bu Dhabi, the dynamic capital of the UAE, stands as one of the most compelling travel destinations in the Middle East — where futuristic architecture, deep-rooted heritage, and world-class entertainment converge. In 2025, the emirate continues to attract visitors from Saudi Arabia with iconic landmarks like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Qasr Al Watan Palace, Louvre Abu Dhabi, and the thrilling Yas Island entertainment hub. With Wadi Al Safar, planning your dream trip to Abu Dhabi becomes seamless — from hassle-free visa processing and halal-friendly accommodations to curated family itineraries and exclusive Yas Waterworld offers. This comprehensive guide covers everything Saudi travelers need for an unforgettable experience.
Best Time to Visit Abu Dhabi:
- November – March: Peak season (20–28°C). Ideal for desert safaris, outdoor exploration, and events like F1™ and NYE. Book hotels in Yas Island early.
- April – October: Summer heat (35–45°C+), but indoor attractions (Louvre, theme parks) thrive. Hotels offer 30–50% discounts — great for budget-conscious Saudi families.
Top Must-Visit Attractions in Abu Dhabi:
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
A masterpiece of Islamic architecture and one of the largest mosques in the world, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque welcomes visitors of all faiths. Highlights include the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet, 82 white marble domes, and dazzling chandeliers. Sheikh Zayed Mosque visiting hours are daily (9:00 AM – 10:00 PM, closed during prayer times). Saudi families should note: modest dress (abaya & kandura provided on-site) is required. Entry is free — but book guided tours in advance for deeper cultural insight.
Qasr Al Watan Palace
More than a presidential palace, Qasr Al Watan is a cultural treasure showcasing UAE governance, heritage, and craftsmanship. Wander through the Great Hall, the Spirit of Collaboration exhibition, and the lush Palace Gardens. Evening visits include a stunning light-and-sound show — ideal for couples and families seeking meaningful, non-commercial experiences.
Louvre Abu Dhabi
Designed by Pritzker-winning architect Jean Nouvel, the Louvre Abu Dhabi is a marvel of modern museology — its iconic dome creating a “rain of light” effect over art spanning 6,000 years. Don’t miss: – Da Vinci’s *La Belle Ferronnière* – Van Gogh’s *Self-Portrait* – The *Art Lounge* and waterfront café Louvre Abu Dhabi opening hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (closed Mondays). Tickets: AED 63 (book online via Wadi Al Safar to skip queues).
Yas Island: Abu Dhabi’s Entertainment Epicenter
No visit to Abu Dhabi is complete without a day (or two!) on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. This 25km² island hosts:
- Ferrari World Abu Dhabi: Home to *Formula Rossa*, the world’s fastest rollercoaster (240 km/h in 4.9 seconds).
- Yas Waterworld: A 15-hectare Emirati-themed waterpark — look for exclusive Yas Waterworld offers Groupon or Wadi Al Safar combo deals (Ferrari + Waterworld + Warner Bros).
- Warner Bros. World™ Yas Island: Indoor DC and Looney Tunes adventures — perfect for young families.
- Clymb™ Yas Island: World’s largest indoor climbing wall and skydiving simulator.
- Yas Beach: UAE’s only beach with direct access to a Formula 1™ track — rent cabanas or enjoy sunset yoga.
- Yas Bay Waterfront: Dining, live music, and the new Yas Bay Arena for concerts and events.
Stay at Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island Resort, W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island, or budget-friendly Centro Yas Island by Rotana — all offering Hilton Yas Island theme park access and shuttle services.
- Abu Dhabi Corniche
Stretching over 8km along the waterfront, the Abu Dhabi Corniche is ideal for families seeking relaxed, scenic moments. Enjoy: – Cycling & jogging paths with Gulf views – Play areas and fountains at Al Gurm Corniche – Evening strolls with skyline lights – Cafés like Fouquet’s Abu Dhabi for French fine dining Best time: Sunset to 10:00 PM — especially magical during National Day fireworks.
Desert Safari: Family-Friendly Adventure:
Abu Dhabi offers some of the best desert safari in Abu Dhabi — safe, well-organized, and culturally enriching:
- Dune bashing in 4x4s (drivers trained for family comfort)
- Camel rides and sandboarding
- Traditional Bedouin camp: henna, Arabic coffee, BBQ dinner (all halal-certified)
- Stargazing with telescopes
Recommended providers: Platinum Heritage (luxury, conservation-focused) or Wadi Al Safar’s private group safaris with dedicated Saudi guides.
Halal Dining & Saudi-Friendly Services:
All restaurants in Abu Dhabi serve halal food — but these cater specifically to Saudi tastes:
- Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental: Majlis-style Gulf cuisine; abayas available for mosque visits.
- Li Beirut (Yas Mall): Authentic Lebanese mezze.
- Hakkasan (Rosewood Abu Dhabi): Halal Chinese fine dining.
- Yas Island options: MAD on Yas Island (vibrant lounge), Waters Edge Yas Island (seafood with marina views).
Families appreciate that Ramada Hotel Abu Dhabi Corniche and Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche offer prayer rooms, Qibla direction in rooms, and Arabic-speaking staff.
Transportation Made Easy:
- From Dubai to Abu Dhabi: 1.5-hour drive (E11) or luxury bus (AED 25).
- Within Abu Dhabi:
- Metro: Coming 2025 (phase 1: Corniche to Zayed Sports City)
- Taxis: Careem/Uber widely used
- Rentals: Wadi Al Safar car hire with full insurance and GPS
- Yas Island access: Free shuttle from major hotels; or drive via Sheikh Khalifa Bridge.
Visa Requirements for Saudis:
✅ No visa needed! Saudi nationals enter Abu Dhabi with just a valid: – National ID card, or – Passport (valid 3+ months) Stay up to 90 days — no pre-approval, no fees. Ideal for impromptu getaways from Riyadh, Jeddah, or Dammam.
Estimated Cost: 5-Day Trip for 2 Adults (2025):
- Flights (RUH/RUH ↔ AUH): SAR 800 – 1,400
- Accommodation:
- Budget: Centro Yas Island (AED 280/night ≈ SAR 300)
- Luxury: W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island (AED 1,100/night ≈ SAR 1,200)
- Activities:
- Louvre Abu Dhabi: SAR 65
- Ferrari World + Yas Waterworld combo: SAR 380
- Desert Safari (private): SAR 450
- Total (5 days): SAR 5,200 – 8,500
👉 Wadi Al Safar’s all-inclusive Abu Dhabi packages include flights, 4-star hotels, transfers, and skip-the-line tickets — saving up to 25%.
Top Hotels for Saudi Families:
- Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental: Iconic luxury; private beach, 12 halal restaurants, abaya service.
- Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island Resort: Direct park access; kids’ club, halal breakfast buffet.
- Centro Yas Island by Rotana: Value-led; family suites, 10-min walk to Yas Mall.
- Ramada by Wyndham Abu Dhabi Corniche: Beachfront location, prayer mats in rooms, Arabic TV channels.
Conclusion:
2025 promises an even more vibrant Tourism in Abu Dhabi experience — blending Emirati tradition with global innovation. Whether you’re marveling at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, racing at Ferrari World Yas Island, unwinding at the Abu Dhabi Corniche, or exploring art at the Louvre Abu Dhabi, every moment is designed for wonder and comfort. With Wadi Al Safar — Saudi Arabia’s trusted travel partner — enjoy seamless planning, halal-certified services, and exclusive access to Yas Island annual passes, desert safaris, and luxury stays.
