How to plan your vacation in Abu Dhabi - Do’s and Don’ts for Tourists
Abu Dhabi could be unfamiliar territory to someone from a different culture. However, you only need to understand a few generic cultural norms to be able to blend in with the expat community and enjoy a rich vacation. Below the gold flakes in coffee and sky-high buildings, Abu Dhabi hides a lovely culture worth exploring.
Image via Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara
How to dress the part in Abu Dhabi?
You don’t have to cover yourself with an Abaya in Abu Dhabi, but you should cover up to your knees and shoulders when in public. You can wear spaghetti straps and shorts at your resort like the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. Covering yourself well in Abu Dhabi is necessary as immodest clothing can get you in trouble with the police. You can sport western attire as long as it is respectful and helps you stay safe from the elements. Wherever you go in the country, be it glamorous wedding venues in Abu Dhabi or visiting an old souk, simply wear something on the conservative side.
How to drink alcohol (and water) in Abu Dhabi?
Contrary to popular belief, it is legal to drink alcohol in Abu Dhabi as long as you do it at licensed premises. You can drink at bars and restaurants attached to resorts and hotels. It is best to drink in moderation and never drive with any amount of alcohol in your system. Do drink plenty of water to stay healthy. You can’t drink tap water in Abu Dhabi, but you can opt for filtered water bottles to save money on bottled water.
How to manage travel in hot weather?
Like we said, drink plenty of water. Avoid walking along the hot streets and use taxis. They do have public transport, but it is not ideal for short stops. When you travel, daytime outdoor weather can reach well into 50 Celsius, and air-conditioned indoors tends to feel like the arctic. Always carry a light jacket to wear indoors.
How to enjoy the sand in Abu Dhabi?
Sand is everywhere in Abu Dhabi, and you should enjoy its spell in the desert. Operators have mastered the art of offering modern and traditional experiences in the desert to tourists. A 4x4 safari never fails to satisfy even high expectations. You can go to the desert on your own but if you don’t have the proper tools, you will have a tough time. Enjoy henna art, desert feasts and shisha with traditional dancing around a fire. You can also look forward to hunting with falcons and sandboarding.
How to enjoy food in Abu Dhabi?
The multicultural associations of Abu Dhabi make it a delectable food scene. Modern Arabic cuisine borrows rustic inspiration from Bedouin culture and exotic influence from Lebanon, India and Egypt. Get yourself some voucher apps for five-star dining (you don’t have to pay the entire rate). Don’t forget to indulge in Friday brunch – always a lavish affair.
How to enjoy Emirati culture?
Make it a point to visit the Sheik Zayad Grand Mosque and go on a free tour of the Presidential Palace to learn more about the culture. Qasr Al Hosn provides a glimpse into the history of the nation. You will get a little taste of Bedouin culture on your desert camping tour. However, to experience the true Bedouin culture visit during November and December in time for the Al Dhafra festival in Madinat Zayed and Sheik Zayad heritage festival in Al Wathba. You’ll walk into a veritable bazaar with falconry, Saluki dancing, date (the fruit) collecting and even camel beauty parades. Feast your eyes on the festivities and your taste buds on delicious food.
