Why go to Abu Dhabi
Most people come for two things. The first is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, all white marble and gold. Entry is free, but you need to book a time slot online and dress modestly.
The second is Yas Island, home to Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, Yas Waterworld and SeaWorld. Families with children often plan the whole trip around it. The Louvre Abu Dhabi, on the water at Saadiyat Island, is worth a morning even if museums are not usually your thing.
Best time to visit Abu Dhabi
November to March is the best time: warm days around 25°C and pleasant evenings. October and April are hot in the afternoon but fine. From June to September it is often above 40°C, though Yas Island’s theme parks are mostly indoors.
- January: best time
- February: best time
- March: best time
- April: good time
- May: off season
- June: off season
- July: off season
- August: off season
- September: off season
- October: good time
- November: best time
- December: best time
Abu Dhabi visa for Indians
Visa before you flyLast checked October 2026
Abu Dhabi is in the UAE, so the rules are the same as for Dubai. Indian passport holders need a UAE visit visa before they fly, usually applied for online through the airline, a travel agent or the UAE government’s visa portals.
If you hold a valid US visa or green card, or a UK or EU visa or residence permit, you may be able to get a visa on arrival instead. Check the current list before you book.
Apply only through official government channels or a trusted agent. Look-alike sites charge extra. Rules change, so check again before you book.
Flight time and fares from Delhi
Nonstop flights from Delhi take about 4 hours. Because Abu Dhabi and Dubai are close, check both before you book. Many people fly into one and out of the other, and spend a few days in each.
Fares go up around Diwali, Christmas, New Year and the Indian summer holidays in May and June.
Getting from the airport
Zayed International is about 15 minutes by taxi from Yas Island and about 30 to 40 minutes from the city centre. Taxis run on the meter. If you’re staying in Dubai, a taxi takes about 1½ hours.
How many days you need
Three days covers the mosque, the Louvre and one full day on Yas Island. Families who want to do all the theme parks should plan four or five days, or add Dubai at the end.
Food for Indian travellers
Indian food is easy to find across the city, in the malls and on Yas Island. Vegetarian options are on almost every menu, and South Indian restaurants are common.
