Holidays to Abu Dhabi

Centuries-old monuments, high-tech amusements and lush natural wonders are all served up on holidays in Abu Dhabi. Don’t miss our top suggestions:

• The Corniche: The Corniche is an 8km attraction-packed stretch along Abu Dhabi’s waterfront. Cycle down the paved promenade and drink in views of the Arabian Gulf lined with a forest of skyscrapers. Traditional dhow-boat rides grant vistas of the picturesque waterside area, too.
• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a true head-turner. Soaring minarets and giant domes top this vision in marble, which is one of the largest mosques in the world. Inside, you’ll find a prayer hall filled with chandeliers.
• Souks and shopping malls: Abu Dhabi is a shopper’s paradise. Maze-like traditional markets such as the Abu Dhabi Carpet Souk join air-conditioned malls filled with up-to-the-minute fashion and technology. Cavernous Yas Mall is a favourite stop.
• Qasr Al Hosn: There’s something for history buffs too. Delve into the past at Qasr Al Hosn, a watchtower dating back to the 18th century. Today it’s home to displays on Abu Dhabi’s culture and history.
• Mangrove National Park: Mangrove National Park is a short hop from Abu Dhabi’s city centre. Keep your eyes peeled for flamingos and dolphins as you paddle around tranquil waterways.

Offering everything from record-breaking rollercoasters and white-knuckle water parks to off-road adventures in the desert, Abu Dhabi holidays are sure to get your heart pumping.

• Desert adventures: Abu Dhabi’s sandy mountains are a perfect playground. Adrenaline-fuelled activities like dune bashing and sand boarding are top ways to experience the Rub' al Khali (Empty Quarter) Desert.
• Ferrari World: Got a head for heights? Visit the Ferrari World theme park for stomach-whirling rides, a spin around the race track and a go on the world’s fastest roller coaster – Formula Rossa.
• Water sports: Make a splash with water sports in the Emirati capital. You’ll jet ski, wakeboard and kayak around Abu Dhabi’s coastline. The marine-life-rich waters offer scuba diving hotspots too.
• Jebel Hafit: Jebel Hafit is perfect fodder for keen bikers. The rugged peak rewards cyclists’ efforts with sweeping views over the desert city of Al Ain. It’s a stellar spot for sunsets too.
• Yas Waterworld: Kids will love Yas Waterworld. The sprawling water park on Yas Island is crammed with twirling water slides, thrilling rides and splash pools for the little ones.

Whether you’re after beach clubs or water sport hubs, you’ll find your slice of paradise on an Abu Dhabi break with plenty of sun, sea and sand.

• Emirates Palace Beach Club: You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to beach clubs in Abu Dhabi. The luxurious Emirates Palace Beach Club boasts a private sweep of powdery sand and bags of top-notch amenities. You’ll spot camels basking on the beach, too.
• Al Hudayriat Beach: Al Hudayriat Beach is one for foodies. Hip food trucks, cafés and Middle Eastern restaurants line this white-sand stretch.
• Al Maya Island & Resort: Dreaming of romance? Al Maya Island & Resort has an idyllic strand, backed by gardens and dotted with umbrellas. There’s also a pool right by the sand.
• Mirfa Beach: A tranquil pocket of sand awaits at Mirfa Beach. It plays host to the Al Dhafra Watersports Festival, but it’s blissfully quiet the rest of the time. Pitch a tent and camp under the stars.
• Saadiyat Beach Club: Saadiyat Beach Club is an exercise in luxury. Its camera-loving infinity pool glides right out to the beach, which is lined with glamorous restaurants. Look out for dolphins frolicking in the bay.

Travelling with the kids in tow? From calm waters and volleyball on the sand to wet and wild water sports, Abu Dhabi’s beaches have plenty for families.

• Yas Beach: Active families should make a beeline for Yas Beach on buzzy Yas Island. Surrounded by mangroves, it’s a top spot for paddling and jet skiing. Of course, your clan can chill out under a cabana too.
• Saadiyat Public Beach: You’ll share Saadiyat Public Beach with endangered hawksbill turtles, who use the champagne-hued sands as a nesting ground. Find your flow with a relaxing yoga class by the water, or get the whole family involved in a sailing adventure.
• Corniche Beach: Gates 2 and 3 at palm-backed Corniche Beach are designated for families. You can snorkel in the crystal-clear waters or make the most of the fun beach playground.
• Al Bateen Beach: Take a dip in the gentle waters of Al Bateen Beach, then dry off with a game of beach volleyball. There’s also a kids’ play area right by the sand.
• Bayshore Beach Club: Bayshore Beach Club at the InterContinental Abu Dhabi hotel is great for adventurous families. Rent kayaks and take to gulf waters fringed by icing-sugar sand. The kids can take swimming lessons too.

You’ll never go hungry on holidays in Abu Dhabi. Street-food stalls sell specialties from the Middle East, while fine dining restaurants exhibit the best of international fare.

• Dockside dining: Fancy dinner served up next to a superyacht? Dockside spots at Yas Marina offer fabulous views. They range from chic Mediterranean restaurants to laid-back American-style bars.
• Global gastronomy: Abu Dhabi’s fine-dining scene is world-class, with offerings from big-name chefs like Marco Pierre White. Restaurants with fancy, multi-course menus will transport diners from France to China to Latin America.
• Lebanese treats: You can travel the world on a plate in Abu Dhabi, but the emirate has a special talent for Lebanese food. The leafy Al Reef neighbourhood is the best place to feast on kibbeh and tabbouleh.
• Street eats: Street stalls and trucks dish up world food and Emirati delicacies. Sink your teeth into staples like meat-filled shawarma wraps or global eats like pizza and burgers. Perfect for cheap holidays to Abu Dhabi.
• Sunset sailing: Sail into the sunset with a dinner cruise. You’ll take to the water on a traditional dhow boat and graze on spice-rich Emirati dishes.

Take a bite out of Abu Dhabi with local markets and traditional cuisine. Tuck into hearty spiced stews, fresh fish dishes, and sweet treats alongside tea or coffee.

• Spiced specialties: Spiked with saffron, cinnamon and other spices, Emirati food packs a punch. Seek out Emirati restaurants for delicacies like machboos – boiled meats with spices and citrus fruit.
• Seafood souks: Seafood is king in Abu Dhabi, and Mina Zayed Fish Souk is a local institution. Swing by to haggle for the catch of the day.
• Tasty dates: The date palm is a symbol of Abu Dhabi and the region has farmed the sweet fruit for centuries. Pick them up at delis and Souks, or time your trip for the Liwa Date Festival.
• Delicious doughnuts: Got a sweet tooth? You’ll love luqaimat, which are moreish fried dough balls doused in date syrup. Try them hot from street vendors around town.
• Arabic coffee: Coffee is central to the UAE’s culture and hospitality. Sip aromatic brews in welcoming cafés, or enjoy coffee rituals with a Bedouin dining experience in the desert.

Abu Dhabi has luxury holidays down to a fine art. Plush resorts paired with extra-indulgent experiences will make your trip one to remember.

• Tee off: Enjoy a round of golf? Abu Dhabi has spectacular courses with fine amenities and views over the desert and sea. Unwind in a luxurious clubhouse once you’re done.
• Afternoon tea: Afternoon tea always feels extra special, and it’s something of a tradition in Abu Dhabi. Tuck into dainty sandwiches and decadent desserts at a high-end hotel or elegant café.
• Seaplane tours: See Abu Dhabi from new heights by chartering your own seaplane. Operators leave from spots like Yas Marina, whisking you on a private tour over the city and beyond.
• Spa time: Carve out some ‘you time’ with a trip to one of the many luxurious spas. Wellness venues and luxury hotels offer everything from quartz sand treatments to hammam experiences.
• Glamping: From lavish tents amid desert dunes to luxury domes in Mangrove National Park, Abu Dhabi is big on glamping. Book your escape for unforgettable nights beneath the stars.

Night owls will find plenty to stay up for on holidays in Abu Dhabi. Beach parties, nightclubs and cocktail lounges make this a round-the-clock destination.

• Skyline views: Etihad Towers’ Observation Deck at 300 is the best place to be at sunset. Take in Abu Dhabi’s ever-changing skyline from the 74th floor, mocktail in hand.
• Chic cocktails: The best hotels in Abu Dhabi typically have swish lounges and cocktail bars. Slip into a leather armchair and swill a sundowner in luxurious surroundings.
• Pool parties: Beach bums can continue the party too. Some resorts host lively pool parties that begin in the afternoon and go on into the evening. Expect DJ sets and well-stocked pool bars.
• Late-night clubs: Want to party until the wee hours? Abu Dhabi’s pulsing clubs attract world-renowned DJs and global music artists. Alfresco spots mean you can dance under the stars.
• Live music: Abu Dhabi’s live music scene is as varied as it is vibrant. Venues range from moody, low-lit piano bars to bright American-style spots hosting fun tribute bands.