Tour the sights and delights of Abu Dhabi. Discover things to do, where to stay and what’s on.
Get to know Abu Dhabi
Behind Abu Dhabi’s modern skyscrapers and beautiful beaches lies a rich heritage dating back thousands of years. Uncover the capital’s unique historical journey from early Bedouin settlers and pearl traders to the eye-catching attractions that shape the city we see today.
Witness Emirati traditions thriving in the local souks, admire the inspiring Arabic architecture and hop between the different islands that lapped by turquoise waters.
Get to know Abu Dhabi with Etihad.
Things to do in Abu Dhabi
From Michelin-starred meals to family days out at your choice of theme park, or exploring the city’s arts and culture scene, Abu Dhabi has something for everyone. Pick from outdoor activities, hire a bike or a kayak or choose something more relaxing, such like a trip to the mall, or a day by the pool.
Where to stay
When it comes to finding your perfect hotel, Abu Dhabi is packed with options to choose from.
If you’re looking for five-star luxury, an exclusive resort is just what you need. Families can go all-inclusive for a fuss-free stay, while a hotel in downtown Abu Dhabi offers easy access to local sights. The choice is yours.
Start your adventure in the UAE capital with an unforgettable stopover. Book any Etihad Airways flight that connects in Abu Dhabi and enjoy discounted rates at stylish hotels with 24-hour check-in and complimentary Wi-Fi.
With so much going on, the buzzing capital is one of the best stopover cities in the world. Don’t miss out!
Fly with Etihad to enjoy deals and discounts from the moment you land in Abu Dhabi. Discover our latest offers for a range of top attractions, restaurants and hotels.
Pick from a diverse events calendar and endless supply of experiences in Abu Dhabi. Discover foodie events at the city’s top restaurants or celebrate the UAE’s music, art and theatre scene at the Abu Dhabi Festival. Check out the latest showcase of iconic cars at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi or enthralling art exhibitions at Louvre Abu Dhabi.
Keep the kids entertained too with Disney on Ice at the Etihad Arena, themed breakfasts at Warner Bros™ World and Neon Nights at Yas Waterworld.
Plan your stay around one of the city’s annual events, like the Formula One™ Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix or the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship.
Formula One™ fans unite for the most exciting race on the F 1™ calendar, the Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
The final race of the season takes place on the breathtaking Yas Marina Circuit. Watch as the drivers weave through tight chicanes and roar down the 1.2km straight – the longest on any F1™ track. Only one racer can be crowned the winner.
The excitement doesn’t end there. All Abu Dhabi Grand Prix ticket holders can also enjoy exclusive access to the Yasalam After-Race Concert to continue the celebrations. The stage has seen performances from world-class acts, including Beyonce, The Killers and DJ Marshmello..
It’s time to plan your Formula 1™ experience.
With world-class theme parks, family-friendly beaches and all-inclusive hotels, your family will feel right at home in Abu Dhabi.
Make a splash at Yas Waterworld and meet your favourite cartoon characters at Warner Bros™ World Abu Dhabi. Then, head to Saadiyat Beach Club for a well-earned rest by the pool.
Abu Dhabi is filled with unforgettable outdoor experiences. Stay active with a bike ride around Yas Marina circuit, take a walk along the Corniche or kayak through luscious mangrove forests. Take a break from the city with an adventure through the desert and a barbecue under the stars. Or visit Al Ain, known locally as the Garden City; head up Jebel Hafeet and wander around Al Ain Oasis, with its meandering pathways and traitional falaj – an ancient irrigation system.
Best time to visit
You'll have gorgeous sunshine and warm temperatures all year-round in Abu Dhabi. The hottest months run from May to October, when the cool air conditioning of indoor attractions entice you inside.
In the cooler months at the start and end of the year (November through to March), you can make the most of exploring outdoors. Lounge on the beaches, swim in the Gulf and watch the sunset over the city.
From honeymooning in an all-inclusive island resort to making memories with your family on a desert safari, build your perfect trip in Abu Dhabi with the help of Etihad Holidays.
We offer a wide rage of package deals to some of the top hotels in the city. Choose how many nights you’d like to stay, whether a short city break or a relaxing summer retreat.
With flights included, plus the option to add extra experiences and excursions, it’s easy and simple to create your dream getaway.
Before you fly
Downtown is less than a 30-minute drive from Zayed International Airport (AUH). Just head east on Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street E20, then take the exit on to Al Ain Road E22. Follow the road across Maqta Bridge and use the exit to merge on to Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Street E10. Continue past the Mangrove National Park to arrive in the city centre.
Get directions
It’s just a 15-minute drive to Yas Island, where you’ll find top attractions like Yas Waterworld, Yas Mall and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. Follow Al Diyafah Street out of the airport and keep right at the fork to join Al Mireef Street. Continue on to Yas Dr Street, following signs to Yas Island.
The journey from the airport to Saadiyat Island takes around 45 minutes. Take Al Diyafah Street on to Al Mireef Street, then turn right onto Al Rahah Street to join the E10. Leave via exit 34 towards the E12, then follow the Sheik Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Highway across Yas Island and Al Jubail Island, before arriving at Saadiyat Island.
It takes around two-and-a-half hours to reach Sir Bani Yas Island ferry port from Zayed International Airport. Just follow the E10 and E11 to join Sheikh Khalifa Bi Zayed International Road and continue for around 210 kilometres. Take the exit to follow Al Yash Street and Qarn Mgharraq Street to the port, where the 20-minute ferry will take you to the exclusive island.
Get direction
Got a question about travelling to Abu Dhabi or want more information about an upcoming event?
Call 800 53553 or email contact@visitabudhabi.ae to speak to an expert from the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi.
