5 Crucial Do's & Don'ts When Visiting Abu Dhabi for Tourists - Worry-free, delightful times in the exotic Gulf

If there’s one thing in particular that visitors to Abu Dhabi are not fans of, it is the scorching heat that the Gulf state is infamous for. How it will affect your experience has a lot to do with the time of your visit but, having said that, you’d still want to plan your day around the heat. November to March is when the city sees its winter and what’s also considered to be the best time to visit. The shoulder season, which runs from April through May, is also recommended but the majority opinion has that the months from June to August are best avoided although tourist visits are not completely nil during this time of the year.

While tourists staying at holiday resorts or perhaps a premier suite at properties like Oaks Liwa Executive Suites are totally free to bust out in the outfit of their choice within their resort, it is key that you choose your outfits with modesty in mind when heading out. Being the Islamic state it is, Abu Dhabi still is pretty much “conservative” in its ways, and as responsible tourists, it is only right that you dress in a way that respects local cultural values.

Most tourists to Abu Dhabi rarely have any issues in terms of communication as English is fluently spoken city and country-wide. Learning a few “Marhabas”, “Salamo Alaykoms” and other Arabic greetings would certainly go a long way in whipping up a friendly conversation with locals but there’s certainly no need to get worked up trying to practise the local dialect. Nevertheless, if you are truly interested in learning a few Arabic words, you surely wouldn’t be left without hearing words of appreciation from locals. 

For a country that’s home to an incredible authentic local cuisine, it would be a pity not to get a taste of the local foods and drinks scene of Abu Dhabi. Treat yourself to an assortment of delectable traditional dishes and let your taste buds revel in the exotic blend of mouth-watering flavours.

As an Islamic state that strictly abides by the Sharia Law, drinking is not only frowned upon but also prohibited by law for locals. However, tourists to the country are permitted to indulge while ensuring that it is only limited to licensed establishments. Being seen inebriated in public could get you in serious trouble with the law.