We list the best hotels in Abu Dhabi as recommended by travel experts from CNN, Lonely Planet, Frommer’s, Fodor’s, New York Times and more. All hotel recommendations have been referenced with customer reviews, and we only listed places that have at least a 4 out of 5-star customer review rating.
Best cheap hotel in Abu Dhabi: Al Maha Arjaan
Best boutique hotel in Abu Dhabi: Anantara Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort
Best luxury hotel in Abu Dhabi: Jumeirah at the Etihad Towers
“From Glo, its rooftop pool-bar, at the tip to snug wine-haunt La Cava secreted in its toe, the Rosewood is one sophisticated customer. Rooms exude contemporary, non-stuffy style with lashings of white, and baths overlooking the waterway.”
“Sleek and sapphire blue, Fairmont Bab Al Bahr’s geometry sparkles like glistening facets of a gemstone along Abu Dhabi Creek. Inside, you’ll find a warm and inviting hotel in stark contrast to its cool, modern façade.”
“Slap on the Corniche and packed full of facilities, you can’t really go wrong staying in the Sofitel’s large, light-filled rooms. The two rooftop pools (one kept specifically for families with wee ones) are where most guests hang out, though after dark many are tempted into Jazz & Fizz for a drink or two.”
“This shiny high-rise packs in the flair of a hotel twice the price from the moment you walk into the triple-height lobby hung with swooping contemporary lamps. A fresh, modern vibe runs through the rooms with a sprinkle of Middle Eastern design touches thrown in, and there’s a buzzing social vibe throughout thanks to a bundle of popular bars and cafes.”
“Debuted in November 2018 as EDITION’s first property in the Middle East, The Abu Dhabi EDITION is a stunning microcosm of the city it inhabits. While Arabian culture and heritage are referenced prolifically throughout the property, this place is thoroughly modern and adds a dash of high-octane glamor to Abu Dhabi’s crowded hotel scene.”
“The towering Aloft hotel has 408 rooms done in a sleek and angular style and contains the popular rooftop bar Relax@12, among others.”
Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Abu Dhabi.
“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.”
Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Abu Dhabi.
“Appealing especially to race-goers, this dramatic hotel sits in pole position, straddling the Yas Marina Circuit.”
“The lobby’s show-stopping glass wall ushers you into this exclusive cocoon where guests float from spa treatment to private beach before choosing between some of the city’s top-class restaurants and bars once the sun goes down.”
“A little less glossy than neighboring hotels, Centro’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.”
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet, Forbes, CN Traveler, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Forbes, Lonely Planet, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Forbes, Telegraph
Recommended by:
New York Times, Lonely Planet
Recommended by:
New York Times, Forbes
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet
The city of Abu Dhabi is the capital and the second most populous city in the United Arab Emirates. Abu Dhabi is the largest of the seven emirates in the country. Here are some of the best neighborhoods to stay in Abu Dhabi:
Al Raha
One of the most posh residential areas, Al Raha is the home to the authentic Emirati villas and houses. The villas built in this neighborhood are beautifully extravagant yet simple and it is the best place to witness the architectural wonders of the country.
Al Reem Island
Al Reem Island is the finance hub of Abu Dhabi and the neighborhood evokes the hustle and bustle of any leading financial capital in the world. The area is thronged by thousands of tourists and residents who visit the place to witness some of the most avant-garde sights of the country.
Al Reef
Al Reef is noted for its characteristic urban-lifestyle setting and is a perfect hangout spot for the people who intend to discover the emirate’s city life. The neighborhood has ample of hotels and townhouses as well as numerous health clubs, public parks, shopping malls, and restaurants.
Al Maryah Island
Al Maryah Island is among the newly-built neighborhoods in the emirate and it is swiftly turning into one of the most sophisticated city centers of the city. The neighborhood is the home to some of the best shopping centers and technology hubs in the country.
Saadiyat Island
Saadiyat Island is among the most luxurious areas in the city and is the home to romantic beachfronts, five-star hotels, and large villa complexes.
Also check out our guide about the best areas to stay in Abu Dhabi.
For 3-star hotels the average rate is around $70 per night. If you're looking for a 4-star hotel then the rates are around $90 per night. The average rate for a 5-star hotel in Abi Dhabi is around $200 per night.
If you're looking for a cheap hotel in Abu Dhabi, then try Al Maha Arjaan. It's an excellent budget hotel offering great value for money. It's in a good location, it's been recommended by travel experts and the hotel has excellent customer reviews. Also check out our list of the best cheap hotels in Abu Dhabi.
You like some luxury but don't like the famous chain hotels. If you're looking for the best boutique hotel in Abu Dhabi, you should check out Anantara Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort. It's a very cool hotel that has been highly recommended by travelers and experts.
Also check out our list of the best boutique hotels in Abu Dhabi, it's a manually curated list of the most unique and romantic hotels in the city.
If money isn't a problem and you're looking for a luxury hotel in Abu Dhabi, then go for Jumeirah at the Etihad Towers. The hotel offers excellent service, it's in a top location, it has been rated very highly by previous guests and renowned travel critics have recommended it.
Also check out our list of the best luxury hotels in Abu Dhabi, it's a manually curated list of the most exclusive 5-star hotels in the city.
If you're looking for a hotel that offers great breakfast, then Shangri-La Hotel Qaryat Al Beri or The Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Hotel are probably your best bets in Abu Dhabi.
If you're looking for an excellent hotel near the airport in Abu Dhabi, then go for Hotel Centro Yas Island.
The Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Hotel has some excellent views of 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.
Abu Dhabi: 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.
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 things to do in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is one of the United Arab Emirates. It’s located on the Persian Gulf and is bordered by Saudi Arabia to the south, Oman to the east, and Qatar to the north. Abu Dhabi was originally called kindah. The Arabic name Abu Dhabi means “Father of Gazelle”. It’s also known as the capital city of the UAE. One of its main attractions is Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, which has a capacity for more than 40,000 worshipers. Abu Dhabi may be your next stop on your trip! Check out this list for everything you need to know about planning a trip to Abu Dhabi now!
Sitting on the Persian Gulf, Abu Dhabi is bordered by Saudi Arabia to the south, Oman to the east, and Qatar to the north. At its widest point, it’s about 220 kilometers from east to west.
If you’re planning a trip to Abu Dhabi, there are some things you should know before you go.
1) Abu Dhabi is located on the Persian Gulf and is bordered by Saudi Arabia to the south, Oman to the east, and Qatar to the north.
2) The Arabic name Abu Dhabi means “Father of Gazelle”.
3) It’s also known as the capital city of the UAE. The estimated population of Abu Dhabi is 3 million, making it the second largest city in the UAE, after Dubai.
4) One of its main attractions is Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, which has capacity for more than 40,000 worshippers.
5) The Yas Marina Circuit, the second Formula One track in the Middle East, serves as the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix venue.
You can find lots of hotels in Abu Dhabi that offer modern amenities like gyms and pools so it won’t be hard to stay active while you’re there.
There are so many places to visit in Abu Dhabi! There is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, which is a place of worship and a tourist attraction. You can also see the Corniche, an area along the coast that has a walkway with restaurants and views of the city. The Al Bateen Executive Airport is located in Abu Dhabi, and it’s one of the biggest airports in the United Arab Emirates.
Make sure you also visit some of these places: Al Ain Zoo, Dubai Museum, Al Khalidiya Palace, Corniche Street, Etihad Towers, Yas Marina, Yas Waterworld and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi.
Abu Dhabi has a very developed public transportation system in place. Public buses are used to reach all parts of the city. Taxis are also available for hire. If you’re coming from the airport, you can take a bus or taxi.
One of the most convenient ways to get around Abu Dhabi is by using Uber or Careem, both ride-sharing apps used widely in the region. They make it easy to get anywhere in Abu Dhabi at any time!
You’ll find many hotels in Abu Dhabi near popular attractions like Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Yas Island. You can make reservations directly through their websites or by calling them directly. Many hotels offer free shuttles to major destinations within the city as well.
When you visit Abu Dhabi, it can be difficult to find out what the locals do for fun. But we’ve got the inside scoop on what Abu Dhabi residents do for fun:
1) Rent a car and explore! You can see some of the country’s most beautiful sights this way.
2) Visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, which has capacity for more than 40,000 worshippers.
3) Walk around Marina Mall and enjoy the vast array of shops and restaurants that it has to offer.
4) See if you can spot any falcons in Al Ain National Park, where they occasionally roost after migrating from Africa.
5) Walk or jog along Corniche Street or Leisure Beach Park. They are both popular sites for locals who want to get out of the house while enjoying nature.
Getting a visa is a bit tricky. You have to get it before you arrive in Abu Dhabi. It costs about US$100 for a three-month visa and US$200 for a six-month visa.
Abu Dhabi is a city rich in culture, history, and adventure. By keeping these tips in mind before you go, you will have the opportunity to explore this fascinating city. We also recommend you read our guide about where to stay in Abu Dhabi.
If you like our list of the best hotels and accommodations in Abu Dhabi, then you should also check out our selection of recommended hotels in Dubai or the best hotels in Mumbai.