Do not let Dubai’s fame fool you. Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates. This Middle Eastern metropolis is known for its modern skyline, large-scale developments, and reputation for luxury and opulence. If you’re planning a visit to the UAE’s capital, each area offers a different experience, so it is essential to choose among the best areas to stay in Abu Dhabi based on your plans.
Founded in the late 18th century, Abu Dhabi grew as a hub for pearl diving and trade before oil discovery in the mid-20th century led to rapid expansion. Today, landmarks like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Qasr Al Watan reflect the city’s cultural and religious heritage, while Heritage Village offers a look at traditional Emirati life. On the modern side, Al Maryah Island and Al Reem Island are home to financial districts, shopping centers, and waterfront areas.
The Corniche is a key attraction, offering a waterfront promenade with beaches and cycling paths. Saadiyat Island houses major cultural institutions like the Louvre Abu Dhabi, while Yas Island is known for entertainment venues such as Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, and the Formula 1 Yas Marina Circuit. Outside the city, the Liwa Desert is a destination for dune excursions and desert resorts offering luxury camping and adventure experiences.
Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) connects the city to major destinations and serves as the main hub for Etihad Airways. The city has a bus network and taxis, and highways provide direct access to Dubai and other emirates.
Beyond the city, Abu Dhabi offers natural attractions, including the mangroves of Jubail Island and the UNESCO-listed Al Ain Oasis, known for its ancient irrigation system and desert landscape.
What are the best areas to stay in Abu Dhabi?
The best area to stay in Abu Dhabi is Downtown Abu Dhabi, the city’s commercial and cultural center. It offers waterfront views, major landmarks like the Corniche and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, and easy access to shopping, dining, and business districts.
Other options include Yas Island for theme parks and motorsports, Saadiyat Island for cultural attractions and luxury beach resorts, and Masdar City for an eco-friendly urban experience. Those needing proximity to flights can stay near Abu Dhabi International Airport, which has convenient hotel options for layovers and business travelers.
Keep reading our guide to learn more about the best areas to stay in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
1. Downtown Abu Dhabi
Our recommended area to stay in Abu Dhabi
Thanks to its central location, historic sites, waterfront parks, and shopping centers, Downtown is one of the best areas to stay in Abu Dhabi.
Downtown Abu Dhabi occupies the northern tip of the main T-shaped island that forms the core of Abu Dhabi. It serves as the city’s business and commercial hub, with government buildings, shopping centers, and waterfront attractions.
One of the area’s most important landmarks is Qasr Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi’s oldest stone building, which once served as a watchtower and later as the ruling family’s residence. Not far away, Al Manhal Palace is where the UAE flag was first raised in Abu Dhabi in 1971, marking the country’s formation.
The Corniche (waterfront promenade) runs along Downtown’s northern edge, with the sea on one side and several parks, including Lake Park and Formal Park, on the other. Electra Park and Capital Garden provide additional green spaces within the district.
The district is also home to Abu Dhabi Mall, a major shopping center with international brands, and Mina Zayed Souk, a traditional market offering fresh produce, spices, and textiles.
Accommodation in Downtown Abu Dhabi ranges from high-end hotels with waterfront views to mid-range and budget-friendly options near shopping centers and business districts.
Public transport here consists mainly of bus routes. Additionally, taxis and ride-hailing services are widely available, and major highways provide direct access to the airport and nearby islands.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Downtown Abu Dhabi
Courtyard by Marriott World Trade Center
Courtyard by Marriott World Trade Center, Abu Dhabi, is centrally located in the city’s downtown district. Free Wi-Fi is available in all areas and is conveniently connected to the World Trade Center Mall.
2. Saadiyat Island
The best area to stay in Abu Dhabi for culture
Home to the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island is the city’s cultural district. It offers world-class museums, luxury resorts, and pristine beaches.
Located just 5 miles (8 km) northeast of Downtown Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island offers a quieter and more upscale atmosphere than the city center.
The island is home to the Louvre Abu Dhabi, which showcases global art and historical artifacts. Other cultural landmarks include Manarat Al Saadiyat, a creative space for exhibitions and events, and the Abrahamic Family House, an interfaith complex featuring a mosque, church, and synagogue.
Beyond its cultural attractions, Saadiyat Island is known for its white-sand beaches and exclusive beach clubs. Saadiyat Beach is one of the most scenic in the UAE, with protected coastal dunes that serve as a nesting ground for hawksbill turtles. The island also has a championship golf course and several fine-dining restaurants.
Accommodation on Saadiyat Island is focused on luxury, with high-end resorts offering private beach access, spa facilities, and fine dining.
Saadiyat Island is connected to the mainland by the Sheikh Khalifa Bridge, a short drive from Downtown Abu Dhabi. Taxis and ride-hailing services are the main transport options, as public transportation is limited in this area.
Our hand-picked accommodations on Saadiyat Island
3. Yas Island
The best location in Abu Dhabi for families
Designed as a destination for theme parks, motorsports, and leisure activities, Yas Island is one of the most popular areas in Abu Dhabi.
Yas Island is Abu Dhabi’s premier entertainment hub, located 15 miles (24 km) east of Downtown Abu Dhabi.
Among adults, the island is best known for the Yas Marina Circuit, home to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The waterfront Yas Marina offers fine dining, nightlife, and yacht charters.
But perhaps the island is more famous as considered one of the best areas to stay in Abu Dhabi for families traveling with children, as it is home to one of the largest entertainment destinations in the world. This massive family-friendly complex includes several world-class theme parks, including Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, an indoor theme park featuring attractions based on DC Comics, Looney Tunes, and Hanna-Barbera characters; Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, home to Formula Rossa, the world’s fastest roller coaster; SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, a marine-themed park with immersive aquariums and live animal encounters; and Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi, a water park inspired by Emirati culture, offering over 40 rides and attractions.
Shopping and leisure options include Yas Mall, the largest shopping center in Abu Dhabi, and Yas Beach, a private beach club with water sports and cabanas. Golf enthusiasts can visit the Yas Links Abu Dhabi, a championship-level golf course with views of the mangroves.
Accommodation on Yas Island consists mainly of mid-range and luxury hotels catering to families, theme park enthusiasts, and leisure travelers.
Yas Island is connected to the mainland by the Yas Gateway Bridges, with direct road links to central Abu Dhabi and the airport. Free shuttle buses run between the island’s attractions, and taxis and ride-hailing services are widely available.
Our hand-picked accommodations on Yas Island
The WB Abu Dhabi, Curio Collection By Hilton
The WB Abu Dhabi, Curio Collection by Hilton offers luxurious rooms with air conditioning, balconies, and modern amenities. Each room includes a bathrobe, tea, coffee maker, and free WiFi.
4. Masdar City
A quiet area to stay in Abu Dhabi
Masdar City is Abu Dhabi’s leading sustainable urban development, designed as a model for renewable energy and green technology.
Located about 10 miles (16 km) east of Downtown Abu Dhabi and near Zayed International Airport, it is a hub for research, innovation, and environmental sustainability.
The city is home to Masdar Institute, a research university focused on renewable energy, and hosts the headquarters of several international clean energy companies. Its design incorporates solar power, wind energy, and smart infrastructure to minimize environmental impact. The district is pedestrian-friendly, with shaded walkways, autonomous electric vehicles, and energy-efficient buildings.
Though primarily a business and research center, Masdar City offers private apartments and condo hotels, making it suitable for long-term stays. Shopping and dining options are available, though limited compared to other districts.
Masdar City is easily accessible from the airport and central Abu Dhabi via major highways, taxis, and ride-hailing services. While public transportation options are limited, its location provides quick access to Yas Island and the rest of the city.
5. Zayed International Airport
The best location to stay during a long stopover
The area around Zayed International Airport is the most convenient place to stay in Abu Dhabi for travelers with long layovers or early flights.
The area around Zayed International Airport (AUH), located about 19 miles (30 km) east of Downtown Abu Dhabi, is a key transit hub with hotels, commercial facilities, and traveler-focused services. Formerly known as Abu Dhabi International Airport, it was renamed in 2023 and is the second busiest airport in the UAE after Dubai International Airport. Staying near the airport is convenient for those on long layovers or with early flights.
Zayed International Airport offers direct flights to major cities across Europe, Asia, North America, and Africa. Key routes include connections to the United Kingdom, Germany, France, India, China, and the United States. It serves as the main hub for Etihad Airways, which operates extensive long-haul connections.
The airport has three passenger terminals (T1, T2, and T3), with T3 primarily serving Etihad Airways and international long-haul flights. A free shuttle service connects the terminals, and the airport features modern lounges, duty-free shopping, and a variety of dining options catering to international travelers.
Transportation between the airport and Abu Dhabi is well-organized. The A1 bus line links the airport to the city center, while taxis and ride-hailing services such as Uber and Careem provide direct transfers. Major highways, including the E10 and E11, offer smooth access to Abu Dhabi and neighboring cities.
Our hand-picked accommodations near Abu Dhabi Airport
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