Culture, grandeur and world-class luxury — the UAE's capital delivers an experience unlike anywhere else
Flight Time
7h from London
Best Time
November to March
Country
UAE
Suppliers
our travel partners ·
Abu Dhabi is the UAE's capital and, in many ways, its soul. While Dubai gets most of the headlines, Abu Dhabi offers a richer, more considered experience — world-class culture, extraordinary architecture and some of the finest hotels on earth, without the relentless pace of its neighbour.
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the city's defining landmark and one of the most spectacular buildings in the world. Completed in 2007, it can accommodate 40,000 worshippers and is built from 82 white marble domes, over 1,000 columns and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet — a 5,627 square metre masterpiece made by 1,200 artisans. The mosque is open to non-Muslim visitors and entry is free. It is genuinely one of the most extraordinary places you will ever visit.
Yas Island is Abu Dhabi's entertainment hub. Ferrari World is home to Formula Rossa, the world's fastest roller coaster, alongside dozens of other Ferrari-themed rides and experiences. Yas Waterworld is one of the region's best water parks. Warner Bros. World brings DC and Looney Tunes characters to life across six immersive lands. The Yas Marina Circuit hosts the Abu Dhabi Formula 1 Grand Prix every November — one of the most glamorous events in the motorsport calendar.
Saadiyat Island is Abu Dhabi's cultural and luxury district. The Louvre Abu Dhabi, designed by Jean Nouvel, is a masterpiece of architecture and houses a remarkable collection spanning 5,000 years of human civilisation. The Zayed National Museum and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi are both under development nearby. Saadiyat Beach is one of the finest in the UAE.
The best time to visit Abu Dhabi is November to March, when temperatures are warm and pleasant at 20–28°C. Summer (June to September) is extremely hot, with temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C, though hotels offer significant discounts during this period.
Flights from the UK to Abu Dhabi take approximately 7 hours. We search across Travelpack, Emirates Holidays and JTA Holidays to find you the best deal, with the FIBI discount applied automatically.
Jan
20°C
Feb
22°C
Mar
26°C
Apr
31°C
May
37°C
Jun
40°C
Jul
42°C
Aug
42°C
Sep
39°C
Oct
33°C
Nov
27°C
Dec
22°C
Call us or send an enquiry and we'll find you the best deal across Travelpack and JTA Holidays.
Call 01282 960 460The mosques, museums and theme parks that make Abu Dhabi one of the world's most extraordinary city break destinations.
One of the most beautiful buildings on earth. The Grand Mosque can accommodate 40,000 worshippers and is clad in 82 domes, over 1,000 columns and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet. Entry is free and open to all.
Ferrari World is home to Formula Rossa — the world's fastest roller coaster at 240km/h. Yas Island also has Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros. World and the Yas Marina Formula 1 circuit.
A stunning Jean Nouvel-designed museum on Saadiyat Island, with a perforated dome that creates a rain of light. The collection spans 5,000 years of human history across civilisations.
Saadiyat Beach is one of the finest in the UAE — a long stretch of white sand with calm, clear water. The St Regis, Park Hyatt and Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island are all exceptional.
The Corniche is Abu Dhabi's elegant seafront promenade — 8km of manicured gardens, beaches and cafes. The Etihad Towers observation deck offers panoramic views across the city and Gulf.
One of the most opulent hotels in the world. Even if you're not staying, afternoon tea at Emirates Palace — with its gold-dusted cappuccinos and palatial interiors — is an unmissable experience.
Abu Dhabi's dining scene is exceptional. From traditional Emirati cuisine at Al Fanar to Michelin-starred restaurants on Saadiyat Island and the vibrant food halls of Yas Mall.
Just 45 minutes from the city, the Liwa Desert offers some of the most dramatic dune landscapes in the world. Dune bashing, camel riding and overnight desert camps are all available.
Key areas, beaches and attractions across the island.
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