Tourism Dirham Fee when you visit Abu Dhabi, which equates to 4% of your total hotel bill, plus 15 AED per room, per night.
Hotels, apartments, resorts, restaurants, etc, might also charge various taxes and service charges.
Observing Ramadan
Please be aware that the Islamic holy month of Ramadan will take place between 10/03/2024 and 09/04/2024. During this time, eating, drinking and smoking will be restricted to the hours between sunset and sunrise, and visitors are expected to observe these practices in public spaces as a sign of respect, meaning many cafés and restaurants will close during the day, restrictions on alcohol sales may be in place, and hotel dining for non-Muslim guests may take place in private rooms. Playing music, dancing, and eating in public areas may also be restricted during this time.
