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Plan Your Trip to Abu Dhabi: Best of Abu Dhabi Tourism

What is Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best?
This award is our highest recognition and is presented annually to those businesses that are the Best of the Best on Tripadvisor, those that earn excellent reviews from travellers and are ranked in the top 1% of properties worldwide.
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By Adrien693
In partnership with Visit Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Atmospheric backstreets paint a very different picture to first impressions of Abu Dhabi. The often slick and modern capital of the U.A.E. presents a fascinating mixture of tradition and progression. Tracing its rich history back to around 3000 B.C., Abu Dhabi maintains a more distinctly Arabian ambiance than glitzy Dubai. Taxis are a safe, reliable way to get around sites such as The Corniche Park, the White Fort, the Heritage Village, which offers glimpses into Bedouin life, and the Women's Craft Centre.

Essential Abu Dhabi

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Abu Dhabi Is Great For

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Abu Dhabi travel advice

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These questions and answers were created by AI, using the most common questions travellers ask in the forums.

COVID-19 Testing and Quarantine

According to forum posts, all travelers arriving in Abu Dhabi are required to undergo a COVID-19 PCR test upon arrival and must complete a period of self-isolation or quarantine. The quarantine period can last up to 12 days depending on vaccination status, with additional PCR tests required depending on the length of stay.

Travel Documentation and Apps

Some travelers mentioned the need to register on the ICA website and have the Al Hosn mobile app to access public places within Abu Dhabi. It is also important for travelers to check entry requirements regularly as the rules can change.

Vaccination and Testing Requirements

Travelers have noted that vaccination status affects entry requirements, including the necessity for further testing and the length of quarantine. Unvaccinated travelers may face stricter requirements.

Additional Entry Procedures

Travelers also need to consider additional entry procedures such as wearing a medically approved wristband during quarantine, which is provided at Abu Dhabi airport after clearing immigration.

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Popular Recommendations

According to forum posts, popular hotel recommendations in Abu Dhabi include the Conrad at Etihad Towers and The St. Regis Abu Dhabi on the Corniche, noted for their lively areas and proximity to walking routes. The Grand Hyatt and hotels on Yas Island like The Fairmont and W are also favored for their views and accessibility.

Family and Child-Friendly Options

For travelers with children, the Radisson Blu Hotel & Resort, Abu Dhabi Corniche has been highlighted for its prime location near the promenade, variety of eateries, and good views, making it a preferred choice for families.

Convenience for Short Stays

For short stays or layovers, some travelers recommended the Aerohotel located inside the airport, offering convenience and more time to relax without leaving the airport area.

Luxury and Scenic Views

Luxury seekers often prefer the Ritz Carlton and the Sheraton Abu Dhabi for their high-end amenities and scenic views, particularly those looking for a mix of city access and beachfront luxury.

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Sleeping Pods and Hotels

Some travelers have mentioned that sleeping pods previously available at old terminals may not have been moved to the new midfield terminal. However, there are hotels like the Premier Inn close to the airport that offer shuttle services, providing more comprehensive amenities compared to airport sleeping pods.

Layover Hotel Usage

For those with shorter layovers, forum posts suggest considering the airport terminal hotel for a few hours of sleep and a shower. This option is deemed worthwhile by some users, especially when followed by dining in the terminal.

Lounge Access

According to forum posts, lounge access can be an alternative for resting, particularly for passengers with appropriate airline status or those willing to pay for lounge entry. The Etihad arrival lounge, for instance, is accessible to passengers with at least Gold status or by paying a significant fee.

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Bus Availability and Routes

According to forum posts, Abu Dhabi offers various bus services connecting the airport to the city center and other destinations. The A1 bus heads to Al Wada and the A2 to Khalifa Street, with each trip taking about an hour. There's also a mention of an E102 bus, but it might require a specific payment card as it's operated by Dubai RTA.

Service Frequency and Payment

Travelers have noted that some buses, like the ones from Abu Dhabi Airport to the city center, operate every 40 minutes. The cost of a bus ride from Abu Dhabi Airport to the city center is about 5 AED, payable at a machine. For routes like Abu Dhabi to Dubai, tickets can be purchased at the station, indicating ease of access and no need for reservations.

Additional Considerations

Some users mentioned the necessity of having a negative PCR test and vaccination status to enter public spaces in Abu Dhabi, which might be required when using public transportation services. This highlights the importance of health precautions in the current travel context.

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Transportation Options

For travelers needing to go from Abu Dhabi to Dubai, several options are available depending on the time of arrival and the airline they flew with. If arriving on Etihad, there's a free shuttle service to Dubai. However, this requires prior booking and is subject to availability.

Public Transportation

For those not flying with Etihad or if the shuttle doesn't suit their schedule, taxis are recommended as a primary alternative. Public buses from Abu Dhabi Central Station to Dubai operate until 11:40 PM, which might not be feasible for late arrivals. The journey by taxi usually costs between 250 and 300 AED and takes approximately 1.5 hours.

Bus Service

Travelers also inquired about the E102 public bus, although specific operational details like the need for a PCR test or a Green app status were not confirmed in the posts.

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Camel Rides and Bedouin Tents

According to forum posts, camel rides to a Bedouin tent for an evening meal complemented by dancers is a sought-after activity. This traditional experience provides a cultural immersion into the Bedouin lifestyle.

Dune Activities

Some travelers mentioned that dune bashing, sand surfing, and sunset barbecues are popular activities in the desert near Abu Dhabi. These activities offer a thrilling adventure against the backdrop of the vast desert landscape.

Overnight Desert Tours

For many users, overnight desert tours are an appealing option, especially for families. These tours often include a variety of desert activities and provide a unique opportunity to experience the desert under the stars.

Photography

A photoshoot in the desert is another activity highlighted by travelers, particularly for special occasions. The picturesque sand dunes serve as a stunning backdrop for photographs.

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Performers and Entertainment

According to forum posts, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix includes not just the race but also major entertainment events. In 2021, performers like Khalid and Lewis Capaldi were featured at the after-race concerts.

Experiences and Activities

Travelers have called out various experiences around the Grand Prix. These include the opportunity to cycle around the F1 circuit, which is a unique and free activity mentioned by a recent visitor.

Location and Access

Some users highlighted that staying on Yas Island is beneficial as it is close to the circuit and often within walking distance to the track. The island hosts several hotels, making it a convenient location for attendees.

Additional Tips

For many users, attending the Grand Prix offers more than just the race; tickets also provide access to after-race concerts, making the event a comprehensive entertainment experience.

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Tripadvisor is not responsible for these answers or any opinions in them. Please read full forum posts for more details and information.