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Abu Dhabi

United Arab Emirates

Abu Dhabi

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€4.95

Abu DhabiGuide was updated:
With glass skyscrapers that reflect the bustle of daily life, magnificent buildings such as the Emirates Palace, its lively souqs, excellent restaurants and long stretches of white beaches lapped by the crystal clear waters of the Gulf, Abu Dhabi is a city of outstanding contrasts.
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Facts
Population:4.1 million (2025)
Currency:The dirham (AED) = 100 fils
Emergency Numbers:Police: 999 Ambulance: 998 Fire: 997
Newspapers:The National: www.thenationalnews.com Gulf News: https: www.gulfnews.com Khaleej Times: www.khaleejtimes.com Gulf Today: www.gulftoday.ae
Website:www.visitabudhabi.ae/en www.abudhabi.gov.ae
Opening Hours:The large shopping malls usually open from 10am to 10pm, from Saturday to Thursday, and in the afternoon on Fridays, the day of prayer. Supermarkets often open earlier and smaller shops usually close for lunch for around two to three hours. The weekend in Abu Dhabi is Friday and Saturday.
Tourist Information:Visit Abu Dhabi - Department of Culture and Tourism Nation Towers Corniche, Building B - Abu Dhabi +971 2 444 0444 Open Mon–Thu 8am–4pm, Fri 7:30am–noon, Sat & Sun closed

Do & See

Abu Dhabi’s attractions are diverse and vary from landmark architectural triumphs to centuries-old structures and beaches. The Corniche sweeps along the waterfront from one side of the city to the other, passing by the lavishly planted Al Markaziyah Gardens, one of the many parks in the city, and Lulu Island across the water, delightful with its palm trees and nature reserve.
Zayed National Museum

Zayed National Museum

The Zayed National Museum is one of the most meaningful places in Abu Dhabi to explore the story of the nation and the wider region. Named in honour of the UAE’s founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the museum brings together culture, heritage, history and the principles he championed. You will be taken on a journey through time, beginning nearly 300,000 years ago in the stone-tool era, before moving through a series of galleries featuring both permanent and temporary exhibitions. If you like to plan ahead, the museum website provides all the information you need before your visit. Facilities include a cloakroom, free Wi-Fi, ATMs and restrooms. When it comes to dining, the museum features a restaurant and three cafés set within Al Masar Garden. Before leaving, you can stop by Al Nagwa, the museum’s boutique, which offers jewellery and a selection of high-quality gifts.

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Natural History Museum

Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum is striking even before you step inside, with an architectural design inspired by geological forms that makes it one of Abu Dhabi’s most remarkable buildings. It’s an excellent choice for families, as children will be captivated by the exhibits. Inside, you’ll find meteorites, fossils, dinosaurs and other ancient species, all presented through educational guided tours. The museum leads you through different eras of natural history, emphasising the importance of protecting the planet, one of its core messages. If you need a break during your visit, Nayzak Café is conveniently located within the museum complex.

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Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi is a magnificent white structure and an iconic landmark that beautifully blends architectural influences from around the world, including Moroccan, Italian, Chinese, and Emirati styles. Named after Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE's founding president, the mosque features over 1,000 columns and 80 domes adorned with marble and semi-precious stones. Its vast courtyards and reflective lakes add to its serene beauty, while the four grand minarets at each corner stand as symbols of Islamic tradition. The mosque not only serves as a place of worship but also as a cultural hub that welcomes visitors from all faiths to marvel at its breathtaking artistry and spiritual tranquillity.

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