Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is a city full of contrasts.
Mixing traditional Arabian culture with the very best in modern luxury, from opulent architecture and pristine beaches to rich history-it's got a little something for everyone.
Here is a comprehensive guide that will help you plan your visit to Abu Dhabi.
<h3>Getting Around: Transportation</h3>
Navigating Abu Dhabi is easy thanks to its efficient transportation system.
<b>Public Buses:</b> Operated by the Department of Transport, Abu Dhabi’s buses are affordable and connect major attractions. Fares start at AED 2 ($0.54) per trip.
<b>Taxis:</b> Readily available and reasonably priced, with a base fare of AED 5 ($1.36) and AED 1.82 ($0.50) per kilometer.
<b>Car Rentals:</b> Perfect for getting around the area at your own pace, starting from AED 80 ($22) per day.
<b>Bike Rentals:</b> Yas Island and Corniche have bike rentals that are an exciting way to see the city. Prices begin at AED 30 ($8) per hour.
<h3>Where to Stay: Accommodation</h3>
Abu Dhabi has a wide range of accommodations available in every budget category.
<b>Luxury Hotels:</b>
<b>Emirates Palace:</b> Five-star rates from AED 1,500 ($410) per night.
<b>The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort :</b> Being one of the very few genuinely luxurious options right on the beach, it starts from AED 1,200 ($327).
<b>Mid-Segment Hotels :</b>
<b>Novotel Abu Dhabi Al Bustan:</b> Comfortable and decently prices-AED 300–400 per night ($82–109)
<b>Premier Inn Abu Dhabi Capital Centre:</b> Starting at AED 250 ($68)
Low Budget
<b>Al Diar Mina Hotel:</b> From AED 150 per room ($41)
<b>Hostel:</b> At hostels, a shared room will cost around AED 100–120, approximately $27–33 per night.
<h3>Top Rated Attractions</h3>
Abu Dhabi is brimming with iconic landmarks and experiences.
<b>1. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque:</b> An exceptionally beautiful architectural masterpiece, entry is free. Guided tours are also provided.
<b>2. Louvre Abu Dhabi:</b> A showcase of art and history, entry tickets: AED 60 ($16)
<b>3. Qasr Al Watan:</b> The presidential palace gives good insights into the UAE's governance and culture. Entry fee: AED 60 ($16)
<b>4. Yas Island:</b>
<b>Ferrari World:</b> Entry from AED 295 ($80)
<b>Yas Waterworld:</b> Day passes from AED 250 ($68).
<b>Warner Bros. World:</b> Tickets start at AED 295 ($80).
<b>5.Saadiyat Island:</b> Known for its pristine beaches, access to Saadiyat Beach starts at AED 25 ($6.80).
<h3>Culinary Experiences</h3>
Abu Dhabi’s dining scene is as diverse as its culture.
<b>Fine Dining:</b>
<b>Hakkasan:</b> Michelin-starred Cantonese cuisine, with meals averaging AED 400 ($109) per person.
<b>Villa Toscana:</b> Known for authentic Italian flavors, averaging AED 300 ($82) per person.
<b>Mid-Range:</b>
<b>Shakespeare and Co.:</b> International cuisine, with meals approximately AED 100–150 ($27–41).
<b>Zuma:</b> Contemporary Japanese food for AED 200–250 ($54–68)
<b>Budget Eats:</b>
<b>Lebanese Flower:</b> Filling Middle East meals from AED 50–70 ($14–19).
<b>Al Baik:</b> Fried chicken meals are available for AED 30–50 ($8–14).
<h3>Things to Do and Activities</h3>
<b>1. Desert Safari:</b> Go on a dune bashing, take part in camel rides, and a Bedouin-style dinner for AED 250–350 ($68–95).
<b>2.Corniche Beach:</b> Enjoy this family-friendly beach for the entrance price of AED 10 ($3).
<b>3.Mangroves Kayaking:</b> Get to visit nature reserves for AED 150 ($41).
<b>4.Cultural Tours:</b> Al Ain Oasis and Heritage Village. Entry fees: AED 20–50 ($5–14).
<b>5.Cruise Tours:</b> Dinner cruises around Abu Dhabi Marina start off from AED 200 ($54) per head.
<h3>Teaching Lykkers</h3>
Any specific questions about Abu Dhabi that you may have, or if you'd like personalized recommendations, go ahead and ask Lykkers for suggestions on planning your trip.
Abu Dhabi - Complete Travel Guide - UAE Dubai
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