Your Abu Dhabi Selling Guide
Welcome to your one-stop shop for all things Abu Dhabi, where you’ll find everything from essential information, a flights guide and accommodation guide to marketing tips, operators’ itineraries and destination-relevant news.
Abu Dhabi Essentials
International dial code: +971
Languages: Although Arabic is the official language in the UAE, English is widely spoken. Most business transactions in Abu Dhabi are conducted in English.
Visas: British citizens can get a visitor or tourist visa issued free of charge when they arrive in the UAE, valid for up to 90 days over a 180-day period. They do not need to apply in advance of travel. Their passport will be stamped with the visa as they go through immigration. To enter the UAE, clients must have a passport with an expiry date at least six months after the date they arrive. Find more information at gov.uk
Plug sockets: Type G (same as the UK)
Standard voltage: 230V and 50Hz
Safety information: Please see gov.uk for the most up to date information.
Weather: Temperatures range from 18-30C from November to March for the cooler season, and between 25-40C from April-October for the warmer months.
Online training: experienceabudhabiexperts.com
Flight guide
There are a number of non-stop flight options from the UK and Ireland to Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International airport with Etihad Airways.
UK and Irish clients can depart Heathrow, Manchester or Dublin.
| Airline | Origin | Destination | Frequency 2026 | Inbound seats |
| Etihad Airways | London Heathrow (LHR) | Abu Dhabi Zayed Int’l (AUH) | Average 28 flights per week | 680K |
| Etihad Airways | Manchester (MAN) | Abu Dhabi Zayed Int’l (AUH) | Average 14 flights per week | 243K |
| Etihad Airways | Dublin (DUB) | Abu Dhabi Zayed Int’l (AUH) | Average 14 flights per week | 243K |
Accommodation
- There are over 230 hotels and resorts in Abu Dhabi.
- Some of the most popular areas to stay in Abu Dhabi include Al Ain, Al Dhafra, Saadiyat Island, Al Reef Island, Al Raha, The Corniche, Al Reed, Khalidiya, Al Maryah Island, Al Zahiyah and Al Markaziyah among other key regions.
- There are resorts that suit every type of traveller – from families, groups of friends, couples and for those solo travelling.
- Depending on your budget, you can find a variety of hotels starting from as little as $30 (USD) a night in Abu Dhabi.
Best time to go
Sunny blue skies and high temperatures can be expected most of the year. There isn’t much rainfall in the emirate either. Temperatures range from a low of around 13C on a winter’s night, to a high of around 42C on a summer’s day.
Winter
NOVEMBER - APRIL
The most pleasant time to visit is between November and April, when temperatures are around 24C during the day and 13C at night. This is the ideal time to explore the city’s outdoor attractions without the heat. That said, your clients can unwind on serene beaches, hop between stunning islands, brace themselves for numerous thrilling adventures (both indoors and outdoors) and be immersed in art and culture year-round.
Summer
JUNE - SEPTEMBER
Summer is also a key period for visitors, as they can experience Abu Dhabi’s pristine beaches and also explore exciting indoor activities like the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi. Many of Abu Dhabi’s high-end hotels and resorts offer low-season discounts and promotions, making it the perfect time to experience opulent accommodations at a fraction of the usual price.
What's on?
Abu Dhabi Aldar Championship (5-8 November, Yas Links Abu Dhabi). The Abu Dhabi Aldar Championship returns for its 21st edition, bringing together the top 70 players on the Race to Dubai rankings as they battle it out in the DP World Tour Play-Offs for a place in the final event of the season. General Admission is free on Thursday and Friday, while fans looking to elevate their experience can enjoy 'Bar on Nine' on the 9th green for the best views of the action.
Hans Zimmer (13 November, Etihad Arena – Yas Island). Hans Zimmer brings his 'THE NEXT LEVEL' tour to Abu Dhabi as part of the 23rd edition of Abu Dhabi Festival, performing alongside his 19-piece band. Known for iconic scores including 'The Lion King', 'Gladiator', 'Interstellar' and 'Dune: Part One', the production transforms cinema's most beloved music into a powerful live arena experience.
Taste Abu Dhabi 2026 (13-15 November, Yas Gateway Park North). This food festival offers a mix of family-friendly dining, live entertainment and hands-on activities for all ages. Explore a range of cuisines from popular restaurants, watch live cooking sessions and let little ones take part in interactive experiences designed just for them. With a relaxed setting and plenty to see and do, it’s an easy way to spend quality time while discovering the city’s food culture.
Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial (15 November 2026-15 February 2027). The Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial is back for its second edition, with works by international and Emirati artists set to transform public landscapes across Abu Dhabi. Running from 15 November 2026 to 15 February 2027, works will appear at Mina Zayed, the city’s historic port, and at Souq Al Mina next door.
Living Legacies. Protecting Heritage. Building Hope (25 November 2026-25 April 2027, Louvre Abu Dhabi). Living Legacies tells stories of how people in some of the world’s most complex environments work to protect, restore and safeguard their cultural heritage. Featuring artefacts on loan from diverse international cultural institutions, the exhibition will guide visitors through a multi-sensory, immersive experience displaying projections and testimonies.
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2026 (4-7 December, Yas Marina Circuit). Attendees will be able to experience the F1 season finale of a lifetime, where All Roads Lead to Abu Dhabi! Guests can indulge in a supercharged atmosphere as they watch the best drivers battle it out on the Yas Marina Circuit. More than a race, it’s a city-wide experience only Abu Dhabi can deliver!
Liwa International Festival (11 December 2026-2 January 2027, Al Dhafra). The Liwa International Festival, held in the world-renowned Empty Quarter (2.5 hour drive from Abu Dhabi), is an annual hub of desert motorsport, music, family-friendly entertainment and Emirati heritage taking place across several weeks and ringing in the new year like only Abu Dhabi can.
Harry Potter Film Concert Series (5-6 February, Etihad Arena, Yas Island). The ‘Harry Potter Film Concert Series’ brings the next chapter of the wizarding world with back-to-back screenings of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban and Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, performed with a full orchestra. Watch the story unfold on screen as the UAE National Orchestra plays the original scores in sync, bringing every moment to life.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (14-23 May, Etihad Arena, Yas Island). Roald Dahl's 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' follows young Charlie Bucket's golden-ticket journey into Willy Wonka's chocolate factory. The show features eye-popping visuals, larger-than-life characters and 3D special effects, alongside classic songs like 'Pure Imagination' and 'The Candy Man'.
CATS The Musical (4-13 June, Etihad Arena, Yas Island). Andrew Lloyd Webber’s record-breaking musical 'CATS' arrives in Abu Dhabi, bringing one of the world’s most loved stage productions to local audiences. Featuring iconic songs including the unforgettable 'Memory', the show blends expressive choreography, striking visuals and a powerful musical score. This celebrated production invites audiences into a world told through music and movement, appealing to both first-time theatregoers and long-time fans.
Itineraries
Rich heritage
Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich heritage of Abu Dhabi, visit historic landmarks and learn about local customs and traditions:
Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the first stop on this itinerary. Here, people from all walks of life come together to take in the architecture’s beauty and gain a deeper understanding of religion and culture in UAE. The mosque is one of the world’s largest and was the vision of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the emirate. He envisaged the creation of a welcoming and cultural haven that inspires people from all backgrounds. On their journey through the marbled halls, visitors will see one-of-a-kind treasures, including gold-plated Swarovski chandeliers, the courtyard’s vast marble mosaic artwork and reflective pools that mirror some of the many amethyst-and-jasper-embedded columns.
Next stop is Qasr Al Hosn, which is the city’s oldest stone building. Travellers can soak up the fascinating history of the UAE’s capital or spend their day admiring the artefacts and archival materials from 6,000 years ago.
For the final cultural visit of the day, clients can head to Qasr Al Watan. This is a working presidential palace and a majestic cultural landmark that invites visitors to discover the rich legacy of knowledge and tradition that has shaped the UAE’s journey. More than just a traditional palace, Qasr Al Watan boosts cultural understanding of the nation and emphasises its incredible history.
Yas Island
Yas Island offers something for everyone. It’s a haven for thrill-seekers and families, with world-renowned theme parks and attractions like Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi and Yas Waterworld. For those seeking relaxation, Yas Island boasts pristine beaches, luxurious resorts, and a world-class golf course:
Your clients can start the day feeling a rush at Yas Island’s theme parks, stepping into a world of their favourite characters and endless excitement at Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi. Interactive family-friendly attractions and live entertainment are guaranteed giggles for the younger ones, while shopping and dining venues keep the adults happy and energised.
Next, visitors can beat the heat and head to Yas Waterworld, with more than 40 exhilarating rides offering a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. Brave travellers can give the world’s first and largest hydromagnetic-powered, 238-metre long, six-person tornado waterslide Dawwamma a go, followed by the insane three-metre-high waves on Bubble’s Barrel, which has the world’s largest surfable sheet wave for flow boards and bodyboards.
Finally, they can tackle thrilling coasters and racing-themed rides at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. The state-of-the-art Yas Marina Circuit hosts the annual Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and sits at the centre of the action on Yas Island.
Shopping and dining across Abu Dhabi
Visitors can shop until they drop in the fanciest of ways by visiting Avenue at Etihad Towers, an exclusive retail boutique for high-end fashion and jewellery connoisseurs.
Next, they can pop over to the Conrad Abu Dhabi for afternoon tea at Observation Deck at 300, with 360° views of Abu Dhabi and its stunning skyline.
Once they’re fuelled up, suggest your clients wrap up their tour with a luxurious shopping trip at The Galleria, Al Maryah Island where they can spoil themselves with a choice of hundreds of designer brands.
And to end the day, visitors can discover Abu Dhabi’s Michelin-starred fusion of flavours and cuisines, prepared by internationally acclaimed chefs at some of the most notable dining destinations across the emirate. Recommend Erth restaurant for a twist on Emirati food, Oii for Mediterranean flavours and T’azal for a culinary journey of Arabic flavours.
Saadiyat Cultural District
Saadiyat Cultural District Abu Dhabi is a unique constellation of museums, cultural institutions and collections that celebrate the achievements of the UAE. A centre for innovation and creativity, it brings together a wealth of cultural experiences within a walkable destination.
From 11 December 2026, the district will welcome Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry. Focusing on modern and contemporary art, the museum will bring a distinctive regional perspective to the global Guggenheim network, further strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading cultural destination.
Stepping inside the iconic Louvre Abu Dhabi, the first universal museum in the Arab world, visitors can experience the museum’s mission to foster a spirit of openness between cultures. As one of the premier cultural institutions in the heart of Saadiyat Cultural District, this art lover’s dream displays works of historical, cultural and sociological significance, spanning ancient times to the contemporary era.
teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi is a 17,000 sq m multi-sensory art experience featuring immersive, large-scale exhibits that transport visitors on an extraordinary sensory journey. Butterflies, floating mirror balloons, cloud formations and more invite visitors to play, explore and change their perspective on life and the world around them. Blending art, science and technology, these artworks are designed to engage the senses and respond to their surroundings.
Saadiyat Island’s art, cultural activity and community events centre, Manarat Al Saadiyat, brings the island’s creative vision to life, encouraging visitors to come together, experiment, create their own art, discover exhibitions, exchange ideas, enjoy food or listen to talks. Meaning “a place of enlightenment” in Arabic, Manarat Al Saadiyat is home to the annual Abu Dhabi Art fair, as well as an outdoor events terrace, café and brasserie, three galleries for temporary exhibitions, a photography studio, an art studio, a 250-seat auditorium and a gift shop.
The district’s cultural offering extends further, with Zayed National Museum celebrating the UAE’s history, culture and Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, while Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi takes visitors on a journey through the origins of the universe and the story of our planet. Together, these institutions offer travellers a rich mix of art, heritage, science and discovery, giving travel agents plenty of inspiration to create multi-day cultural itineraries.
Responsible travel
Here are top tips for encouraging your clients to be responsible when in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is a destination with almost year-round sunshine, little rainfall and near-perfect winter temperatures. Lightweight summer clothing is suitable for most of the year, but something slightly warmer may be needed for the winter months.
Although the attitude towards clothing style is liberal throughout the UAE, a healthy amount of respect for local customs doesn’t go amiss, especially when shopping or sightseeing.
Tipping is not expected but is commonly practised in the emirate. Gratuities to hotel and restaurant staff are at your discretion.
Islam is the official religion of the UAE and is widely practised. The Islamic holy day is Friday, when some attractions may change their opening times. Abu Dhabi is tolerant of other religions with people being free to practise their religious beliefs.
Ramadan is a special time in Abu Dhabi. Like always, visitors can explore and discover rich cultural experiences, with even more nighttime dining and festive traditions to choose from. Everyone can enjoy the full range of shopping, dining and attractions, with the opportunity to make deeper connections with the local culture, at their own pace.
Quick facts about Ramadan:
- Ramadan is the ninth and most important month in the Islamic calendar.
- It’s a time for prayer, reflection and community.
- During Ramadan, Muslims worldwide fast from eating, drinking, and smoking from sunrise to sunset.
- Abu Dhabi offers rich cultural experiences, with more nighttime dining and festive traditions.
- Visitors can enjoy a full range of shopping, dining, and attractions, while also connecting with local culture at their own pace.
- Acts of charity (zakat) are highly encouraged.
- There are two main meals during Ramadan... Suhoor is an early morning meal before fasting begins.
- Iftar is the meal that breaks the fast at sunset.
Your clients are warmly invited to embrace the season’s spirit, with even more to see, do, enjoy and discover in Abu Dhabi.
Getting around the emirate is easier than ever with the Experience Abu Dhabi shuttle bus and Al Ain shuttle bus services. These free-of-charge transportation options offer comfortable seating, air-conditioning, wheelchair accessibility, and Wi-Fi access. Visitors can simply hop on at any stop, scan the QR code and enjoy the ride!
The colourful Experience Abu Dhabi shuttle bus fleet operates on eight key routes, connecting Yas Island, Jubail Island, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi city centre and the Grand Canal area. Visitors to Al Ain can now enjoy the newly launched Al Ain shuttle bus routes, connecting points of interest throughout the city including Al Ain Oasis and Al Jahili Fort – and even extending out to the Telal and Al Bada Resorts.
Marketing advice
Mike Taylor, senior product manager, Arabian Gulf, Caribbean, Indian Ocean, Lusso Travel
We asked a top Abu Dhabi operator to supply tips for the destination, so you can effectively communicate what the destination offers and increase your Abu Dhabi sales.
“Abu Dhabi has worked hard to craft a unique identity and to set itself apart from its neighbours. No longer seen solely as a stopover for travellers flying with Etihad Airways, it’s now firmly established as a destination in its own right – the Emirate is a hub for culture and architecture, with a stunning array of beaches, theme parks, world-class resorts and gorgeous golf courses.
“Cultural and architectural highlights range from the traditionally breathtaking Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and The Presidential Palace of Qasr Al Watan to the cutting-edge modern design of The Saadiyat Cultural District. The district is home to Louvre Abu Dhabi, showcasing art and history from around the globe, the Zayed National Museum, focusing on Abu Dhabi’s rich history and culture, the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi and teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, a unique interactive venue dedicated to digital and sensory art. All soon to be joined by Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, the largest Guggenheim museum in the world.
“Yas Island boasts numerous theme parks including Ferrari World, home of the world famous Formula Rossa rollercoaster; Warner Bros. World, where families are surrounded by their favourite DC superheroes and cartoon characters; and Yas Waterworld. The nearby Yas Marina Circuit offers driving experiences around the track that hosts the finale of the Formula 1 calendar, while CLYMB Abu Dhabi thrills with indoor skydiving and rock climbing.”
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