Abu Dhabi Holidays

Abu Dhabi, the sparkling crown jewel nestled among the sands of the United Arab Emirates, is a uniquely beguiling blend of the old world and the new. As the capital of the UAE, the city is steeped in rich tradition, imbued with a warm sense of welcome, and bursting with impressive architectural marvels.

From the awe-inspiring skylines and world-class dining to fascinating historic sites and pristine beaches, Abu Dhabi captivates with its distinctive Arabic charm and cosmopolitan air. Whether you're a sun-seeker, culture enthusiast or foodie, Abu Dhabi is a grand stage where every act promises to transport you to new experiences.

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Things to See and Do

Welcome to a city where traditional Arab hospitality meets modern attractions and cultural landscapes. From grand palaces and historic forts to heritage villages and botanical gardens, Abu Dhabi is an oasis of wonders waiting to be explored.

Immerse yourself in Qasr Al Watan

Discover the grandeur and opulence of the UAE's political and cultural heart. Examine artefacts, trace the history of the UAE and marvel at the majestic architectural feats in this presidential palace. For a truly unique perspective, embark on a guided tour and learn about Arabian craftsmanship and knowledge.

Experience history at Qasr Al Hosn

Explore the oldest standing structure in Abu Dhabi. This fort-turned-museum offers engaging exhibits showcasing the city’s past and cultural workshops where you can engage with traditional Emirati crafts. Here, you’ll get a true sense of how this desert city evolved.

Step back in time at Emirates Heritage Club Heritage Village

Travel back in time at this traditional village. Walk around its old-world souk, mosque, and Bedouin camp to get a glimpse of life in pre-modern UAE. This charming attraction is both an enlightening cultural experience and a fantastic spot for picking up unique souvenirs.

Indulge Your Senses at Louvre Abu Dhabi

Home to an amazing collection of artworks, sculptures, and artefacts from across the globe, Louvre Abu Dhabi is a world-class museum offering an insight into global cultures and societies. Its unique architecture with a radiating dome is a sight to behold.

Discover the Sheikh Zayed Mosque

This iconic landmark boasts 82 domes, over 1,000 columns, and a 24-carat gold chandelier. Non-Muslim visitors can take a free guided tour to understand the Arabic culture’s values and traditions better.

Food and Drink

Taking its culinary cues from a multitude of cultures, Abu Dhabi is a gastronomic gratification that highlights local Emirati flavours mixed with a blend of Lebanese, Syrian and Iranian influences.

Feast on Harees

A must-try delicacy during Ramadan, Harees is a wheat and meat porridge seasoned with local spices. Relish it in a quaint restaurant within the city, known for its authentic Emirati cuisine.

Relish Al Harees

Indulge in this creamy and savoury dish often served during Ramadan and Eid. Made of meat and wheat slow-cooked to perfection. Many local restaurants have this as a staple on their menu, perfect with a side of fresh, warm bread.

Savour thereed

Taste this delightful traditional stew, typically filled with tender pieces of meat and vegetables in a fragrant broth. Enjoy this succulent dish at the various traditional restaurants scattered throughout the city.

Try Shwarma

This Middle Eastern delicacy is now a popular street food in Abu Dhabi. Savour this delicious wrap filled with thinly sliced meat or chicken, fresh salads and tangy dressing from any of the local food trucks lined along the city streets.

Relish Majboos

Often regarded as the national dish of the UAE, this is a must-try. A wholesome dish of spiced rice topped with slow-cooked meat and garnished with nuts and dried fruits. Find this hearty dish at local diners and luxury restaurants alike.

Destination Essentials

The ideal time to visit Abu Dhabi is during winter, from November to April, when the harsh desert sun is replaced by a gentle, glowing warmth. These milder climates make for the perfect setting to explore the city’s wonders, relax on the divine beaches, and dine al fresco under the Arabian stars.

While winter remains the most popular season for tourists, Abu Dhabi promises an enjoyable holiday year-round. For the more heat-tolerant, the summer provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy the many indoor attractions and luxury swimming pools with fewer tourists around. Just be prepared for the scorching desert heat, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C.

Beaches

Abu Dhabi’s dreamy coastline provides a blissful blend of glittering turquoise waters and sun-kissed sandy beaches illuminated with the warmth of the Arabian sun.

Embrace the charm of Corniche Beach

With its wide tree-lined promenade, children's play areas, and cafes, this popular beach is the perfect spot for families. Enjoy the spectacular sunset over the horizon as the city lights begin to twinkle behind you.

Step onto marvellous Abu Dhabi Beach

Discover the immense beauty of the city's main beach. Enjoy water sports, relish in first-class amenities or simply lounge in the immaculate sands of this Blue Flag certified beach.

Enjoy the tranquillity of Saadiyat Beach

Here, soft white sands give way to desert dunes providing a sense of exclusivity and privacy. Known for its beautiful biodiversity, you may even spot some dolphins or hawksbill turtles in the crystal-clear waters.

Relax at Al Bateen Beach

Boasting endless stretches of pristine sands bordered by the glittering Arabian Gulf, this family-friendly beach provides a peaceful respite from the city’s bustling situation.

Unearth the magic of Hudayriat Beach

This newly-opened panorama hosts a range of leisure activities. Enjoy beach volleyball or a bike ride along the designated trails before heading to the marina's food trucks and restaurants for a sumptuous meal.

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