Listly by Joanna James
Finally decided to go to Abu Dhabi for a vacation? Great choice! It's one of the best destinations in the Middle East. Here are some dos and don'ts to keep in mind when visiting the UAE capital.
While Abu Dhabi is as modern as it gets, it's still very traditional and somewhat conservative. This is why it's important to dress appropriately. What does dressing right mean in Abu Dhabi? It means covering your shoulders and knees when you're away from your hotel, especially when visiting religious sites. Remember, Abu Dhabi isn't your typical vacation spot where anything goes. Dressing modestly doesn’t only apply to female travellers; men need to adhere to a modest dress code too—you can't go bare-chested in Abu Dhabi. Save the shorts and tank tops for your resort, but when you're out and about, make sure you dress appropriately. You're a guest here, so it's important to respect the culture and blend in.
In Abu Dhabi, you can't drink as much as you want, whenever you want, or wherever you want. This doesn't mean you can't have a drink—you certainly can, but only at licensed venues. Also, it's wise to limit your alcohol intake. Abu Dhabi can be scorching hot, so what you really need to drink is water, not alcohol. Take this seriously because heat exhaustion is a real concern, and staying hydrated is essential.
Abu Dhabi offers a wide range of hotels and resorts, so choosing just one place to stay can be a bit overwhelming—but it's better than not having choices. Picking the right place is important because you don't want to spend too much time on the road getting from point A to point B. Consider the location, the activities you want to do, the amenities, and, of course, your budget. Serviced apartments in Abu Dhabi are a great option if you want more autonomy and a homely feel. One option is Oaks Liwa Executive Suites. Make sure to do your research before booking—reviews from previous guests can be an invaluable source of information.
Your trip to Abu Dhabi will lack substance if you don't experience the desert. You should set aside at least a few hours of your day to venture into the sands—there’s so much fun to be had there. Activities like dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, and even desert safaris are all on the menu. Just remember, the desert can get extremely hot, so bring plenty of water, a hat, sunscreen, and your sunnies.
Abu Dhabi is home to a variety of landmarks, so you'll always find something new to experience. With its beautiful marble-clad exterior and interior, along with a serene ambience, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a must-visit. The Louvre Abu Dhabi is another highlight—the building itself is a masterpiece, and inside you'll find a vast collection of art. For some excitement, head to Ferrari World.
Abu Dhabi’s food scene is impressive. From shawarma stands to fine dining spots, the city offers a diverse culinary experience. You should definitely try some of the local flavours, like Machboos and Luqaimat. Arabic coffee with dates is a must-try too—in the world of Arabian hospitality, it’s a rite of passage.
To make the most of your vacation in Abu Dhabi, you should time it right. The cooler months stretch from November to March with perfect weather. Summer, on the other hand, can be quite brutal with temperatures often soaring above 40 degrees. If you do visit during the summer months, plan your visit for early morning or late in the afternoon—you really don’t want to be outdoors when the desert sun beats down on you hard at midday.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.