Abu Dhabi: a first-timer's guide to the UAE's capital

Why visit Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi grew rich on oil and chose to spend much of that wealth on culture, conservation and public space. The result is a city where you can spend a morning in a mosque of white marble and gold, an afternoon among world art at Louvre Abu Dhabi, and an evening walking the seafront with families picnicking on the grass. It is also the gateway to the Liwa desert in the south and to Al Ain, the garden city on the Oman border.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

This is the one sight not to miss. The courtyard of floral marble inlay, the vast hand knotted carpet, the crystal chandeliers and the reflecting pools are breathtaking, especially at sunset or after dark when the mosque is lit in shifting blue. Entry is free, but you should book a time slot online through the official site. Men and women must cover arms and legs, women must cover their hair, and clothes should be loose. The mosque closes to visitors during Friday prayers, so check opening times before you go.

Saadiyat Island and the museums

Louvre Abu Dhabi, under its floating dome of patterned steel that scatters light like palm fronds, tells the story of humanity through objects from every continent. Next to it, the Cultural District has grown to include teamLab Phenomena and the Zayed National Museum, and the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and Natural History Museum have been opening in stages, so check what is open during your visit. Saadiyat Beach is a public stretch where turtles nest in season.

Old Abu Dhabi

Qasr Al Hosn, the white fort that was once the ruler's home and the oldest stone building in the city, is now a museum and cultural centre. Qasr Al Watan, the working presidential palace, opens its great halls and library to visitors and puts on an evening light show. For a slice of everyday life, try the Mina Zayed fish and date markets, and the old Iranian souq near the port.

The Corniche and the islands

The Corniche runs for kilometres with cycle paths, playgrounds and a public beach with lifeguards. Heritage Village opposite Marina Mall shows how life looked before oil. Kayak among the mangroves at the Eastern Mangroves or Jubail Mangrove Park for a quiet morning among herons and crabs.

Yas Island

Yas Island holds Ferrari World, Warner Bros World, Yas Waterworld and SeaWorld Yas Island, along with Yas Marina Circuit, home of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix late in the year. If you are travelling with children, a day or two here is easy to plan, with hotels linked to the parks.

Where to stay

Stay on the Corniche or near Al Markaziyah for city life and easy taxis, Saadiyat for beaches and museums, Yas Island for theme parks, or the Al Maryah and Al Reem islands for modern towers and the Galleria. Mid-range business hotels in the downtown grid are good value.

Getting around

Abu Dhabi has no metro yet. Taxis are metered and plentiful, ride hailing apps work, and public buses use the Hafilat card. Express buses link Abu Dhabi to Dubai, Al Ain and other emirates, and the national rail network is adding passenger services, so check the latest routes.

Before you go

Plan visits in the cooler months, when the Corniche and desert are pleasant. Read our guide sections on entry, dress and safety, and use the free trip planner to combine Abu Dhabi with Al Ain or Dubai.