Abu Dhabi, the capital metropolis of the UAE, is as you might need guessed it, all about luxurious. On my latest layover from Europe again to Australia, I visited my pal in Dubai however since I used to be on an Etihad Airways flight, I needed to take just a little detour by way of Abu Dhabi as that is their predominant airport, so I stayed in Abu Dhabi in a single day and had a go searching.
Despite the fact that I’ve transitted by the airport many many instances, this was my second time really visiting the town.
From the second you step foot within the Abu Dhabi Worldwide Airport to your lodge, and even the streets and eating places, every thing right here has a refined and ideal vibe, just like the one you discover when staying in Dubai.
What I really like about this metropolis is that it consists of various islands, every with its distinctive allure and loads of cool issues to do in between. Whether or not it is exploring procuring malls, eating at incredible eating places, or having fun with theme parks, Abu Dhabi is sort of a playground for large children aka adults.
And the most effective half is, amidst all of the modernity, the allure and tradition of older instances nonetheless stay.
Abu Dhabi is sort of a giant metropolis however there’s actually solely a handful or areas you’d wish to contemplate while you’re wanting the place to remain in Abu Dhabi. Hopefully, this information will make planning your journey just a little simpler and provide you with a great overview of the most effective areas to remain in Abu Dhabi.
Greatest areas to remain in Abu Dhabi
With so many cool areas in Abu Dhabi, here is a fast rundown of my faves that swimsuit any price range or curiosity.
Should you’re visiting for the primary time, it is best to keep in The Corniche. It is the beachy a part of Abu Dhabi and principally the middle of all of the motion. I stayed right here too!
For all you lovebirds and luxurious resort lovers, Saadiyat Island is a dream come true. Full of unimaginable luxurious motels and resorts, it is good for a romantic honeymoon or getaway. It is a choose few superior 5-star beachfront properties.
For households, Yas Island is the place to be. Not solely can you discover superior luxurious motels and resorts right here, however there’s additionally the well-known Ferrari World theme park!
Even should you’re on a price range, don’t fret, Al Zahiyah is the spot for you. It is a extra native space, so lodging are less expensive, and you’ll nonetheless have a good time.
Final however not least, should you’re all about procuring and eating, Al Maryah Island and Al Reem Island are your go-to. These two islands are bursting with procuring malls, boutiques, and high-end motels.
1. The place to remain in Abu Dhabi for the primary time: The Corniche
The Corniche is my absolute favourite suggestion for all first-timers to Abu Dhabi.
It is palms down one of the vital lovely areas in Abu Dhabi, with a surprising seashore, a promenade lined with superb eating places and motels, and breathtaking views of the town skyline. What I really like about it’s that it is centrally positioned and simply accessible to all the main points of interest.
One more reason why I like staying in The Corniche is as a result of it is such a bustling space. Everybody flocks right here at night time to take pleasure in a scrumptious dinner or a shisha, so you possibly can actually immerse your self within the native tradition and vibe of Abu Dhabi.
To not point out, the world is crammed with parks, household seashore areas, and playgrounds, making it an ideal spot for households with children to have a good time too.
Greatest space for:
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First-timers
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Households
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Seashore lovers
Issues to do in The Corniche
As I’ve already talked about, Abu Dhabi is crammed with loads of enjoyable and thrilling issues to do. Hanging out on the seashore in The Corniche is a must-do exercise. You possibly can calm down on the golden sand or strive some watersports like jet snowboarding, parasailing, and even stand-up paddleboarding.
Should you’re searching for some retail remedy, head to Marina Mall and take pleasure in some procuring with its wide selection of luxurious manufacturers and eating places.
If you wish to expertise true luxurious, ensure to go to the Emirates Palace, one of the vital iconic landmarks in Abu Dhabi and one of the vital luxurious motels on the planet. You possibly can even keep on the Emirates Palace if you would like probably the greatest lodge experiences.
For a novel perspective of The Corniche, hop on a yellow boat for a tour of the waterfront and marvel on the gorgeous Abu Dhabi skyline and structure. It is tremendous enjoyable using up and down the waterfront in a type of little boats, and I extremely advocate doing it.
Or should you’re feeling adventurous, learn to scuba dive at Ocean Dive Heart and discover the underwater world proper right here in the course of Abu Dhabi.
Greatest motels to remain in The Corniche
($$$) The St. Regis Abu Dhabi
Certainly one of my favourite Abu Dhabi motels is the St. Regis Abu Dhabi. It is an ideal mix of luxurious and modernity, with gorgeous views of the Arabian Gulf and the town skyline. Its traditional structure and stylish interiors will make you are feeling like royalty throughout your keep.
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($$) Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Lodge & Residences
One other best choice in The Corniche is the Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Lodge & Residences. This luxurious lodge provides a variety of luxurious rooms and suites with fashionable facilities, together with its personal non-public seashore and infinity pool overlooking the Gulf.
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($) Radisson Blu Lodge & Resort
A barely extra inexpensive but nonetheless luxurious choice is the Radisson Blu Lodge & Resort. I liked my keep at this lodge because it sits in a primary location on The Corniche and provides a variety of rooms, suites, and even a zipper line and browsing pool, making it nice for households. We explored Abu Dhabi just a little after which frolicked at The West Bay Seashore Membership which it their very own non-public seashore, good for a dip and cocktail!
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2. The place to remain in Abu Dhabi for {couples} & luxurious: Saadiyat Island
Sure I do know, all over the place is about luxurious in Abu Dhabi however should you actually wish to realize it and keep in a number of the finest and largest and in addition most romantic resorts then Saadiyat Island is the most suitable choice for you.
It is one of the vital upscale areas in Abu Dhabi, making it a best choice for {couples} searching for an expensive and romantic getaway.
The island is filled with a number of the most superb 5-star resorts and motels, every with its personal non-public seashore, infinity pool, and breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf.
It is positioned a bit farther from the hustle and bustle of the town, making it good for many who desire a peaceable and personal retreat. And with loads of actions like {golfing}, kayaking, or simply lazing on the seashore, you may by no means get bored right here.
Greatest space for:
Issues to do in Saadiyat Island
Saadiyat Island is crammed with loads of enjoyable and romantic issues to do. Spend the day at Saadiyat Seashore, identified for its crystal-clear waters and pristine white sand. It is the proper spot for a picnic or a romantic sundown stroll.
For some high-end retail remedy, head to The Assortment, a shopping center the place you may discover luxurious manufacturers like Louis Vuitton, Dior, and Chanel.
Should you’re an artwork lover, ensure to go to the Louvre Abu Dhabi, a surprising museum that showcases a number of the world’s most unimaginable items of artwork. Skip the road and e-book your tickets on-line.
And should you’re into golf, then right here you may discover the Saadiyat Golf Membership, the place you possibly can observe your swing whereas having fun with gorgeous views of the Gulf.
Greatest motels to remain in Saadiyat Island
($$$) The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort
The 5-star St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort in Abu Dhabi provides luxurious lodging with a personal balcony, direct seashore entry, and free WiFi. Company can take pleasure in facilities comparable to a spa, indoor pool, 5 out of doors swimming pools, tennis services, and a number of eating choices, together with Fashionable Greek, South East Asian, and Mediterranean delicacies, whereas additionally being conveniently positioned close to points of interest like an 18-hole golf course and Abu Dhabi’s Corniche.
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($$$) Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort
For an additional luxurious choice take a look at the Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort. This gorgeous lodge has a personal seashore, spacious rooms with sea views, and in addition provides bigger-sized lodging, comparable to a household villa that sleeps as much as 5 folks.
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($$$) Saadiyat Rotana Resort and Villas
One other best choice on Saadiyat Island is the Saadiyat Rotana Resort and Villas. This 5-star resort is certainly one of my absolute favorites, providing gorgeous rooms and probably the greatest swimming pools ever, proper on the beachfront.
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($$$) Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Lodge and Villas
For the final word luxurious expertise, keep on the Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Lodge and Villas. This gorgeous resort provides fashionable rooms and villas with non-public swimming pools, a variety of scrumptious eating choices, and an award-winning spa.
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3. The place to remain in Abu Dhabi for households: Yas Island
Households touring to Abu Dhabi will discover the proper mixture of enjoyable and leisure on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island.
This man-made island is filled with numerous points of interest for all ages, making it my best choice for households searching for an unforgettable trip.
With three theme parks, together with Ferrari World and Warner Bros. World, in addition to water parks, golf programs, procuring malls, and loads of eating choices, there’s by no means a boring second on Yas Island.
In terms of lodging, Yas Island provides a wide array of luxurious motels, lots of that are family-friendly with children’ golf equipment, playgrounds, and different enjoyable actions to maintain everybody entertained.
Greatest space for:
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Households
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Enjoyable actions
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Visiting theme parks
Issues to do in Yas Island
One of many prime points of interest on Yas Island that you just undoubtedly do not wish to miss is Abu Dhabi’s Ferrari World. It is a tremendous cool theme park devoted to all issues Ferrari. You possibly can expertise thrilling rides, and be taught in regards to the historical past of this iconic automotive model. It is an important day journey for older children and all automotive lovers.
One other must-visit theme park is Warner Bros. World. Right here, you possibly can meet your favourite characters from Looney Tunes and DC Comics, and revel in thrilling rides and reveals. It is a incredible exercise for youths of all ages and one they will completely love.
For a dose of tradition, ensure to go to the gorgeous Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. It is one of many largest mosques on the planet and one of the vital lovely mosques I’ve ever seen. Belief me, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is an absolute must-visit while you’re in Abu Dhabi.
It is not positioned on Yas Island nevertheless it’s smack bang within the center between The Corniche and Yas Island, round a 20-25 minute Uber trip.
And hey, should you’re fortunate sufficient to be visiting throughout the Components 1 season, you possibly can’t miss out on watching the race on the Yas Marina Circuit. It is one of many greatest sporting spectacles of the town and definitely worth the go to.
Greatest motels to remain in Yas Island
($$$) Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island
With its personal non-public seashore, the Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island is a best choice for households. They provide spacious rooms and suites, an out of doors pool lagoon, and easy accessibility to all of the points of interest on the island.
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($$) The WB Abu Dhabi
For an unforgettable keep on Yas Island, e-book a room at The WB Abu Dhabi. This distinctive lodge is impressed by Warner Bros. World and provides fashionable rooms, themed suites, and direct entry to the theme park.
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($) Crowne Plaza Yas Island
For a extra budget-friendly choice, take a look at the Crowne Plaza Yas Island. It has a surprising pool space, and spacious rooms with sea views, and is only a brief stroll away from Ferrari World.
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4. The place to remain in Abu Dhabi for price range vacationers & native vibes: Al Zahiyah
Should you’re planning to go to Abu Dhabi on a price range, don’t fret, it’s attainable! Al Zahiyah, only a brief drive from The Corniche, provides a wide range of budget-friendly lodging choices.
It is sometimes called Downtown Abu Dhabi and has a considerably oriental ambiance, all the time bustling with folks.
The world has a beautiful native vibe and is ideal for experiencing genuine Abu Dhabi. You will discover a number of the finest native meals, markets, and conventional retailers and encounter a number of the friendliest folks right here.
Greatest space for:
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Finances vacationers
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Native expertise
Issues to do in Al Zahiyah
There is no scarcity of issues to do in Al Zahiyah for price range vacationers! Certainly one of my favourite actions is solely strolling by the charming slender streets, diving into the pleasant native ambiance.
It is best to undoubtedly wander round just a little by the slender streets and take part on some genuine Abu Dhabi procuring by the souks! The Gold Souk is definitely the place you possibly can store in your bling. Shopping for gold right here is cheaper than in different markets.
For a extra fashionable procuring expertise, head over to the Abu Dhabi Mall. It is obtained a variety of shops, eating places, and leisure, good for some last-minute procuring earlier than heading to the airport.
And naturally, you completely need to strive the mouthwatering conventional dishes at Cafe Otantik. This hidden gem is an area favourite, serving up scrumptious Center Japanese delicacies at costs that will not break the financial institution. Belief me, it is the proper spot to fulfill your cravings for native meals!
Greatest motels to remain in Al Zadiyah
($$$) Le Meridien Abu Dhabi
For an expensive keep in Al Zahiyah, take a look at Le Meridien Abu Dhabi. This gorgeous 5-star lodge has been newly renovated and provides fashionable, spacious rooms, an important out of doors swimming pool, and is tremendous inexpensive.
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($$) Grand Mercure Abu Dhabi
For a extra budget-friendly choice, contemplate the Grand Mercure Abu Dhabi. It has cozy rooms with fashionable facilities, and an out of doors pool, and is only a brief stroll away from the favored Abu Dhabi Mall.
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($) Hala Arjaan by Rotana
For price range vacationers searching for a cushty and inexpensive keep, Hala Arjaan by Rotana is a good alternative. It provides spacious flats with kitchenettes, and an out of doors pool, and is centrally positioned in Al Zahiyah.
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Should you’re a shopaholic or a foodie, then both Al Maryah or Al Reem Island is ideal so that you can keep in Abu Dhabi. These two islands, positioned simply off the coast of Downtown Abu Dhabi, provide a incredible procuring and eating expertise that I personally love.
Al Maryah Island is dwelling to The Galleria Mall, one of the vital luxurious procuring facilities in Abu Dhabi. Right here, you may discover high-end designer manufacturers, fine-dining eating places, and a cinema.
Subsequent door, Al Reem Island has the Marina Sq. Mall and a wide range of native eating places, offering extra inexpensive choices.
Greatest space for:
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Procuring and eating
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Luxurious
Issues to do in Al Maryah and Al Reem Islands
Al Maryah and Al Reem Islands provide loads of actions for guests to take pleasure in. The Galleria Mall is a must-visit for luxurious procuring and high quality eating choices.
For foodies, I like to recommend attempting Gungor Chef on Al Maryah Island. They’ve a number of the finest steaks in Abu Dhabi and the service is nice. One other certainly one of my favourite steak spots is Butcher & Nonetheless Grill on Al Reem Island, which provides a wide range of scrumptious cuts and sides.
And should you’re searching for some enjoyable nightlife choices, head over to the Rosewood Abu Dhabi on Al Maryah Island. They’ve a incredible rooftop bar known as Glo that includes metal tree buildings that remind me of the Gardens by the Bay in Singapore. From right here you may get gorgeous views of the town skyline.
And my final tip for foodies is Zuma, a classy Japanese restaurant positioned in The Galleria Mall. Belief me, it is definitely worth the splurge for his or her beautiful dishes.
Greatest motels to remain in Al Maryah and Al Reem Islands
($$$) 4 Seasons Lodge Abu Dhabi
For an expensive keep on Al Maryah Island, the 4 Seasons Lodge Abu Dhabi is a superb alternative. Like most 4 Seasons motels, it provides top-notch service, spacious rooms with gorgeous views of the town and sea, and a incredible out of doors pool.
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($$) Rosewood Abu Dhabi
Situated on Al Maryah Island, the Rosewood Abu Dhabi provides fashionable rooms with fashionable facilities and breathtaking views. It additionally has a incredible spa, good for some leisure after a day of procuring and eating.
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($) Capital Residing On Reem
A extra inexpensive choice is Capital Residing On Reem, which provides cozy and inexpensive flats on Al Reem Island. It is conveniently positioned close to Marina Sq. Mall and options an out of doors swimming pool, good for these scorching summer season days.
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The place to remain in Abu Dhabi – Steadily Requested Questions
📍 Which space is the most effective to remain in Abu Dhabi?
In terms of staying in Abu Dhabi, the most effective space is dependent upon what you like and your price range. For my part, The Corniche is ideal for anybody from {couples} to households. Saadiyat Island is an absolute gem if you would like 5-star properties and repair. Abu Dhabi’s resorts are merely superb and a number of the finest you may ever have the pleasure of staying in. Even exterior of my favourite areas, you may discover superb motels and resorts, such because the Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi in Khor Al Maqta’a, which is likely one of the closest motels to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
📆 What number of days do I would like in Abu Dhabi?
To completely expertise the wonders of Abu Dhabi, I personally advocate staying for no less than 3-4 nights. Nonetheless, should you’re searching for a tranquil resort getaway, you would definitely prolong your go to for every week. For my part, 3-4 nights is the proper timeframe to discover the town, take part in actions, and now have a while to calm down, nevertheless, it is also attainable to see all of the highlights in a brief layover of 1-2 nights.
🚗 How do I get round in Abu Dhabi?
Probably the most handy method to get round Abu Dhabi is by taxi or ride-sharing providers like Uber or Careem. Nonetheless, public transportation choices comparable to buses and the metro are additionally out there. Lastly, you possibly can simply lease a automotive should you desire and have a world driver’s license.
💰 Is Abu Dhabi costly?
Whereas Abu Dhabi could also be identified for its luxurious resorts and high-end procuring, there are additionally loads of budget-friendly choices out there. Lodging in areas like Al Zahiyah are usually extra inexpensive, and there are various free or low-cost actions to take pleasure in as effectively. Nonetheless, should you’re searching for a luxurious expertise, it could actually definitely add up in value.
🌆 Which metropolis is healthier: Dubai or Abu Dhabi?
Each Dubai and Abu Dhabi provide distinctive experiences and points of interest. Dubai is thought for its large skyscrapers, extravagant procuring, and bustling metropolis life, whereas Abu Dhabi usually sits within the shadow of Dubai, it is definitely value a go to. It boasts extra cultural websites and a quieter ambiance. It is dependent upon your private preferences and what you are seeking to get out of your expertise within the UAE.
The place to remain in Abu Dhabi – Last phrases
Should you’re considering that Dubai is perhaps a bit too excessive and never sufficient tradition and exploration, then Abu Dhabi is simply best for you! Sure, Abu Dhabi additionally has an expensive really feel, however right here you possibly can nonetheless discover loads of Arabic tradition. It is the proper mixture of luxurious, procuring, and exploration. Notice that Dubai is very cosmopolitan and I believe Abu Dhabi is barely extra conservative.
With so many areas to select from, I hope my information on the place to remain in Abu Dhabi has helped you determine on the most effective location in your journey. Irrespective of the place you select to remain, I am sure you may have a tremendous time on this lovely Emirati metropolis.
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