Ancient traditions blend with very modern architecture in this exotic Arabian city. Explore shoreline, souks and an exceptionally grand mosque.
A beautiful skyline of ultra-modern buildings awaits you in the UAE city of Abu Dhabi. As you explore inland, you’ll find traditional food and gold markets, fascinating museums, eclectic attractions and warmth and hospitality in this multicultural city.
Things to do in Abu Dhabi
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is an absolute must-see when you visit Abu Dhabi. Completed in 2007, the modern facility incorporates beautiful traditional Islamic art and architecture. Outside, notice gleaming white walls, four tall minarets, more than 80 domes and peaceful reflection pools. Step inside to appreciate the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet, Swarovski chandeliers, Arabic calligraphy and floral mosaics. The mosque welcomes travellers of all types, including worshippers and non-Muslims. Check the dress code in advance as visitors must cover knees and shoulders women should pre-purchase an attractive abaya head covering or may be able to borrow one at the mosque.
At the other end of the architectural time spectrum, visit Abu Dhabi’s Qasr Al Hosn, the area’s oldest stone building. It was built in the late 1700s as a fort during the heyday of the region’s pearl industry. See its House of Cultural Artisans and Cultural Foundation.
Corniche Beach on the Persian Gulf is another Abu Dhabi highlight. Choose from different sections, including fenced areas designated for family time. Find high-end shopping somewhat inland at Abu Dhabi Mall and The Galleria on Al Maryah Island. Explore the city’s different souks, ranging in speciality from fish or dates to gold.
Dining in Abu Dhabi
If you already like Middle Eastern food, you’ll love casual meals when you visit Abu Dhabi. If you’re not yet familiar with these spicy and sweet flavours, be adventurous. Watch the savoury staple of shawarma prepared from a vertical rotisserie cone of lamb, mutton, beef or chicken. Thin slices of the meat or fried halloumi cheese are rolled into a pocket of bread with vegetables and garlic sauce.
Have tea to accompany your meal and end with traditional pastries, often made from or filled with dates. Try baklava as well as the less familiar but equally sweet and tasty maamoul, luqaimat and chebabs. Sample gahwa, traditional Arabic coffee, or find a bit of home at one of the many Western coffee shops around the city.
The region just inland from the Corniche on the way to Al Maryah Island is filled with restaurants. The Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Street near the grand mosque is another great location for dining choices. When you want fine-dining during your Abu Dhabi visit, enjoy Arabian Gulf and international cuisine at luxury hotels. Many have rooftop bars with city views.
Shopping in Abu Dhabi
See where UAE dates come from at the Abu Dhabi Dates Market, a souk with multiple stores where you can purchase a variety of dates from across the Middle East, even some covered in chocolate. Nearby, explore the Mina Fish Market to see a wide selection of the freshest seafood. Select fish, shellfish and other marine delicacies to have cleaned and cooked for you or stop at one of the on-site restaurants.
The Gold Souk, near the Marina Mall, is the place to find ornate jewellery made with gold, silver and precious gems. You can also find souks with spices, carpets, Emirati souvenirs and even camel products when you visit Abu Dhabi. An insider’s tip when you visit the souks: If you see something that you like, buy it right away or mark the spot with your phone GPS so you can find your way back to the same shop after exploring the rest of the maze-like markets.
Entertainment, culture and nightlife in Abu Dhabi
Visit Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island, an all-in-one destination designed with tourists in mind. Enjoy family holidays at four theme parks: Ferrari World, Water World, Sea World and Warner Bros. World. Go shopping or drive fast on the Yas Marina Circuit. Book very early if you want to attend the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix race on the circuit in late November.
You can enjoy traditional Emirati performances, Arabic music and international shows at several other venues. Abu Dhabi National Theatre has a grand stage for theatre, cinema and exhibitions. The Emirates Palace is actually a splendid resort-hotel, with its Emirates Palace Auditorium a great place to attend a concert or opera performance. Learn about the nation’s history at nearby Qasr al Watan, including a spectacular sound and light show.
Saadiyat Island offers a leisurely escape along the water. Visit Louvre Abu Dhabi and other developing museums in this arts and culture destination. For a romantic early evening, return to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque at dusk. Watch the magical transformation as the sky turns a dark blue, contrasting with the gleaming white domes.
Getting around Abu Dhabi
Fly to Abu Dhabi International Airport, a transport hub for several UAE airlines and long-haul international carriers. Once you arrive, a taxi to the city takes about 25 minutes. In town, use buses, taxis and the metro to get around to attractions.
Abu Dhabi is considered very safe, but remember that rules and practices here may be quite different from those back home. Always be respectful of local laws and Islamic customs when you visit Abu Dhabi. That means wearing modest clothing, especially in religious venues and elegant spaces. Also drink alcoholic beverages only in licensed facilities, which are plentiful.
You’ll likely find hot and humid weather during your Abu Dhabi visit. Stay hydrated and take advantage of shade and air-conditioning. Head to the beach areas for pleasant breezes too.
