EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW TO FULLY EXPERIENCE ABU DHABI

Zayed International Airport (formerly Abu Dhabi International Airport) offers a number of accessible services to support travelers with disabilities.

Available support includes wheelchair access, adapted lounges, dining and retail outlets, accessible washrooms, porters for luggage and priority lanes for quicker processing. Service animals and pets are also welcome.

To arrange assistance in advance for both outbound and return flights, notify your airline or travel agent at least 48 hours before departure. On the day, help is available from the Etihad Ground Services team or at any Special Assistance desk in the terminal.

Abu Dhabi is the UAE’s capital and the largest of the seven emirates, spanning 200 islands with a 700-kilometer coastline. What started as a modest island settlement has become a global metropolis that’s home to over 200 nationalities living together in harmony.

The beautiful archipelago delivers an astounding mix of experiences, from rich heritage and cultural landmarks, world-class shopping malls, and award-winning beaches to championship golf courses, luxurious hotels, incredible wildlife encounters, and family-friendly adventures. 

Zayed International Airport has earned multiple 'Best Airport in the Middle East' titles at the World Airport Awards, highlighting its excellence in service and facilities. As such, your journey through the airport is guaranteed to be as smooth and welcoming as possible. 

After landing, follow the signs through immigration and visas, where many visitors get entry permits on arrival. Then make your way to the Arrivals Hall to pick up your luggage. After completing the immigration and customs procedures, head to the baggage reclaim area to collect your belongings, and you’re off on countless adventures.

Abu Dhabi is a modern city, but you will be required to dress modestly in public places and during religious occasions such as Ramadan. 

Both men and women will feel more comfortable in loose-fitting clothes that cover at least shoulders and knees in public settings. Outfits should not be see-through, exposing body parts, or displaying offensive pictures or language. 

As a woman travelling to Abu Dhabi, you do not need to wear a headscarf or traditional Muslim attire. However, if you visit a mosque, you will be asked to wear an abaya and cover your hair out of respect for local customs, and both will often be provided at the mosque. 

Regular swimwear such as shorts for men and bikinis or one-piece swimsuits for women is acceptable at swimming pools, water parks, and both public and private beaches. It is important to cover up when leaving these areas because walking through public spaces in beachwear is considered inappropriate. 

In the evenings, Abu Dhabi’s cosmopolitan dining and nightlife scene sets its own tone when it comes to dress code. Some places are casual and easy-going while others lean elegant or even black-tie, so you can take your cue from the venue. 

The capital is a place of perpetual sunshine. Rain here is very minimal, only about 42–50 mm of rainfall in the entire year on average. This means you might not see any rain on your visit unless you come in winter.  

When it does rain, usually between December and March, it’s typically light showers or occasional downpours that quickly pass. For most of the year, though, you can expect nothing but clear blue skies. 

Most banks in Abu Dhabi operate ATMs that accept an extensive range of cards. While each ATM is linked to a specific bank, most are part of a central network, so you can use your card at different machines with just a small service fee. 

You’ll come across familiar systems like American Express, VISA, MasterCard, Cirrus, Global Access and Plus System supported across the city. ATMs are easily accessible at the airport, shopping malls, large supermarkets and petrol stations. 

If you’re using an international card, the exchange rates are usually competitive and much more convenient than dealing with travelers’ cheques.  

Don’t forget to let your home bank know you’re travelling so your card isn’t flagged or frozen while you’re away. 

Abu Dhabi’s public buses are fully wheelchair-accessible. People of Determination enjoy a 50% fare discount on intercity buses (e.g. to Al Ain or Al Dhafra) using the Hafilat smart card (pre-paid travel cards). 

The Experience Abu Dhabi Shuttle Bus also runs complimentary, wheelchair-friendly routes on eight main lines completed with comfortable seating, AC and WiFi, so you can board at any stop and scan a QR code to ride. 

The weekend in Abu Dhabi falls on Saturday and Sunday, with the working week for most companies running from Monday to Friday. The UAE federal government follows a four-and-a-half-day schedule: employees work from 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday to Thursday, and from 7:30 AM to 12 PM on Fridays.

Private firms generally operate between 9 AM and 5 PM, though some may also finish earlier on Fridays to allow those practicing Islam to attend Friday prayers.

Emirati culture places a high value on a polite, calm demeanor. Avoid loud arguments, noise disruptions, offensive language, obscene gestures, and showing disrespect to Abu Dhabi, its leaders or religion (Islam) in any way. 

Avoid public displays of affection. Holding hands is acceptable; however, hugging or kissing in public is not.

The UAE enforces a zero-tolerance policy on recreational drug use. Under Federal Law by Decree No. 30 of 2021 on Combating Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances. It’s a criminal offense to produce, import, export, transport, buy, sell, possess or store narcotic and psychotropic substances unless it’s for approved medical or scientific purposes under strict legal supervision.

If you need to bring prescription medicine on your trip to Abu Dhabi, make sure to carry a valid prescription and check whether your medication is classified as controlled. Controlled medicines require prior approval through the Ministry of Health (MoH) website, which you must apply for before you travel. 

Uncontrolled and over-the-counter medications do not need approval, but should still be brought in reasonable quantities with proper documentation.

Abu Dhabi has a strong network of local and international banks, all regulated by the UAE Central Bank, where you’ll find everything from everyday personal banking to full commercial services.

Most banks operate from Saturday to Thursday, typically between 8 AM and 1 PM, though some have extended hours. You’ll also spot smaller branches in malls, which usually stay open into the evening for extra convenience.

When given a price, especially if it’s not clearly displayed, don’t be shy about asking, sometimes more than once, for the “best price.” Bargaining is part of the shopping culture in Abu Dhabi, whether you’re in a traditional souk or, occasionally, in a more upscale store. 

Of course, while a gold vendor in the market might knock 30–50% off, the same won’t apply in a luxury boutique.  

To book an accessible taxi in Abu Dhabi, contact Tawasul, the city’s national transport provider, or arrange a private car through companies like Enaya Car or Eden Mobility, which offer vehicles equipped for accessibility needs. 

For a quicker option, download Careem, Uber or Yango through Google Play or the App Store. You can also use the Abu Dhabi Taxi, the Integrated Transport Centre’s official app, to book a ride. 

People of Determination receive a 50% discount on the total fare across approved transportation services.

Mobile and internet services in Abu Dhabi, as in the entire UAE, are provided by Etisalat and du, with excellent coverage and high-speed connections across the country. Both networks offer visitor packages that include options for local and international calls, text messaging and data use. 

You can buy SIM cards at Etisalat and du outlets in Zayed International Airport. For this, you’ll need to present a copy of your passport and a valid UAE visa.

Etisalat and du also operate Wi-Fi hotspots throughout Abu Dhabi, and most hotels, malls and many public spaces give complimentary access.

Abu Dhabi, like the rest of the UAE, observes public decency laws. Acts like using offensive language, causing noise disruptions, making rude gestures or in any way disrespecting Abu Dhabi, its leaders or religion are all forbidden in any public forum or online and may put you at risk of legal charges or deportation. 

Public displays of affection should also be kept to a minimum. Holding hands is fine, but kissing or hugging in public is not acceptable.

The currency of Abu Dhabi and the entire UAE is the UAE Dirham, abbreviated AED and unofficially referred to as Dh and Dhs (pronounced “dir-ham”). 

One dirham is made up of 100 fils. Coins come in denominations of AED 1, 50 fils, and 25 fils, while banknotes are available in AED 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1,000.

The UAE dirham is pegged against the US dollar (US$1 = AED 3.67), making conversion easy. In most places in the city, you will be expected to pay only in UAE dirhams.  

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Abu Dhabi and on Yas Island at hotels, restaurants, malls, cultural attractions, theme parks, and more. Most major card networks are supported here, including VISA, MasterCard, Cirrus, American Express, Global Access, and the Plus System. Most outlets also accept Apple Pay. 

That said, it’s a good idea to carry some cash on you for small purchases and local markets. For instance, small shops, food stalls, or souk vendors may be cash-only, and if you’re bargaining at a market, cash will most definitely be king. 

Countless attractions on Yas Island and in Abu Dhabi offer special rates, skip-the-line privileges and extended benefits for a caregiver or companion for visitors with disabilities. One prime example of this is Yas Island’s world-class theme parks:

Warner Bros. World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

Yas Waterworld Yas Island Abu Dhabi

Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

If you have a specific venue, activity or service in mind, check their accessibility policies in advance, as offerings and requirements can vary from one place to another.

You can drive in Abu Dhabi with an international driving license (if you’re from an approved country), as long as it’s from your home country and is valid for one year. If you’re planning to stay longer, it’s best to transfer your current license or apply for a UAE one. If you’re visiting from a GCC country, you can drive with your home country’s license without any additional requirements. 

If you rent a car, remember that the UAE drives on the right-hand side of the road. Always wear your seatbelt (mandatory for front and back passengers) and make sure children under four are secured in an appropriate car seat.

Speed limits typically range from 40–60 km/h in urban areas and 60–120 km/h on highways, but they can vary by zone, so keep an eye on the signs. As for drinking and driving, the law is crystal clear: a zero-tolerance policy (0.0% BAC) is strictly enforced.

If you’re involved in a traffic accident, even a minor one, call the police since insurance claims won’t go through without official documentation. For small scrapes or fender-benders, move your car to the side if it’s safe to do so because blocking the road can incur a fine. 

Abu Dhabi is one of the most inclusive destinations worldwide, with accessibility built into everyday infrastructure, from public transportation and city streets to cultural sites, shopping centers and entertainment venues. 

Many of the top things to do in Abu Dhabi, places and experiences feature step-free access, lifts, and accessible restrooms, as well as wheelchair loan and rental services to make it easier for all visitors to move comfortably and independently throughout the city. 

Many of the capital’s resorts and hotels also offer accessible rooms and amenities, including wide doorways, roll-in showers, lower beds, and more. If you’re booking accessible accommodation, it’s always a good idea to confirm which features are available in advance. 

Abu Dhabi (and the UAE in general) is extremely safe for tourists. The city has held the top spot on Numbeo’s list of the world’s safest cities for nine years straight, a reflection of its relentless commitment to security, law enforcement and public safety.  

Still, it’s always a good idea to know who to call in case of an emergency before you arrive.

Currency exchange is conveniently available in Abu Dhabi, with Bureau de Change offices located throughout major malls and busy shopping areas. They often offer more favorable rates than banks and typically operate in two shifts: in the morning from 8 AM to 1 PM and in the evening from 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM, Saturday through Thursday, with late hours on Fridays.

Hotels also handle currency exchange and travelers' cheques, though their rates tend to be standard rather than competitive. 

The typical greeting in Arabic is “As-salam alaikum” (“peace be upon you”), with the response “Wa alaikum as-salam” (“and upon you peace”). It’s also customary to use your right hand for handshakes, to give or accept items, and when eating. 

When greeting someone of the opposite sex who is Muslim, follow their lead. A Muslim woman may not shake hands with men, so a man should wait for her to extend her hand first and vice versa. 

Always show extra respect to elders and higher-ranking officials if you happen to be in their presence. For example, stand up when they enter a room.

You may be offered Arabic coffee (gahwa) or dates sometimes upon entering shops or during tours. It’s polite to accept this offer of hospitality. Likewise, if you happen to be invited into a local’s majlis (sitting room), remove your shoes at the entrance if others do so and accept any refreshments offered as a sign of respect. 

Saying “Shukran” (thank you) and a slight head bow will also go a long way in conveying appreciation.  

Abu Dhabi has world-class hospitals and clinics. Should you fall ill or get injured, you can be confident you’ll receive the best quality care. Two major emergency hospitals are Mediclinic Al Noor (800 2000) and Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (+971 2 819 0000).

Travel insurance is mandatory for visitors, and you’ll be glad to have it, since medical treatment must be paid for unless your insurance covers it. In a true emergency, hospitals will stabilize you for free, but beyond that, you or your insurer must cover costs. Remember to always carry your insurance info and a copy of your passport. And if you take prescription medication, see the Rules section about bringing meds. 

For an up-to-date list of 24-hour pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, and medical centers, visit the TAMM - Abu Dhabi Government Services portal. If you’re offline, you can call the toll-free number 800 555 or +971 2 666 4442.

The official language of the UAE and Abu Dhabi is Arabic, but English is commonly used by everyone in the city. Hotel staff, taxi drivers, restaurant servers, shopkeepers, theme park employees, and more speak conversational English, so you will have no language barrier in almost any situation. 

English is so widely used, in fact, that it’s the main language adopted in most businesses, tourist attractions, and universities across the country. 

Airport signage, road signs, museum displays, information boards, and restaurant menus are also typically bilingual, presented in both Arabic and English.

Abu Dhabi is home to over 2.2 million expats of more than 200 nationalities, spanning South Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas, and English is the bridge language between them all. You’ll also hear a vibrant mix of other languages spoken by residents, including Bengali, Malayalam, Farsi, Turkish, Urdu, Chinese, French, Russian, and Hindi. 

The UAE refers to individuals with disabilities as People of Determination, a term that recognizes their contributions and capabilities across different fields. This reflects a broader national commitment to inclusion, supported by policies that guarantee access to services, facilities, and public life.

Yas Island is currently piloting an Inclusive City project aimed at making it a model for accessible destinations in the region by 2025. The initiative focuses on well-prepared infrastructure, improved mobility, and appropriately designed facilities to ensure equal access to products, services, and experiences. The goal is to create an environment where People of Determination can participate fully and equally, contributing to a higher quality of life and stronger social integration for all.

Remember to always ask permission before photographing people, especially Emirati women and families, since many locals deeply value their privacy. In fact, it’s against the law to take or post images of someone without consent. When in doubt, just ask; most people will oblige or politely decline. 

In Abu Dhabi and the UAE, taking pictures of government buildings, military sites, airports, and other strategic locations is restricted.

As mentioned in the Culture section, privacy is protected by law. It’s illegal to photograph people without their permission, and posting such photos or videos online can result in legal action.

Additionally, taking pictures of government buildings, military sites, airports and other strategic locations is restricted in Abu Dhabi and the wider UAE.

Islam is the official religion of the UAE, and its influence shapes many cultural norms in Abu Dhabi and all the emirates. You will hear the call to prayer five times a day from mosque minarets across the city, and at those times, you don’t need to stop what you’re doing. 

Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, is a particularly important time here (dates change each year). If you visit during Ramadan, know that Muslims fast from dawn to sunset (this doesn’t apply to tourists and non-Muslims who aren’t observing the fast). Out of respect (and by law), refrain from eating, drinking, chewing gum, or smoking in public during daylight hours.

Hotels and malls often have curtained-off restaurants for non-fasters, or you can dine in your hotel room during the day. At sunset, during the call to prayer known as Maghrib, the fast is broken with iftar. The city comes alive with meals and festivities that non-Muslims are more than welcome to join.

Abu Dhabi, like the rest of the UAE, enjoys a sunny and warm climate throughout the year. However, from late May through September, daytime temperatures can soar to 45°C (113°F) or more, with humidity often at 80-90%. To stave off heat-related illness, stay well-hydrated, avoid prolonged direct sun exposure, and take regular cool-off breaks when outdoors.

Always use a high-SPF sunscreen and wear light, breathable clothing, a hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses. In the peak afternoon, roughly from 11 AM to 4 PM, try to stay in air-conditioned areas (malls, hotels, indoor attractions, etc.) as much as possible, especially during summer.  

Remember to also never leave children or pets in parked cars, even for a few minutes, as temperatures inside vehicles can skyrocket dangerously. 

Late May through September is summer, and that time is usually when it’s hot and humid here. Daytime temperatures often soar to 45°C (113°F) or even higher during peaks. Humidity can be 80-90% near the coast, making it feel even hotter.

If you visit in summer, plan your outdoor activities for early morning or evening. Expect to dash between air-conditioned facilities during midday – thankfully, Abu Dhabi is well-adapted, with AC in every indoor space, bus stops, and recently the city’s first fully air-conditioned outdoor walkway, located in Al Nahyan near the Al Mamoura building. 

UV levels are extreme in summer, so make sure to wear light, breathable clothing, a high SPF sunscreen, and a hat and have water on you at all times. 

An upside to summer being an off-peak tourist season due to the heat is that you may find more affordable hotel rates and fewer crowds, and you can enjoy many indoor attractions without weather worries: 

Yas Mall

Warner Bros. World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

Getting around Abu Dhabi is simple and convenient. Taxis are the most common mode of transportation; they’re regulated, metered, and drivers are generally courteous. Seatbelts are mandatory in taxis, so be sure to buckle up for a comfortable and safe ride.

Buses run on fixed routes and schedules, and rideshare apps like Uber and Careem are available.

If you rent a car, road conditions are excellent, but keep to speed limits and stay in slower lanes if you’re not comfortable with the high speeds some drivers go. The city has speed cameras everywhere, something that keeps drivers in check.  

Mid-March to May in spring and September to November in autumn are beautiful seasons to plan a trip to the capital.

Spring in Abu Dhabi brings a gentle rise in temperatures, with sporadic rainfall, usually around March. If you’re planning a visit, it’ll be an ideal time for you to experience some of the city’s most vibrant cultural events, festivals, exhibitions, and trade shows.  

As autumn rolls in, the summer heat eases, leaving milder weather that’s ideal for beach days and watersports.

When dining or staying at hotels, hotel apartments, or resorts across the UAE, you may be charged one or more of the following charges: 

10% room rate tax 
10% service charge 
10% municipality fee 
6% to 10% city tax 
6% tourism fee 

Tipping isn’t expected in Abu Dhabi, but it’s a common way to show appreciation for good service.

The UAE is four hours ahead of UTC (Coordinated Universal Time, formerly GMT) and does not observe daylight saving time.

When it’s 12 PM in Abu Dhabi, the time is approximately:

3:00 AM in New York
8:00 AM in London
9:00 AM in Paris
6:00 PM in Sydney
1:30 PM in New Delhi

Times may vary in cities that adjust for daylight savings.

Abu Dhabi’s beaches, such as Yas Beach, are clean, well-maintained, and almost always patrolled by lifeguards who use a flag system to communicate water conditions. Pay attention to the colors of the flags: a red flag means no swimming (strong currents), yellow means caution (enter the water carefully), and green means it’s safe to swim.

Designated swimming areas are usually roped or marked to keep you away from jet ski zones or boat traffic. During peak summer months, especially July and August, it’s best to plan water activities for early morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense midday heat. Swimming after dark isn’t recommended and may be prohibited in some areas. When in doubt, check with on-site staff, as lifeguards and beach officials are there to help.

Winter in Abu Dhabi, roughly November to March, is gorgeous. During this time, the city boasts perfect weather, with warm and mild temperatures ranging from 18 to 25°C (64-77°F) during the day and cool 13 to 16°C (55–60°F) in the evenings and early mornings, as well as occasional rainfall. 

Unlike winter experiences everywhere else, you can look forward to endless sunshine, clear skies, cool breezes, and plenty of fun activities to enjoy outdoors. From beach days, desert safaris and outdoor dining to theme parks, events, festivals, sightseeing and more, it’s a great time to be in Abu Dhabi. 

What to bring on your visit depends on when you’re coming and what you plan on doing. In general, be prepared for warm days, cooler nights and strong air conditioning indoors.  


Here are the essentials for solo travelers, couples, and families heading to Abu Dhabi: 

• Lightweight clothing made with breathable materials
• Modest clothing for public spaces 
• Smart or evening attire for events and restaurants 
• Multiple sets of swimwear 
• Comfortable footwear for walking or outdoor activities
• Flip-flops 
• Sun hat or cap 
• Sunglasses 
• Sunscreen with a high SPF 
• Pashmina or shawl  
• Universal travel adaptor (Abu Dhabi uses the Type G 3-prong plug)
• Power bank 
• Stroller or pushchair if travelling with young children