Where To Stay In Abu Dhabi: 5 Best Areas & Places

Abu Dhabi is a city of contrasts. Gleaming skyscrapers sit next to quiet beaches. Grand palaces share the coastline with modern museums. And then there are the islands. More than 200 of them make up the emirate, although you obviously won’t be staying on all of them.

Choosing where to stay matters here. The city is spread out, and different areas feel surprisingly different. The Corniche puts you close to the waterfront and the buzz of central Abu Dhabi. Saadiyat Island is all about beaches, art and a slower pace. Yas Island is the obvious choice if Ferrari World, theme parks or the Formula 1 circuit are high on your list.

There are also newer areas such as Al Maryah Island, plus quieter residential districts where you get a more everyday side of the city. So, rather than simply picking a hotel with a nice pool, it pays to pick the right part of Abu Dhabi first. Here are the areas worth knowing about.

 

In this travel guide:

 

Saadiyat Island

Best area for: beach, luxury, art

Saadiyat feels quite different from the rest of Abu Dhabi. When we first spent time here, the mix of beach, modern architecture and culture stood out immediately. It is not really an old neighborhood. Saadiyat was developed as a major new district, with luxury homes, hotels, museums and beaches built around the island’s natural landscape.

The big attraction is the Saadiyat Cultural District. Louvre Abu Dhabi is the star, with its huge geometric dome casting patterns of light across the galleries and waterfront. Manarat Al Saadiyat is nearby. The area is also becoming a serious museum destination, with the Zayed National Museum and other major cultural institutions joining the district.

Then there is the beach. Saadiyat has wide stretches of pale sand and surprisingly clear water. Hawksbill turtles also nest along parts of the coastline, which gives the glossy new developments a rather unexpected neighbour.

For food and coffee, we would head to Mamsha Al Saadiyat. The beachfront promenade has plenty of restaurants and cafés. NIRI Restaurant and Bar is a good pick for Japanese food, while Milestones Coffee Al Saadiyat works nicely for a coffee break.

Saadiyat is mainly a residential and resort area, but it has enough culture and dining to make it a worthwhile base for a few days.

Best place to stay in Saadiyat Island

Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort. Address: Saadiyat Island East, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

 

Al Raha

Best area for: beach, shopping, luxury

We loved spending time in Al Raha. It sits right on the waterfront, just off the highway between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Years ago, this area was mostly empty coastline. Now, it’s a bustling mix of trendy living and laid-back seaside vibes.

It’s mainly a residential neighborhood, but tourists flock here too. We spent our afternoons walking along the boardwalks at Al Bandar and Al Muneera. The view of the Arabian Gulf is incredible. You also can’t miss the famous Aldar HQ building. It looks like a giant coin standing on its edge.

We grabbed coffee at outdoor cafés and watched boats dock at the marina. Kids were playing in the plazas. Adults were kayaking through the calm waters. It feels much calmer than central Abu Dhabi. If you want a taste of modern waterfront life without the massive crowds, we think this is the spot.

Best place to stay in Al Raha

Yas Viceroy Hotel. Address: Yas Island Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

 

The Corniche

Best area for: shopping, nightlife, central stay

We spent an amazing afternoon exploring the Abu Dhabi Corniche. It stretches for about eight kilometers along the coast. The views of the turquoise Arabian Gulf are unreal.

Originally, back in the 1970s, this area was just a small harbor for ships. Major land reclamation turned it into the gorgeous waterfront promenade we see today. It is a huge mix of locals, expats, and tourists. High-rise apartments line the street, so it feels very residential yet full of life.

We rented bikes and rode down the paved pathways. We checked out the famous Blue Flag beach, which has super clean sand and shallow water. Further down, we spotted the massive Emirates Palace and the nearby Heritage Village. We grabbed iced coffees at a seaside café as the sun set behind the skyline.

You get the best of both worlds here: fresh sea air and deep city history.

Best place to stay in The Corniche

Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Hotel. Address: Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

 

Khalidiya

Best area for: beach, shopping, authentic stay

We absolute love hanging out in Khalidiya. It’s one of Abu Dhabi’s oldest, most vibrant neighborhoods.

You get the best of both worlds here. It’s mostly a buzzing residential hub full of locals and expats, but tourists flock over too. That’s because the famous Corniche Beach is right on the doorstep. We usually grab coffee and just walk along the water.

The vibe mixes classic local charm with modern city living. You’ll see high-rise apartments, leafy streets, and quiet villa compounds hidden in plain sight. History-wise, it’s one of the city’s original heartlands, so it feels way more grounded than the brand-new islands.

Foodies, take note. The food scene here is legendary. We always end up hitting the local bakeries and shawarma spots tucked behind the main roads. You’ve also got Khalidiyah Mall for quick shopping, plus spot-on green spaces like Khalidiya Park to relax. It’s lively, super walkable, and completely full of character.

Best place to stay in Khalidiya

Aloft Hotel. Address: Khaleej Al Arabi Street, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

 

Al Maryah Island

Best area for: business, shopping, luxury

We like to slip over to Al Maryah Island whenever we want a taste of upscale waterfront living in Abu Dhabi. Before the massive development push in 2007, it was just a quiet sandbar called Sowwah Island. They eventually renamed it after the Arabian Oryx, and the transformation since then has been wild.

It serves as a hybrid spot. You get wealthy locals and expats living in sleek high-rises, finance pros rushing around the Abu Dhabi Global Market, and tourists hanging out by the water.

When we visit, we usually spend hours at The Galleria. It has incredible high-end shopping and world-class dining like Zuma and Coya. Walking along the waterfront promenade at sunset gives you amazing views of the city skyline. It feels polished, modern, and always energetic.

Best place to stay in Al Maryah Island

Rosewood Hotel. Address: Al Maryah Island, 41184 Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

 

Where travel critics stay in Abu Dhabi

Want to know where travel critics from publishers like The New York Times, Frommer’s, Fodor’s and Lonely Planet stay in Abu Dhabi? Check out our overview of all recommended hotels, hostels and B&Bs in Abu Dhabi.

 

Budget

Yas Plaza Circuit.

“A little less glossy than neighboring hotels, this hotel’s neat-as-a-pin, compact rooms offer Yas Island’s most budget-conscious choice. As long as you’re not expecting trendsetting chic styling in your room (it’s all very business-neutrals here) it’s a good-value choice.” — Lonely Planet.

Address: Golf Plaza, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

 

Mid-range

Hotel W.

“The 499-room hotel is renowned for its over-water, over-land location straddling a Formula 1 race track. The hotel is a landmark on Yas Island, offering guests the opportunity to watch a car race from the balcony or relax in the sun by the beach.” — Telegraph.

Address: Yas Island Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

 

Luxury

Shangri-La Hotel Qaryat Al Beri.

“Picturesque waterways run past the luxurious Shangri-La, affording lovely views of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque on an opposite bank. Amenities include a private beachfront, the Asian-inspired Chi spa and the opulent Pearls and Caviar restaurant and lounge.” — New York Times.

Address: Between The Bridges, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

 

FAQ: Abu Dhabi hotel recommendations

If you’re looking for a budget, boutique, or luxury hotel in Abu Dhabi, or maybe your travel plans require a splendid hostel? Want to know which hotel serves the best breakfast? Here are all those answers and more about where to stay in Abu Dhabi.

 

 

Best time to visit Abu Dhabi

The best time to visit Abu Dhabi is usually between the months of October and April. During this season, temperatures are mild and pleasant, making it the perfect time to explore the city and its attractions.

The months of October to April offer the best weather in Abu Dhabi – sunny days, clear skies and comfortable temperatures, with temperatures ranging from around 20 degrees Celsius in December to around 30 degrees Celsius in April.

This makes it the ideal time to explore the city and its attractions, such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Abu Dhabi Corniche and the Yas Marina Circuit.

During this time of year, the city also hosts a variety of events and festivals such as the Abu Dhabi International Boat Show, Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Festival and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Another great time to visit Abu Dhabi is in the summer months of May and September. Although temperatures are higher during this time of year, and can reach up to 40 degrees Celsius, there are still plenty of attractions and activities to enjoy.

Visitors can take advantage of the city’s beaches and take a dip in the Persian Gulf, or take a trip to the Liwa desert and explore the stunning sand dunes. There are also a variety of cultural events to enjoy, such as the Abu Dhabi Summer Festival and the Abu Dhabi International Film Festival.

 

Best things to do in Abu Dhabi

There are many things to do in Abu Dhabi and surrounding areas, including day trips, attractions, museums, sightseeing tours and many other activities. Here’s our list of 3 things you should definitely do when you’re in and around Abu Dhabi:

 

Evening Desert Safari With BBQ Dinner, Henna Painting, Camel Ride and Belly Dance

This trip includes a six-hour adventure through the stunning landscapes outside of Abu Dhabi, henna painting, sheesha smoking, and even a belly dancing show, plus a savory BBQ dinner with fellow travelers. From $83 per person. More info.

 

Yas Marina Circuit Venue Tour

Immerse yourself in a world normally open only to Formula 1 race drivers and their teams, and discover the circuit from the inside and out. From $30 per person. More info.

 

Abu Dhabi Guided Sightseeing Boat Tours

See the skyscrapers and sights of Abu Dhabi from a brilliant yellow rigid-inflatable boat on this 60- or 90-minute cruise. From $42 per person. More info.

 

More things to do in Abu Dhabi

 

Deciding where to stay in Abu Dhabi

To summarize, this travel guide has covered the best areas of Abu Dhabi, as well as some hotel tips and things you can do. It’s now up to you to decide which area you prefer.

 

Top 5 neighborhoods to stay in Abu Dhabi

• Al Maryah Island
• Khalidiya
• The Corniche
• Al Raha
• Saadiyat Island

 

As you have seen in this article, there are a lot of things to explore, and deciding where to stay in Abu Dhabi is important. Whether you stay in Al Maryah Island, Khalidiya, The Corniche, Al Raha or Saadiyat Island, all those neighborhoods are in good locations.

The atmosphere of the area, whether you travel for leisure or business, whether you travel with your family or friends, and proximity to the attractions you prefer to visit should probably be the deciding factors. Whatever your preference is, you’ll have a great time in Abu Dhabi.

 

Abu Dhabi overview

🏨 Hotel prices:	Cheap
🛏 Budget hotel:	$65
💑 Boutique hotel:	$80
⭐ 5-star hotel:	$180
🌎 Best area for first visit:	The Corniche
👪 Best area for families:	Khalidiya
💎 Best luxury hotel:	Jumeirah at the Etihad Towers
👫 Best boutique hotel:	Anantara Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort
💰 Best cheap hotel:	Hotel Centro Yas Island

 

Check out our other guides about the best places to stay in Abu Dhabi:

Hotels in Abu Dhabi

Boutique hotels in Abu Dhabi

Luxury hotels in Abu Dhabi

Cheap hotels in Abu Dhabi

Best things to do in Abu Dhabi