Before you go · Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi essentials
The practical things worth knowing before you arrive, checked against official sources on 1 November 2026. Entry rules change: always check the official sources before you travel.
Updated November 2026
Visas and passports
Many nationalities qualify for visa-free entry or a visa on arrival in the UAE; the list may vary, so check the official UAE Government portal, u.ae, and the ICP before you book (Visit Abu Dhabi; u.ae). Your passport should be valid for at least six months from entry (u.ae).
The airport, the shuttles and taxis
Zayed International Airport (AUH) is about 15 minutes from Yas Island and 25 from Saadiyat. The complimentary Experience Abu Dhabi shuttle links the airport and downtown with sights such as Louvre Abu Dhabi and The Galleria, and the Yas Express runs round Yas Island (Visit Abu Dhabi). Metered taxis are everywhere; Etihad Rail runs to Dubai in about 64 minutes (etihadrail.ae).
The seasons
The best time to visit is from October to April (Visit Abu Dhabi). Summer is very hot: plan beaches and walks for early morning and evening, and keep the middle of the day for the museums, the malls and the indoor theme parks.
Visiting the Grand Mosque and dressing for the city
Visitors to the Grand Mosque pre-book an online access pass; worshippers enter directly (szgmc.gov.ae). The Grand Mosque Centre and Qasr Al Watan each publish their dress codes on their own sites: dress modestly, and read the rules before you go.
Public holidays
Public holidays in 2026 included New Year’s Day on 1 January, Eid Al Fitr from 20 to 22 March and Arafat Day on 25 May (Visit Abu Dhabi). Islamic holidays move with the lunar calendar: check the dates before you travel.
Emergencies
In an emergency call 999 for the police, 998 for an ambulance and 997 for the fire service (u.ae). See our health page for hospitals, and travel with insurance that covers medical costs.
Questions and answers
Do I need a visa to visit Abu Dhabi?
Many nationalities enter visa-free or with a visa on arrival; check the UAE Government portal, u.ae, for your passport.
What is the best time to visit Abu Dhabi?
October to April, according to Visit Abu Dhabi.
What are the emergency numbers in Abu Dhabi?
999 for the police, 998 for an ambulance and 997 for the fire service.
How do I visit the Grand Mosque?
Visitors pre-book an online access pass on the Grand Mosque Centre’s site, szgmc.gov.ae, and follow its dress code.
Entry rules change. Check u.ae and your government’s travel advice before you travel.