Abu Dhabi holidays

When to go to Abu Dhabi

If it's guaranteed sunshine you're after, this is the place to come. Abu Dhabi’s desert climate means it typically has two modes: hot and hotter.

Even during the cooler months, from November to March, the mercury rarely drops below the mid-teens, and you don’t usually see grey skies. It also rarely rains, with wet weather virtually unheard of between May and October.

The reliability of the emirate's weather makes it a perfect winter-sun destination, but bear in mind that December to February is peak tourist season. If you're planning a visit in the sweltering summer months (average August temperatures are 36C), you can find cheap rooms – just make sure they have air conditioning.

A better bet is spring and autumn. The weather is pleasant, with temperatures between 23C and 31C, and there’s more chance of getting a cheap holiday deal.

What to do in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi holidays go beyond glittering beaches and shimmering skyscrapers. Discover the emirate’s culture at Heritage Village and the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, before seeing its modern face at the impressive Emirates Palace. For artistic thrills, there’s the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and car lovers can race to Ferrari World.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

A huge chandelier adorned with Swarovski crystals and gold sets the scene at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the world’s largest mosques. This grand place of worship features a hotchpotch of styles from Muslim civilisations, taking inspiration from Morocco, Pakistan and Egypt, among other countries.

The majestic structure, which can hold more than 40,000 worshippers, is open to the public. Be sure to dress respectfully, with loose clothing covering arms and legs. Women should wear a headscarf.

Louvre Abu Dhabi

Building on its reputation as the UAE’s capital of culture, Abu Dhabi opened its Louvre in 2017. The art museum has 12 galleries hosting world-class works. Visit to see masterpieces by Rothko, Picasso and many more, including items borrowed from the original Louvre in Paris.

Designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel, even the building itself is a work of art. Its 7,500-tonne dome is made of nearly 8,000 layered stars, which filter natural light across the museum.

Emirates Palace

Abu Dhabi’s most famous hotel, Emirates Palace, is an imposing sight with vast gardens and a private beach and marina. The building alone is more than a kilometre in length and has 114 domes. Inside, the décor is a vision of crystal, gold and mother of pearl.

More than a luxurious place to stay, the hotel is also a cultural hotspot, hosting operas and concerts. There are sumptuous settings for a waterside drink and a cafe where you can drink coffee sprinkled with gold flakes.

Heritage Village

Heritage Village offers a taste of traditional Abu Dhabi. Modelled on an oasis village, it has a stretch of barasti huts (traditional houses made with palm fronds) showcasing carpenters, potters, glassblowers and weavers demonstrating their trade and craft.

There are also Bedouin tents where you can try Arabic tea, and a small souk selling handmade soaps, dried herbs and handicrafts. If you have kids in tow, they’ll love seeing the resident camels, Arabian horses and goats.

Ferrari World

The world’s first Ferrari-branded amusement park, Ferrari World has more than 37 rides and attractions. Reach speeds of 149 mph (240kmh) on the world’s fastest rollercoaster, Formula Rossa, or race around the track at the Karting Academy.

For a slightly slower pace, check out Bell’Italia to tour famous Italian landmarks in a 1950s Ferrari 250 California. On Yas Island, the park also has an Italian restaurant and a Ferrari Store for souvenirs.

Where to stay in Abu Dhabi

For families

If you’re looking for family fun, Yas Island is one of the best places to stay and play. This entertainment islet has the fun of Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, Yas Mall and Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi. You’ll find big-name hotels in and around the marina.

Al Khalidiya, Abu Dhabi’s central district, full of parks and green spaces. There are plenty of supermarkets if you want to cook, or just stop by the many cafes and food stalls. It’s also within walking distance of The Corniche, an 8km-long (5 miles) waterfront promenade.

For travellers on a budget

Abu Dhabi isn’t a renowned budget destination, but as it has so many hotels, you’re likely to find some cheap holiday options. If you don’t mind being further from the sights, Al Zahiyah is a good choice for holiday apartments and mid-range hotels.

The Capital Centre is another area to stay for a cheaper holiday. It’s where you’ll find Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, and the Zayed Sports City is nearby. If you stay near The Corniche, take comfort in knowing that sunbathing and swimming in the pristine waters doesn’t cost a thing.

For food and drink

Some of Abu Dhabi’s finest food is in its hotels, and they’re also the only places you can drink alcohol. There’s everything from French bistros to modern Peruvian fare in swanky venues. Stay in one of the hotels or apartments near Dhow Harbour for a more authentic eating experience. The fishermen return in traditional dhow sailing vessels with their catch, which is then served in small restaurants overlooking the water.

Nearby, Al Zahiyah and Al Markaziyah are largely residential areas where locals and tourists dine side by side at noodle houses and canteens serving tasty curries.

For nightlife

Like to party? Abu Dhabi doesn’t disappoint – even if the emirate’s alcohol laws mean most after-dark action is in hotels. Those around The Corniche have rooftop lounges where you can take in the skyline over a cocktail, and their glamorous clubs host world-renowned DJs who spin all night.

For something more relaxed, there are also British pubs and cosy wine bars with cellars filled with top drops. Ghantoot Marina, about an hour’s drive east of Abu Dhabi, has chilled open-air clubs where you can toast sunset with a glass of champagne.

For culture

For art and culture, stay within easy reach of Saadiyat Cultural District. The main draw is the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and there are plans to build a Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and Zayed National Museum, focusing on the UAE’s history. The district is on Saadiyat Island, one of Abu Dhabi’s classiest areas, where you can stay in glitzy resorts and villas.

Head to The Corniche at night for a taste of local life. Locals come to stroll and unwind at the shisha cafes along the waterfront.