It’s hot all year round in Abu Dhabi. Winter temperatures regularly reach 25C, while the start and end of summer peaks at around the 35C mark. High summer, meanwhile, is too warm – it’s best to ignore July and August completely, unless you like being fried... As with the rest of the UAE, Abu Dhabi fasts during Ramadan. This effects tourists too, as it is illegal for anybody (Muslim or not) to be seen eating in public. However, if you are prepared to cook your own food in private, then many resorts offer huge discounts during the month.
This seven-storey hotel, built with traditional Arabic architecture and flamboyant opulence, is located by a white, sandy beach overlooking the Persian Gulf. As well as a kilometre of private beach, the hotel has two landscaped outdoor pools. Guestrooms feature opulent decor and furnishings, and all offer a 24-hour butler service and daily fresh flowers.
Located in the city’s business and shopping district, this dramatically designed hotel stands along its own private stretch of white-sand beach and is directly linked to the giant Abu Dhabi Mall. Decorated with rich fabrics, the spacious, contemporary guestrooms feature luxury bedding, high-speed internet access, satellite TV, safes, and minibars. Marble baths include phones and robes.
Housed in a striking 14-storey contemporary block featuring Arabic design motifs, the hotel’s 109 guestrooms all have light decor, bright fabrics and modern furnishings.
Situated just 500m from the Abu Dhabi Mall, the hotel offers three restaurants – including a rooftop eatery where guests are served in a saloon-style atmosphere. The 112 air-conditioned guestrooms are spacious and well-maintained.
This contemporary high-rise hotel is located in the city centre of Abu Dhabi. There are five onsite bars, and all guestrooms have modern decor with colourful fabrics and light oak furniture.
– Due to Abu Dhabi’s barren location, there are some great safari’s on offer. Most include a dune drive in a 4x4 and food at a traditional desert camp.
This town represents Abu Dhabi’s more traditional culture. You can see camel markets, palm plantations and working farms – all of which are of great importance to the local community.
Liwa’s magnificent dunes are immensely stunning. With little to no vegetation growing in this area, the atmosphere is very Lawrence of Arabia! Guided tours are available, or you can follow the beaten tracks yourself if you wish.
An important breeding ground for local wildlife, the island is perfect for a bit of animal spotting. A number of rare birds also live on the island.
Abu Dhabi’s commercial centre, the Corniche is peppered with interesting sights and smells. The shoreline promenade is great for traders, and you can settle into the local spirit by enjoying a shisha at one of the local café’s.