Abu Dhabi Holidays

Where is Abu Dhabi? In the Arabian peninsula on the north-eastern side of the Persian Gulf, Abu Dhabi, capital of the United Arab Emirates, is an island city just 250 metres from the mainland, connected by four bridges: Maqta bridge, Mussafah bridge, Sheikh Zayed bridge and Sheikh Khalifa bridge.

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Culture Despite the rapid rise of modern hotels, shopping malls and theme parks, you can still experience Arabic culture on a holiday to Abu Dhabi. Visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a fine example of Islamic architecture that welcomes over 50,000 worshippers a day to its marbled interior. Wander through the souks where traditional handicrafts are for sale or take a trip into the desert for a glimpse of Bedouin life.

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Beaches If you’re looking for sand there’s plenty of it, particularly when it comes to Abu Dhabi’s beaches. Many are blue flag rated and there are stretches of both public and private beaches. Lined with a boardwalk of cafés and restaurants, Corniche Beach is one of the most popular. The beach at Yas Island is a favourite with families whilst on Saadiyat Island, the beaches are home to hawksbill turtles and its surrounding waters are a protected marine reserve. Many of the resorts and hotels in Abu Dhabi have access to a private beach, complete with shady cabanas and sunbed service.

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Getting around Bus services have networks throughout the emirate while silver taxis and metered limousines are also popular methods of transport. Hiring a car is easy and convenient and roads are good – although often gridlocked during rush hour.

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Shopping Abu Dhabi’s shopping malls are almost out of this world, packed not only with designer stores and high-end brands but also cinemas, entertainment and dining. You’ll find the very best of Arabic sweets and pastries, cult perfumeries selling hand-made scents and even ice rinks, bowling alleys and musical fountains. Shopping highlights include Yas Marina Mall, Al Wahda Mall, Avenue at Etihad and The Galleria. 

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Food and drink Red snapper and ceviche, Persian cuisine, omakase Japanese tables, restaurants with floor-to-ceiling windows looking out onto wild beaches and rooftop bars where cocktails come with a serving of smoke: nightlife in Abu Dhabi is exciting, innovative and lavish. Mostly found in hotels and resorts, you’ll find candlelit dining with Arabian Gulf views, stylish cafés with vegan menus and sky-high delights overlooking Yas Marina and afternoon tea 300 metres up at Etihad Tower’s Observation Deck 300.

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Multi-centres The emirate of Abu Dhabi has established itself as a major global transport hub by connecting Abu Dhabi International Airport to destinations all over the Middle East, the Indian Ocean and on to the wider world. This enviable connectivity makes Abu Dhabi a convenient stopover point and a fabulous component of an exciting multi-centre itinerary with dynamic Dubai, the peaceful sands of Fujairah or the traditional sights of Ras Al Khaimah and Oman all within easy reach. Further afield, Abu Dhabi can be combined with the cities of Hong Kong and Singapore or the beaches of the Maldives, Seychelles or Mauritius.

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