Where to stay in Abu Dhabi? The best hotels and accommodation options

Where is the best place to stay in Abu Dhabi as a tourist?

For those visiting Abu Dhabi for the first time, the best choice is often to stay in the center. It is in the city center that most of the city's life is concentrated - restaurants, shops, cafes, offices, as well as numerous attractions. Downtown Abu Dhabi is an ideal base for sightseeing, especially if you do not plan to rent a car.

When you choose to stay in this part of the city, you have easy access to public transportation, a shopping center, local restaurants, and walking trails along the Corniche promenade. For tourists who want to explore intensively and see as much as possible in a short time, this location is more than enough. An additional advantage is that hotels offer a nice view, which is particularly impressive after dark.

The best neighborhoods for choosing a hotel in Abu Dhabi

City center and Corniche area

One of the most recommended areas for accommodation in Abu Dhabi is the Corniche Abu Dhabi area. It is a prestigious part of the city, located directly on the waterfront, overlooking the Persian Gulf. The Corniche promenade is the perfect place for morning walks, jogging, or relaxing after a day of sightseeing.
Hotels in this district often offer an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, restaurants, and rooms with sea views. An additional advantage is the proximity to the city beach, parks, and numerous cafes. It is a perfect compromise between urban style and relaxation.

Yas Island

Yas Island is a district designed for entertainment and families. Here you will find theme parks, a Formula 1 track, and modern shopping centers. It is the perfect vacation spot for families who want to combine relaxation with activity. Family hotels in Abu Dhabi on Yas Island offer family rooms, swimming pools, entertainment, and restaurants tailored to the needs of children.

Al Maryah Island

The modern Al Maryah Island attracts business travelers and those who appreciate high standards. It features luxury hotels, shopping malls, and an art museum. It is a quieter alternative to the city center, but still very well connected.

Budget hotels in Abu Dhabi

Contrary to appearances, accommodation in the UAE does not have to be expensive. Abu Dhabi offers many reasonably priced hotels that provide a comfortable stay without unnecessary luxuries. A good example is City Seasons Al Hamra, conveniently located close to the city center.
This hotel is valued for its functional room amenities, cleanliness, and good service. The average price per night here is significantly lower than at beach resorts, and the standard is perfectly adequate for a few days of sightseeing.

Also worth noting is the Al Diar Dana Hotel, located in the city center. This Abu Dhabi hotel offers comfortable rooms and helpful staff, which is often highlighted by guests in their reviews. It is an ideal option for those who spend most of their day outside the hotel.

Luxury hotels in Abu Dhabi by the beach

If you dream of complete relaxation and the highest standards, luxury hotels in Abu Dhabi will meet all your expectations. These are places where the hotel offers private access to the beach, an elegant spa, exquisite restaurants, a stylish bar, and a modern fitness center.
Every luxury hotel in this category pays attention to detail: spacious rooms, terraces with sea views, outdoor pools, and perfect service. Among such facilities, it is worth mentioning, for example:

Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas on Saadiyat Island - an elegant resort with great beach access and spacious villas, ideal for both a romantic getaway and a unique family stay.
Another excellent choice is the Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas, which combines luxurious relaxation with proximity to nature and crystal-clear beaches, as well as many amenities for active and relaxing guests.
Properties belonging to premium brands or collections such as Curio Collection offer unique design and individual character, making them the perfect choice for a romantic getaway or a special vacation.

Accommodation close to Abu Dhabi attractions

For those focused on sightseeing, it is essential to stay in Abu Dhabi close to the city's most important landmarks. In the center, you can easily reach places such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world.

Also nearby are the Heritage Village, Qasr Al Watan Presidential Palace, modern galleries, and an art museum. By choosing accommodation close to attractions, you save time and can plan your day freely, remembering only to check the opening hours of each facility.

If you are planning a longer stay in Abu Dhabi, don't miss a visit to Dubai - its modern architecture and attractions will remain in your memory for a long time.

Family hotels and apartments in Abu Dhabi

Families are increasingly opting for apartments in Abu Dhabi, which offer more space and comfort. This is the perfect solution for a longer stay, especially when traveling with children. Apartments provide separate bedrooms, kitchens, and comfortable rooms. For example, Marriott Executive Apartments Downtown Abu Dhabi has a fully equipped kitchen and a spacious living room, which is great for longer family stays.

An alternative is family-friendly hotels, which have family rooms, swimming pools, restaurants with children's menus, and additional amenities. Such a hotel guarantees comfort and safety, while also providing access to on-site attractions. For example, you might consider Staybridge Suites Abu Dhabi - Yas Island by IHG, a family-friendly property on Yas Island with a swimming pool, close to amusement parks, or Park Inn by Radisson, Abu Dhabi Yas Island, which offers comfortable family rooms and a convenient location close to Yas Mall and theme parks. For families who enjoy the marina atmosphere, Yas Plaza Marina is also a good choice, with views of the harbor and amenities for children.

Practical tips before your stay in Abu Dhabi

When planning a trip to Abu Dhabi, it is worth taking a moment to prepare, which will make your stay in the city much easier.

• Before you arrive, be sure to check the current visa requirements - depending on your nationality, a visa may be required or granted at the airport. It is best to verify this information before departure to avoid unnecessary stress.
   
• Once you arrive, you will have no problem managing your finances. There are many ATMs and currency exchange offices throughout the city where you can conveniently exchange money. Card payments are widely accepted, especially in hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers.
   
• Abu Dhabi is famous for its modern galleries and luxury shops, so shopping enthusiasts are sure to find something to their liking. These are great places to buy souvenirs, local products, and designer clothing. Shopping can be combined with a visit to one of the city's many restaurants and cafes.
   
• When it comes to gastronomy, the offer is extremely diverse. Abu Dhabi has many restaurants and bars serving local, Arabic, Asian, and European cuisine. You will easily find places for both a quick lunch and an elegant dinner.

Questions and answers

1. Where can I find a cheap hotel in Abu Dhabi?

The easiest place to find a cheap hotel in Abu Dhabi is in the city center, especially in the downtown Abu Dhabi district and around the Corniche, where there are many good-quality hotels at affordable prices. It is worth paying attention to establishments such as City Seasons and Al Diar, which offer a good location, comfortable rooms, and attractive prices, especially outside the tourist season.

2. Which neighborhoods should you avoid when choosing a hotel in Abu Dhabi?

There are no dangerous neighborhoods in Abu Dhabi, but when choosing a hotel, it is worth avoiding areas located far from the city center and main attractions, where commuting can be time-consuming. Less favorable for tourists are also strictly industrial or office areas, which are unattractive after working hours and lack restaurants or places to walk.

3. Is it better to stay in the center of Abu Dhabi or on the islands?

Accommodation in the center of Abu Dhabi will be better if you want to explore the city, restaurants, and everyday life of the metropolis. Islands such as Yas Island or Saadiyat Island are a great choice for those looking for relaxation, beaches, and family attractions in a quieter setting.

4. Where to stay in Abu Dhabi with your family?

With your family, it is worth choosing Yas Island or Saadiyat Island, where there are child-friendly hotels and apartments, swimming pools, and attractions such as amusement parks and beaches. An alternative is downtown Abu Dhabi, which offers spacious apartments and easy access to restaurants and city attractions.