Dubai and Abu Dhabi are 90 minutes apart, and they could not feel more different. One is a brash world of records, shopping and nightlife; the other is calmer, more cultural and better for families. Here is how to pick, or how to see both.
Dubai in one line
Skyscrapers, big shopping, a huge range of restaurants, a lively nightlife scene and big-ticket attractions such as the Burj Khalifa and desert safaris. It is the better choice for a first Gulf trip and for a short stay with a lot packed in.
- Best for
- Shopping, nightlife, variety
- Icons
- Burj Khalifa, Palm
- Beaches
- Busy and developed
- Prices
- Higher in peak
- Pace
- Fast
- Hotel choice
- Huge
Abu Dhabi in one line
The capital has the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, big theme parks on Yas Island and quieter beaches. It is the better choice for culture, families and a slower pace, and hotels are often better value than in Dubai.
Which suits you?
- First-timers on a short trip: Dubai.
- Culture and museums: Abu Dhabi.
- Theme parks: Abu Dhabi's Yas Island (Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World).
- Nightlife and dining: Dubai.
- Quiet beach time: Abu Dhabi's Saadiyat Island.
- Budget: Abu Dhabi hotels can be cheaper.
Combining them
The simplest way is to base yourself in Dubai and take a day trip to Abu Dhabi, covering the Grand Mosque and the Louvre. For a longer stay, spend three nights in Dubai and two in Abu Dhabi, so you can enjoy the quieter coast and Yas Island.
Costs and value compared
Dubai hotels span a wider range, from cheap business hotels to extreme luxury, and prices rise sharply in peak season. Abu Dhabi tends to have fewer budget options but good-value mid-range and luxury hotels, especially outside peak months. Food in Dubai covers every price point, whereas Abu Dhabi has quieter, more upscale dining.
Attractions vary: Dubai's Burj Khalifa and theme parks are pricey, as are Abu Dhabi's Ferrari World and Louvre. Public transport is easier in Dubai thanks to the metro, but Abu Dhabi relies on taxis and buses. A day trip between them is simple by bus, car or tour, and adds little cost.
A 5-day combined plan
Hire a car or take a bus between the cities. If you are travelling with kids, you might spend more time on Yas Island. For couples, the Saadiyat Island beaches and the Louvre are a romantic combination.
- 1Day 1: arrive in Dubai, Downtown, Burj Khalifa and the fountain.
- 2Day 2: old Dubai, creek abra ride, souks and a desert safari at sunset.
- 3Day 3: transfer to Abu Dhabi, with the Grand Mosque on the way.
- 4Day 4: Louvre Abu Dhabi, Qasr Al Watan and a sunset at the Corniche.
- 5Day 5: Yas Island theme park or a relaxed beach day before your flight.
Local customs that apply to both
Both cities are modern and relaxed, but remain conservative in some ways. Dress modestly in public and when visiting mosques. Public displays of affection are frowned upon, and drinking alcohol is restricted to licensed venues. During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public during the day.
Respect laws on drones, photography of people and online behaviour. Most visitors have no problems, and the cities are very safe. For planning tips, see the best time to visit Dubai, Dubai with kids and the Grand Mosque guide.
Plan the details
Read about the best time to visit Dubai, the cost of a Dubai trip, and the Grand Mosque visit guide. Our Dubai and Abu Dhabi guides have full itineraries.
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Plan your UAE trip
Dubai: your questions answered
How far is Abu Dhabi from Dubai?
About 150 km, 1.5 hours by road.
Which is better for families?
Both, though Abu Dhabi's Yas Island has big theme parks.
Is Abu Dhabi cheaper?
Often yes, especially for hotels.
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