The emirate, where traditions, modernity and the magic of the East meet, is a popular holiday destination for Russian tourists. to prepare for the trip, several tips and recommendations for vacationers have been prepared.
Is Abu Dhabi an expensive holiday destination? Are there beautiful beaches in Abu Dhabi? What is the difference with Dubai? We will try to answer these questions. If you have any further questions about Abu Dhabi, please feel free to write to us in the comments.
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What to look for when entering Abu Dhabi
To the United Arab Emirates in about 8-10 hours of flight. Up to 18 direct flights depart from Russia daily. With Etihad Airways you land directly in Abu Dhabi. With Emirates, you fly to Dubai, then the transfer takes about 1.5 hours in an air-conditioned bus. Between Abu Dhabi airport and most hotels there is no more than half an hour drive. For intercity destinations, a convenient public transport system has been created in the country.
Despite the fact that most hotels are five-star, there are more simple and inexpensive hotels. Depending on the season, you can get discounts, take part in bonus programs. The first tip for travelers to Abu Dhabi is to check the price of accommodation, so you can book a hotel, which usually costs more.
Russian citizens need a passport valid for at least 6 months after the date of travel. Additionally, a visitor visa is required.
Public transport in Abu Dhabi
Within the city there is an extensive network of bus services, some of which operate around the clock. A ticket costs 2 dirhams (about 0.50 euros). So you can quickly get from one area, the resort of the city to another. All buses are air conditioned. For trips to Yas Island, you can use the free shuttle bus YAS Express.
Abu Dhabi has a bike-sharing system like other regions of the United Arab Emirates. There are 11 rental locations, mainly on Yas Island, but there are plans to increase their number.
Abu Dhabi holiday picker
Summer in the Persian Gulf is quite hot. At temperatures of 40 – 50 ° C and high humidity, walking in the fresh air will become uncomfortable. But in many sights, public institutions, malls, air conditioning systems are installed. An alternative is to cool off on the beaches, or in the huge water park Yas Waterworld. But be sure to think about sun protection – clothes, creams, sunglasses
If you want to travel a lot outdoors, we recommend visiting Abu Dhabi between November and March. Temperatures then range from 25 to 30°C. Warm enough to swim in the sea at any time in winter, but at the same time not too hot for long outdoor trips.
Proper clothing in Abu Dhabi
Even though the Emirates is quite liberal, you are still in a Muslim country. You can wear shorts and a t-shirt on the beach, but you should pay attention to appropriate clothing when sightseeing. For women, this means that the shoulders are covered, a deep neckline is prohibited. In the mosque, you must also cover your head. Men are dressed appropriately – dress pants and T-shirt, shirt.
On the beaches you can wear bikinis and swimming trunks. If you are leaving coastal areas, please wear something over your swimwear. Otherwise, tourists face a fine or, at least, a warning from the police.
Can a girl, a woman herself go to Abu Dhabi
Hospitality and respect are considered a high boon among residents. If a woman (girl) travels around Abu Dhabi herself, there is nothing to be afraid of. Local men usually greet you with remote friendliness. Just because you’re traveling alone, no one sees it as an invitation to flirt.
In general, great importance is attached to making women feel safe. There are carriages in the subway designed for female passengers. There are even special taxis run by women who only take them with them. You can recognize them by their pink roofs. The locals even use beach areas where men are not allowed to settle down (this is provided by a security guard nearby).
What should I pay attention to during Ramadan
The Islamic fasting month of Ramadan does not bring any serious restrictions for tourists and independent travelers. But out of respect for religion and culture, one should refrain from eating in public places during the day and not drinking alcohol. The locals will thank you. Some hotels and restaurants do not serve alcohol during the day, and some establishments do not open until after sunset.
How much does a holiday in Abu Dhabi cost?
If you want to relax in a truly luxurious way, you can do it in Abu Dhabi. But the emirate is not a place exclusively for wealthy tourists. Most museums and attractions do not require entry fees. If you are traveling in a rented car, petrol prices will be much lower than in Russia. Accordingly, taxi prices are also small. With daily metro tickets, you can also travel around the city relatively cheaply.
Among the hotels and restaurants there is a choice for every budget. The cafe serves national dishes of the UAE, there is a traditional European cuisine. There are many good, inexpensive hotels in the city. Together with the all-inclusive offers, the additional costs remain low. Vacationing in Abu Dhabi can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be.
Can Abu Dhabi be compared to Dubai?
Compared to its neighbor the Emirate of Dubai, Abu Dhabi is a bit more reserved. There is a slightly more traditional flavor here than in the metropolis of Dubai. One of the tips for tourists in Abu Dhabi is that the city is not designed for a good night’s rest. There are fewer nightclubs and discos here. In terms of culture and entertainment, as well as dream beaches, the lines are becoming increasingly blurred because both emirates have so much to offer. Dubai is the unofficial tourist capital of the UAE.
Driving from Dubai to Abu Dhabi
If you are in Dubai, Abu Dhabi can easily be visited as part of a day trip. This can be done as part of a sightseeing trip or buy a bus ticket.
The alternative is to book a taxi and explore the neighboring emirate on your own. For the equivalent of about 55 euros, they will take you to the neighboring region in about 1.5 hours.
What to consider in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi and its people are tolerant of foreign tourists. But it is recommended to follow the rules of conduct in the UAE and respect the local culture. Refrain from showing tenderness in public places – hugs, kisses. Stick to the dress code mentioned above.
It is allowed to film and photograph in mosques, but do not take pictures of Muslims praying there. Even passers-by cannot simply be photographed without asking.
Do not drink alcoholic beverages in public places, as this quickly leads to fines. The main advice for travelers in Abu Dhabi is not to appear drunk in public places.
Things to do in Abu Dhabi
The resort has created a lot of entertainment for adult tourists and children – parks, equipped beaches, historical and natural attractions. Get an adrenaline rush at fun theme parks, swim in the crystal clear sea, see the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. How about a mangrove kayak tour? Or would you rather go through the desert on a camel? For a relaxing holiday, you can walk along the green, October embankment of the city.
Beaches in Abu Dhabi
The white, soft sand and turquoise waters of the Persian Gulf have created many beach areas. There are differences between public and private beaches that charge an entrance fee for renting umbrellas and sun loungers.
The public waterfront areas are also well-maintained, clean and offer a wide range of water sports. There are oases of calm for a quiet getaway and beaches for parties. But the latter will be difficult due to quarantine. Therefore, advice to travelers in Abu Dhabi – do not violate the rules of recreation in the country.
What hotels in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi hotels are now known for their good value for money. There are many hotels offering all-inclusive accommodation. Although there are several absolute top class hotels in the emirate, the high standard of service starts with three stars. Even hotels with four stars can be obtained at prices from 40 euros per night.
In the United Arab Emirates, a person in a hotel room must be at least 21 years old. Alcohol is also not served to persons under the age of 21.
With kids in Abu Dhabi
Unconditional! The infrastructure of the UAE is designed for recreation with young tourists, and family hotels are well equipped for younger guests. Excellent impressions and boundless fun are guaranteed on vacation. Abu Dhabi has grand theme parks like Yas Waterworld or Warner Bros. World, where children of all ages can have fun. Major malls include entertainment areas and trampoline parks for the next generation. A desert safari or a visit to Sir Bani Yas Wildlife Park Island will also delight little adventurers in October.
If you want to travel a lot outdoors with your kids and swim every day, then you should choose winter for your vacation. Ideal temperature for swimming. During the summer months, there are large indoor playgrounds for this.
Is there alcohol in Abu Dhabi
As a Muslim nation, the people of Abu Dhabi do not drink alcohol. However, alcoholic beverages are still available and you are of course free to consume them as you please (only please be careful in public places and don’t roam drunk as this can result in fines). In hotels, you usually always have access to alcohol. In public, it’s a little more difficult, depending on how traditional the environment you’re currently in is.
Are you now in the mood to explore Abu Dhabi on your own? If you have any additional questions about this city, feel free to ask us in the comments and we will answer them for you!