The Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi and island culture
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi · Grand mosque and cultural capital
The UAE's capital is a greener, more measured counterpoint to Dubai, anchored by the dazzling white Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Its Saadiyat island hosts the Louvre Abu Dhabi, while Yas Island brings theme parks and Formula 1.
Top sightsSights
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
A vast white marble mosque with 82 domes.
Louvre Abu Dhabi
A domed art museum on Saadiyat Island.
Corniche
A palm-lined waterfront with a clean city beach.
Qasr Al Watan
A working presidential palace open to visitors.
Yas Island
Ferrari World, waterparks and the F1 circuit.
What to eatFood
Harees
Slow-cooked wheat and meat porridge, an Emirati classic.
Al Machboos
Fragrant spiced rice with tender meat.
Karak chai
Strong sweet spiced tea sold at roadside cafeterias.
Good to know
- Dress conservatively for the Grand Mosque; robes are provided.
- The mosque is stunning at sunset when it glows.
- Saadiyat beaches are among the cleanest in the country.
Getting there
Abu Dhabi Airport (AUH) links to the city by bus and taxi; it is about 90 minutes from Dubai.
Next city
Sharjah