Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is a vibrant metropolis known for its striking blend of modernity and tradition. Located on the Arabian Gulf's coast, Abu Dhabi is the largest of the seven emirates that make up the UAE and serves as the country's political, cultural, and economic hub.

Most people already know about how captivating this city is, many dream of visiting this dreamy city. And if you’re one of those people finally have the chance travelling to Abu Dhabi, this article is what you need before booking a flight ticket to Abu Dhabi. 

5 Airports in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi International Airport

Zayed International Airport also known as Abu Dhabi international airport is the main airport in Abu Dhabi. That’s why the airport plays a crucial role in facilitating air travel to and from the UAE, serving millions of passengers annually and contributing to the region's economic growth and development.

Al Ain International Airport

Although smaller in size compared to Abu Dhabi International Airport, Al Ain International Airport offers essential facilities and services for passengers, including check-in counters, immigration and customs facilities, baggage handling, car rental services, and parking facilities.

Al Ain International Airport also plays an important role in facilitating air travel for the residents of Al Ain and the surrounding region, as well as supporting aviation-related activities such as general aviation and cargo operations.

Al Bateen Executive Airport

Just like the name, this airport is only for private jets. Unlike commercial airports that cater to scheduled passenger flights, Al Bateen Executive Airport is specifically designed to serve the needs of business aviation and private aircraft operators. It provides facilities and services tailored to the requirements of business travellers, corporate jets, and private aircraft owners.

Sir Bani Yas Airport

Sir Bani Yas Airport primarily serves the needs of visitors to Sir Bani Yas Island, which is renowned for its wildlife reserve, luxury resorts, and outdoor recreational activities. The airport provides a convenient gateway for tourists and guests arriving on the island.

Delma Airport

Delma Airport primarily serves the local population of Delma Island and nearby areas. It provides air transportation services for residents, visitors, and businesses on the island, as well as facilitating access to the mainland of Abu Dhabi.

Best Time to Visit Abu Dhabi

If you prefer the chill side of Abu Dhabi, then fall season is between September and November. It's an excellent time for outdoor activities such as desert safaris, beach outings, and exploring the city's attractions without the extreme heat.

During winter between December and February, you can enjoy various cultural events, festivals and celebrations at ease as well. Because during this season, the average weather is still chilly and it’s about 25℃.

When it’s spring season between March and May, it’s a great time to explore Abu Dhabi's parks, gardens, and outdoor attractions before the summer heat sets in.

Finally during summer between June and August, the temperature can soar above 40°C. If it’s too much for you, there aren't many tourists coming during summer. If you’re okay with the scorching heat of summer in Abu Dhabi and at the same time prefer a less crowded season, this one's for you then.

Accommodations Near Abu Dhabi Airports

Premier Inn Abu Dhabi Int Airport

The 3-star hotel is located only 1 kilometres from Abu Dhabi International Airport. Even better, they provide such extensive facilities such as a swimming pool, meeting rooms, business centre, computer station, airport transfer, fitness centre and more.

Al Raha Beach Hotel

The 5-star hotel is located 8 kilometres from Abu Dhabi International Airport. However, they also provide airport transfer service that you absolutely can consider. The luxurious hotel also provides such extensive facilities like no other such as games room, billiards, fitness centre, babysitting service and more.

Fairmont Bab Al Bahr

The 5-star hotel is located 16.6 kilometres from Abu Dhabi International Airport. But their extensive services might be the one that make you decide to book this hotel. One of the services that they provide like no other are limo or town car service, library, health club, babysitting service, huge bar, wedding service, swimming pool for adults and children and more.

Best Highlights from Abu Dhabi

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

This architectural masterpiece is one of the largest mosques in the world and a must-visit attraction in Abu Dhabi. Admire its stunning white marble domes, intricate Islamic designs, and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet.

Louvre Abu Dhabi

Explore this groundbreaking museum, which houses a diverse collection of artworks spanning civilizations and cultures from around the world. Designed by renowned architect Jean Nouvel, the museum's unique architecture creates a captivating experience.

Emirates Palace

Marvel at the opulence of this iconic landmark, known for its luxurious design, grandeur, and Arabian hospitality. While it serves as a hotel, visitors can still explore its magnificent architecture, lush gardens, and public areas.

Mangrove Kayaking Tours

Explore a distinctive journey through the mangrove forests of Abu Dhabi with guided kayaking excursions. Encounter a variety of ecosystems, observe wildlife like flamingos and herons, and gain insight into the significance of conserving mangroves.

What to Prepare While Travelling to Abu Dhabi

Dress accordingly

Abu Dhabi is a conservative city, so it's advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or public places. Avoid clothing that is too revealing or tight-fitting. Then opt for long, loose-fitting clothing that provides coverage while allowing air circulation. Maxi dresses, loose trousers, and long-sleeved shirts are good choices.

Though you may have covered yourself with modest outfit, never miss your sun protection gear such as hat, sunglasses and of course, sunscreen.

Local cuisines

Abu Dhabi is a multicultural city where you have to try local cuisines to make the most of your travel journey. For Emirati cuisine, some must-try lists are machboos, harees, luqaimat, al majboos. Then there’s Arabic mezze such as hummus, tabouleh, falafel, baba ganous. As for Levantine cuisine, you have to try shawarma, kebabs and manakish. 

You can also enjoy seafood in Abu Dhabi because being a coastal city, the city offers an abundance of fresh seafood dishes. Don't miss out on trying local specialties such as grilled hammour (local fish), prawns, crab, and lobster, often seasoned with Arabic spices and herbs.

Finally, dates and Arabic sweets. Abu Dhabi is famous for its dates, which are often served as a sweet treat or used in various desserts. Indulge in date-filled pastries, date syrup, or traditional Arabic sweets like baklava and kunafa.

How to Get Cheap Flight Tickets to Abu Dhabi 

To get cheap flight tickets to Abu Dhabi, you can use reward points. If you're a member of a frequent flyer program or have accumulated rewards points on your credit card, consider using them to offset the cost of your flight ticket to Abu Dhabi.

Then consider alternative airports by comparing prices for flights to nearby airports in the region, such as Dubai International Airport (DXB) or Sharjah International Airport (SHJ). Sometimes, flying into a nearby airport and taking ground transportation to Abu Dhabi can be more cost-effective.

Last, book connecting flights because sometimes booking connecting flights instead of direct flights can result in lower prices. Be willing to explore different routing options and layover durations to find cheaper flight combinations.

Get The Best Deals on Flight Tickets to Abu Dhabi Through Traveloka

Utilise Traveloka's filters and sorting options to narrow down your search results. You can filter flights by price range, airlines, departure times, number of stops, and more to find the best options for your preferences.

Combine that step with keeping an eye out for special promotions, discounts, and deals offered by airlines or Traveloka itself. These promotions may include limited-time offers, promo codes, or exclusive discounts for certain routes or travel dates.