United Arab Emirates · Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi travel guide
A white marble mosque, the Louvre and Formula 1 on Yas Island
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Photo: HasselbladWhisperer, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
Abu Dhabi is the UAE's capital, calmer and greener than Dubai. Its Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the most beautiful buildings in the world, and the Louvre Abu Dhabi sits under a vast domed roof.
Yas Island has Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World and the F1 circuit, which makes it great for families.
What Abu Dhabi is known for
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
White marble and 82 domes.
- The Louvre Abu Dhabi
Art under a domed roof that filters light like rain.
- Yas Island
Theme parks and the F1 circuit.
- Saadiyat beaches
White sand and turtles.
Top things to do in Abu Dhabi
Where to stay in Abu Dhabi
Best time to visit Abu Dhabi
Best value: Apr, Oct. November to March: warm and sunny. The Grand Prix is in late November or December.
- Best valueGood weather, smaller crowds
- PeakBusiest, highest prices
- QuietCheapest, cooler or wetter
Getting there and around
About 7h 15m from London to AUH, and flights from most UK airports.
Taxis are cheap. Free buses run on Yas Island.
Good to know
- The mosque has a strict dress code: abayas can be provided.
- Book theme park tickets online for discounts.
- Abu Dhabi is about 90 minutes from Dubai.
Abu Dhabi FAQ
Abu Dhabi or Dubai?
Abu Dhabi is calmer and more cultural. Dubai is busier, with more nightlife.
Can I visit Abu Dhabi from Dubai?
Yes, as a day trip by car or bus.
More places in United Arab Emirates
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