Ideal Time to Visit Abu Dhabi for Perfect Weather and Amazing Views

Where is Abu Dhabi?

Abu Dhabi is one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates. It lies on the Persian Gulf, bordered by Oman to the east and Saudi Arabia to the south. The city is composed of a series of islands and peninsulas, covering approximately 26,000 square miles—comparable in size to Maine. With a population of around 3.8 million, it is home to a diverse mix of residents, including a significant number of expatriates.

Is Abu Dhabi Safe?

Abu Dhabi is widely considered one of the safest cities in the world. In 2024, it was ranked as the safest city globally for the second year in a row by Numbeo, which evaluated factors such as crime levels, safety during day and night, and perceptions of property and violent crimes. U.S. cities did not even make the top 80 on the list.

During my family’s visit, we felt secure throughout our stay. There were no visible signs of homelessness or aggressive solicitation outside major attractions. We stayed at the Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, where we enjoyed evening strolls on the resort’s beach and even took moonlit dips in the warm waters of the Persian Gulf. While Arabic is the national language, English is widely spoken, making communication easy for travelers.

Is Abu Dhabi a Good Destination for Families?

When I was invited to travel to Abu Dhabi with my family, I was curious about what activities would appeal to my children, who are 11 and 10 years old. My younger child, in particular, needs a lot of stimulation to stay engaged. Fortunately, we were able to create an itinerary that kept everyone happy, with a mix of cultural experiences and fun activities.

Some highlights from our trip included:

• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: One of the largest mosques in the world, featuring stunning architecture, including 82 domes and giant chandeliers made of Swarovski crystals.
• Yas Island: A hub of entertainment with theme parks, theaters, and marinas. We enjoyed Seaworld Yas Island, where we saw dolphin shows, petted stingrays, and rode the Manta roller coaster.
• Saadiyat Island: Home to four museums, including the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi. We also visited teamLab Phenomena, a unique art experience with interactive installations.
• Dune Riding: An exhilarating adventure through the Al Danah desert, followed by a traditional buffet dinner with entertainment like belly dancing and fire performances.
• Emirates Park Zoo: We had a private breakfast with sea lions and fed giraffes, creating unforgettable memories for the kids.

What’s the Food Like in Abu Dhabi?

The food in Abu Dhabi is fresh and varied, with many options catering to different tastes. Lebanese-inspired dishes like hummus, baba ghanoush, and shish kebabs are popular, and most restaurants offer kid-friendly menus. Pork is not available due to the country's Islamic traditions.

We enjoyed meals at local and international restaurants, including Erth Al Hosn, which served Emirati cuisine, and upscale spots like Zuma and Hakkasan, where my picky eater son enjoyed sushi and kid-friendly dishes.

Where’s the Best Place to Stay in Abu Dhabi?

There are several excellent hotel options for families. The Fairmont Bab Al Bahr offers a family-friendly environment with a kids’ club, pool, and beach access. For a more budget-friendly choice, the Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island is located near theme parks and has a large pool and golf course. For luxury, the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental provides opulent accommodations with impressive design elements and fine dining options.

How Many Days Is Enough in Abu Dhabi?

Our family spent five days in Abu Dhabi, which was just right. We could have used an extra day for relaxation, but we didn’t miss out on any major experiences. If you’re planning a trip, five days should give you enough time to explore the city and its surroundings.

When Is the Best Time to Go to Abu Dhabi?

We visited in mid-April, when temperatures ranged from 72 to 93 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the heat can be intense, especially in the summer, when temperatures often exceed 107 degrees. The best time to visit is between November and March, when temperatures are milder, ranging from the low 60s to the high 70s. Ramadan is another consideration, as the atmosphere may be more subdued during the day when many residents are fasting.