The capital of the UAE, Abu Dhabi is renowned for its spectacular sunset Formula 1 race. But as well as its contemporary places and events of interest, visitors to the Garden City of the Gulf will find it's ancient sites and landscape fascinating too.
Affectionately known as the 'Garden City of the Gulf', discover the traditional Arabian way of life as you make your way through historical heritage sites and traditional architecture to relaxing parks and sweeping sandy beaches.
Kelsey
Travel Specialist
Abu Dhabi travel information
When to visit Abu Dhabi
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- Time zone: +4 GMT
- Flight time: 7-8 hours
- Recommended airlines: Etihad Airways
- Currency: UAE dirham
- Tipping guideline: Discretionary
- Health considerations: There is no risk of yellow fever in UAE, however, yellow fever vaccination is required for travellers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
- Capital: Abu Dhabi
- Population: 1.593e+006
- National languages: Arabic, English
- Electricity and plugs: Type G, 230V
- Mobile phone coverage: Good
- UK passport visa requirements: You need a visa for United Arab Emirates if you have a British passport - on arrival for a maximum of 30 days
With so many things to see and do, you won't find yourself wanting during your holiday. Take a stroll along the best-known road in all of Abu Dhabi; the Corniche. Once, a dedicated area to the local pearl fishermen, these days the road spreads across eight km of beautiful waterfront, including blissful beaches and lush green parks.
Just a 5 minute walk away, take a shaded seat in the beautifully silent Khubeirah Gardens. Located in the neighbourhood of the Emirates Palace, these expansive gardens stretch across several different areas and provide the perfect place for a spot of quiet contemplation.
When you’re ready to rest your feet, head to the majestic resort of the Emirates Palace. Soak in the surrounding Arabian splendour and enjoy views of the crystalline seas before sinking into wonderfully welcoming hand-carved beds.
A definite ‘must-see’ for any Abu Dhabi explorer is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, open daily for admiring worshippers. Marvel at the impressive white and gold colours, glistening in the Abu Dhabi sun, before uncovering the decadent walls of the Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri.
Abu Dhabi boasts a shopping experience like no other. Obtain unique treasures and dine on mouth-watering cuisines at the Marina Mall right in the heart of the harbour before picking up authentic Arabian souvenirs with a stop at the World Trade Centre souk.
At the end of a long day’s exploration, retreat to the beachfront beauty of the St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort. Enjoy the superb hospitality of the intuitive Butler Service for a truly luxurious 5-star stay.
For those looking to unwind, the glorious beaches of the nearby Saadiyat Island provide the perfect setting to soak up the simmering sunshine. And thrill-seekers can uncover the adventurous sights of Yas Island, home to the Yas Marina Circuit and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. For those looking to enjoy a drink or two in Abu Dhabi, there are many bars to tempt you.
Whether you spend your days sailing on the pristine waters of the Arabian Gulf or kayaking through the city’s exotic mangroves, Abu Dhabi is a modern metropolis full of tempting treats and surprising gems.
If you’re seeking a luxury holiday in Abu Dhabi to create unforgettable memories, allow us to work our magic and find you the perfect hideaway. Our knowledgeable experts take the time to visit each and every luxurious Abu Dhabi resort so that you can discover the sights in wonderfully bespoke settings and enjoy the most breathtaking of Middle Eastern getaways.
Abu Dhabi General Information
Time Difference: GMT +4 hours
Flying Time: 7 hours 5 minutes (direct)
Etihad Airways flies direct from London Heathrow and Manchester and Edinburgh to Abu Dhabi.
British Airways also flies direct from London Heathrow to Abu Dhabi.
Our Abu Dhabi luxury holiday insight
Coffee is offered in Abu Dhabi as a symbol of hospitality, a custom originating from Bedouin tradition. Here’s a tip: when ordering coffee outside your resort, you are most likely to receive Arabic coffee, called Kahav, which has a bitter flavour, no milk and is spiced with cardamom. It’s an acquired taste. For American coffee, you should specify which kind, and if all else fails ask for Nespresso.
Abu Dhabi luxury holidays are ideal for...
Couples, families, world-class infrastructure, spectacular scenery, beautiful beaches, shopping, heritage and culture.
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For the latest travel advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office check www.gov.uk/travelaware
