ABOUT ABU DHABI

WELCOME TO ABU DHABI

Located in the heart of Arabia, Abu Dhabi is a vibrant destination offering enriching and exciting activities and cultural attractions – available minutes apart and throughout the year. The emirate boasts stunning natural beauty, with miles of pristine coastline, majestic desert landscapes and lush green oases, all waiting to be explored. Abu Dhabi is also a thriving, dynamic centre for investment and entrepreneurship, as well as a globally recognised destination for high profile global business events and conferences.

Abu Dhabi is the largest of the country’s seven emirates and is divided into three regions. Abu Dhabi City is the capital of the United Arab Emirates – a modern, cosmopolitan, urban playground that offers cultural landmarks, family friendly attractions, global entertainment and a dynamic dining and nightlife scene. Visitors can be inspired by the Saadiyat Cultural District’s museums, find adventure at Yas Island’s award-winning theme parks, or relax at a private island retreat – all in the same day.

Al Ain, which translates to 'The Spring', is Abu Dhabi’s tranquil, green oasis city. The area offers visitors a range of archaeological sites, historic buildings and cultural attractions. Located just a short drive from Abu Dhabi City, the Cultural Sites of Al Ain are the UAE’s only UNESCO-designated heritage sites and include Al Ain Oasis, Bida bint Saud, Jebel Hafit, and Hili Archaeological Park.

Al Dhafra, also known as the Western Region, is Abu Dhabi’s largest and most sparsely populated area. Covering two-thirds of the emirate, the vast expanse features stunning beaches, dramatic scenery and ancient forts, as well as the historic oasis of Liwa, the gateway to the sprawling Empty Quarter desert. This region also includes the majority of Abu Dhabi’s archipelago, consisting of nearly 200 islands dotted along the coastline.

Useful information about the UAE - Abu Dhabi. Everything you need to know about the capital city and the UAE’s largest emirate.

Whether you’re planning a visit to Abu Dhabi or are already in the emirate, this section provides a host of useful information to help you make the most of your time here.

Language and communication

The official language of the UAE is Arabic although English is widely spoken, especially in all hotels, restaurants, shops, tourist sites and attractions.

Time Zone and working hours

The UAE is four hours ahead of UTC (Coordinated Universal Time, formerly known as GMT) and there is no daylight saving adjustment.

Safety during your stay

Recognised as one of the safest cities on earth, Abu Dhabi's virtually crime-free environment and well-organised emergency services will bring you peace of mind and help you fully relax during your stay.

Currency and payments

The local currency is the UAE dirham (AED or Dhs), which is divided into 100 fils and is pegged against the US $ (US $ 1: AED 3.6725). All major credit cards are accepted almost everywhere.

Climate and temperature

Abu Dhabi is a destination with almost year-round sunshine, little rainfall and near perfect winter temperatures. In January/February during the congress, temperatures will range from around 13°C (50F) at night to 25°C (77F) during the day.

Public transport

Abu Dhabi has a well-planned road system and getting around the emirate is easy, with people often relying on landmarks to give directions.