How to Plan Your Vacation in Abu Dhabi - Top Tips for Organising a Holiday in Abu Dhabi

As one of the Middle East's most coveted holiday destinations, Abu Dhabi remains a tourist hotspot like no other in the region. Revered for its cultural heritage and the state-of-the-art recreational facilities that occupy its landscapes, Abu Dhabi is a desert playground that's not just reserved for the rich and famous. From deciding when to go to signing up for the best excursions, here's a comprehensive guide on planning a memorable getaway in the city.

Image via Anantara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi Hotel

1. Deciding When to Go

The first order of business when planning a vacation in Abu Dhabi or any part of the UAE is deciding when to time the trip. Although it is possible to enjoy a pleasant vacation in most parts of the world even during the low tourist season, the same cannot be said of Middle Eastern nations. Due to the arid landscapes that surround these oases, desert capitals such as Abu Dhabi are only conducive for holidays during the winter season. This is due to the fact that the heat and humidity of the remaining seasons are simply too much to bear for those who hail from colder climates and even tropical countries. This means the November to April period is the best time to visit Abu Dhabi. This is also when most shopping festivals take place in the city.

2. Determine the Duration

Unlike Paris or Rome, discovering the attractions and activity hubs of Abu Dhabi does not require weeks or months. At best, a week is more than enough to experience the best that the city has to offer without growing bored or becoming restless. Ten days is as long as a trip to Abu Dhabi should last as it offers tourists sufficient time and space to enjoy the city at their own pace.

3.  Find Accommodation

The next step in the planning process is finding conveniently located rests in the city. Although Abu Dhabi is well-connected by public transport networks, it is prudent to secure a resort base with easy access to the major landmarks in the UAE capital. So, whether you choose to stay at the Anantara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi Hotel or any other property, it should ideally be near some of the best attractions and things to do in Abu Dhabi.

4. Getting Around

Tourists also need to figure out how they mean to explore Abu Dhabi during shopping tours and sightseeing activities, so they don't overspend on transport expenses. Taxis are arguably the best way to get around the city although bikes and e-scooters are also available for short transfers. Buses also travel between Abu Dhabi and Dubai so those who wish to embark on a day trip to Dubai can use this affordable public transport option.

5. What to See

Every traveller must create a sightseeing itinerary before heading to Abu Dhabi as what you can see and explore will depend on the time available and your own personal interests. This is why it is necessary to do some research into the biggest attractions in Abu Dhabi and make note of venues that speak to you. No trip to Abu Dhabi would be complete without visiting the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque while Qasr Al-Hosn and the Heritage Village are equally engaging. 

6. Sign up for Adventures

A trip to Abu Dhabi also offers visitors the chance to enjoy unique excursions such as dune bashing sessions and desert safaris. Don't forget to allocate a day or two in your itinerary to discover the theme parks and leisure hotspots on Yas Island including Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld and Warner Bros. Abu Dhabi. A shopping spree in the city's souqs and mega malls should also be a part of every itinerary as the UAE capital is known for its big sales and branded products.