Abu Dhabi

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Photo taken in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates 1281590453 wall

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Overview

Proudly modern and cosmopolitan, Abu Dhabi is the UAE's forward-thinking cultural heart where nothing stands still – except perhaps the herons in its mangroves.

01 / Attractions

Must-see attractions

  • Louvre Abu Dhabi

    Louvre Abu Dhabi

    Abu Dhabi

    Designed by Pritzker Prize–winning architect Jean Nouvel, the highly anticipated Louvre Abu Dhabi finally arrived in late 2017. Through 12 galleries, the…

  • Corniche

    Corniche

    Abu Dhabi

    The waterfront Corniche, with its white sandy beaches and generous promenade, stretches the entire length of the northwest shore of the city. Giving…

  • ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - FEBRUARY 03: A falcon is placed on a bench at the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, on February 3, 2015 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital (ADFH) is located just outside Abu Dhabi. It is the largest of its kind in the world attracting customers from all over the UAE and the wider Gulf region including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain. Around 9,000 birds are treated each year for a wide range of ailments. The centre which has a an ophthalmology department, and intensive care unit is equipped to deal with everything from X-Rays, cases of Avian Flu, Falcon Pox, repairing of feathers, and general health checks and provides a 24 hour service. The centre also has two large air conditioned aviaries where falcons can rest while they are moulting, or changing their feathers. Traditionally a way of obtaining food, Falconry today has become more of a national sport and a rite of passage for many young Emirati men, who take their time to train their Falcons, developing a relationship and deep bond with the birds. Groups of friends regularly come together in the evenings to meet and train their birds where the practice becomes more about camaraderie and sharing knowledge than subsistence. The practice of Falconry was recognized by UNESCO in 2012 under the 'Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity' list. (Photo by Dan Kitwood/Getty Images)

    Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital

    Abu Dhabi

    Standing outside Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, watching anxious owners from across the region delivering their hooded 'patients' in person, you will quickly…

  • Arabian Saluki Centre

    Arabian Saluki Centre

    Abu Dhabi

    You'll probably hear them before you see them, as a howl goes up when a visitor approaches this hound pound. A visit here involves entering the kennels,…

  • Corniche Beach

    Corniche Beach

    Abu Dhabi

    There are several gates to this spotlessly maintained, Blue-Flagged public beach. The turquoise sea, view of Lulu Island, palm trees and gardens make it…

  • Qasr al Hosn, Abu Dhabi.

    Qasr Al Hosn

    Abu Dhabi

    Featured on the back of the Dhs1000 note, this fort started life in 1760 as a watchtower that safeguarded a precious freshwater well. After an expansion,…

  • Abu Dhabi / UAE - Feb 5: Saadiyat Manarat; the high-tech center for interactive, local cultural displays & international exhibitions on Feb 5 ,2015 in Al Saadiyat island, Abu Dhabi, UAE.; Shutterstock ID 290958905; Your name (First / Last): Josh Vogel; GL account no.: 56530; Netsuite department name: Online Design; Full Product or Project name including edition: Digital Content/Sights

    Manarat Al Saadiyat

    Abu Dhabi

    Housed in a postmodern building with an eye-catching honeycomb mantle, Manarat Al Saadiyat ('place of enlightenment') hosts regular art courses and…

  • Warehouse 421

    Warehouse 421

    Abu Dhabi

    In a former port warehouse, this contemporary arts centre and gallery hosts temporary exhibitions showcasing the UAE's art, design and creative scenes…

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02 / Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip

Best Things to Do

Abu Dhabi attracts visitors with sites that emphasize heritage and culture, as well as family fun. Add these essential experiences to add to your list.

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Best Time to Visit

While Abu Dhabi is a year-round destination, there are certain things to consider when planning a trip – here’s a guide to the best times to visit.

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Things to Know

With tips on packing, etiquette and safety, here's what you need to know before going to Abu Dhabi.

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Transportation

Everything you need to know to get around Abu Dhabi from the best apps to use to how to catch one of its numerous air-conditioned buses.

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Free Things to Do

Visits to Abu Dhabi's temples of indulgence can quickly add up, but venture further to find an abundance of activities that don’t cost anything at all.

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Best Neighborhoods

If you’re planning a visit to Abu Dhabi, here are the six best neighborhoods for islands, theme parks, restaurants and more.

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Day Trips

From empty beaches to soaring mountains, here are the best day trips from Abu Dhabi.

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Money and Costs

From shoulder season bargains to free attractions, here's how to visit Abu Dhabi without blowing your budget.

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Traveling with Kids

If you’re planning to take the family to Abu Dhabi, here are the best things to do with kids from toddlers to teens.

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03 / Articles

Latest stories from Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates - April 10, 2022: Presidential Palace, Qasr al-Watan with Light Laser Show and Reflection License Type: media Download Time: 2023-11-20T02:03:59.000Z User: mvm_lonelyplanet Is Editorial: Yes purchase_order:

Destination Practicalities

16 things you should know before going to Abu Dhabi

Feb 11, 2025 • 9 min read

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