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Top things to do in Abu Dhabi

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The capital city of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is one of the world's modern marvels - a little over 50 years ago, the pristine cityscape was simply desert and coastline. How things change.

Now, Abu Dhabi is home to some of the most notable sights and landmarks in the middle east. Parks, museums, points of interests, shopping (of course), beaches and religious sites are all located on the Persian Gulf seafront. And naturally some of the tallest buildings you can imagine are nestled here, too.

With so much on offer, it's hard to select just 6 travel tips for Abu Dhabi - but we'll give it a try. Whether you're looking for a family day out, cultural immersion, retail therapy or just a bit of sightseeing, we've got your bases covered. Check out our top things to do in Abu Dhabi below for some guidance on your Emirati adventure…

How to Get to Abu Dhabi

Getting to Abu Dhabi (AUH) from the UK is simple - there are flights to Abu Dhabi from London Heathrow, Edinburgh and Manchester Airports. Etihad Airways provide direct flights, with other airlines offering direct and indirect options.

Car hire and airport transfers are both available from Abu Dhabi airport - be sure to book in advance on Trip.com.

Top things to do in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Arguably the most famous of Abu Dhabi's many architectural marvels is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and one of the top things to do in Abu Dhabi. Considered a cornerstone achievement in the modern architectural history of the UAE, the mosque - the largest in the country - was completed in 2007 after 11 years of construction.

While a pioneering landmark in recent middle eastern history, the brilliant white exterior is actually the face of an entirely global structure. The building contains numerous materials from countries across the globe, in keeping with the original concept to unite the cultural diversity of the Islamic world with modern artistic values.

Should you wish to visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, we recommend staying at the incredible 5-star Shangri-la Hotel in nearby Qaryat Al Beri, a little over a 1 mile (1.7 km) hop away.

Yas Water World

Going on a trip with the family? Or are you merely, in fact, a big kid yourself? If yes, we can say with confidence that Yas Water World Abu Dhabi is for you. Anywhere that names itself 'Water's Greatest Playground' is good with us.

More than 40 H2O-centric rides can be enjoyed here, with everything from the extreme (the Jebel Drop offers thrill-seekers a terrifyingly exciting 10-story plummet) to the kid-friendly (Tot's Playground offers slides for the little ones). However, it's not just slides and cannons, with traditional pearl diving and an underwater VR experience and on offer. Of course - this being Abu Dhabi - dining and shopping is available at Yas Water World too.

For a nearby hotel option, Trip.com recommends a hotel that's equally family-friendly - Park Inn by Radisson Abu Dhabi Yas Island is close to the water park, and offers plenty of kid-focused amenities.

The Corniche

We are cheating a little bit here, as the Corniche Road isn't so much a 'travel tip' as it is a 5-mile (8 km) home to numerous tips. Restaurants, cafes, shopping, children's play areas – they can all be found on Abu Dhabi's seminal coastal highway.

The Corniche is sprinkled with numerous fountains and park areas - ambling along the road offers views of many of the city's hotspots. Naturally, there is an immaculate beach along the stretch too - pristine sand and turquoise waters are the order of the day.

Although abundant with glistening architecture, a highlight of the Corniche is unquestionably Emirates Palace Hotel Abu Dhabi - one of the most famous and striking buildings in the entire city - located on the western side of the famous road. And you can book your stay there with Trip.com, should you wish…

Marina Mall

Given that we are discussing one of the great retail therapy hubs, it would be remiss not to mention shopping in Abu Dhabi. The Marina Mall, located on the namesake island, is one of the finest of its kind in the middle east - so if browsing and buying a luxury item or two is on your travel checklist, the mall is a great port of call (rhyme intentional).

Home to shops of the world's most prominent brands, the Marina Mall also lays claim to numerous eateries, a 100m observatory, bowling alley, multiplex movie complex - and musical fountains. For the kids, the internal Bounce trampoline adventure park will provide boundless (pardon the pun) entertainment.

Should you wish to stay near the mall on Al Marina, The St. Regis Abu Dhabi is located in the nearby Corniche - and the 5-star hotel is one of Abu Dhabi's most popular on Trip.com.

Louvre Abu Dhabi

Were you aware that one of France's most famous cultural landmarks has a sister venue in Abu Dhabi? It's true. And while the Mona Lisa et al may reside in Paris, art-lovers should absolutely head to the breathtaking Louvre Abu Dhabi on Saadiyat Island, which lays claim to works by the likes of Bellini and Jordaens.

With numerous exhibitions focusing on the parallels and differences of Eastern and Western art, the gallery is truly a spectacular bearer of the Louvre name. An absolute must for those wanting to drink in some true original masterpieces.

Located on the same island as the Louvre Abu Dhabi is the stunning Saadiyat Rotana Resort and Villas - a hotel almost as striking as some of those aforementioned exhibitions…

Observation Deck at 300

Finally, no trip to Abu Dhabi would be complete without the opportunity to gaze over the city's incredible landscape. Observation Deck at 300 is the highest vantage point in the Emirati capital.

Why has the deck been given that name? Simple - it's 300m (985ft) high. That is a long way up, and it makes for spectacular panoramic vistas for as far as the eye can see. If you fancy a refreshment while you're peering at sky, sea and sand, the very same floor houses a cafe serving tea and mocktails.

Conveniently, the Observation Deck at 300 is located on the 74th floor of Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers - a luxury hotel in the West Corniche area of the city that you just happen be able to book on Trip.com…

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Best Hotels in Abu Dhabi

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9.5/10
Amazing
GGuest User
Everything was great, and my mom and I had a wonderful stay. ① Location: It's about a 10-15 AED taxi ride from the Grand Mosque. There are taxis readily available downstairs, and the staff will help you hail one if you ask. I found these to be cheaper than ride-sharing apps like Uber. ② Room Facilities: Clean and tidy, with excellent hardware and software, including hot water. The hotel also has a private beach, and many people were sunbathing there. ③ Overall Service: Excellent. The front desk kindly upgraded our room and was very enthusiastic about explaining all the services the hotel offers. It's a shame we didn't have time to experience the abra (water taxi) for sightseeing.
Traders Hotel，Qaryat AI Beri, Abu Dhabi

Traders Hotel，Qaryat AI Beri, Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi
9.5/10
Perfect77 Reviews
GGuest UserEverything was great, and my mom and I had a wonderful stay. ① Location: It's about a 10-15 AED taxi ride from the Grand Mosque. There are taxis readily available downstairs, and the staff will help you hail one if you ask. I found these to be cheaper than ride-sharing apps like Uber. ② Room Facilities: Clean and tidy, with excellent hardware and software, including hot water. The hotel also has a private beach, and many people were sunbathing there. ③ Overall Service: Excellent. The front desk kindly upgraded our room and was very enthusiastic about explaining all the services the hotel offers. It's a shame we didn't have time to experience the abra (water taxi) for sightseeing.
Price per night from:AU$108
9.4/10
Amazing
AAnj20
Had an excellent time at Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana. My room was clean and very comfortable. The staff were friendly and made everything easy. I especially loved the beautiful pool and having direct access to the beach was fantastic! I was completely satisfied with my stay and would happily recommend thi
Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana

Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana

Abu Dhabi Corniche, Abu Dhabi
9.4/10
Perfect194 Reviews
AAnj20Had an excellent time at Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana. My room was clean and very comfortable. The staff were friendly and made everything easy. I especially loved the beautiful pool and having direct access to the beach was fantastic! I was completely satisfied with my stay and would happily recommend thi
Price per night from:AU$101
9/10
Great
GGuest User
For its price, this hotel is really quite good. It's in the city center, has a pool, and the staff are friendly. However, if you're looking for a resort experience, the hotel's location can be a bit tricky to find because there's ongoing construction right in front, blocking the entrance, which makes it hard for taxis to locate. Plus, there's no shuttle bus, making travel to the airport and Yas Island very inconvenient. If you plan to visit Yas Island, I'd recommend taking a taxi to the first stop of the Yas Island shuttle bus's Downtown line, otherwise, it'll be full by the second stop. The cost of a round-trip taxi to Yas Island could easily pay for a stay at a much better hotel. Therefore, I suggest the hotel consider adding a shuttle bus service.
Mercure Abu Dhabi Downtown

Mercure Abu Dhabi Downtown

Abu Dhabi Corniche, Abu Dhabi
9/10
Perfect108 Reviews
GGuest UserFor its price, this hotel is really quite good. It's in the city center, has a pool, and the staff are friendly. However, if you're looking for a resort experience, the hotel's location can be a bit tricky to find because there's ongoing construction right in front, blocking the entrance, which makes it hard for taxis to locate. Plus, there's no shuttle bus, making travel to the airport and Yas Island very inconvenient. If you plan to visit Yas Island, I'd recommend taking a taxi to the first stop of the Yas Island shuttle bus's Downtown line, otherwise, it'll be full by the second stop. The cost of a round-trip taxi to Yas Island could easily pay for a stay at a much better hotel. Therefore, I suggest the hotel consider adding a shuttle bus service.
Price per night from:AU$63
9/10
Great
YYinyin6677
The hotel offers free self-parking and complimentary valet service, which is a great perk. The lobby is cozy and inviting, and the rooms are quite spacious. The rooftop pool has wonderfully warm water and offers fantastic views of Abu Dhabi. The gym is very clean. Overall, it's excellent value for money, especially for families.
La Quinta by Wyndham Abu Dhabi Al Wahda

La Quinta by Wyndham Abu Dhabi Al Wahda

Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi
9/10
Perfect202 Reviews
YYinyin6677The hotel offers free self-parking and complimentary valet service, which is a great perk. The lobby is cozy and inviting, and the rooms are quite spacious. The rooftop pool has wonderfully warm water and offers fantastic views of Abu Dhabi. The gym is very clean. Overall, it's excellent value for money, especially for families.
Price per night from:AU$70
8.7/10
Very Good
GGuest User
Room: The room was spacious and clean, though amenities and facilities were definitely showing age with no sign of upgrade / update (including outlets, water boiler, lighting, gym facilities). There was no hot water in the showers - after speaking with several different people at reception I was told to ”leave it running for 20 minutes or so”, which (1) was shocking considering the amount of water that would waste; and (2) did not ultimately work anyway. Several outlets were also not working in the room. F&B: There is a restaurant and a cafe (Costa Coffee) on 1/F and both have decent food with reasonable pricing. Given the hotel is located around the airport with nothing else around, those were the only choices for F&B without venturing into the city. Breakfast options were decent and if your flight is before the breakfast hours, you can ask for a breakfast package to be prepared upon checkout. Facilities: The gym was small with sparse machines (e.g. three treadmills). Location: Although it is the only airport hotel in Abu Dhabi, it is not all that close to the airport. Except for the benefit of the airport shuttle (which runs only once per hour), there appear to be better hotels in the vicinity at a similar driving distance and similar price. The mark-up in the pricing seems to only be attributable to the monopoly it has over the airport zone. While the staff is friendly and food is decent, the value for money on this occasion felt poor.
Premier Inn Abu Dhabi Airport (Business Park)

Premier Inn Abu Dhabi Airport (Business Park)

Abu Dhabi
8.7/10
Perfect967 Reviews
GGuest UserRoom: The room was spacious and clean, though amenities and facilities were definitely showing age with no sign of upgrade / update (including outlets, water boiler, lighting, gym facilities). There was no hot water in the showers - after speaking with several different people at reception I was told to ”leave it running for 20 minutes or so”, which (1) was shocking considering the amount of water that would waste; and (2) did not ultimately work anyway. Several outlets were also not working in the room. F&B: There is a restaurant and a cafe (Costa Coffee) on 1/F and both have decent food with reasonable pricing. Given the hotel is located around the airport with nothing else around, those were the only choices for F&B without venturing into the city. Breakfast options were decent and if your flight is before the breakfast hours, you can ask for a breakfast package to be prepared upon checkout. Facilities: The gym was small with sparse machines (e.g. three treadmills). Location: Although it is the only airport hotel in Abu Dhabi, it is not all that close to the airport. Except for the benefit of the airport shuttle (which runs only once per hour), there appear to be better hotels in the vicinity at a similar driving distance and similar price. The mark-up in the pricing seems to only be attributable to the monopoly it has over the airport zone. While the staff is friendly and food is decent, the value for money on this occasion felt poor.
Price per night from:AU$74
8.5/10
Very Good
GGuest User
Location is good and staff is nice. But breakfast is just mediocre, I had 2 fried eggs everyda only as others tasted badly. No charger next to the bed which is weird. The hangers are not removable which is not convenient.
Ramada by Wyndham Abu Dhabi Corniche

Ramada by Wyndham Abu Dhabi Corniche

Abu Dhabi Corniche, Abu Dhabi
8.5/10
Perfect247 Reviews
GGuest UserLocation is good and staff is nice. But breakfast is just mediocre, I had 2 fried eggs everyda only as others tasted badly. No charger next to the bed which is weird. The hangers are not removable which is not convenient.
Price per night from:AU$70
8.4/10
Very Good
MMersjo001
Got a not so friendly check in. Good bell services, tv malfunction - maintenance service good. Need to check every single room to fix all the fixtures specifically in the bathroom, shower fixtures are broken as well as the tissue holder. Room 1632
Novotel Abu Dhabi Al Bustan

Novotel Abu Dhabi Al Bustan

Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi
8.4/10
Perfect201 Reviews
MMersjo001Got a not so friendly check in. Good bell services, tv malfunction - maintenance service good. Need to check every single room to fix all the fixtures specifically in the bathroom, shower fixtures are broken as well as the tissue holder. Room 1632
Price per night from:AU$70
8.3/10
Very Good
SSandra Macau
I arrived quite early just to drop off my luggage, but the first thing I was told after informing them that I had a reservation for that night was that I needed to pay for an early check-in, which I hadn't even wanted. They should have asked before assuming the situation. Also, when I was waiting to check in, another lady arrived and they attended to her first. Then, while I was showering, I discovered that there was no conditioner. I tried to call reception, but there was no answer, so I had to get dressed and go to reception. To top it all off, the people in the room next to mine decided to have a party. They were talking, screaming and laughing so loudly that I had to call reception again at 2 am. I also found the area around the hotel quite strange, with lots of people sitting on the pavement and the street dirty. The room is nice and big but it’s too old and wasn’t that clean. This being said, if I ever return to Abu Dhabi I will not stay there for sure!
Millennium Downtown Abu Dhabi

Millennium Downtown Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi
8.3/10
Perfect456 Reviews
SSandra MacauI arrived quite early just to drop off my luggage, but the first thing I was told after informing them that I had a reservation for that night was that I needed to pay for an early check-in, which I hadn't even wanted. They should have asked before assuming the situation. Also, when I was waiting to check in, another lady arrived and they attended to her first. Then, while I was showering, I discovered that there was no conditioner. I tried to call reception, but there was no answer, so I had to get dressed and go to reception. To top it all off, the people in the room next to mine decided to have a party. They were talking, screaming and laughing so loudly that I had to call reception again at 2 am. I also found the area around the hotel quite strange, with lots of people sitting on the pavement and the street dirty. The room is nice and big but it’s too old and wasn’t that clean. This being said, if I ever return to Abu Dhabi I will not stay there for sure!
Price per night from:AU$70
8.2/10
Very Good
AAnonymous User
Affordable and convenient place that is 5 mins drive from Abu Dhabi bus station. Convenience store downstairs. The kitchen and bathrooms are clean. Bedsheets could be cleaner, but can’t complain for the price. The staff are super responsive and helpful.
Vogue Inn Abu Dhabi

Vogue Inn Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi
8.2/10
Perfect7 Reviews
AAnonymous UserAffordable and convenient place that is 5 mins drive from Abu Dhabi bus station. Convenience store downstairs. The kitchen and bathrooms are clean. Bedsheets could be cleaner, but can’t complain for the price. The staff are super responsive and helpful.
Price per night from:AU$44
8.1/10
Very Good
HHappylfg
My experience was truly wonderful, and I cannot thank you enough. The location was absolutely perfect—convenient, beautiful, and exactly what I had hoped for. Everything about my visit exceeded my expectations, from the atmosphere to the surroundings. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment and felt completely at ease throughout my time there. I am genuinely grateful for such a memorable experience and for all the care and attention that made it so enjoyable. Thank you again for providing such an outstanding and delightful setting.
Millennium Al Rawdah Hotel

Millennium Al Rawdah Hotel

Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi
8.1/10
Perfect191 Reviews
HHappylfgMy experience was truly wonderful, and I cannot thank you enough. The location was absolutely perfect—convenient, beautiful, and exactly what I had hoped for. Everything about my visit exceeded my expectations, from the atmosphere to the surroundings. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment and felt completely at ease throughout my time there. I am genuinely grateful for such a memorable experience and for all the care and attention that made it so enjoyable. Thank you again for providing such an outstanding and delightful setting.
Price per night from:AU$79

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