Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is Abu Dhabi’s most iconic landmark, and it’s genuinely breathtaking in person. You can wander through vast white‑marble courtyards, admire intricate mosaics, chandeliers, and domes, and see the reflection of the mosque in the surrounding pools. Guided tours explain the architecture, symbolism, and Islamic traditions in a very accessible way. Go in late afternoon to see the light change from bright sunshine to golden hour, then into blue hour when the whole building seems to glow softly against the sky. Shoulders and knees must be covered for men and women, with hair coverings also mandatory for women.

Yas Island is Abu Dhabi’s playground, filled with theme parks and entertainment. At Ferrari World you can ride some of the world’s fastest rollercoasters, try racing simulators, and learn about the brand’s history. Next door, Yas Waterworld offers slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools, perfect for cooling off. Warner Bros. World brings favourite characters to life in an indoor air‑conditioned park, perfect in hotter months. You can round off the day with dinner on Yas Marina, or time it with events at Yas Mall.

Within the city you can stroll or cycle along the Corniche, stopping at parks, cafés, and family beaches as you go. A visit to Qasr Al Watan, the Presidential Palace, reveals dazzling interiors, exhibitions, and views over the city, while the nearby Emirates Palace area adds a touch of ultra‑luxury. For something different, head to the Eastern Mangroves for a guided kayak or stand-up paddleboard tour through calm waterways, spotting birds and enjoying peaceful green pockets that feel a world away from the skyscrapers.

Try authentic Emirati dishes to get a taste of the region’s heritage. You can order slow-cooked lamb or chicken machboos (spiced rice), and harees (wheat and meat porridge). Tuck into grilled meats and broader Levantine mezze in traditional restaurants, often decorated with carpets, cushions, and Arabic lanterns. Finish with sweet dumplings drizzled with date syrup, plus bitter Arabic coffee, and ripe dates. It is a lovely way to step away from hotel buffets and experience local flavours, customs, and hospitality in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.

Brunch is almost an institution in the UAE, and Abu Dhabi’s big hotels really lean into it. On Fridays and Saturdays you can book lavish buffet or semi-buffet brunches with live cooking stations, seafood towers, roasts, sushi, desserts, and often free-flow drinks. Many have live music, kids’ corners, and pool or beach access, so you can easily turn brunch into a half-day event. It is a fun, sociable way to sample everything from local dishes to Asian, European, and international favourites in one go.

Being right on the Arabian Gulf, Abu Dhabi is great for seafood. Waterfront restaurants serve prawns, squid, and whole fish, often simply prepared with herby garlic and lemon dressing or in spicy Arabic and Indian styles. You can dine overlooking marinas, the Corniche, or quieter stretches of coast, watching dhows and yachts glide past. Some waterfront spots offer seafood towers, oysters, and fine-dining tasting menus, while others are more rustic, paper-tablecloth style. Either way, it is a memorable way to end a warm evening by the water.

Stay at Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island if you want an ultra all-inclusive escape on one of Abu Dhabi’s most beautiful natural beaches. You are right on Saadiyat’s soft white sand with clear turquoise water, perfect if you like swimming, water sports, and long walks by the sea. The resort feels stylish yet fun, with a waterpark, pools, and plenty of activities, plus a generous choice of à la carte dining. It is ideal if you want high-energy luxury, variety, and a beach-first feel.

If you want to be in the heart of the action, stay at Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island. You’re a short hop from Yas theme parks, the F1 circuit, and Yas Mall, perfect if you like thrills, shopping, and entertainment. The hotel still feels relaxing, with a lagoon style pool, waterfront views, and modern, comfortable rooms. Families, friends, and couples can all enjoy the easy access to attractions, plus the laid back resort touches that make downtime feel special.

Stay at Beach Rotana if you like having everything at your fingertips. This waterfront hotel gives you a private beach, pool, and spa, plus direct access to a mall, so shopping and dining are incredibly easy. You can enjoy a wide range of restaurants on site, from casual cafés to speciality venues, and still be close to Abu Dhabi’s Corniche and cultural sights. It suits you if you want comfort, convenience, and plenty of choice without feeling too formal.

With 30+ years of experience, we have the expertise, connections, and the personal touch to build your ideal trip - whether you want a luxury escape, a solo adventure, or time spent discovering the world together. Not sure where to start? It all begins with a conversation, so get in touch and let’s make your next holiday your best one yet.

Find your Travel Counsellor