A more conservative version of its glamorous cousin Dubai, Abu Dhabi is equally worthy of a visit.
As the country’s largest emirate, Abu Dhabi has its share of glitz and international cachet. Once a fishing and pearling village, Abu Dhabi has evolved into a top travel destination for families and business travelers alike.
From Abu Dhabi hotel offers and modern dining options to a diverse local culture and historic religious sites, here is what you need to know to get the most out of your trip.
1. SEE
Like Dubai, Abu Dhabi is host to some of the world’s most unique contemporary and cultural sights.
● Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
One of the most well-known landmarks in the capital of the United Arab Emirates is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Situated in Abu Dhabi City Island, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque was opened in 2007 and has since become the city’s most popular sightseeing attraction.
The mosque is clad in Macedonian marble and fuses design elements from Mameluke, Ottoman, and Fatimid, featuring intricate carvings, glasswork, and artisan mosaic tilings. This celebration of Islamic architecture can accommodate 40,000 worshippers and visitors.
The mosque’s open-door policy means mon-Muslim visitors can tour all areas of the mosque.
● Louvre Abu Dhabi
A recent addition to the emirate’s cultural scene, the Louvre Abu Dhabi is considered by many as the region’s most spectacular museum. A pioneer cultural project, the Louvre Abu Dhabi was developed as a cultural collaboration between France and the UAE.
Now a cultural beacon for the Gulf Coast, the Louvre Abu Dhabi features over 12 multidisciplinary galleries and several major exhibitions, including paintings by Picasso, ancient Egyptian statuary, and works from the decorative arts.
The Louvre Abu Dhabi was designed by international architect Jean Nouvel. This architectural feat takes inspiration from the UAE’s cultural past and futuristic vision. Of note in this design is the huge silvery dome, appearing weightless above the museum-city.
● Emirates Palace
While most famously known as being one of two seven-star hotels in the world, Emirates Palace also doubles as the emirate’s cultural hub. Visitors to this audaciously domed guest palace will find plenty to admire, from its 1,002 crystal chandeliers to its carefully manicured private beach.
As one of the city’s top hotels, Emirates Palace might be out of budget for many visitors to Abu Dhabi. Still, that doesn’t mean that they can’t pop in and enjoy the hotel’s amenities and offerings, such as a decadent afternoon tea in the foyer.
2. DO
Once a Bedouin outpost, Abu Dhabi is now home to some of the world’s most thrilling and immersive experiences.
● Ferrari World
One of Abu Dhabi’s most lively venues, Ferrari World is a motorsport enthusiast’s dream theme park. As the world’s first Ferrari-branded amusement park, the winning mix of attractions at Ferrari World is guaranteed to get any thrillseeker’s adrenaline going.
Not only does Ferrari World boast the world’s fastest rollercoaster, but there are also state-of-the-art simulators and electric-powered go-karts to test out your driving skills. If a virtual track wasn’t enough, Ferrari World is situated next to a world-class Formula One Grand Prix track.
If you time your visit right, you can even buy Abu Dhabi Grand Prix tickets, allowing you and your family to get a taste of some Formula One action.
● Desert Safari
No trip to the Middle East is complete without experiencing life in the desert. And there’s no better way to take in the desert landscape than by enjoying an adrenaline-fueled dune bashing session or by sashaying down towering dunes on a sandboard.
Many tour operators will also provide an overnight stay in the desert so you and your family can partake in a traditional Emirati meal under the stars.
While you’re out in the desert, take some time to enjoy the mythical beauty of the Arabian Nights Village. Nestled among the dunes, the Arabian Nights Village gives visitors a glimpse of old Arabia. There are also accommodations available, allowing visitors to enjoy the desert’s timeless beauty.
● Shopping
If retail is more your pace, Abu Dhabi’s malls are some of the most spacious and modern in the world.
From Yas Mall to The Galleria Al Maryah Island and Abu Dhabi Mall, retail haunts here serve as an escape from the desert heat and allow visitors to discover a wide range of luxury and local brands.
Traditional souks, meaning “marketplace” in Arabic, are ideal places for travelers looking for that special, one-of-a-kind souvenir gift. Souks throughout Abu Dhabi are known for their bustling atmosphere and eclectic variety of goods and products.
From spices and silks to perfumes and traditional heirlooms, souks allow visitors to experience the cultural way of doing business. Most things on offer can be bargained for, so prepare for a day of haggling.
3. EAT
Abu Dhabi’s modern dining scene is a great way for travelers to challenge their palate and try traditional Emirati dishes they would never have the opportunity to sample otherwise.
● Emirate delicacies
The city’s multiculturalism means travelers can taste intriguing dishes from every corner of the globe. But, as the saying goes, “When in Rome…” The impeccable gastronomic delights of Emirati cuisine works on spice magic and will delight any palate.
One unmissable dish is the kabsa. Considered as the UAE’s national dish, the kabsa is a fragrant, delicious meal consisting of rice, meat (either lamb or chicken), mixed vegetables, and spices. All of the ingredients are cooked in a pot and beautifully presented on a large sharing plate.
Other traditional dishes to try include al harees or a whipped wheat dish typically served during Ramadan, khuzi or a deliciously hearty roasted meat dish, served over rice and nuts, and luqaimat or a dumpling-like dessert usually eaten during Ramadan.
● Brunch
A mandatory dining experience while in the UAE, brunch is a celebratory affair lasting for hours.
Brunches in Abu Dhabi run the gamut of bargain buffets to blowout set menus. Brunches here are enjoyed on Friday, as that is when the weekend starts, allowing locals and visitors alike to kick off the weekend with a feast fit for a king (or queen).
There are a variety of cuisines available for brunch, from fresh seafood and grilled meats to Italian specialties and Asian bites and delicacies. Free-flowing beverages help keep the brunch party going and in lively spirits.
● Dinners with a view
Whether its al fresco dining or eating amongst the desert dunes, Abu Dhabi’s culinary landscape takes dining to a whole new level.
For travelers looking for something more upmarket, there are dining experiences 74 floors up with splendid aerial views. Or better yet, enjoy dinner in a revolving restaurant, complete with 360-degree unobstructed views of the city’s skyline.
Those who partake in a desert excursion will have the opportunity to enjoy a lavish barbeque in the great outdoors, surrounded by nothing but the sand beneath their feet and the starry sky above.
There are also stunning sea views and yacht spotting to be had in one of the city’s many stunning al fresco dining venues.
Final considerations
No matter how you choose to enjoy the capital of the UAE, remember to be respectful of the local customs and culture. The city’s multicultural society has an incredibly welcoming spirit. And while Abu Dhabi is highly liberal, travelers should make note of the country’s Islamic traditions.
Likewise, despite being known as a luxurious metropolis, travelers will find plenty of opportunities to enjoy their holiday while staying on budget. Great-value hotels in the UAE have exclusive offers that enable visitors to save on their accommodations.
Other ways to visit this Arabian wonderland on a budget include taking public transport, using supermarkets to supplement dining out, researching deals and offers in advance, and visiting outside of peak season.