When you drive through Abu Dhabi, you immediately notice the contrast between the towering skyscrapers and the peaceful desert on the horizon. It’s precisely this combination of modern and traditional that makes the city so special. The capital of the United Arab Emirates blends contemporary architecture with age-old traditions, and that’s what makes a visit so unique. You’ll find grand mosques next to intimate souks, waterfront promenades where cyclists and joggers pass each other, and museums that take you from ancient Arabia to the modern art scene.
Whether you’re here for the culture, the architecture, or simply for a sunny weekend getaway, Abu Dhabi has enough to offer to fill several days. Below you’ll find an overview of the highlights that will make your visit complete.
- Sheikh Zayed Mosque: The largest mosque in the country, with space for 40,000 worshippers and decorated with Italian marble.
- Louvre Abu Dhabi: A museum where Eastern and Western art come together beneath a dome that filters light like sunbeams through palm leaves.
- Qasr Al Watan: The presidential palace where you can walk through the halls and learn more about Arab governance traditions.
- The Corniche: An 8-kilometer-long boulevard along the coast, with bike paths, parks, and views over the Arabian Gulf.
The Sheikh Zayed Mosque
Wondering what to do in Abu Dhabi? Then a visit to the Sheikh Zayed Mosque absolutely cannot be missed. This is without a doubt one of the most famous Abu Dhabi attractions and perhaps the most beautiful mosque in the Middle East.
The mosque was built between 1996 and 2007 and is named after Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder of the United Arab Emirates. The building is impressive down to the smallest details. The white marble comes from Macedonia, giant Swarovski crystal chandeliers hang from the ceilings, and in the prayer hall lies one of the world’s largest hand-knotted carpets.
Even as a non-Muslim, you can visit the mosque. I recommend doing this early in the morning or just before sunset. It’s much quieter then, and the white marble looks stunning in the light.
Handy tip: Wear clothing that covers shoulders, arms, and knees. Women can borrow a free abaya at the entrance if needed.
Explore Abu Dhabi by bike with Baja Bikes
One of my favorite ways to discover Abu Dhabi is by bike. During the Baja Bikes bike tour, you explore the most famous attractions together with a local guide, as well as places you might otherwise pass by. Thanks to the wide bike paths and relatively flat roads, Abu Dhabi is an ideal city to discover by bike.
During the tour, you’ll pass by:
- The impressive Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
- The public beach on the Corniche
- The iconic ADNOC headquarters
- Heritage Park
- The Abu Dhabi Theater
- The luxurious Mandarin Oriental Hotel
- The Founder’s Memorial
- The Royal Palace
- Al Manhal Palace
- The Cultural Foundation
- Qasr Al Hosn, the oldest stone building in Abu Dhabi
- …and much more!
Along the way, a local guide tells you all about the history, culture, and rapid development of Abu Dhabi. This way, you not only discover the well-known highlights, but also get a good picture of how the city has developed over recent decades.
Adventurous activities outside the city
Want to do something active besides visiting the famous Abu Dhabi attractions? Then you have plenty of choices.
Desert safari
A desert safari is one of the most popular activities in Abu Dhabi. You drive through the sand dunes in a 4×4, take a camel ride, and often end the day with a barbecue and entertainment at a traditional desert camp.
Kayaking through the mangroves
For a completely different experience, you can go kayaking through the mangroves of Eastern Mangrove National Park. Here you paddle through a peaceful, green environment and have the chance to spot flamingos, herons, and other wildlife. A surprising contrast to Abu Dhabi’s modern skyline.
Taste the local cuisine in Abu Dhabi
Emirati cuisine is less well-known than Lebanese or Turkish, but definitely worth trying.
Here’s my top 5 local dishes in Abu Dhabi
- Machboos – Spiced rice with chicken, lamb, or fish. The national dish of the UAE.
- Luqaimat – Small fried dough balls with date syrup or honey. A popular sweet snack.
- Harees – A traditional dish of wheat and slow-cooked meat, especially eaten during Ramadan and holidays.
- Balaleet – Sweet vermicelli with cardamom and saffron, served with a savory omelet. Popular as breakfast.
- Chebab – Emirati pancakes with saffron and cardamom, often served with date syrup or cheese.
Practical information for your visit
Best time to visit Abu Dhabi
| Period | Average temperature | Recommended? |
|---|---|---|
| October – April | ☀️ 20–30°C | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Ideal for a city trip and bike tour |
| May | ☀️ 35–40°C | ⭐⭐⭐ Warm, but still manageable |
| June – September | 🔥 40–45°C+ | ⭐ Very hot, outdoor activities are less pleasant |
Getting around Abu Dhabi
| Transport | Advantages | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|
| 🚕 Taxi | Comfortable, fast and available everywhere | Long distances or when it’s very hot |
| 🚌 Bus | Good public transport with many connections | Travelers who want to explore the city independently |
| 🚲 Bike | Active, flexible and ideal along the Corniche | Discovering the highlights of Abu Dhabi in a relaxed way |
Packing list for Abu Dhabi
| ✔️ Bring | Why? |
|---|---|
| 🧴 Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) | The sun is very strong all year round. |
| 🧢 Cap or sun hat | Protects you from the intense sun while walking or cycling. |
| 👟 Comfortable shoes | Ideal for visiting the attractions. |
| 💧 Reusable water bottle | Stay well hydrated during hot days. |
| 👕 Modest clothing | Required when visiting the Sheikh Zayed Mosque. |
| 😎 Sunglasses | Provides extra comfort during sunny days. |
Budget tips for Abu Dhabi
Free activities in Abu Dhabi
- Walk along the Corniche
- Visit The Founder’s Memorial
- See the Sheikh Zayed Mosque
- Spot flamingos at Al Wathba Wetland Reserve
- Enjoy the skyline views
Frequently asked questions
How long does a bike tour in Abu Dhabi last?
The bike tours last an average of 3 hours. That’s long enough to see the main Abu Dhabi attractions and stop along the way for photos or explanations, but not so long that you get tired from cycling. The routes are flat and easy to cycle, even if you’re not super sporty.
What does a bike tour in Abu Dhabi cost?
Prices start at €39 per person. This includes bike rental, a helmet, water, and guidance from a local guide. E-bikes are available for a small additional charge if you’d prefer to pedal less. Children from 12 years old can join, and child seats are available for younger children.
When is the best time to visit Abu Dhabi?
October through April are the best months. The temperature is pleasant then (20-30 degrees) and you can comfortably be outside. Avoid June, July and August – it can get above 45 degrees during the day, which makes outdoor activities very challenging. December to February are the busiest months because many Europeans come for the sun.
Is it safe to cycle in Abu Dhabi?
Yes, especially along the Corniche where separate bike paths have been created. Traffic is generally calm and drivers are used to cyclists. Outside the main roads, cycling is less common, so on a tour it’s nice to have a guide who knows the best and safest routes. Abu Dhabi scores high on safety in general.
What should I wear when visiting the Sheikh Zayed Mosque?
Both men and women must keep their shoulders and knees covered. Women are offered an abaya (long robe) and headscarf at the entrance if their clothing isn’t modest enough. Men can wear long trousers and a shirt with sleeves. You’ll need to remove your shoes before entering the prayer halls, so wear comfortable shoes that are easy to slip on and off.
From the impressive Sheikh Zayed Mosque and the Louvre Abu Dhabi to the Corniche and the vast desert: Abu Dhabi has something to offer every traveler. Hopefully these tips will help you plan your city trip, so you won’t miss any of the highlights this diverse capital of the United Arab Emirates has to offer.