Language: Arabic    |    Currency: Dirham (‎د.إ)    |    Local time: UTC   |    Avg. Flight time: 9 hrs

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Modern monuments

What Abu Dhabi lacks in the way of historic landmarks, it more than makes up for in knock-out modern architecture. The two real must-see buildings on any Abu Dhabi holiday are the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the unbelievably luxurious Emirates Palace Hotel – stay here on an affordable Abu Dhabi package deal to enjoy the yoga classes, champagne bar and caviar-based spa treatments.

Other feats of 21st-century engineering include the Capital Gate Building, which leans four times more than the Tower of Pisa, and pioneering zero-carbon development Masdar City. 

History and heritage

Behind Abu Dhabi’s high-rise façade is a traditional culture that’s still very much alive. One essential stop on your Abu Dhabi holiday is the Heritage Village, a reconstructed oasis village where craftsmen labour in traditional workshops and people trade goats for dates in the reconstructed souk.

For a more authentic experience, lose yourself in the Mina Zayed Fish Souk near the main port and watch fishermen haggling over their catch, or take your pick of the freshest and cheapest Abu Dhabi produce at the nearby Al Mina Fruit and Vegetable Souk.  

Sunlit sands

Those endless butterscotch beaches are the highlights of any Abu Dhabi holiday. A marine promenade called the Corniche stretches for six kilometres along the coast, linking some of the more central beaches and all-inclusive Abu Dhabi hotels.

Off the coast you’ll find a smattering of sand-fringed islands – Nurai, Lulu and Al Maya are all secluded spots worth checking out, while Saadiyat combines beautiful beaches with a brand-new booming Cultural District. For a sand-themed adrenaline shot, take a 4x4 trip into the rolling desert dunes that surround Abu Dhabi.      

When to go

If it’s guaranteed sunshine you’re after, then this is the place to come. It rarely rains in Abu Dhabi, with wet weather between May and October virtually unheard of. Even during the colder months, the mercury rarely drops below the mid-teens and grey skies are an unusual occurrence.

The reliability of the emirate’s weather makes it a perfect winter sun destination, although bear in mind that December through to February is peak tourist season. Spring and autumn are better choices – temperatures hover around 25C and there are plenty of cheap Abu Dhabi deals on offer. If you’re planning a visit in the sweltering summer months then be sure to book a room with air conditioning.  

Events for your diary

On top of traditional festivals such as Ramadan, Eid al-Adha and Eid al-fitr, Abu Dhabi showcases a wide range of crowd-pleasing events. Abu Dhabi Festival in June is a highlight of the UAE’s cultural calendar, with shows imported from the likes of the Royal Opera House, Edinburgh International Festival and Carnegie Hall.

Film buffs should check out the exciting Abu Dhabi Film Festival in October, while sport fans will love the January Abu Dhabi Golf Championship. Book early for all these major events to secure cheap Abu Dhabi accommodation. 

Looking to visit Abu Dhabi? Make sure to check out our Tips and Advice first.