Location & Transportation
When you arrive in Abu Dhabi, your cruise ship docks at Port Zayed. I was impressed by the new terminal building—a modern, eco-friendly structure that beautifully fuses traditional Arabic ornamentation with contemporary design. Inside, you’ll find helpful tourist information services and smooth passport and customs processing.
You’ll quickly notice metered taxis waiting just outside the terminal. If you prefer a guided city experience, the Big Bus Hop On/Off Tour is available right at the terminal. In addition, the WTC Souk and Mall offer convenient shuttle services to the terminal entrance.
Nearby Lodging
There are plenty of hotels in central Abu Dhabi if you’d like to extend your stay. For a touch of luxury, consider places like Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers or The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal. Many budget-friendly options are also available in and around the city center.
Nearest Airport
Abu Dhabi International Airport is the main air hub of the city, located roughly 30 kilometers from the port. A taxi ride typically takes around 30–40 minutes, making it a convenient option if you’re transferring between flights and your cruise.
Sightseeing
Abu Dhabi is a city of contrasts—ultra-modern skyscrapers and gleaming malls mix with quiet, traditional heritage sites. I loved wandering along the scenic Corniche and discovering the unique stories each landmark holds.
Highlights include:
- A stroll along The Corniche, the park-lined coastal boulevard offering mesmerizing views of the Gulf.
- A visit to Heritage Village to step back in time and experience the traditional Bedouin lifestyle.
- Spotting Lulu Island—this man-made island just off the Corniche was once developed as a leisure resort, though it’s now closed to the general public and best admired from the mainland or by boat.
- Admiring the stunning architecture of The Cultural Centre, which features traditional Arabian-Islamic designs surrounded by peaceful courtyards.
- Experiencing the splendor of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque. A must-see for its grandeur and intricate details; please note that visitors should dress modestly (women can obtain an abaya at the entrance and men are advised to wear long trousers).
Museums
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the cultural side of Abu Dhabi:
- Louvre Abu Dhabi – A breathtaking museum that marries art and architecture, offering exhibits from around the world.
- Qasr Al Hosn – The oldest stone building in the city, where you can learn about Abu Dhabi’s heritage and evolution.
Tours & Excursions
Abu Dhabi is a spread-out city, so while walking isn’t the best option due to the heat, taking a taxi is both comfortable and affordable. Here are a few ideas for your day on shore:
- Use the Big Bus Hop On/Off Tour to easily visit major landmarks at your own pace.
- Enjoy a scenic ride to the Marina Mall’s top floor for an excellent panoramic view of the city’s dynamic skyline.
- For those with a taste for adventure, consider booking a desert tour. It’s a great way to experience authentic Bedouin hospitality and the striking desert landscape.
- If time allows, some local operators also offer cultural walking tours that explain the fascinating history and rapid transformation of Abu Dhabi.
It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.
There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. Tours by Locals connects you with local guides who can help you plan a private personal tour, guide you, and get you back to your ship on time. You can also check out Rome2Rio for local transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.
Shopping
Abu Dhabi offers a fabulous mix of traditional souqs and modern malls:
- In the bustling central souq area, air-conditioned walkways shelter a vibrant market where you can hunt for gold jewelry, watches, perfumes, embroidered linens, and traditional coffee pots.
- Visit Marina Mall for a mix of international brands and local specialties. It’s set on a scenic island right along the Corniche, and you can often catch stunning views from its upper levels.
- Yas Mall is another excellent spot, especially if you’re looking for a more contemporary shopping environment complete with flagship stores and even a Lego store.
Dining
Abu Dhabi’s dining scene is just as diverse as its culture. Whether you’re in the mood for fine dining or a casual bite, you’ll find no shortage of options:
- Enjoy traditional Emirati dishes like Al Harees or sample a variety of international cuisines available in the city’s upscale restaurants.
- Many restaurants in the malls provide both local and global flavors, and you can always ask for recommendations to try authentic local fare.
- For a relaxed atmosphere, pop into one of the many cafés along the Corniche to savor a coffee and watch the city life go by.
Culture & Local Events
Abu Dhabi beautifully blends modern luxury with centuries-old traditions. Here are some local insights and tips:
- The official language is Arabic, but you’ll find English widely spoken everywhere.
- The United Arab Emirates dirham (AED) is the local currency, and its value is pegged to the USD, which makes transactions straightforward and stable.
- The UAE workweek runs Monday to Friday, with the weekend now falling on Saturday and Sunday. Shops typically open daily from 09:00 to 13:00 and 16:00 to 21:00, while many malls are open all day. Note that on Fridays, some shops pause operations around midday for prayer.
- Dress modestly when visiting cultural sites such as mosques—the Sheikh Zayed Mosque provides abayas for women, and men should avoid shorts.
- Abu Dhabi regularly hosts festivals and cultural events. For a calendar of upcoming festivities, check out the festivals and events page.
Safety & Awareness
I always felt safe while exploring Abu Dhabi—the city is clean, modern, and respectful of its traditions. Here are a few friendly reminders:
- Taxis are reliable and inexpensive, but always ensure the meter is switched on.
- Respect local customs and dress codes, especially in religious sites.
- Overall, the city has a very low crime rate, so you can relax and enjoy your visit with peace of mind.