Things to Know Before Traveling to Abu Dhabi

Welcome to luxury, adventure, history, culture, and decadence. Welcome to UAE’s capital city, Abu Dhabi. If you have made up your mind to go on holiday to Abu Dhabi, you need the following Abu Dhabi travel guide. In this guide, you give everything you need to know before traveling to Abu Dhabi to plan well and get the most out of this wonderful Emirate.

Spend 5 to 7 Days Here

Abu Dhabi is like a country within itself. From historical and cultural attractions like Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Qasr Al Watan to modern attractions like Yas Island and Louvre Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi has world-class attractions and experiences that need at least 5 to 7 days for you to explore.

Make a List

Make a list of things you want to do and must visit attractions in Abu Dhabi. This city is a proper rival to Dubai and is packed with amazing activities and places that are unique and brilliant. So, it won't be possible to see everything (leave some for the next visit). Hence, make a list of the most unmissable things and do them all.

Dedicated Time for Yas Island

One of the greatest family attractions in Abu Dhabi is Yas Island. This man-made island is home to amazing attractions like Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and Yas Waterworld. This Island is also home to Yas Marina Circuit, which is UAE's only Formula One circuit. All these promise a wonderful time on the island.

Pack The Right Clothing & Shoes

You will be walking a lot here, so make sure you have good shoes that can be worn outdoors as well if you choose to do adventure activities like desert safari. Also, carry warm clothing. Yes, warm clothing is a must because even if you have come during the best time to visit Abu Dhabi, the nights are quite cold, and indoors are fully air-conditioned. Carry something you can pull on in case you feel chilly.

Dress Code

Though Abu Dhabi is a relatively modern city, there are some dress codes you need to follow. According to most Abu Dhabi travel tips, in most places, as long as men and women have their knees and shoulders covered in clothing, it is okay. However, in a holy place like the Grand Mosque, which is one of the must visit attractions in Abu Dhabi, women have to fully cover up with an abaya. Applies to other religious sites as well.

Social Customs

UAE is an Islamic nation, so there are a few social customs you have to be mindful of. According to most Abu Dhabi travel guides, do not greet members of the opposite sex with a hug or handshake. Physical touching of the opposite gender is a big no. Just say the greeting and smile or place your hand on your heart and nod while saying the greeting. This is how it's mostly done.

Basic Communication

Saying a few words can take you far in any foreign location let alone Abu Dhabi. In Abu Dhabi, you can say “Shukran” which means “Thank You”. Though “Hello” or “Hi” is fine, “Assalamu alaikum”, which means “peace be upon you” is better. If some greet you with this, reply with “Walaikum as-salam” which means “And unto you be peace".

Take the City Tour

Do more with less through an Abu Dhabi city tour! This is one of the best ways to see many attractions in the city in just a day. From attractions like Heritage Village to the Emirates Palace, you get to see them all while you are chauffeured around in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Prohibitions

Though there are bars, pubs, and nightclubs, public intoxication is a big no. So, if you want to drink, drink in the right place at the right time but don’t be publicly intoxicated or drive under the influence, unless you want to get fined. Punishment for drugs is worse. You will be arrested immediately!

Ramadan Rules

If you happen to be in Abu Dhabi during Ramadan, you are going to have a great time. Not only is it the best time to visit Abu Dhabi, but it is also a peaceful time for self-reflection. But there are a few rules to follow. Do not eat or drink in public during the fast. Use designated spaces. Don’t play loud music or get into arguments. Once fasting time is over, join the many Iftar events for a meal.

Additional Things to Know Before Travelling to Abu Dhabi

• Make early bookings for family attractions in Abu Dhabi as they get full.

• Visit the Corniche. It is a unique beach in Abu Dhabi.

• Don’t sit in a position where your feet might be pointed to someone.

• Indulge in the Abu Dhabi Desert Safari as it is a fantastic experience.

• The Presidential Palace, Qasr Al Watan is another great place worth seeing.

So, follow all the Abu Dhabi travel tips given above and have a great time in this magnificent city. You will definitely want to come back and experience it all over again.