General Information
Currency is AED. GMT+4 year-round. Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) serves the city.
What to Eat
Emirati cuisine — harees, machboos, luqaimat. The Corniche has a range of international restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
October–April for pleasant weather. The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (November) is spectacular.
Arts & Culture
Louvre Abu Dhabi, Qasr Al Hosn heritage site, Manarat Al Saadiyat arts centre.
Overview
Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, sits off the mainland on an island in the Persian (Arabian) Gulf. It is the largest and wealthiest of the seven emirates.
Best Time to Visit
October to April. The F1 Grand Prix (November) and cultural season make winter the best time.
Getting Around
Taxis are plentiful and affordable. Public buses cover most areas. The city is spread out — a car is useful for Yas Island and Saadiyat.
Local Cuisine
Emirati fare — harees, machboos, camel milk products. International dining is world-class, especially on Saadiyat Island.
Safety Tips
Extremely safe. Respect local dress codes and laws. No public drinking. Emergency number is 999.
Cultural Etiquette
Dress modestly — especially at the Grand Mosque (abayas provided). Ramadan etiquette applies publicly. Photography of government buildings is restricted.
Abu Dhabi Map
Essence of Abu Dhabi
Islamic Grandeur
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque — white marble, gold and sheer spiritual scale.
Yas Island Thrills
Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld and Formula 1 on a single island.
Art Under the Dome
Louvre Abu Dhabi's rain-of-light dome shelters universal art.
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