
Abu Dhabi, U.A.E.
As the capital of the United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.), Abu Dhabi sits on the Persian Gulf and is the cultural center of this country. It has stunningly beautiful beaches, crystal blue water, and many incredible experiences awaiting your arrival. We found the residents and citizens to be extremely welcoming. I would recommend a minimum four-night stay to fully enjoy all that Abu Dhabi has to offer. To be honest, we could have easily spent four wonderful nights in Abu Dhabi without ever leaving the hotel. The beach, pools and restaurants of the St. Regis are so luxurious you don't want to venture outside of the property.
Saadiyat Island was created to be a cultural and tourist destination, and it certainly lives up to that reputation. The Louvre Abu Dhabi is very different from the Lourve in France. The construction alone has an incredible history and this museum is a must-visit. Make sure you learn the story of the intricate roof. It took our breath away and it is one of the many art installations you will want to take time to admire. The Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, which upon completion will be the largest Guggenheim Museum, The Natural History Museum, and Zayed National Museum, to take you through the history of the UAE, are currently under construction and already appear mesmerizing from their exteriors.
Yas Island is another large tourist destination comprised of numerous leisure activities but might be best known for hosting the Formula One Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at the Yas Marina Circuit. Yas Island is also home to the fastest rollercoaster in the world at Ferrari World Amusement Park. In addition, Sea World, Waterworld and Warner Bros World make this a playground for both adults and kids.
Outside of these islands, a must-visit is The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (pictured above). It's the largest mosque in the country and one of the largest in the world. It is the center for daily prayer and worship in Abu Dhabi. The history of this mosque is impressive. It took 12 years and over $500 million to construct. The architecture, marble, domes, chandelier and decor are truly jaw-dropping. Modest dress is required for entry. They have abayas (robes) for purchase in the mall before entry. Ask your hotel, many have a few to lend out for the day.
If you don't have enough time to stay in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, note that they are only a 90-minute drive apart so it's worth making a day trip to experience some of what these incredible cities have to offer.
Familiarize yourself with UAE social interactions and non-verbal communication. They have different customs than the United States and many things that are legal and acceptable here are not legal and/or not acceptable in the UAE. Female travelers need to learn about greeting men and speaking with them. Talking too much, in a taxi for example, can be looked at in the wrong way.
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Where to Stay
Packing List
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Getting There
The Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) also known as the Zayed International Airport is the second busiest airport in the UAE after Dubai. We happened to be in Abu Dhabi when their new passenger terminal opened, and it was a mind-blowing state-of-the-art airport masterpiece. This place is massive, beautiful and so technologically advanced. When we arrived, we made it through customs very quickly and the locals were very helpful in making sure we were standing in the right lines (which were very short we might add). Everything you could dream of wanting in an airport was in the new terminal. We experienced state-of-the-art shops, food, space, bright lights, speed and efficiency. We talked about our airport experience almost as much as we talked about the overall trip.
It's only about a 20 to 30-minute drive from the airport to Saadiyat and Yas Islands.
If you plan to fly into or out of Dubai instead of Abu Dhabi, it's only a 90-minute drive and we highly recommend you make the journey to experience this city.

Must Know Before You Go
Must Know Before You Go
It is strongly encouraged to familiarize yourself with the laws and customs of the UAE before arrival as there can be severe penalties for breaking the law whether you were aware of the law or not. Some things that are acceptable in the United States are illegal in the UAE. We've tried to include as much information as possible below but you should do your own research.
Official Language: Arabic
Local Currency: UAE Dirham (AED) (there are opportunities to easily exchange currency at the airport)
Outlets:Â 220v 50Hz, C, D & G plugs (you will need an adaptor for any other plugs)
Passport & Visa Requirements: A passport is required and must have 6-months validity from the date of entry. According to the U.S. Department of State, both 12-page U.S. emergency passports and passports with the "X" gender marker are not accepted for passengers headed to, in, or through the UAE.
One blank page is required for the entry stamp. You must leave with the passport you entered with. They have tight exit controls and you will be barred from leaving if there are any civil or criminal cases against you even if you are just transiting through the UAE on a connecting flight. A visa is not required for tourists stays less than 30-days. No vaccinations are required.
Time Zone: UTC+4 (8 hours ahead of New York)
Weather: This is the desert and has a desert climate. Winter runs from November through April and is the best time to visit. November, December, March and April offer the best beach/ocean days. Summer runs from May through October.
June to August can be extremely hot and humid but also offer fewer crowds and lower rates.
Safety & Crime: Abu Dhabi is an extremely safe city with very little crime. It has a Level 2 safety warning due to risk of missile, drone attacks and terrorism according to U.S. State Department (at time of writing). More info can be found here: United Arab Emirates International Travel Information
For emergency help while in the UAE dial 999
According to the U.S. Department of State:Â
Illegal Activity Important to Note:Â Alcohol can only be consumed in certain restaurants and hotels. Even in these locations, public drunkenness and driving under the influence of any alcohol is illegal and can lead to being arrested. This includes arriving at the airport drunk from drinking on your flight.
Bringing drugs, including marijuana (even with a doctor's note) or CBD products, into the country or having trace amounts of drugs in your bloodstream can result in arrest and lengthy imprisonment.
Making negative statements about the UAE, cursing, or using rude gestures, can lead to arrest. Some gestures used in the US are considered rude in the UAE.
Modesty is expected. Sexual relations outside of marriage are illegal
Public displays of affection are illegal - this can include handholding.
Dress: The culture is rooted in Islam and modesty is expected. Tight revealing clothing is not considered appropriate attire. The knees and shoulders should be fully covered. At religious sites, women's hair must be fully covered, and they must be wearing opaque loose clothing covering their full arms and legs. You may be asked to wear a robe over your clothes. Traditional garb for men consists of white ankle-length garments with long sleeves.
Bikinis are acceptable at resort and hotel pools and private beaches. You will see more modest one-piece covering in other locations.
Photography: You cannot photograph another person without their permission even in public places so be careful about taking photos and posting on social media. Some social media platforms are not allowed in the UAE. In certain buildings and areas, such as the airport, photography is prohibited.
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