GENERAL GUIDE FOR TOURISTS
Abu Dhabi is one of the 7 Emirates of the United Arab Emirates. It is the largest area-wise, and the capital. As one of the richest places in the world, it is a luxury tourist destination. Abu Dhabi is a muslim country, so the law of Islam applies, along with civil law.
If you are planning a trip to the Emirate, here are some important advice and tips for visiting Abu Dhabi to help make your time enjoyable and keep you safe.
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The following guide for tourists offers practical tips to help you plan your visit to Abu Dhabi, so you know what to expect in terms of weather, how to behave and safety.
Having visited this city a couple of times and stayed a short while, I’ve learnt some valuable tourist tips I’ll share with you. It’s always a good idea to familiarise yourself with local customs and be mindful of the culture.
Don’t stress about going to Abu Dhabi, if you haven’t been before, I’ve got you covered.
1. Climate
UAE experiences extremely high temperatures. The hottest months of the year are June to September. The temperature can exceed 50°C. Hence, this is the low season due to the intense heat.
The best time to visit Abu Dhabi is in Winter, December to February, when the weather is around 26°C.
If you are visiting during periods of extreme heat, stay out of the sun during the middle of the day, and go outdoors early mornings or evenings.
Sandstorms and dust storms often happen, coming from the desert, so the air can be hazy.
2. Peak Season
The peak tourist season runs November through March, which means prices and crowds are quite high during this period. The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is held in early December.
3. Language and Currency
Arabic is the main language. English is also widely spoken, in business and education.
Currency is the Dirham (AED). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it is handy to have some cash with you.
4. Alcohol
Only drink alcohol in licensed premises, such as hotels. Do not drink in any other public places.
Hotels can only serve alcohol to people aged over 21 years of age.
Don’t act drunk in public or you could be arrested.
5. Cuisine
Emirati food is a blend of Arabic, Persian, Indian and Mediterranean.
Foods you might like to try are chabab, similar to a pancake, machboos, similar to biryani rice, lugaymat, like a small round donut and shakshuka, a breakfast dish with egg and vegetables.
6. Dress Code
It’s important to dress conservatively to avoid offending locals and respect the customs – no short clothing, tight leggings or spaghetti straps. Bathers are allowed only at resorts and on the beach, but you may notice one-piece bathers are favoured by most women and cover-ups are often used.
To be allowed entry into some sites, check requirements beforehand, to avoid disappointment.
Emirates Palace requires everyone to cover arms and legs, and no open shoes.
Grand Mosque requires men to wear long trousers or a kandoura (an ankle length Arab garment). Women are given a black Hijab to cover their hair and neck and a black Abaya to wear over their clothes, provided free at the entrance, but you must leave a form of ID, as security.
7. Behaviour
Generally, behaviour in public is very important and should not go against the local culture.
Intimate public displays of affection are not allowed in public.
Unmarried couples staying together at hotels is not really legal, but no one asks or checks.
Same-sex relationships are illegal.
Rude gestures, insulting others, swearing, or aggressive behaviour in public are not permitted.
Smoking is banned in public places. Electronic cigarettes are not allowed either and may be confiscated.
Drug use is illegal.
8. Photography
When taking photos in Abu Dhabi, be mindful and use a little discretion. Photos are not permitted of government buildings, military sites, transport and airports. Furthermore, avoid taking photos of other people without their permission, especially women, as it is considered a violation of their privacy.
9. Transport
Take advantage of the complimentary Experience Abu Dhabi Shuttle Bus service for tourists, which connects eight routes around the city and major attractions – like the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Presidential Palace, and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
Taxis and Ubers are popular for getting around. Private car is also available.
Public transport is available by purchasing the contactless Hafilat card from vending machines and bus stations.
You can also rent an electronic scooter to scoot round the city.
10. Drinking Water
Abu Dhabi has a lack of natural freshwater, being located in the desert, so desalinated seawater is provided for drinking and cooking. However, there is no guarantee that the tap water in Abu Dhabi is safe. Most people drink bottled water. Locally produced bottled water costs only 1 AED.
11. The Desert
I strongly advise against heading into the vast expanse of the desert alone. There is no digital coverage and you can easily get lost and dehydrated.
It is best to go on an organised group tour with experts in 4WDs and you will be in safe hands. Late afternoon is preferable, when it is cooler.
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3 Comments
My trip to the Desert Safari Abu Dhabi was beyond expectations! The serenity of the desert combined with exciting activities like sandboarding made my day truly special. Thanks to Desert Safari Dubai https://bookadesertsafaritrip.com for making everything seamless and enjoyable! If you’re considering a Desert Safari Dubai Self Drive package, they’ve got the best options!
Thank you for sharing the tips. Good tip about the desert safari. An organized group is definitely safer, and convenient.
Great tips here as I am thinking of a trip to the UAE now (I really want to see the temple for real in Abu Dhabi). Good tips about the climate, always prefer to travel in the cooler months of the year.