What To Know
- Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a longer stay, here’s where to begin.
- The lamb machboos stands out, slow-cooked and layered with fragrant spices, presented in a setting inspired by the majlis tradition.
- Monumental in scale yet intricate in detail, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the UAE’s defining landmarks.
From globally recognised museums to creative neighbourhoods and design-led cafés, Abu Dhabi balances cultural weight with contemporary energy. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a longer stay, here’s where to begin.
What to See in Abu Dhabi
Louvre Abu Dhabi
Set on Saadiyat Island, Louvre Abu Dhabi is as much about architecture as art. Its vast floating dome filters sunlight through interlocking geometric patterns, casting shifting shadows across white walkways and galleries. Inside, artworks from different cultures and centuries are displayed side by side, encouraging dialogue across time and geography.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Monumental in scale yet intricate in detail, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the UAE’s defining landmarks. Its marble courtyard features one of the world’s largest mosaics, while interiors reveal Qur’anic calligraphy, crystal chandeliers and hand-crafted ornamentation. Every element reflects craftsmanship rooted in tradition.
Abu Dhabi Corniche and Al Hudayriat Island
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Corniche offers waterfront cycling and walking routes with skyline views. Al Hudayriat Island adds beach access, sunset scenes and space for swimming or surfing.
What to Eat in Abu Dhabi
What Not Café
Part café, part concept store, What Not Café blends retail, art and dining into one space. Surrounded by ceramics, books and curated objects, guests can enjoy carefully crafted coffee and minimalist small plates.
Mina Creamery
For inventive desserts, Mina Creamery reimagines traditional flavours. Signature options include roasted dates folded into olive-oil ice cream with sea salt, and a scone-inspired flavour featuring clotted cream and raspberry jam.
Erth Restaurant at Qasr Al Hosn
Located within the historic Qasr Al Hosn complex, Erth Restaurant offers a contemporary take on Emirati cuisine. The lamb machboos stands out, slow-cooked and layered with fragrant spices, presented in a setting inspired by the majlis tradition.
What to Buy in Abu Dhabi
MiZa at Mina Zayed
Short for Mina Zayed, MiZa is an evolving creative hub in the port district. Former warehouses now house studios, pop-ups and cafés, offering visitors the chance to discover independent designers, art prints and seasonal exhibitions.
O’de Rose Concept Store
A destination for curated homeware, O’de Rose features handcrafted ceramics, textiles and decorative objects from regional and international designers.
Yas Mall
For large-scale retail therapy, Yas Mall offers an expansive mix of luxury and high-street brands, including Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Prada, all under one roof.
Abu Dhabi’s appeal lies in its contrasts — monumental architecture alongside independent cafés, heritage cuisine beside contemporary design. Whether you’re exploring museums, sampling Emirati flavours or browsing concept stores, the capital delivers culture and creativity in equal measure.
