Abu Dhabi has transformed from a bit of a bore to a fun alternative to Dubai under the tutelage of Sheikh Khalifa. The UAE capital is a massive and rich city which is loaded with gleaming skyscrapers and is pockmarked with traditional souks and houses, parks and gardens, and grand boulevards. Shopping malls selling all manner of luxuries are the norm here, and its dazzling Corniche area is perfect for strolling. The city is striving to be even more impressive in the future, with all sorts of ambitious projects on the go.
Key attractions
The Abu Dhabi waterfront, the Corniche, is a major focal point and encompasses beaches, the promenade and malls. Visitors can go-kart and enjoy the odd show here or spy great views of the famous Dhabi skyline. Of the many green areas, Khalifa Park is the best, with its own aquarium, kids' activities, and museum. For landmark buildings, be sure to check out the massive Sheikh Zayed Mosque
Our recommendations in Abu Dhabi
Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi
Located in Abu Dhabi, Emirates Palace Abu Dhabi is on a private beach. Travelers eager for a bit of culture can stop by Louvre Abu Dhabi, while those who have shopping on the agenda may want to visit Marina Mall and Al Wahda Mall. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Sheikh Zayed Stadium or Al Wahda Club.
Beach Rotana
Located in Abu Dhabi's Al Zahiyah neighborhood, Beach Rotana is in the city center and on a private beach. Travelers eager for a bit of culture can stop by Louvre Abu Dhabi, while those who have shopping on the agenda may want to visit Abu Dhabi Mall and Al Wahda Mall. Traveling with kids? Consider Abu Dhabi Ice Rink, or check out an event or a game at Sheikh Zayed Stadium.
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Jumeirah At Etihad Towers Residence
Located in Abu Dhabi, Jumeirah At Etihad Towers Residence is in the city center and on a private beach. Travelers eager for a bit of culture can stop by Louvre Abu Dhabi, while those who have shopping on the agenda may want to visit Marina Mall and Al Wahda Mall. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Sheikh Zayed Stadium or Al Wahda Club.
Radisson Blu Hotel & Resort, Abu Dhabi Corniche
Located in Abu Dhabi, Radisson Blu Hotel & Resort, Abu Dhabi Corniche is in the suburbs and on the beach. Marina Mall and Al Wahda Mall are worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore The Corniche. Traveling with kids? Consider Abu Dhabi Ice Rink, or check out an event or a game at Sheikh Zayed Stadium.
Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort
Located in Abu Dhabi's Al Zahiyah neighborhood, Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort is in the city center and on a private beach. Abu Dhabi Mall and Al Wahda Mall are worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore The Corniche. Traveling with kids? Consider Abu Dhabi Ice Rink, or check out an event or a game at Sheikh Zayed Stadium.
Fairmont Bab Al Bahr
Located in Abu Dhabi, Fairmont Bab Al Bahr is near the airport and on a private beach. Abu Dhabi Golf Club and Abu Dhabi Corniche are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those in the mood for shopping can visit Al Wahda Mall and Abu Dhabi Mall. Looking to enjoy an event or a game? See what's going on at Sheikh Zayed Stadium or Yas Marina Circuit.
W Abu Dhabi - Yas Island
Located in Abu Dhabi, W Abu Dhabi - Yas Island is in the entertainment district and near the beach. Yas Marina is worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's popular attractions can visit Ferrari World and Yas Waterworld. Traveling with kids? Don't miss Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi and Emirates Park Zoo.
InterContinental Abu Dhabi, an IHG Hotel
Located in Abu Dhabi, InterContinental Abu Dhabi is in the city center and on a private beach. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a notable landmark, and travelers looking to shop may want to visit Marina Mall and Al Wahda Mall. Traveling with kids? Consider Abu Dhabi Ice Rink, or check out an event or a game at Sheikh Zayed Stadium.
Shangri-La, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi
Located in Abu Dhabi, Shangri-la Hotel Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi is connected to a shopping center and on the beach. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a notable landmark, and travelers looking to shop may want to visit Al Wahda Mall and Dalma Mall. Traveling with kids? Consider Ferrari World, or check out an event or a game at Yas Marina Circuit.