UAE Travel Guide | Best Tips & Must-See Places

United Arab Emirates

Come with me to the Middle East – Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates. That’s right, it’s not Dubai, as many might think.

Fun facts

🏙️ Yes, the tallest building in the world is here. Dubai’s Burj Khalifa it’s quite impressive.
🏝️ Abu Dhabi has over 200 islands. Some are for fun (like Yas Island), some are all about culture (Saadiyat), and some are just super fancy (Al Maryah).
🏦 You can literally get gold from an ATM. Only in the UAE, right? Just walk up and withdraw a gold bar.
🕌 The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque has the biggest hand-knotted carpet in the world. It’s massive and 1,200 people worked on it.
🐫 Camel racing is still a thing — but with robot jockeys. They race camels using remote-controlled robots. Kinda wild, kinda amazing.
🎢 The world’s fastest roller coaster is in Abu Dhabi. Formula Rossa goes from 0 to 240 km/h in under 5 seconds.
💸 No income tax here. Yep, that means you keep what you earn. One big reason why people move here for work.

Get your vocabulary right

Hello: Marhaba

Goodbye: Maa Al-Salama

How are you?: Keifak

I’m fine: Al-Hamd Lellah

Thank you: Shukran

Your Welcome: A’afwan

To be honest, when I first moved here a year and a half ago, I never saw myself living and working in Abu Dhabi. Of course, Dubai was at the top of my mind. But that’s the beauty of life, isn’t it? You never really know where you’ll end up. And I can honestly say, I haven’t regretted my decision to settle here from day one.

Abu Dhabi is just under an hour away from Dubai, making it easy to hop between the two. I’ve visited Dubai several times, and let’s be real – it’s a city like no other. The nightlife, the towering skyscrapers, the energy – it’s a must-see at least once in your lifetime.

One thing I love about Abu Dhabi is the blend of cultures. It’s a melting pot of people from all walks of life, each adding to the richness of the city. I have to admit, when my parents first visited, they weren’t exactly amazed with either Abu Dhabi or Dubai. But it’s easy to understand why. We come from a small village in the south of Finland, practically in the middle of the forest. UAE, in comparison, is a desert, and the lush greenery you see is pretty much all artificial.

But what the UAE has done with this country is nothing short of impressive. The commitment to sustainability, the innovative projects, and the rapid growth of eco-friendly infrastructure, it’s all so forward-thinking. It leaves you with a “wow” impression, and it’s inspiring to see how much focus is placed on creating a sustainable future.

Abu Dhabi is much calmer than Dubai, which makes it a great place to work and unwind. But if you’re into excitement and high energy, Dubai’s only a short drive away. If you have time, I recommend a road trip. Drive out to the mountains and discover the hidden gems the UAE has to offer. Just keep in mind the climate – in the summer, the heat can be intense. I’m talking about temperatures so high you won’t see anyone outside during the peak of the day. The desert heat can be overwhelming, so if you’re planning to visit in the summer, be prepared!

About transportation, I do recommend to rent a car. Inside Dubai you can get around with metro. For a Taxi from Abu Dhabi to Dubai is around 200 Aed. There is a ongoing work for a metro line between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, started 2024, but finishing date is still not announced.

A Glimpse of the UAE’s History

The UAE was founded in 1971, uniting seven emirates under the leadership of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the country’s first president. Since then, the UAE has transformed into one of the world’s most prosperous and innovative nations, blending modernity with a deep respect for its traditions. Abu Dhabi the capital, has always been at the heart of this transformation, leading the charge in sustainable development and global diplomacy.

Must-See Attractions in Abu Dhabi and the UAE

Abu Dhabi isn’t just a city of cultural diversity and impressive sustainability – it’s also home to some world-renowned attractions. Here are a few:

Ferrari World 🚗

Located on Yas Island, Ferrari World is the world’s largest indoor theme park. From the fastest roller coaster in the world to family-friendly rides, there’s something for everyone.

Yas Island 🏝️

This entertainment hub offers more than just Ferrari World. Enjoy attractions like Yas Waterworld, the Yas Marina Circuit (where the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix takes place), Etihad Arena, and luxury shopping and dining at Yas Mall.

Warner Bros. World 🦸‍♂️

If you’re a fan of superheroes and classic characters, Warner Bros. World on Yas Island is another unmissable experience. With attractions based on DC Comics, it’s perfect for families and fans of all ages.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque ⛪

One of the largest mosques in the world, this architectural marvel is a symbol of the UAE’s rich heritage and religious tolerance. With its white marble exterior, intricate designs, and serene atmosphere, it’s a must-see when in Abu Dhabi.

Saadiyat Island 🌊

Known for its cultural offerings, Saadiyat Island is home to the Louvre Abu Dhabi, a branch of the famous French museum. The island will also host the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and other prestigious cultural institutions in the future. Saadiyat offers luxurious beachfront resorts, making it the ideal place to blend culture.

Al Reem Island 🌆

A rapidly developing area in Abu Dhabi, Al Reem Island offers stunning views, luxurious apartments, and proximity to the city’s business district. It’s also home to Reem Mall, a large shopping center, and several parks.

Where to Stay 🏨

Whether you’re looking for luxury or something more budget-friendly, Abu Dhabi offers a range of accommodation options:

Luxury:

Emirates Palace: An iconic five-star hotel offering unparalleled luxury and service.
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort: A top-tier option located in the desert, providing a unique experience.

Mid-range:

Jumeirah at Etihad Towers: Offers incredible views of the city.
Yas Hotel Abu Dhabi: Situated above the Yas Marina Circuit, it’s a prime location for F1 fans.