Customer support

Top things to do in Abu Dhabi

Author's Profile Picture

Discover and have a quick browse through Top things to do in Abu Dhabi

check the video👇

Download Trip.com for More Information

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…

Disclaimer: This article has been provided by an individual contributor or third party platform. If there is any discrepancy regarding the copyright, please contact us directly and we will delete the content immediately.
preload-https://dimg04.c-ctrip.com/images/0wj401200085d8na02938_D_66_35_R5.jpgpreload-https://dimg04.c-ctrip.com/images/0wj401200085d8na02938_D_1920_418_R5.jpg

Book Cheap Flights to Abu Dhabi

Best Hotels in Abu Dhabi

See all
9.7/10
Amazing
11866589****
The room was very spacious and had a kitchen and a washer/dryer, which was incredibly important for our multi-day trip. The location is convenient, with easy walking access to Yas Mall. There are plenty of dining and entertainment options. Warner Bros. World is right next door. The views are also great.
DoubleTree by Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island Residences

DoubleTree by Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island Residences

Abu Dhabi
9.7/10
Perfect87 Reviews
11866589****The room was very spacious and had a kitchen and a washer/dryer, which was incredibly important for our multi-day trip. The location is convenient, with easy walking access to Yas Mall. There are plenty of dining and entertainment options. Warner Bros. World is right next door. The views are also great.
Price per night from:INR 23,101
9.3/10
Great
MM16361****
True to the W Yas Island name, our room overlooked the marina, and the F1 track was right downstairs. Getting here from the airport was super convenient, just a 10-minute taxi ride. Even late at night, the front desk staff were on hand for a quick and smooth check-in. Breakfast was great; definitely order the fried eggs and the delicious omelet!
W Abu Dhabi - Yas Island

W Abu Dhabi - Yas Island

Abu Dhabi
9.3/10
Perfect252 Reviews
MM16361****True to the W Yas Island name, our room overlooked the marina, and the F1 track was right downstairs. Getting here from the airport was super convenient, just a 10-minute taxi ride. Even late at night, the front desk staff were on hand for a quick and smooth check-in. Breakfast was great; definitely order the fried eggs and the delicious omelet!
Price per night from:INR 31,860
9.2/10
Great
GGuest User
Very excellent location, the hotel is very clean and close to all services
Beach Rotana Residences

Beach Rotana Residences

Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi
9.2/10
Perfect73 Reviews
GGuest UserVery excellent location, the hotel is very clean and close to all services
Price per night from:INR 28,383
9.1/10
Great
DDPTG
Brand new hotel in downtown area. Nice rooms, gym, sauna, bar, coffee shop. Downside is there is currently construction all around the hotel so it’s hard for taxis to access. And the rooms and corridors have a strong smell of carpet/paint/glue as everything is so new.
Mercure Abu Dhabi Downtown

Mercure Abu Dhabi Downtown

Abu Dhabi Corniche, Abu Dhabi
9.1/10
Perfect70 Reviews
DDPTGBrand new hotel in downtown area. Nice rooms, gym, sauna, bar, coffee shop. Downside is there is currently construction all around the hotel so it’s hard for taxis to access. And the rooms and corridors have a strong smell of carpet/paint/glue as everything is so new.
Price per night from:INR 9,465
9/10
Great
GGuest User
Staff were really friendly and hotel overall was great. However, I will say that the service was appalling. Particularly the room service. Several times over several days, I had called up as not mugs were put in the room, radio didn’t work, no spoons/stirers were there (for example), but no one came. Two times I had to go down to the desk and ask personally and other times, I just forgot about it. This is just a few issues we had. My thoughts and opinions were shared with staff on checkout and an apology was given, but a good will gesture would have been nice, particularly since I had a list of bad experiences.
Royal M Hotel Abu Dhabi by Gewan

Royal M Hotel Abu Dhabi by Gewan

Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi
9/10
Perfect44 Reviews
GGuest UserStaff were really friendly and hotel overall was great. However, I will say that the service was appalling. Particularly the room service. Several times over several days, I had called up as not mugs were put in the room, radio didn’t work, no spoons/stirers were there (for example), but no one came. Two times I had to go down to the desk and ask personally and other times, I just forgot about it. This is just a few issues we had. My thoughts and opinions were shared with staff on checkout and an apology was given, but a good will gesture would have been nice, particularly since I had a list of bad experiences.
Price per night from:INR 20,944
8.9/10
Very Good
GGuest User
I had an excellent stay at this hotel! The room was incredibly spacious, providing plenty of comfort and room to relax. Everything was spotless, reflecting the high standard of cleanliness maintained throughout the property. The service was truly exceptional—every staff member went above and beyond to ensure a pleasant experience, always greeting with a warm smile and readiness to assist. Additionally, the food was absolutely delicious, with a variety of flavorful dishes that catered to different tastes. The combination of friendly hospitality, cleanliness, and great amenities made my stay unforgettable. Highly recommended!
Marriott Hotel Al Forsan, Abu Dhabi

Marriott Hotel Al Forsan, Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi
8.9/10
Perfect140 Reviews
GGuest UserI had an excellent stay at this hotel! The room was incredibly spacious, providing plenty of comfort and room to relax. Everything was spotless, reflecting the high standard of cleanliness maintained throughout the property. The service was truly exceptional—every staff member went above and beyond to ensure a pleasant experience, always greeting with a warm smile and readiness to assist. Additionally, the food was absolutely delicious, with a variety of flavorful dishes that catered to different tastes. The combination of friendly hospitality, cleanliness, and great amenities made my stay unforgettable. Highly recommended!
Price per night from:INR 26,579
8.5/10
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
8.5/10
Perfect898 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:INR 14,224
8.5/10
Very Good
MM220119****
The location is excellent, right in the city center. You can take the A1 bus directly from the airport to the hotel's doorstep. There's a 24-hour convenience store nearby, and a huge home furnishing store where you can browse. Next to that is Abu Dhabi Mall, which has various brands, designer stores, restaurants, and a cinema. The room layout in this hotel is a bit unique and unconventional, featuring a bar counter. The rooms are very spacious, and all toiletries are provided. Although the facilities show some age, they are kept quite clean. Do note that slippers are not provided. The service is standard; early check-in might not be possible, as it's generally after 2 PM. A common complaint is the bar on the 2nd floor, which has live music until after 3 AM. Light sleepers should be cautious. Also, the air conditioning is a central system, so you can't adjust it yourself, and the vent is directly above the head of the bed, which can make it easy to catch a cold.
Al Diar Dana Hotel

Al Diar Dana Hotel

Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi
8.5/10
Perfect93 Reviews
MM220119****The location is excellent, right in the city center. You can take the A1 bus directly from the airport to the hotel's doorstep. There's a 24-hour convenience store nearby, and a huge home furnishing store where you can browse. Next to that is Abu Dhabi Mall, which has various brands, designer stores, restaurants, and a cinema. The room layout in this hotel is a bit unique and unconventional, featuring a bar counter. The rooms are very spacious, and all toiletries are provided. Although the facilities show some age, they are kept quite clean. Do note that slippers are not provided. The service is standard; early check-in might not be possible, as it's generally after 2 PM. A common complaint is the bar on the 2nd floor, which has live music until after 3 AM. Light sleepers should be cautious. Also, the air conditioning is a central system, so you can't adjust it yourself, and the vent is directly above the head of the bed, which can make it easy to catch a cold.
Price per night from:INR 10,969
8.4/10
Very Good
SSafiullina Elena
The hotel is right in the city center. You can walk to the wild beach, but it's better to take some transportation to the beach with umbrellas. The breakfasts are superb, with something for everyone. The rooms aren't cramped, and the furniture and equipment are in good condition. The only thing missing is a hairdryer. The outlets are a bit loose, and you'll need adapters, which you can ask for downstairs. Water and tea are replenished daily. However, the cleaning service wasn't great; I had to specifically ask for the towels to be changed.
Novel Hotel City Center

Novel Hotel City Center

Abu Dhabi Corniche, Abu Dhabi
8.4/10
Perfect70 Reviews
SSafiullina ElenaThe hotel is right in the city center. You can walk to the wild beach, but it's better to take some transportation to the beach with umbrellas. The breakfasts are superb, with something for everyone. The rooms aren't cramped, and the furniture and equipment are in good condition. The only thing missing is a hairdryer. The outlets are a bit loose, and you'll need adapters, which you can ask for downstairs. Water and tea are replenished daily. However, the cleaning service wasn't great; I had to specifically ask for the towels to be changed.
Price per night from:INR 9,871
7.9/10
Good
GGuest User
The bed was very comfortable and I slept really well. However, at first there was only one large towel in the room. I called to request more, but it took some time and I had to call again before receiving them. After the cleaning, no fresh towels were provided either. Parking was excellent — the valet service was always on time and very well organized. Compliments to the team!
Corniche Hotel Abu Dhabi

Corniche Hotel Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi Corniche, Abu Dhabi
7.9/10
Perfect230 Reviews
GGuest UserThe bed was very comfortable and I slept really well. However, at first there was only one large towel in the room. I called to request more, but it took some time and I had to call again before receiving them. After the cleaning, no fresh towels were provided either. Parking was excellent — the valet service was always on time and very well organized. Compliments to the team!
Price per night from:INR 8,040

Contact us

About

Other services

Payment methods
Our partners
Copyright © 2025 Trip.com Travel Singapore Pte. Ltd. All rights reserved
Site Operator: Trip.com Travel Singapore Pte. Ltd.
aaaa