Abu Dhabi vs. Dubai: Which Is Right for You?

Abu Dhabi is the capital city of the UAE and the seat of the government. It’s undoubtedly more quiet and conservative than flashy Dubai, but that’s part of its appeal.

If you’re looking for nightlife and activities, you won't find it here. Despite a large expat population in Abu Dhabi, there just isn’t much to do when the sun goes down. If that's not important to you and culture is what you're after, opt for a few nights in Abu Dhabi.

There are a few great things to see and do during the day in Abu Dhabi, including the Grand Mosque, one of the largest and most incredible mosques I've ever seen. Ladies, you’ll be given a full length hooded robe, so don’t worry too much about what you’re wearing before you get there. Try to arrive at sunset so you can see the lights change as the sun goes down.

You should also take a visit to the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, the world’s largest hospital specific to falcons. You’ll learn a ton about these beautiful birds and their cultural significance on your visit here, and if you’re lucky, you’ll get to hold and feed a falcon.

For the adventurous, check out Ferrari World, a theme park home to some of the world’s largest and fastest rollercoasters, and for fun, stop by Emirates Palace Hotel to try their famous cappuccino, topped with gold flakes (60 dirham).




Where to Stay in Abu Dhabi

You’ve undoubtedly heard stories of the glitz and glam of Dubai. This is after all the home of the world’s biggest skyscrapers, including the tallest building in the world, the famous Burj Khalifa.

While you can’t readily buy alcohol at stores, you can certainly find it in bars and resorts here and there is a healthy nightlife scene made up of expats and travelers. If going out isn’t what you’re after, there are plenty of sights to keep you busy for a few days.

If you want to be wowed, take a stroll through one of Dubai’s famous malls, Mall of the Emirates or Dubai Mall.

Within Dubai Mall you’ll find the entrance to Burj Khalifa, over 150 stories tall. Your ticket will take you up to the 125th floor, but check the weather before venturing up as smog or clouds could obstruct your view of the city.

Within the Mall of the Emirates, you’ll find Ski Dubai, an indoor ski resort that puts you on the slopes when it’s 100 degrees outside.

To feel like you’ve fallen down the rabbit hole, take a stroll through the Dubai Miracle Garden. It’s best to visit when the sun starts to go down as there isn’t much shade, though the garden arrangements are impressive.

When you’ve had enough fun in the sun, cool down on Jumeirah Beach, which you'll have direct access to if you stay at a hotel on the water like Jumeirah Beach Hotel.




Where to Stay in Dubai

We spent three nights in Dubai and one in Abu Dhabi, and we were glad to have experienced both, though we did feel like we wished we had more time to enjoy the calmness of Abu Dhabi. Ultimately it comes down to what you’re looking for in a place -- action or quiet?

Remember that while it’s easy to get between the two cities, having to go three hours (1.5 hours each way) does wear you out. We learned this the hard way, staying in Dubai but booking activities in Abu Dhabi and having to go in and back out.

Which would you prefer?

When in the UAE, it's important for ladies to keep a scarf on hand when exploring the area in order to cover up when needed out of respect for the culture. This one from Nordstrom comes in a few not-so-bold colors which will be perfect for your trip.




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