4-Day Family Adventure in Abu Dhabi: Local Experience and Nightlights

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

4 days

The famous Louvre museum
Corniche Road
Al Jahili Fort in Al Ain
Sheikh Zayed Mosque
Beach

About Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends traditional Arabic charm with modern cosmopolitan life. It offers a rich cultural experience with its grand mosques, like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, and traditional markets, or souks. The city is also home to world-class attractions such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Ferrari World, and Yas Waterworld. Indulge in luxury shopping at the Marina Mall or enjoy the tranquility of the Corniche, a pristine waterfront. Abu Dhabi's culinary scene is diverse, offering Emirati, Asian, and European cuisines. The city's desert landscapes provide opportunities for thrilling adventures like dune bashing and camel trekking. With its year-round sunshine, Abu Dhabi is a perfect destination for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts.

4-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Iconic Landmarks

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the world's largest mosques. This architectural masterpiece is a must-see attraction in Abu Dhabi, with its stunning white and gold facade and intricate interior design.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Emirati lunch in a local restaurant. Try dishes like Harees, Majboos, and Luqaimat for a taste of the local cuisine.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the Louvre Abu Dhabi, a world-class museum that houses an extensive collection of art and artifacts from around the world.

Dinner

Have dinner at a restaurant offering a panoramic view of the city's skyline. Opt for a mix of local and international cuisine.

Evening

End your day with a relaxing walk along the Corniche, a waterfront promenade offering stunning views of the Arabian Gulf.

Morning

Begin your day with a visit to the Emirates Palace, a luxurious hotel that offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the UAE.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local restaurant, trying out the local seafood dishes like Hammour and Kingfish.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon at Yas Island, home to the Ferrari World and Yas Waterworld. These theme parks offer thrilling rides and attractions for the whole family.

Dinner

Enjoy a dinner at a beachfront restaurant, with a menu featuring a variety of international cuisines.

Evening

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Abu Dhabi at a family-friendly entertainment venue, featuring live music and performances.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Qasr Al Hosn, the oldest stone building in the city. Learn about the history and culture of the UAE through its exhibits.

Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch at the Umm Al Emarat Park, a beautiful green space in the heart of the city.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon at the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, where you can learn about the UAE's national bird and its importance in Emirati culture.

Dinner

Have dinner at a restaurant offering traditional Arabic cuisine. Try dishes like Shawarma, Falafel, and Hummus.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Observation Deck at 300, offering panoramic views of the city's skyline.

Morning

Begin your day with a visit to the Saadiyat Cultural District, home to the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local restaurant, trying out the local dishes like Al Harees and Al Majboos.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon at the Manarat Al Saadiyat, an art and culture center featuring exhibitions, workshops, and performances.

Dinner

Enjoy a dinner at a restaurant offering a variety of international cuisines.

Evening

End your trip with a relaxing walk along the Corniche, enjoying the stunning views of the Arabian Gulf.

Attractions in Itinerary (10)

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

1
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

One of the world's largest mosques, with a capacity for an astonishing 41,000 worshippers. It features 82 domes, over a 1,000 columns, 24 carat gold gilded chandeliers and the world's largest hand knotted carpet.

Attractions
Landmarks
Religious Sites
Louvre Abu Dhabi

2
Louvre Abu Dhabi

An art and civilization museum, part of a 30-year agreement between the city of Abu Dhabi and France. It is approximately 24,000 square metres in size, with 8,000 square metres of galleries, making it the largest art museum in the Arabian peninsula.

Attractions
Museums
Architecture
Emirates Palace

3
Emirates Palace

A luxury five star hotel in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Operated by Mandarin Oriental, it is located on 1.3 km of private beach. 85 hectares of lawns and gardens surround the hotel, as well 114 domes that are 80 meters high.

Attractions
Architecture
Hotels
Yas Island

4
Yas Island

A man-made island known for its Formula 1 circuit, water park, and shopping. It also offers beautiful beaches and luxury hotels.

Attractions
Entertainment
Beaches
Sports
Qasr Al Hosn

5
Qasr Al Hosn

The oldest stone building in the city of Abu Dhabi, formerly home to the ruling Al Nahyan family. The palace contains a museum that traces the history and culture of Abu Dhabi, with a particular focus on the lifestyle of the ruling family.

Attractions
Monuments
Cultural Experiences
Umm Al Emarat Park

6
Umm Al Emarat Park

One of the largest and most modern parks in Abu Dhabi, Umm Al Emarat Park is a green oasis in the heart of the city. It features a large amphitheater, a children's garden, a botanical garden, an animal barn, and a wisdom garden.

Parks
Cultural Experiences
Gardens
Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital

7
Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital

A veterinary hospital for ill and injured falcons, offering guided tours that allow visitors to interact with these majestic birds.

Attractions
Tours
Cultural Experiences
Observation Deck at 300

8
Observation Deck at 300

The highest point in Abu Dhabi, offering panoramic views of the city.

Attractions
Landmarks
Saadiyat Cultural District

9
Saadiyat Cultural District

Saadiyat Cultural District is a hub of art, culture, and education. It is home to the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum, and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi. The district is known for its unique architecture and cultural institutions.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Manarat Al Saadiyat

10
Manarat Al Saadiyat

A cultural center dedicated to art and creativity with exhibitions, workshops, and performances.

Attractions
Museums
Cultural Experiences

Local Food and Drinks (11)

Harees

Harees

A traditional Emirati dish, Harees is a porridge-like dish made from wheat and meat, usually chicken or lamb. It is a staple during Ramadan and other festive occasions in Abu Dhabi.

Majboos

Majboos

Also known as Makbous, this is a spiced rice dish mixed with meat, typically chicken or lamb, and vegetables. It's a popular dish in Abu Dhabi and across the UAE.

Shawarma

Shawarma

A popular street food in Abu Dhabi, Shawarma is a wrap filled with thinly sliced meat (chicken, beef, or lamb), vegetables, and a variety of sauces.

Al Harees

Al Harees

A sweet version of Harees, Al Harees is a dessert made from ground wheat and sugar. It's a traditional Emirati dessert often served during special occasions.

Stuffed Camel

A dish reserved for special occasions, Stuffed Camel is considered a luxurious and extravagant dish in Abu Dhabi. It consists of a whole camel stuffed with lamb, chicken, fish, and rice.

Luqaimat

Luqaimat

These are sweet dumplings made from butter, milk, sugar, saffron, and cardamom. They are deep-fried until golden and then drizzled with date syrup. Luqaimat is a popular dessert in Abu Dhabi.

Kabsa

Kabsa

Kabsa is a traditional Middle Eastern dish of spiced rice, usually served with chicken, lamb, or fish. It's a common dish in Abu Dhabi and is known for its rich and aromatic flavors.

Falafel

Falafel

A popular street food in Abu Dhabi, Falafel is a deep-fried ball or patty made from ground chickpeas or fava beans. It's often served in a pita or flatbread and topped with salads, pickled vegetables, and hot sauce.

Al Jabab bread

A traditional Emirati bread, Al Jabab is a thin, round bread that is often served with meals or used to make sandwiches in Abu Dhabi.

Balaleet

Balaleet

A traditional Emirati breakfast dish, Balaleet is a sweet and savory dish made from vermicelli noodles cooked with sugar, saffron, cardamom, and rose water, and served with an omelet on top.

Gahwa

Gahwa

Also known as Arabic coffee, Gahwa is a strong, bitter coffee made from lightly roasted coffee beans. It's a popular drink in Abu Dhabi and is often served with dates.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates is between November and April. During these months, the weather is relatively cooler with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 35°C, making it perfect for sightseeing and beach activities. The months from December to March are particularly pleasant and are also the peak tourist season. However, if you want to avoid crowds and enjoy lower hotel rates, the shoulder months of November and April are ideal.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

April 10

Wed

Eid al-Fitr

April 11

Thu

Eid al-Fitr Holiday

April 12

Fri

Eid al-Fitr Holiday

June 16

Sun

Arafat (Hajj) Day

June 17

Mon

Eid al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice)

June 17

Mon

Eid al-Adha Holiday

June 18

Tue

Eid al-Adha Holiday

July 8

Mon

Al-Hijra (Islamic New Year)

September 16

Mon

Mouloud

December 2

Mon

National Day

December 3

Tue

National Day Holiday

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Abu Dhabi's Department of Transport operates a comprehensive network of public buses serving the city and its suburbs. Buses are air-conditioned, comfortable, and equipped with Wi-Fi. They run on various routes and timings, making it a convenient option for getting around the city.

Taxis are a common way to get around in Abu Dhabi. They are metered, plentiful, and can be hailed from the street, booked by phone, or picked up from designated taxi ranks at malls, hotels and other public places. They offer a comfortable and convenient way to travel around the city.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Careem operate in Abu Dhabi. These services can be booked through their respective mobile apps. They offer a convenient, reliable, and often cheaper alternative to traditional taxis. You can choose from a range of car types and payment options.

Renting a car is a popular option for getting around Abu Dhabi, especially for those planning to visit the city's outskirts or other Emirates. A variety of car rental companies operate in the city, offering a wide range of vehicles. An international driving license is required.

Abu Dhabi has been increasingly promoting cycling with dedicated cycle paths in certain areas. Bicycles can be rented from various outlets and are a great way to explore the city at a leisurely pace.

Many of Abu Dhabi's attractions are located close to each other, especially on the Corniche, making walking a viable option. However, due to the city's hot climate, this method of transportation is more suitable during the cooler months.

Ferries operate from Abu Dhabi to various islands like Delma Island. The ferry is a convenient and scenic way to travel, offering beautiful views of the city's skyline and the Arabian Gulf.

Abu Dhabi is planning to introduce a metro and tram system in the future. This will provide another convenient and efficient way to travel around the city.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currencyد.إ AED

Time zoneUTC+4

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone998, 999

Drinking waterYes, but some opt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type G

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates as a first time visitor

1

Abu Dhabi is the capital city of the United Arab Emirates.

2

The official language is Arabic, but English is widely spoken and understood.

3

The local currency is the UAE dirham (AED). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or markets.

4

Abu Dhabi is a Muslim city, and it's important to respect local customs and dress modestly, particularly in public places and religious sites.

5

The city is very safe, but it's always wise to take standard precautions with your belongings.

6

Tipping is not obligatory but is appreciated. A service charge is often added to your bill in restaurants.

7

The city has a hot desert climate. Summer temperatures (June to September) can reach up to 108°F (42°C), while winter temperatures (December to March) range from 59°F (15°C) to 77°F (25°C).

8

Alcohol is available in licensed restaurants, bars, clubs, and hotels, but public drunkenness and drinking and driving are strictly prohibited.

9

Public displays of affection are frowned upon and can even be punishable by law.

10

The weekend in Abu Dhabi is Friday and Saturday, with Friday being a holy day.

11

The city is very pedestrian-friendly, with plenty of sidewalks and pedestrian crossings.

12

Taxis are plentiful and reasonably priced. You can also use ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem.

13

Abu Dhabi is one hour ahead of GMT. The UAE does not observe daylight saving time.

14

The city has a high standard of healthcare. It's recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers healthcare.

15

Abu Dhabi has strict laws on medicines, including some over-the-counter drugs. Check before you travel if your medication is on the controlled list.

16

The tap water is safe to drink, but most people prefer to drink bottled water.

17

The power sockets are type G (British three-pin). The standard voltage is 220 V.

18

Internet access is widely available, with free Wi-Fi in many hotels, malls, and cafes.

19

Abu Dhabi is a shopping paradise, with a mix of luxury malls and traditional markets (souks).

20

The city is known for its food scene, with a wide variety of cuisines available, from traditional Emirati dishes to international fare.

Basic Arabic to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

مرحبا

Marhaba

Greeting someone

Goodbye

وداعا

Wadaeaan

Leaving someone

Please

من فضلك

Min fadlak

Asking for something

Thank you

شكرا

Shukran

Showing gratitude

Yes

نعم

Naam

Agreeing with someone

No

لا

La

Disagreeing with someone

Excuse me

عفوا

Afuwan

Getting someone's attention

I'm sorry

أنا آسف

Ana asef

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟

Hal tatakallam al'injliziya?

Trying to communicate

I don't understand

أنا لا أفهم

Ana la afham

When you don't understand what was said

Where is the bathroom?

أين الحمام؟

Ayna alhammam?

Looking for the bathroom

How much does this cost?

بكم هذا؟

Bikam hadha?

Asking for the price

I would like to order

أود أن أطلب

Urid an atlub

Ordering food or drink

Water

ماء

Maa

Asking for water

Help

مساعدة

Musaeadah

In case of emergency

Taxi

تاكسي

Taksi

Looking for transportation

Hotel

فندق

Fanduq

Looking for accommodation

Airport

مطار

Matar

Traveling to/from the airport

Can you help me?

هل يمكنك مساعدتي؟

Hal yumkinuk musaadati?

Asking for help

Good night

تصبح على خير

Tusbih ala khair

Saying goodbye in the evening

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • Sleepwear

  • Swimwear

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Sandals

  • Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings

  • Scarf or shawl for visiting mosques

  • Long skirts or pants for visiting mosques

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-sized shampoo

  • Travel-sized conditioner

  • Travel-sized body wash

  • Toothbrush

  • Toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Razor

  • Shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • Lip balm with SPF

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Travel-sized laundry detergent

  • Personal hygiene items

  • Prescription medications

  • First-aid kit

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or other ID

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash in local currency

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and car rental reservations

  • Emergency contacts and addresses

  • Maps and guidebooks

  • Phrasebook or language app

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • International plug adapter

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Memory cards for camera

  • Portable power bank

  • Headphones

  • Laptop or tablet

  • Charger for laptop or tablet

  • E-books or movies for entertainment

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow

  • Earplugs

  • Eye mask

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Travel-sized wet wipes

  • Travel-sized tissues

  • Notebook and pen

  • Books or magazines

  • Travel laundry line and pegs

  • Zip-lock bags for organization

Weather Conditions

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is known for its hot desert climate. The city experiences high temperatures, especially during the summer months (June to September), where it can reach up to 108°F (42°C). Therefore, if you're planning to visit during this period, it's essential to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun with hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. The winter months (December to March) are relatively cooler with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). This is considered the best time to visit Abu Dhabi as the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities. However, it's still advisable to carry a hat or a parasol as the sun can still be quite strong. The city doesn't receive much rainfall, but when it does, it's usually between November and February. If you're visiting during these months, it might be a good idea to pack a light rain jacket or an umbrella. Regardless of when you visit, it's important to remember that the UAE is a Muslim country and modest clothing is expected. Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing is recommended to stay comfortable in the heat, but remember to respect the local customs and cover your shoulders and knees, especially when visiting religious sites. Lastly, don't forget to check the weather forecast regularly during your stay in Abu Dhabi to plan your activities accordingly and make the most of your visit.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

28° / 14°

January is a pleasant month to visit Abu Dhabi, with mild temperatures and low humidity. It's perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

February

29° / 15°

February continues the pleasant weather with slightly warmer temperatures. It's an ideal time for beach activities and desert safaris.

March

34° / 18°

March marks the beginning of the warm season, but the weather is still comfortable for outdoor activities. The evenings are particularly pleasant.

April

38° / 21°

April is warm, but not excessively hot. It's a good time to visit if you want to avoid the extreme summer heat.

May

42° / 25°

May is quite hot, but still bearable. Early morning and late evening outdoor activities are recommended.

June

45° / 28°

June is the start of the summer season with high temperatures. Indoor activities and water sports are popular during this time.

July

48° / 30°

July is the hottest month in Abu Dhabi. It's a good time to visit indoor attractions like malls, museums, and indoor theme parks.

August

48° / 30°

August is equally hot as July. The city's indoor attractions and beautiful beaches are the main attractions.

September

43° / 28°

September is still quite hot, but the temperature starts to drop slightly. It's a good time to enjoy the city's luxurious resorts and indoor attractions.

October

39° / 24°

October sees a significant drop in temperature. It's a great time to enjoy outdoor activities and explore the city.

November

34° / 20°

November offers pleasant weather, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and exploring the city's cultural heritage.

December

30° / 16°

December is one of the best months to visit Abu Dhabi. The weather is cool and perfect for enjoying all the city has to offer.

Did you know?

Did you know that Abu Dhabi is the capital city of the United Arab Emirates and the largest of the seven emirates that make up the country?

1 of 10

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