Abu Dhabi

The capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi was, for many years, a stolid administrative center with little appeal to tourists. After the passing of ruler Sheikh Zayed, his successor, Sheikh Khalifa, took the reigns of power and immediately reached out to foreign companies, sparking a huge building and development boom. Today, Abu Dhabi is a major world city and continues its ambitious development. While it may not quite match the glitz and commercial appeal of Dubai, its younger, more glamorous sibling, Abu Dhabi is certainly catching up in a hurry.

Experiences

A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.

Abu Dhabi Cultural Center

Charged with the preservation and promotion of the traditions and customs of the Emirates, the Abu Dhabi Cultural Center hosts a number of events, including exhibits, lectures, concerts, and interactive workshops. Housed in an elegant, glass-and-steel modernist structure that fuses contemporary elements with traditional aesthetics, the Cultural Center offers a deeper look at the rich (yet not widely known) heritage of the United Arab Emirates.

Abu Dhabi Heritage Village

For a glimpse at Abu Dhabi before the tapping of oil, visit the Heritage Village. Within its confines are a Bedouin camp, complete with tents, mock-ups of traditional vessels, and plenty of handicrafts and trinkets for sale. In addition, visitors can try their hand at a number of crafts, including weaving on a loom, and blowing glass.

Arabic Script

Try your hand at writing Arabic Script. Arabic is widely used and well known in this part of the world but its influence extends all the way to Brunei in Southeast Asia. Arabic calligraphy is beautiful and exotic. Learn the Arabic alphabet and by doing so raise your multicultural awareness.

Day Trip to Al Ain

Only an 1.5-hour drive from Abu Dhabi, known as the Garden City, visitors can fill their day enjoying the many picturesque forts, visit the Al Ain Oasis with over 147,000 shade-giving date palms set within an incredible maze of peaceful walkways, or the more adventurous may wish to hit the Wadi Adventure park - an incredible man-made whitewater rafting, kayaking and surfing facility that includes pools and activities for children, Hili Fun City is also great for thrillseekers with more than 30 attractions and rides for varying ages, and for animals lovers, a trip to Al Ain Zoo is a must, the perfect family destination with over 4,000 animals in natural habitats allowing the animals to live freely.

Desert Safari

Head to the desert in a four-wheel drive vehicle for a bit of dune blasting – a wild, rollicking ride that will see your vehicle bouncing and careening off sand dunes. Your drivers will partially deflate the tires for maximum effect.

Afterwards, you will be taken to a quiet, peaceful spot in the desert where you’ll be able to go on camel rides, feast on a meal of traditional Emirati cuisine, and watch performances by belly dancers.

Falcon Hospital

Falcons are a fundamental part of UAE culture so ensuring the health of these noble birds is of utmost importance. The Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital provides veterinary health care services exclusively for falcons, treating around 11,200 falcons a year. The facility offers tours which include the free-flight aviary, examination rooms, museum and you can even get a photo with one of these magnificent birds perched on your arm.

Qasr al-Husn

Visit the Qasr al-Husn, built in 1761 and the oldest structure in Dubai. For over two hundred years, the Qasr al-Husn was the center of administration for Abu Dhabi – first as a fort protecting a valuable water source, and later as the residence of the ruling sheikh. Given its importance, the Qasr al-Husn was decorated accordingly, with whitewashed walls, imposing turrets, and a mix of European and Arabic decor. Today, after a series of extensive renovations, the building is open to the public.

Stargazing

See the curvature of one of the spiral arms of the Milky Way. Wish upon a shooting start next to a roaring bonfire. Watch the heavenly bodies twinkle in all their glory. Since you are so close to the Empty Quarter of Saudi Arabia, visitors have an unparalleled opportunity to feast upon the night sky: Beta Carina, the Big Dipper and other stars will seem so close it will be as though you can pluck them out of the sky and put them in a jar and take it home for safekeeping.

Women's Handicraft Center

Visit the Women’s Handicraft Center, which features the work of local female artists. Browse handmade incense, textiles, traditional scented oils, and other products. It is also a popular place for henna stenciling, which lasts on the skin for approximately two weeks.

Yas Island

There are literally hundreds of things to do on Yas Island. Shop at Yas Mall with over 400 international brands, spend the day at Ferrari World the world's largest indoor theme park - great for thrill seekers (with the world's fastest rollercoaster!) and families, Yas Waterworld is perfect for any age looking for some wet and wild action including 43 rides and slides, perhaps a round of golf at Yas Links Golf Course - or maybe enjoy Yas Island from above with Seawings on a breathtaking seaplane across Abu Dhabi enjoying panoramic views the city's architecture and beautiful landscape.

Yas Marina Circuit Driving Experience

If visitors want to feel the thrill of driving around an official F1 race track, then this is the place for you. Get behind the wheel of an Aston Martin GT4, Chevrolet Camero, a Yas Radical SST or a Formula Yas 3000 and put the pedal to the metal and feel like a champion.

UAE Regions

Explore in-depth information, experiences and highlights by navigating to specific regions using the links below.

Abu Dhabi Itineraries

Classic UAE

Duration
5 days / 4 nights
Price Per Person
From $9,000
See Itinerary

Abu Dhabi: Arabian Days and Nights

Duration
5 days / 4 nights
Price Per Person
From $6,500
See Itinerary

An Emirati Cultural Journey

Duration
9 days / 8 nights
Price Per Person
From $6,200
See Itinerary

Arabian Peninsula: Art On The Beach

Duration
9 days / 8 nights
Price Per Person
From $8,600
See Itinerary

Cities of the UAE

Duration
8 days / 7 nights
Price Per Person
From $7,600
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Dubai to Abu Dhabi - Sun, Sights, Sand & Shops

Duration
9 days / 8 nights
Price Per Person
From $6,900
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Exclusive Excursions: Dubai & Abu Dhabi

Duration
6 days / 5 nights
Price Per Person
From $3,800
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Sandy Serenity and Family Fun: An amazing adventure in Abu Dhabi

Duration
10 days / 9 nights
Price Per Person
From $16,000
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Traditions and Cultures of the Arabian Gulf

Duration
11 days / 10 nights
Price Per Person
From $16,200
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Wildlife Exploration in Sri Lanka and Abu Dhabi

Duration
14 days / 13 nights
Price Per Person
From $23,200
See Itinerary
Anantara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi
Preferred Hotel

Anantara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, UAE

The majestic architecture of this beautiful hotel sprawls along the waterfront, overlooking the exotic mangrove lagoon. Surrounded by nature and tranquility, a visit to Anantara Eastern Mangroves is an escape and yet, the excitement and bustle of the city is within easy reach. The high, arched ceilings soar overhead as guests stroll through the hotel’s hallways, and beautiful lavish decor enchants within the luxurious rooms and suites. Diners can indulge in international cuisine from the all-day buffet or sample Asian...
Emirates Palace
Preferred Hotel

Emirates Palace

Abu Dhabi, UAE

Traditional design meets contemporary luxury in this award-winning five-star resort and is enjoyed by celebrities, heads of states as well as royal families from all over the globe. With 302 rooms and 92 suites adorned with the finest upholstery and craftsmanship, the Palace stands apart from its competition in the city, a testament to the renowned quality and bespoke service of this iconic Abu Dhabi landmark. Guests can treat their taste buds to a culinary adventure in one of the...
Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi
Preferred Hotel

Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, UAE

Savvy travelers choose the Park Hyatt when they stay in Abu Dhabi; this elegant five-star resort has everything covered. Located right on Saadiyat beach with stunning views of the ocean, surrounded by a pristine green golf course, it’s also just a short drive from the airport and close to Saadiyat’s cultural quarter. The hotel’s 306 spacious and comfortable suites and villas boast elegant touches like private balconies with views of the golf course, ocean or exclusive open-air plunge pools. The...
Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi
Preferred Hotel

Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, UAE

Mirrored only by the beauty of the elegant Grand Canal as its backdrop, the Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi is an architectural vision, blending Venetian and Bedouin influences to create a glowing, lavish resort. From its beachside spa to its eight unique restaurants, this five-star luxury hotel offers something for everyone, featuring sweeping views of Al Maqta creek, lush gardens, and the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Guests may spend their days lounging by the Grand Canal or the resort’s outdoor...
Rosewood Abu Dhabi
Preferred Hotel

Rosewood Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, UAE

Housed in a 34 story tall building designed by the Manhattan-based Handel Architects, the sleek and stylish Rosewood Abu Dhabi is the handiwork of New York-based BBG-BBGM architecture firm. With impressive panoramic views of the city, the hotel is a beacon of luxury. Each of the 189 opulent rooms and suites are fitted with floor-to-ceiling windows, warm dark wood tones, and a large variety of premium amenities. The hotel’s diverse range of bars and restaurants satisfy the most discerning of...
Shangri-La Abu Dhabi
Preferred Hotel

Shangri-La Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, UAE

Within the Qaryat Al Beri complex, the Shangri-La stands on its own stretch of beach, with views across the strait to the mainland. While it’s only a 10-minute drive from the airport and just 15 minutes from the city center, the hotel inhabits its own world, where guests can escape for a little peace and privacy. Traditional abras convey guests around the hotel, along its waterways, amidst impressive architecture and gorgeous decor. The rooms are similarly decked out with warm...
Abu Dhabi Edition

Abu Dhabi Edition

Abu Dhabi, UAE

Abu Dhabi is an opulent bastion of commerce and industry in the United Arab Emirates as well as the burgeoning nation’s capital. Situated on the waterfront of Al Bateen in the Abu Dhabi Marina, The Abu Dhabi Edition boast sleek, modern lines of décor in keeping with the modish high-rise buildings of the city set amid lines of palm trees and carefully manicured walkways. The property has 198 guest rooms and 57 serviced residences. A pool bar and three-story nightclub, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a spa with seven treatment rooms, two signature restaurants, and a gourmet market, are just a few amenities that are available to hotel guests.

W Abu Dhabi - Yas Island

W Abu Dhabi - Yas Island

Abu Dhabi, UAE

The centerpiece of Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, the W Abu Dhabi - Yas Island is a state-of-the-art architectural awe which spans the Yas Marina Circuit racetrack and the island. The hotel offers 499 luxury rooms and 75 suites boasting at least 580 square feet of living space and floor-to-ceiling windows. The rooms are also equipped with high tech amenities such as a 42-inch LCD television, centralized speakers in the all-glass bathroom with rain shower, mood lighting and “Facility Panel” control for guestroom music players, gaming consoles and televisions. Guests may choose to dine at one or more of the twelve hotel restaurants and lounges which serves a range of Asian, Italian, Mediterranean and Japanese cuisines. Other facilities include an infinity pool, an ESPA spa, and a fitness center with professional equipment. The W Abu Dhabi - Yas Island is approximately 10 minutes from the Abu Dhabi airport and 50 minutes from the Dubai International Airport.

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