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

Marriott Hotel Al Forsan, Abu Dhabi
4.7/564 Reviews
Abu Dhabi
|19.5km from city centre
I would to thank Mr.Aymen from F&B team he is always outstanding person in term of helping guests and provide them best experience in sohoor time . He is always treating his customers like guests at his home. thank you Aymen for going extra miles with your guests and Ramadan kareem
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From£93
Novotel Abu Dhabi Gate
4.3/593 Reviews
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi
|17.19km from city centre
I stayed here twice during the first ten days of July. Absolutely fantastic, hands down best Accor run property in the UAE. Most of the customer service at Accor hotels in the UAE is atrocious and horrible. But this property, is the absolute opposite. Honestly, other properties in the UAE should send their management and staff to shadow the staff and management at this hotel. All of my requests being an Accor member were met with absolute ease. Everything was efficient and most of all prompt. The staff, Roshani, who checked me in was absolutely wonderful and the staff who checked me in on my second stay, I believe a Moroccan staff early in the morning, was equally fantastic. The hotel goes out of its way for its loyalty members and that is truly appreciated. This has become my go to property in the UAE even if I have work in Dubai. I would not mind the drive because I have tried so many Accor hotels in Dubai and they are frankly just empty properties devoid of service. A special thanks to the staff working at 10pm on the 20th at Aroma. He went out of his way to accommodate my wife and that was very touching. Thanks once again and I will definitely be back.
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From£42
Beach Rotana - All Suites
4.2/58 Reviews
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi
|3.7km from city centre
I was first time in beach rotana and overwhelmed by the hospitality and greetings. Door man was amzing and polite, don't remember his name but believe he is from Nepal.. I dine in Garden restaurant and had a very pleasant experience there with a delicious food and memorable hospitality. While me leaving the hotel, I couldn't find my valet ticket and Mr. Francis approached me, though I was bit panicked with the situation but he kept me comfortable while offering me and my fiance Arabic coffee and explained me about Beach Rotana.. It was really amazing experience and I will definitely recommend Beach Rotana to all my family and friends ❤️
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From£193
The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal
4.6/571 Reviews
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi
|13.43km from city centre
The picture for suite which I book is different then the actual room. In real it’s just one bedroom with sofa but in pictures it’s giving a look of 2 separate rooms or even one picture showing stairs to go up for bedroom and down is sitting area. I report this after check in but seems reception staff waste all energy in how to talk polite rather then how to solve the problem. By talking nicely doesn’t means good customer service. Anyhow thanks for giving me extra time for checkout. Need to make sure about who upload the picture in Trip.com? Is it the hotel mistake or trip.com mistake.
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From£156
Oaks Liwa Executive Suites
4.1/528 Reviews
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi
|3.32km from city centre
Their executive suites are really big and highly recommended! Next to Abu Dhabi mall, shopping is also very convenient. Close to the Folk Village, you can walk along the Persian Gulf. In addition, you can buy luxury goods and you can't go to the galleria mall.
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From£48
Yas Island Rotana
4.3/569 Reviews
Abu Dhabi
|23.53km from city centre
I had a great experience staying at the yas island Rotana hotel. The hotel is not far from the yas mall. There is a free hotel shuttle bus at the door, which runs every 15 minutes. Y2 can reach Ferrari Park and Warner Bros. Park, which is very convenient! The hotel breakfast is also very rich, and there are outdoor facilities It feels very comfortable to sit outside the swimming pool and have breakfast. I would like to especially thank the hotel for this trip. My family's passports were lost in the taxi. It was the hotel's datat guy who enthusiastically contacted the taxi reception desk and asked for the license plate and driver's phone number. He immediately asked the driver to return and return the passports. Give it to me, so that I, who am in a foreign country and don’t understand the language, don’t have to ask for help🆘The embassy!
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From£121
Ibis Abu Dhabi Gate
4.2/578 Reviews
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi
|17.22km from city centre
Really great staff and building just a little far from beaches and things but a short walk from a big shopping market. Nice pool and massages and spa and roof top sheesha. Highly recommended
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From£37
Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche
4.5/5119 Reviews
Abu Dhabi Corniche
Abu Dhabi
|3.61km from city centre
In front of the waterfront. Location 5/5 Full Board (B/L/D)- 4.5/5. Less fewer choices. Not all staff are attentive. Noted plate is piling on the adjacent table. Check in- is easy 5/5 Overall 5/5 Overall 4.5/5 I consider to return to this hotel. For the worth of what I paid still very good. There is a lot of hotel beside this hotel that you can consider too.
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From£106
AG Hotel
3.8/54 Reviews
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi
|2.34km from city centre
Better stay any other 3 or 4 star hotels as you will definitely find many hotels for the same price. The place is a hell of you need a parking space. Staff will make sure that you feel it’s a 2 star hotel. There is no manager at all in this hotel if you have any issues to resolve, only receptionists who created the bosses out of themselves. They hold my passport for three days without reason and returned only when I complained. I was told over the phone that there is 24 hour paid parking however it was a normal mawaqif parking spaces which is almost impossible to find if you arrive to the hotel in the evening. It was just fun for them to observe how I was hustling to get parking space and better rate for extending my stay. However, the guys in the restaurant and the security who worked during the day was very kind and helpful.
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From£45
W Abu Dhabi - Yas Island
4.5/5121 Reviews
Abu Dhabi
|24.11km from city centre
good spot for formula one fans , rooms are spacious , small pool but we liked it. food is good , big restaurant you get lots of privacy to enjoy the big selection of food. staff are polite and the manager MODY is number one.
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From£129
Courtyard by Marriott World Trade Center, Abu Dhabi
4.6/5127 Reviews
Abu Dhabi Corniche
Abu Dhabi
|2.39km from city centre
Great staff. Very helpful. Allowed us to check in earlier. Good location and amazing rooms. Clean and good facilities. Thank you Adeel for taking care of us
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From£55
Gravity Hotel Abu Dhabi
4.3/522 Reviews
Mohammed Bin Zayed City
Abu Dhabi
|21.93km from city centre
This is my second stay at the Gravity hotel this year for business, It was so good the first time I asked my company to use it in future, It is conveniently located in the commercial area and near to the industrial area. The staff are excellent, always friendly and have a smile, my cleaner Zakit Fuad provided an excellent service and ensured my room was cleaned to a very high standard every day, The staff at Breakfast time always remembered my order and again the service was excellent. The rooms are very clean and the hotel well maintained throughout, thanks for anther lovely stay
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From£45
Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi
4.8/576 Reviews
Abu Dhabi
|11.09km from city centre
Stayed here for my birthday in the private pool villa! It was surreal. My whole stay from the atmosphere to the kindness of the staff really made my stay extra special. The welcome fruits and coconut water were super refreshing and every single staff member starting at the reception desk for checking to the staff on the buggies helping me get to the room were very nice and welcoming.
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From£310
Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort
4.5/545 Reviews
Abu Dhabi Corniche
Abu Dhabi
|3.78km from city centre
We had a wonderful experience at Sheraton.The rooms were clean, very comfortable, and the staff was amazing. They went over and beyond to help make our stay enjoyable. The view from the room is great. The pools and private beach were marvelous.I highly recommend this hotel for anyone visiting Abudhabi.
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From£94
Le Meridien Abu Dhabi
4.3/557 Reviews
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi
|3.88km from city centre
Amazing stay for 3 nights en route to Dubai. Lovely to relax in the hotel that has a lovely pool area and private beach (creek). Breakfast was amazing with so many choices . Staff were 5 star! My mother had an awful fall and had to go to hospital and the lifeguards/ manager couldn’t have done more to help. Always helping her without having to be asked. Fast food places across the road and Abu Dhabi mall also so really handy. Definitely would recommend this place . I would say the room although was nice wasn’t amazing 5 star but spacious and did the job. Bath was really deep so maybe ask for a room for the disabled if Amy mobility issues.
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From£92
Premier Inn Abu Dhabi Capital Centre
4.4/558 Reviews
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi
|9.09km from city centre
Fantastic paratha is cooked for breakfast. Good location, cleanliness, silences and comfort alongside with price makes this hotel very attractive. Also parking is available. It's all good if you need to stay overnight in Abu Dhabi
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From£37
Park Arjaan by Rotana Abu Dhabi
4.4/536 Reviews
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi
|11.81km from city centre
I usually complete a stay before writing a review;however our time here so far (though short) has been outstanding. We are two adults and three kids (8,12,15). Alaa checked us in and was patient, kind and super helpful despite being inundated with questions from all corners. The apartment is two bedroom with laundry (yes the usual washer/dryer combo ) which is a life saver for a light packing family like ours. The apartment is well stocked and very clean and quiet with a great location close to the GrandMosque. One of my children has celiac and is also allergic to seafood- the best surprise was the room service is STELLAR! They knew all about celiac and had prepared arrabiata and packed some gf bread for him separately. The quality of the food (kids meals, wings and mezza platter) was phenomenal- it was delivered fresh and hot. Highly recommend for families and allergies in Abu Dhabi!
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From£86
Park Inn Abu Dhabi, Yas Island
4.3/568 Reviews
Abu Dhabi
|23.44km from city centre
Start from a very smooth and professional check in with Thwea i don't exactly remember her name, the one who made the check in she is very professional with a very friendly lovely smile and a first class high manner, very special thanks to her for making our first and last impression and for her assistance during our stay, Good Job and Well Done to her and to the hiring professional employee. Then i got a wonderful coffee at the morning over the pool, with some team of the breakfast restaurant assistant all was a good experience my room was 607 it had a lovely view. Thank you all for the wonderful stay you make it and thanks you thwea for you assistance during the check in and out.. highly recommend to book the balacony room with sea view amd high floor
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From£127
Centro Al Manhal
4.1/568 Reviews
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi
|0.69km from city centre
The breakfasts are good, but you always feel uncomfortable with the way the girl at the entrance scans everything you put on your plate, well... The staff at the pool is also not very friendly, look condescending. The room is very small but cozy. Perfectly clean and comfortable, beautiful view from the window of the city.
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From£43
DoubleTree by Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island Residences
4.4/543 Reviews
Abu Dhabi
|23.47km from city centre
Yas Island is a very separate area where you are not easy to visit downtown but gives you a very quiet vacation accommodation. Got upgraded to a one-bedroom suite which is considerable spacious and everything is nearly brand new. The pool is nice but what makes it better is connected to the WB hotel pool which you can walk there to enjoy the pool there too. WB pool is cool which a big screen for warner bro canton all the time and very good for the kids!
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From£329
Bab Al Qasr Residence
4.2/514 Reviews
Abu Dhabi Corniche
Abu Dhabi
|4.8km from city centre
Luxurious Accommodation. Very Convenient Location. Close Main Attractions. Breakfast Was Marvelously Amazing. Will Come Back For Sure.
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From£122
Pearl Rotana Capital Centre
4.5/577 Reviews
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi
|9.18km from city centre
I had a wonderful stay at the hotel! The staff was incredibly friendly and accommodating, the room was clean and comfortable, and the amenities exceeded my expectations. The central location made it convenient for exploring the city. I would highly recommend this hotel for a pleasant and memorable experience.
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From£48
Copthorne Downtown
4.4/5171 Reviews
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi
|2.48km from city centre
The hotel enjoys a strategic location, which is one of its strongest assets, and the staff were consistently courteous and welcoming. However, the rooms left much to be desired. They were spacious and clean but lacked modern amenities—a noticeable shortcoming was the dated furniture and the small, old TV sets. This may not be an issue for someone staying a night or two, but for an extended stay aimed at relaxation, the setup is less than ideal. The breakfast offering was another area where the hotel could improve. The quality of food was below average, not what one would expect from a 4-star establishment. In summary, this hotel is better suited for travelers on a budget who plan short stays and prioritize location and basic cleanliness over modern comforts and a quality dining experience.
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From£48
Ramada by Wyndham Abu Dhabi Downtown
4.2/571 Reviews
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi
|3km from city centre
Wonderful stay well trained staff house keeping front office specially Mr.Nuzair who use to work at night more then hôtelier good human being even for small inquiries his there for us honestly I’m a business man in dubai without no doubt I’ll highly recommend for my partners important rooms and amanites could be improve little more
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From£38
Anantara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi
4.6/559 Reviews
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi
|7.46km from city centre
Anantara always never disappoints. Very beautiful resort with pretty good buffet breakfast spread. Room is spacious and cozy. Bed is comfy. Will definitely return to this hotel next time in Abu Dhabi. Staff was all so ready to help. Maher who is one of the restaurant manager was so friendly and approachable. He even guided us to the best spot to view New Year’s Eve fireworks.
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From£140
Ivory Hotel Apartments
3.4/56 Reviews
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi
|3.19km from city centre
The hotel looks old from the photo, but to our surprise, it is not substandard in terms of quality n service. Kitchen amenities are good, pans n pots provided, n bathroom is clean. Bedroom is comfy, and it has a lovely iving room also. It's walking distance to Abu Dhabi mall. Me n my family truly enjoy our 3 days stay over here.
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From£42
Golden Tulip Downtown Abu Dhabi
4.3/561 Reviews
Abu Dhabi Corniche
Abu Dhabi
|2.93km from city centre
Very well located. Excellent spacious room with two refrigerators, a kettle, a microwave and a cupboard for dishes. Excellent set of cosmetics in the bathroom. didn't like there was absolutely no dishes, no forks, no knife at least. 
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From£39
Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi – a Concept by Hyatt
4.4/548 Reviews
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi
|8.72km from city centre
It was a wonderful hotel to stay , professional staff like Mariem , Kadija , Moin , Robin who made my stay so special and honored me with their hospitality and professionalism . In Cyan ,Breakfast is large buffet with international choice of foods . Room are spacious with a great comfort , clean toiletries and restroom. It is not a goodbye for me but a see you in near future! I strongly recommend.
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From£68
Novel Hotel City Center
3.8/551 Reviews
Abu Dhabi Corniche
Abu Dhabi
|2.46km from city centre
Hotel location is OK, the surrounding shops are more and more lively. The hotel is a bit old and it is estimated to be many years old. There is a door in my room that leads to the next room. It feels very unsafe. I can hear it in the next room, especially in this position. If it is night, it is not convenient for friends to come over, the front desk will ask.
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From£33
Trianon Hotel
2.8/515 Reviews
Abu Dhabi Corniche
Abu Dhabi
|3.05km from city centre
Poor room facilities, good location, convenient
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From£43