There is no denying it- Abu Dhabi is fast becoming the ultimate hot spot for a winter sun destination getaway. Previously overshadowed by its neighbouring city of Dubai, the capital of the Emirates exceeds all expectations and surprisingly is a destination that has something for everyone.
“All roads lead to Abu Dhabi” is the infamous tagline that is planted around the Capital who have the honour of hosting the grand finale of the F1. The quote makes you stop and reflect that as a visitor you are in a city that feels both old, rich in history and heritage, but equally feels so ahead of the time. It's clean and safe and home to some of the world’s most extravagant hotels, extraordinary architecture, as well as offering tourists five star entertainment. We breakdown how to navigate the best attractions this capital has to offer.
Why is Abu Dhabi so popular?
- sun! it comes as no surprise that the first thing anyone talks about is the heat of Abu Dhabi- rain forecasts aren’t something you need to worry about here. The mildest the city gets, as well as low humidity, is in the winter months of November to March. May and June you’re looking at the late 30’s Celsius, and by July and August I’ve been told that stepping outside is not an option, which isn’t a problem in this city. I was asked by friends that as a woman did I feel safe? I don’t think I’ve ever felt safer. I never felt uncomfortable getting Ubers or asking people for directions- was always greeted with a smile. I noticed as well people leaving their valuables out on the tables, and bags open behind their seats. In conversations with local families I was told that children leave their bikes out on the street unlocked, and they never get stolen. Coming from London- a refreshing feeling.
Where to stay in Abu Dhabi:
Emirates Palace, is known for being one of the most luxurious places in the world to stay. The eight-story, one-kilometer-long hotel is hard to miss; larger than Buckingham Palace, it boasts the largest dome in world and it quite literally dripping in gold. There's so much gold here—more than 6,000 square meters of 22-karat gold leaf, in fact—that even the room keys are shaped like gold coins. Expect to see royalties and VIPs in the lobby, the five-star property screams luxury.
Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, is a beachfront five star hotel in the city with next level views of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Guests can enjoy the hotel’s Olympic-sized swimming pool and private beach, as well as provided services of a free mini-van that does the rounds of various city attractions. The Grand Mosque and the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre are 10 minutes away in a car, and there’s a traditional souk and supermarket up the road. If you're not wanting to leave your hotel for the day and soak up the surrounding views you can pamper yourself in the beauty salon that offers a number of services such as a spray tan, blow-dry and mani pedis.
What to do in Abu Dhabi...
For the Thrill-seekers:
Head to Yas Island, above, home to Abu Dhabi’s famous Yas Marina Circuit where the Formula 1 Grand Prix takes place every winter. A jammed pack 4 day event where if racing isn’t your thing , there is still plenty of entertainment provided in the evening by world class acts like Maroon5 and Eminem. There is a go-karting circuit that allows you to drive in the grounds of the Grand Prix – scoring some serious brownie points to the Motorhead family members. When it comes to activities outside of the F1, options are plentiful. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is an indoor theme park, if you grab a window seat on the plane you will be welcomed a clear site of it when landing, home to the world's fastest rollercoaster that accelerates you to a speed of 150mph in under five seconds. Yas Waterworld has a 10ft wave pool, and a 750ft water slide, providing entertainment for any age.
Architectural Sightseeing:
It goes without saying that you cannot leave Abu Dhabi without visiting the landmark of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, visited recently by Rosie Huntington-Whiteley. The country’s largest mosque, third largest mosque in the world, and is an architectural wonder featuring 82 domes, 24-carat gold chandeliers and the worlds largest hand made carpet.
There is Qasr Al Hosn which is the oldest standing structure in Abu Dhabi, and is also a museum where you can learn about the creation and history of the city.
Qasr Al Watan is also worth a visit- the presidential palace is another architectural masterpiece (go for the majestic hall alone) providing a unique insight into the shaping of the UAE and Arab heritage. When visiting these historical venues do make sure to check the dress code, as in certain places there are rules for both men and women.
Louvre Abu Dhabi:
I know what you’re thinking- as I was also thinking this- but a Louvre? I was pleasantly surprised. Opened in 2017 the building itself is probably one of the most incredible museums I have ever seen. Designed by Pritzker Prize-winner Jean Nouvel, the structure is an artistic masterpiece in it’s own right. Spend the day strolling around this museum at your own pace- taking in over 600 works of art and historical artefacts.
For the Nature lovers:
The best way to experience Abu Dhabi’s nature is in the Mangrove National Park. Open daily from 8am-6:30pm, you can head out on a kayak tour around the protected mangrove forests- home to over 50 birds species and other wildlife and can soak up Abu Dhabi’s most treasured ecological asset, and a critical link in the cities coastal ecosystem.
Where to eat in Abu Dhabi...
A true culinary melting pot, Abu Dhabi is home to first class restaurants. For true authentic Emirati cuisine I cannot recommend Erth AlHosn enough. The world’s first ever Michelin starred Emirati restaurant, sits next to the oldest building in the capital (Qasr Al Hosn) surrounded by skyscrapers- a vison in itself. Erth’s menu uses traditional Emirati spices and dishes all locally sourced and produced from farms across the UAE. The must try dishes are the hasselback potatoes, fresh hamba, Al Ain miso baby chicken and pistachio rehash (a refreshing drink made out of camel’s milk- a first for me!)
With the city continuing to grow, the Guggenheim is set to open in 2026, there is still so much more left to explore of this wonderful city and has made me excited to come back and experience more... to be continued
To discover more about Abu Dhabi and start planning your trip, head to visitabudhabi.ae/en