Travel to Abu Dhabi with Keytours Vacations

Discover Abu Dhabi's Wonders

Abu Dhabi is the largest and wealthiest emirate of the UAE, combining modern luxury with deep cultural heritage. It is home to vast desert landscapes, pristine islands, and world-class architecture. Visitors explore iconic landmarks such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, and expansive mangrove coastlines. Beyond the city, the emirate offers desert safaris, oases like Al Ain, and tranquil beaches. Abu Dhabi provides a more refined and cultural alternative to Dubai, blending tradition, nature, and contemporary elegance.

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Description

Abu Dhabi can trace its history way back to the Bronze Age and has a long tradition of profitable trading. However, it wasn’t until the 1950s — when oil was found — that it was transformed from its desert landscape into the fabulous city it is today. Designed in a grid-like fashion with wide open spaces and boulevards, this is the second-largest city in the oil-rich United Arab Emirates, after its neighbour Dubai, and also the seat of government and capital of the emirate of Abu Dhabi. Daily life centres around its main thoroughfares, including the busy Sheikh Zayed Street and the paved waterfront Corniche. Always bustling, the Corniche is where you can admire the stunning pink-washed Emirates Palace at the Ras Al Bateen, built as a hotel for visiting royalty, and locals can be seen jogging or cycling with much enthusiasm. Families with children and leisure walkers regularly enjoy the atmosphere. A short walk from the water's edge, are streets full of shiny new skyscrapers that house the city’s financial and banking institutions, its world-famous company offices and its government buildings. At the pavement level, hotels and restaurants cater for every taste, while shopping malls are full of designer fashions. In contrast, the many souqs offer gold, spices or traditional craft items.

Useful information

Population:

4.1 million (2025)

Currency:

The dirham (AED) = 100 fils

Emergency Info:

Police: 999
Ambulance: 998
Fire: 997

Opening Hours:

The large shopping malls usually open from 10am to 10pm, from Saturday to Thursday, and in the afternoon on Fridays, the day of prayer. Supermarkets often open earlier and smaller shops usually close for lunch for around two to three hours. The weekend in Abu Dhabi is Friday and Saturday.

Do & See

Abu Dhabi Desert Safari

Adventure lovers should not miss the opportunity to take part in some of the activities offered by Abu Dhabi Desert Safari. Join a dune drive through the desert or a camel ride, attend some belly dancing lessons, try on traditional costumes and take amazing sunset pictures.

Al Ain Camel Market

The Al Ain Camel Market in Abu Dhabi is a fascinating destination where tradition meets commerce. As the last remaining camel market in the UAE, it offers a unique glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage. You can witness the lively trading of camels, along with goats and sheep, and interact with local farmers and traders. The market buzzes with activity and offers an authentic experience of Emirati life.

Al Maqtaa Museum

AlMaqta'a Fort is a watchtower built over 200 years ago to protect the sea crossing from the mainland to Abu Dhabi. Constructed in traditional style with soft sand-coloured stone and ornately carved wooden features, it remains almost intact and serves as an important testament to the city's past. The building functions as a small museum displaying artefacts from the 1950s to the 1970s, while also presenting the history of the nearby Maqtaa Bridge. It offers a brief but interesting insight into the area’s past and the development of one of Abu Dhabi’s earliest crossings.

Emirates Heritage Village

A Bedouin desert camp complete with tents made from goat’s hair, a bustling souq, a mud hut village and a fishing harbour are all reconstructions that make fascinating displays in the Emirates Heritage Village. You can sometimes try their hand at traditional crafts like pottery or weaving, which are demonstrated in a series of small workshops within the village.

Ferrari World

Ferrari World, the first Ferrari-branded theme park in the world, lives up to its name by housing a variety of Ferraris, themed exhibits, and several exciting rides. This motor racing-themed complex is home to the planet's fastest rollercoaster and offers thrill and family rides, driving simulators, and a car factory tour. Plan to spend a few hours to fully enjoy all the attractions and experiences this enormous venue has to offer.

Jebel Hafeet Road and Mountain

In the outskirts of the emirate of Abu Dhabi, about a 2-hour drive from Abu Dhabi city centre, lies the Jebel Hafeet Mountain, right on the border shared by the UAE and Oman. Attractions are ample at the foot of the mountain, including luxury hotels with hot springs and refreshing pools, a zoo containing 4,000 animals, and caves open for exploration. An unexpected highlight is the namesake road leading here, voted 'best road on the planet' by several magazines based on its driver-friendliness and drama of the surrounding scenery.

Louvre Abu Dhabi

The Louvre Abu Dhabi, the largest art museum on the Arabian Peninsula, is a cultural masterpiece located on Saadiyat Island. Designed by renowned architect Jean Nouvel, the building itself is worth a visit for its unique floating dome, which creates a serene 'rain of light' effect. Inside, the museum presents a 12-chapter history of humanity, from prehistoric artefacts to modern artworks, and also hosts temporary exhibitions.

Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum is striking even before you step inside, with an architectural design inspired by geological forms that makes it one of Abu Dhabi’s most remarkable buildings. It’s an excellent choice for families, as children will be captivated by the exhibits. Inside, you’ll find meteorites, fossils, dinosaurs and other ancient species, all presented through educational guided tours. The museum leads you through different eras of natural history, emphasising the importance of protecting the planet, one of its core messages. If you need a break during your visit, Nayzak Café is conveniently located within the museum complex.

Dining

Byblos Sur Mer

Fine dining in a unique location with a great rooftop terrace. Byblos Sur Mer is an upscale restaurant that enjoys a spotless reputation and serves a variety of dishes, including local specialities and top-quality Lebanese cuisine. It's considered the best in the city.

Camacho Italian Restaurant & Sushi Bar

Serving a fusion of Japanese and Italian cuisine, Camacho brings together the best of both worlds: quality sushi and freshly made pizza and pasta, along with a huge list of desserts and non-alcoholic fresh cocktails, also known as 'mocktails'.

Cho Gao Marina Walk

Lose yourself in the incredible Asian atmosphere of Cho Gao Marina Walk lounge, noticeable in every single detail, from the decor to the food and even the service. The wide choice of Asian fusion dishes will impress you. Try the more common — nevertheless excellent — sushi, the Chinese pecking duck, or the intriguing Thai and Vietnamese cuisines, and complement your meal with a good drink.

Fishmarket

A market-style restaurant that has a long-held reputation for its Thai-style lobster, crab and other seafood speciality dishes, each presented with a creative twist. Fishmarket, located right on the beach and is part of the Intercontinental Hotel, opens for lunch and evening dining daily.

Hakkasan Abu Dhabi

Fine dining in a spectacular location, designed with unique, modern embellished wooden furniture and marbled Chinese forms. This upscale Asian restaurant is located inside the Emirates Palace Hotel and serves delicious duck dishes, along with other Cantonese specialities and excellent seafood. Hakkasan wine list is also impressive, with a selection of Italian, French, South African, and Australian labels.

Pizza di Rocco

Rocco's award-winning pizzeria is said to be one of the best pizza restaurants in Abu Dhabi. Not completely satisfied with the most traditional Italian pizzas, the owner created his very own using locally sourced ingredients, to always offer new, unexpected flavours.

Vendôme

Located in the amazing Emirates Palace, Vendôme offers an array of simple and quality dishes, for which the talented chefs carefully select the best seasonal ingredients. Sitting outside, or on its terrace, you will have the most elegant buffet in the city with a view over the beautiful beach.

Cafés

Art House Cafe

Tucked behind Al Bateen Mall next to the Etihad Modern Art Gallery, Art House Café is a creative spot where upcycled furniture and local art create a laid-back vibe, perfect for chilling over coffee or tea. The menu features hearty breakfasts like shakshuka and truffled scrambled eggs, along with fresh salads, burgers, pizza, and pasta, plus desserts like molten lava cake with ice cream. If you’re feeling creative, you can paint your own ceramic plate or mask, which gets displayed on the café’s walls, contributing to its artistic ambience.

Café 302

Highly recommended for its healthy breakfast buffet, Café 302 is a quiet spot with a modern interior located at the Al Maha Arjaan Hotel. It offers a wide assortment of global dishes and desserts. Have a seat on the terrace, if the weather allows, and enjoy a cup of coffee with some pastries in a nice, relaxed atmosphere.

Jones the Grocer

Jones the Grocer, established in 1996 in Australia, has expanded internationally and become a favourite in the UAE. This upscale market and café offers a unique blend of gourmet groceries and global cuisine with an Australian twist. Renowned for its relaxed yet chic atmosphere, patrons enjoy a diverse menu featuring everything from brunch staples and pastries to innovative mains and high-quality cheese and charcuterie.

LOCAL

LOCAL is a lifestyle concept in Abu Dhabi that brings together a specialty café, barbershop, and sneaker boutique all under one roof. Located in Al Zeina, Al Raha Beach, it has a minimalist, industrial-chic vibe with concrete floors, leather sofas, and a communal table. The café serves expertly brewed coffee from Seven Fortunes in Dubai, along with pastries and light bites. Next door, the barbershop offers haircuts and beard trims, with a complimentary coffee included. Behind a mirrored wall, the sneaker boutique showcases exclusive streetwear and high-end kicks, plus a sneaker laundry service to keep your shoes fresh.

The Bench

The Bench offers a warm, inviting ambience with ample, indoor or outdoor seating. Their coffee, made with Ethiopian beans, is presented with latte art. The truffle croissant and their matcha are a must-try. Additionally, The Bench has excellent breakfast options, and it is pet-friendly.

Vienna Plaza

An Austrian-style café, the Vienna Plaza serves delicious pastries and light snacks. Bright and elegant, it is a delightful place to meet friends or business associates for a quick meeting on the move.

Bars & Nightlife

Black Pearl

Black Pearl is a sleek cocktail bar on the waterfront at Al Raha Beach, featuring elegant décor and plush seating. With an impressive drinks menu and live music most evenings, guests can unwind while enjoying views of the water.

Blu Sky Lounge & Grill

Blu Sky Lounge & Grill is an award-winning venue instantly recognisable for its unique blue lighting and ambience. It combines a grill-focused menu and drinks with big-screen sports, live lounge events, quizzes, and an indoor golf simulator, giving visitors plenty of fun ways to spend an evening in Abu Dhabi.

Captain's Arms

Located inside Le Meridien Village, Captain’s Arms brings a slice of classic English pub culture to Abu Dhabi. The venue blends traditional British pub décor with more modern touches, offering a wide range of draft beers, pub grub, as well as foosball and billiards.

Glo

Glo is a rooftop bar and lounge on the terrace of the Rosewood Abu Dhabi on Al Maryah Island, offering views of the skyline and the water. Guests can enjoy cocktails, wine, and a selection of international dishes, as well as shisha. Evenings are relaxed, with music that complements the open‑air terrace setting. Special events, including live DJs or themed nights, take place from time to time, but the focus here is on enjoying drinks and the view in a casual setting.

Jazz Bar

A must for jazz enthusiasts, Jazz Bar at the Radisson Blu Hotel & Resort hosts regular live performances from full jazz bands and soloists. The music ranges from classic standards to contemporary interpretations. Pair your evening with a carefully crafted cocktail or a light snack while enjoying some of Abu Dhabi’s finest jazz.

Level Lounge

Perched atop the Millennium Downtown Abu Dhabi, Level Lounge is a rooftop bar where drinks and skyline views go hand in hand. The terrace and indoor seating offer an easygoing setting for cocktails as the sun sets and the city lights up. Music is part of the atmosphere, and the panoramic vista makes it a great choice for an early evening drink or a night out in the city.

Ray's Bar

Ray’s Bar occupies the 62nd floor of the Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, boasting panoramic views over the city and the Gulf. Renowned for its contemporary cocktail list and elegant setting, the bar is a popular spot for sunset drinks and late‑night socialising. Besides cutting-edge cocktails, it also offers an Asian-influenced menu, and on many evenings, a resident DJ provides a relaxed soundtrack to the skyline views.

Trader Vic's

Trader Vic’s at the Beach Rotana Hotel has been part of Abu Dhabi’s dining and nightlife scene for decades. Here, tropical‑inspired drinks and a fusion of French‑Polynesian, Creole, and Chinese‑influenced dishes are paired with music and an animated crowd. Live rhythms and Latin‑American‑tinged sounds are common, especially later in the week.

Shopping

Abu Dhabi Mall

Abu Dhabi Mall is one of the city’s long-established shopping centres, featuring a wide mix of international brands, mid-range fashion, electronics, and everyday services, plus a broad selection of cafés and restaurants.

Al Ain Souk

The Al Ain Souk, also known as the Central or Old Souk, is located in the historic garden city of Al Ain, about an hour and a half from Abu Dhabi. This vibrant market presents a fantastic opportunity to explore, immerse yourself in the local atmosphere, and hone your bargaining skills, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking to experience traditional Emirati culture.

Marina Mall

Set in one of Abu Dhabi's most picturesque districts near the Corniche, Marina Mall is a top-class destination facing the Arabian Gulf waters. Housing over 400 stores, it offers a vast array of retail, dining, and entertainment options, including designer shops, a bowling alley, and an ice rink.

Mina Market

Mina Market is a bustling hub of local culture and commerce, offering a vibrant and authentic shopping experience. Located near the port, this market is renowned for its fresh seafood, with a wide array of fish and shellfish arriving daily from the Arabian Gulf. Beyond seafood, visitors can explore stalls brimming with fresh produce, spices, and traditional crafts, all set against the lively backdrop of vendors' animated negotiations and colourful displays.

Reem Mall

Reem Mall on Al Reem Island is one of Abu Dhabi’s newest large-scale shopping centres, home to more than 400 retail outlets and around 80 restaurants and cafés. Alongside the commercial offering, the mall includes major leisure attractions such as Snow Abu Dhabi, an indoor snow park with over 20 activities, and Cube Challenges, an interactive, puzzle-based gaming experience. VOX Cinemas also operates a multiscreen complex here.

The Galleria

Housed in an elegant Arabic-style glass building, The Galleria is the ultimate Abu Dhabi shopping mall experience. It features an array of luxury brands, numerous family and fine dining restaurants, as well as top-notch entertainment options.

Yas Mall

Yas Mall is Abu Dhabi’s largest shopping destination, housing over 370 stores, including international brands such as Zara, Nike, and the capital's only Apple Store. You’ll also find plenty of dining choices and entertainment options to fill your day.

Tourist Information

Best Time to Visit

Winter is the best period to come to Abu Dhabi in terms of weather: temperatures are not too hot and not too humid, which makes this the peak season. It is advisable to avoid the extremely hot summer months, although hotel rates are at their lowest then and not many tourists will be visiting the city. Abu Dhabi can be doable in spring, between April and May, or fall, from September to October, both periods marked by pleasant weather, with prices starting to decrease in springtime, but on the rise in the fall season, as winter approaches. Also, many sporting and cultural events are held between April and May.

Passport & Visa

Entry requirements for Abu Dhabi (and the UAE generally) depend on your nationality and travel document. Citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states do not need a visa and may enter with a passport or national ID. Many nationalities — including those from the European Union, the UK, the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and Malaysia — are eligible for a visa on arrival, typically valid for 30 or 90 days depending on nationality. Nationals who are not eligible for a visa-on-arrival must obtain a visa before travelling. Passport validity of at least six months beyond your date of arrival is generally required. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always check with the nearest UAE embassy or the official UAE government visa portal before booking travel.

Zayed International Airport (AUH)

Zayed International Airport (AUH) is the main international gateway for Abu Dhabi, located about 30 km from the city centre. Public buses operate from the airport to central Abu Dhabi, with the A1 service running regularly (typically every 30–40 minutes) and taking around 45–60 minutes to reach major stops such as Al Zahiyah and Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station; other routes connect to Al Ain and other regional destinations. Metered taxis and app-based services like Uber and Careem are available 24/7 outside the arrivals hall for more direct transport into the city.

Public Transport

Abu Dhabi has a growing and increasingly efficient public transport network. The city’s bus system, operated by the Department of Transport (DoT), is extensive, with blue-and-white buses running along major routes across the city and to nearby suburbs. Tickets are purchased using a Hafilat Smartcard, which can be loaded at ticket vending machines located at bus stations, major stops, or DoT Customer Service Centers. Simply tap your card on the reader when boarding and exiting to validate your journey. Ferry services also operate on selected routes, connecting coastal areas and offering a scenic alternative to road travel. Passengers are generally advised to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure and carry a valid ID. Although Abu Dhabi does not currently have a fully operational metro, plans for a rapid transit network are in development. For now, taxis, ride‑hailing apps, and private car hire remain the most flexible ways to cover longer distances or reach destinations not served by buses.

Taxi

Taxis are a convenient and affordable way to get around Abu Dhabi, with vehicles readily available throughout the city. Ride-hailing apps such as Uber, Careem, and Bolt also operate across the capital.

Electricity

In Abu Dhabi and throughout the United Arab Emirates, the standard plug type is G, characterised by three rectangular pins arranged in a triangular pattern. The electrical system operates on a 230V supply voltage with a frequency of 50Hz.

Pharmacy

In Abu Dhabi, several main pharmacy chains provide a wide range of pharmaceutical products and healthcare services. Some of the prominent ones include Aster Pharmacy, Boots, Life Pharmacy, and Al Manara. For medical emergencies, call 998.

Post

There are many post offices in Abu Dhabi, which are operated by Emirates Post. The main one is the Central Post Office, located in Zayed City, close to the Gold Souk.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to visit Abu Dhabi?

The best time to visit Abu Dhabi is between November and March when the weather is cooler and more pleasant for outdoor activities. During these months, temperatures range from 60°F to 85°F, making it ideal for exploring the city and enjoying its beaches.

How many days should I spend in Abu Dhabi?

A stay of 3 to 4 days is recommended to explore Abu Dhabi's main attractions. This allows time to visit key sites such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, and the Corniche, as well as to enjoy a desert safari or a day trip to nearby islands.

What are the must-see attractions in Abu Dhabi?

Must-see attractions in Abu Dhabi include the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the cultural Louvre Abu Dhabi, and the thrilling Ferrari World on Yas Island. Don't miss the scenic Corniche and the historic Qasr Al Hosn fort, which offers insights into the emirate's history.

What is the best way to get around Abu Dhabi?

The best way to get around Abu Dhabi is by using taxis or renting a car. The city is well-connected with wide roads and clear signage. Public buses are also available and offer a cost-effective way to explore the city, though they may be less convenient for tourists.

Are there any cultural events or festivals in Abu Dhabi that I should know about?

Abu Dhabi hosts several cultural events and festivals throughout the year. The Abu Dhabi Festival in March celebrates music and arts, while the Abu Dhabi Film Festival in October showcases international cinema. The Al Dhafra Festival in December highlights Emirati culture and heritage.

What traditional foods should I try in Abu Dhabi?

In Abu Dhabi, try traditional Emirati dishes such as Al Harees, a slow-cooked wheat and meat dish, and Machboos, a spiced rice dish with meat or fish. Don't miss tasting Luqaimat, sweet dumplings drizzled with date syrup, and refreshing Arabic coffee.

Are there any unique day trips I can take from Abu Dhabi?

Yes, consider a day trip to the Liwa Oasis, located on the edge of the Rub' al Khali desert, for stunning dune landscapes. Alternatively, visit Sir Bani Yas Island for wildlife safaris and nature reserves, or explore the cultural heritage of Al Ain, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Trips

Dubai and Abu Dhabi Explorer

United Arab Emirates Escapade

Abu Dhabi Discovery

Yas Island Family Escapade

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