Home to 7-star hotels and some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, Abu Dhabi is an opulent vacation hotspot that draws big spenders. Here are some practical tips on how visitors on a budget can explore the city’s best highlights without overspending.
Time the Trip during the Shoulder Seasons
Although Abu Dhabi enjoys cool, pleasant weather conditions between the months of December and March, which also coincides with the peak tourist season, travelling during the shoulder season months will allow visitors to enjoy the city for a more reasonable price tag. This is why holidaying in Abu Dhabi between April and May or September and October is a great idea for tourists with budgetary constraints.
Make Advanced Reservations
Although luxury Abu Dhabi resorts on the mainland and on Sir Bani Yas Island, including Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara, might seem beyond the reach of holidaymakers on a budget, those who make advanced reservations can take advantage of early bird discounts afforded by the city’s 5-star resorts. High-end accommodation providers in Abu Dhabi also offer lower rates for travellers who book longer stays.
Get Around Like a Local
Don’t forget to purchase a Hafilat Card upon arriving in Abu Dhabi as this multi-purpose travel card allows tourists to explore the city with ease using every public transport service available. Hafilat Cards can be purchased via vending machines across Abu Dhabi and are ideal for short-stay visitors.
Take Note of Free Attractions
From the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to the Emirates Heritage Village, there’s plenty of local landmarks and cultural institutions all visitors can explore free of charge. The TrainYas Circuit is another free activity hub which lets travellers walk, run or cycle on a Formula 1 racetrack, while those who wish to spend a day inside Louvre Abu Dhabi will find that buying tickets online is a great way to save big and avoid queues.
