Abu Dhabi has enough variety to fill anything from a short stopover to a full week. The trick is to group your days by area rather than spending too much time crossing the city.
Visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the place I would put first on any Abu Dhabi itinerary. Its white domes, courtyards, reflective pools and intricate decoration make it one of the city’s most memorable sights. Visitors are welcome, but remember that this is an active place of worship and dress and behaviour should be respectful.
Explore Saadiyat Island
Saadiyat is Abu Dhabi’s cultural heavyweight. Louvre Abu Dhabi combines art, history and striking architecture, while the wider cultural district continues to make the island increasingly important for museum lovers. Saadiyat also has excellent beaches, so culture and a relaxed afternoon by the sea can work surprisingly well together.
Walk the Corniche
The Corniche is where you can slow things down. Walk or cycle along the waterfront, stop at the beach or simply enjoy the contrast between the skyline and the Gulf.
Spend a day on Yas Island
Yas Island is the obvious choice for entertainment. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld and Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi are among the big attractions, while Yas Marina Circuit and the waterfront add more options.
Discover the older story
Make room for Qasr Al Hosn and traditional Emirati culture as well. And if your schedule allows, leave the city behind for a desert experience. The change from polished city streets to open desert is one of the contrasts that makes Abu Dhabi worth more than a quick stopover.