Luxury hotels in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi guide

Abu Dhabi: the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Louvre

White marble at sunset, a museum under a dome of light and the dunes of the Empty Quarter.

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the largest in the world, with 82 white marble domes and the largest hand-knotted carpet ever made, is Abu Dhabi's most cited sight; visit in the late afternoon to see it turn gold at sunset, with modest dress required. Entry is free with an online booking.

The Louvre Abu Dhabi, under Jean Nouvel's dome of filtered light on Saadiyat Island, is the other great visit, and Qasr Al Watan, the presidential palace, can also be toured. A night in the Liwa desert, on the edge of the Empty Quarter, and Yas Island's Formula 1 circuit complete a stay; October to April is ideal.

Saadiyat Island: museums and beaches

Saadiyat Island, the cultural district of Abu Dhabi, is one of its most cited areas: the Louvre Abu Dhabi, under Jean Nouvel's dome, the immersive teamLab Phenomena and, in coming years, new museums by famous architects. The Zayed National Museum and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi are part of the plan.

Saadiyat Beach, a long stretch of white sand where hawksbill turtles nest in season and dolphins are sometimes seen, is lined with resorts and a championship golf course. The island is about twenty minutes from the city centre.

Yas Island and Ferrari World

Yas Island is Abu Dhabi's entertainment district and one of its most cited destinations, especially for families: Ferrari World, home to one of the world's fastest rollercoasters, Warner Bros. World and Yas Waterworld, all within a few minutes of each other.

The Yas Marina Circuit hosts the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the last race of the Formula 1 season in late November or December, and offers driving experiences the rest of the year. Several of the parks are indoors, which makes them comfortable even in summer.