12 Things You Must Know When Vacationing in Abu Dhabi

An essential cheat-sheet for first-time visitors.

Welcome to Abu Dhabi - On Christmas Day, globetrotters jumped on the opportunity to book a trip to Abu Dhabi after a fare glitch resulted in roundtrip, non-stop tickets to Abu Dhabi on Etihad Airways for as low as $187. If you're one of the lucky travelers but not sure where to begin, check out this essential cheat sheet for first-time visitors. — Patrice Peck(Photo: Matteo Colombo/Corbis)

1 / 13

Welcome to Abu Dhabi - On Christmas Day, globetrotters jumped on the opportunity to book a trip to Abu Dhabi after a fare glitch resulted in roundtrip, non-stop tickets to Abu Dhabi on Etihad Airways for as low as $187. If you're one of the lucky travelers but not sure where to begin, check out this essential cheat sheet for first-time visitors. — Patrice Peck(Photo: Matteo Colombo/Corbis)

What to Wear - The United Arab Emirates is a Muslim country with many locals who hold strong religious views. The traditional attire for women is a long black cloak and headscarf over loose clothing, while men typically wear white cotton shirts and headdresses. Tourists are not expected to adhere to this dress (except in mosques) but they are expected to dress modestly when in public. Items that are considered unacceptable include shorts or skirts above knee-length, form-fitting clothes or those that expose thighs, cleavage, upper arms or midriff. Shorts and western-style one- and two-piece swimwear are permitted at all beaches. But if your outfit is considered to be offensive or inappropriate, you might be asked to leave public spaces.(Photo: Getty Images/arabianEye)

2 / 13

What to Wear - The United Arab Emirates is a Muslim country with many locals who hold strong religious views. The traditional attire for women is a long black cloak and headscarf over loose clothing, while men typically wear white cotton shirts and headdresses. Tourists are not expected to adhere to this dress (except in mosques) but they are expected to dress modestly when in public. Items that are considered unacceptable include shorts or skirts above knee-length, form-fitting clothes or those that expose thighs, cleavage, upper arms or midriff. Shorts and western-style one- and two-piece swimwear are permitted at all beaches. But if your outfit is considered to be offensive or inappropriate, you might be asked to leave public spaces.(Photo: Getty Images/arabianEye)

Getting Around - Getting around Abu Dhabi is easy thanks to reasonably priced taxis and efficient public buses. Street taxis come in a range of taxis, ranging from the newer silver cars to the older white and gold ones. Both are metered, but some drivers may negotiate the fare beforehand. Tips are welcome, but not expected. As for buses, those in the capital are air-conditioned and run around-the-clock. Head to the Central Bus Station on Murmur Road to catch buses traveling to other parts of the Emirate. If you’d prefer renting a car, a passport copy, credit card and valid driver’s license or an international driving license are required.(Photo: Frank Fell/Robert Harding World Imagery/Corbis)

3 / 13

Getting Around - Getting around Abu Dhabi is easy thanks to reasonably priced taxis and efficient public buses. Street taxis come in a range of taxis, ranging from the newer silver cars to the older white and gold ones. Both are metered, but some drivers may negotiate the fare beforehand. Tips are welcome, but not expected. As for buses, those in the capital are air-conditioned and run around-the-clock. Head to the Central Bus Station on Murmur Road to catch buses traveling to other parts of the Emirate. If you’d prefer renting a car, a passport copy, credit card and valid driver’s license or an international driving license are required.(Photo: Frank Fell/Robert Harding World Imagery/Corbis)

Go on a Desert Safari - Ever thought you’d get a chance to drive through desert dunes, ride a camel, ski through the desert and smoke hookah while gazing up at the stars? Those are some of the activities typically included in a desert safari, or a “dune dinner,” as it’s sometimes referred. Many tour companies offer this experience and will provide transportation to and from your hotel.(Photo: Jon Bower/LOOP IMAGES/Loop Images/Corbis)

4 / 13

Go on a Desert Safari - Ever thought you’d get a chance to drive through desert dunes, ride a camel, ski through the desert and smoke hookah while gazing up at the stars? Those are some of the activities typically included in a desert safari, or a “dune dinner,” as it’s sometimes referred. Many tour companies offer this experience and will provide transportation to and from your hotel.(Photo: Jon Bower/LOOP IMAGES/Loop Images/Corbis)

Get a Bird's-Eye View - Boarding a Falcon Aviation Services helicopter will ensure a stunning bird’s eye view of Abu Dhabi. During the flight, you can see all of the city’s new developments. Keep in mind you might be asked to present your official ID prior to boarding.(Photo: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

5 / 13

Get a Bird's-Eye View - Boarding a Falcon Aviation Services helicopter will ensure a stunning bird’s eye view of Abu Dhabi. During the flight, you can see all of the city’s new developments. Keep in mind you might be asked to present your official ID prior to boarding.(Photo: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

ADVERTISEMENT
Visit the Formula One Track - At Yas Marina Circuit on Yas Island, automobile lovers can get a behind-the-scenes look at the Formula One track, as well as the pits, garages and media facility. Visitors are advised to book their tickets in advance or arrive early to purchase them.(Photo: Sutton/Corbis)

6 / 13

Visit the Formula One Track - At Yas Marina Circuit on Yas Island, automobile lovers can get a behind-the-scenes look at the Formula One track, as well as the pits, garages and media facility. Visitors are advised to book their tickets in advance or arrive early to purchase them.(Photo: Sutton/Corbis)

Afternoon Tea at the Palace - Whether or not you’re staying at the extravagant Emirates Palace Hotel, you’ll want to stop by for a proper afternoon tea. After you’ve treated yourself to little quiches, scones, sandwiches and cakes, take a stroll around the fountains in the beautiful gardens. Depending on your budget, you might consider visiting the less expensive Shangri-La Hotel for a breathtaking view across the water of the famed Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque or an elevated view of the city at Etihad Towers.(Photo: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

7 / 13

Afternoon Tea at the Palace - Whether or not you’re staying at the extravagant Emirates Palace Hotel, you’ll want to stop by for a proper afternoon tea. After you’ve treated yourself to little quiches, scones, sandwiches and cakes, take a stroll around the fountains in the beautiful gardens. Depending on your budget, you might consider visiting the less expensive Shangri-La Hotel for a breathtaking view across the water of the famed Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque or an elevated view of the city at Etihad Towers.(Photo: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Lounge by the Beach - Great weather and beautiful beaches are one of the many draws of the city. Most of the Emirate's larger hotels offer their own beachfront facilities, which is free for hotel residents and reasonably priced for visitors. The Corniche public beach is another great option for those not staying at a hotel with a beach.(Photo: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

8 / 13

Lounge by the Beach - Great weather and beautiful beaches are one of the many draws of the city. Most of the Emirate's larger hotels offer their own beachfront facilities, which is free for hotel residents and reasonably priced for visitors. The Corniche public beach is another great option for those not staying at a hotel with a beach.(Photo: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Indulge in Some Retail Therapy - Considered an unofficial pastime in Abu Dhabi, shopping in the Emirate city runs the gamut from ultra-modern malls with high-end brands to small, souk-like markets where you can buy traditional spices, carpets, handicrafts and perfumes. Visitors are encouraged to bargain over the price at these shops. Shops to consider visiting include Madinat Zayed Shopping Center, the souk at Qaryat Al Beri, Central Market and the shops opposite Abu Dhabi Mall.(Photo: GettyImages)

9 / 13

Indulge in Some Retail Therapy - Considered an unofficial pastime in Abu Dhabi, shopping in the Emirate city runs the gamut from ultra-modern malls with high-end brands to small, souk-like markets where you can buy traditional spices, carpets, handicrafts and perfumes. Visitors are encouraged to bargain over the price at these shops. Shops to consider visiting include Madinat Zayed Shopping Center, the souk at Qaryat Al Beri, Central Market and the shops opposite Abu Dhabi Mall.(Photo: GettyImages)

Take a Boat Ride - Add a fresh perspective to your trip with an exciting on-water experience. Whether you'd prefer a motor boat trip along the magnificent Corniche promenade at sunset or a more traditional tour on a dhow (an Arabic sailing vessel), these trips provide unique sightseeing experiences.(Photo: Walter Bibikow/JAI/Corbis)

10 / 13

Take a Boat Ride - Add a fresh perspective to your trip with an exciting on-water experience. Whether you'd prefer a motor boat trip along the magnificent Corniche promenade at sunset or a more traditional tour on a dhow (an Arabic sailing vessel), these trips provide unique sightseeing experiences.(Photo: Walter Bibikow/JAI/Corbis)

ADVERTISEMENT
Get In Touch With Nature - Abu Dhabi undoubtedly has some of the most architecturally impressive 21st century buildings in the world. But, its natural environment is just as noteworthy. With hiking, biking, kayaking and sailing, adventure tours and eco-tours both have everything that nature lovers would want out of a fun-filled day spent exploring Abu Dhabi.(Photo: Ross Kinnaird/Getty Images)

11 / 13

Get In Touch With Nature - Abu Dhabi undoubtedly has some of the most architecturally impressive 21st century buildings in the world. But, its natural environment is just as noteworthy. With hiking, biking, kayaking and sailing, adventure tours and eco-tours both have everything that nature lovers would want out of a fun-filled day spent exploring Abu Dhabi.(Photo: Ross Kinnaird/Getty Images)

Visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque - As one of the United Arab Emirates most iconic landmarks, the spectacular Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque offers visitors an insight into Islam trough free guided tours (check the grand mosque website for the latest schedules). The massive white marble structure can be seen from all direct mainland routes into the city. Photography is allowed, but a strict dress code is enforced for both women (only hands and feet showing) and men (no shorts).(Photo: Rudy Sulgan/Corbis)

12 / 13

Visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque - As one of the United Arab Emirates most iconic landmarks, the spectacular Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque offers visitors an insight into Islam trough free guided tours (check the grand mosque website for the latest schedules). The massive white marble structure can be seen from all direct mainland routes into the city. Photography is allowed, but a strict dress code is enforced for both women (only hands and feet showing) and men (no shorts).(Photo: Rudy Sulgan/Corbis)

Take In the View - A gorgeous skyline is one of the features that makes Abu Dhabi a must-see city. For the best views, grab a coffee or dine at Al Fanar revolving restaurant at Le Royal Meridien Hotel or Ray's Bar at Etihad Towers. Other options include the Tiara Restaurant or Cafe Columbiano at the Marina Mall.(Photo: Sylvain Sonnet/Hemis/Corbis)

13 / 13

Take In the View - A gorgeous skyline is one of the features that makes Abu Dhabi a must-see city. For the best views, grab a coffee or dine at Al Fanar revolving restaurant at Le Royal Meridien Hotel or Ray's Bar at Etihad Towers. Other options include the Tiara Restaurant or Cafe Columbiano at the Marina Mall.(Photo: Sylvain Sonnet/Hemis/Corbis)