Lifestyle in Abu Dhabi – A Guide to the City’s Best Attractions and Activities

Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is a vibrant and cosmopolitan destination that offers a unique lifestyle for expats. With its luxurious amenities, modern infrastructure, and rich cultural heritage, Abu Dhabi is an attractive destination for those seeking a high-quality lifestyle in the Middle East.

Living in Abu Dhabi offers a range of benefits, including tax-free income, world-class healthcare, and a safe and secure environment. The city is home to a diverse community of expats worldwide, creating a multicultural and welcoming atmosphere. Whether looking for a family-friendly environment or a bustling nightlife, Abu Dhabi has something to offer everyone.

From its stunning beaches and world-class shopping malls to its rich history and cultural landmarks, Abu Dhabi is a city full of surprises. Whether you are interested in exploring the traditional souks or trying out the latest international cuisine, Abu Dhabi is a city that will leave a lasting impression.

So, if you are looking for a unique and exciting lifestyle in the UAE, Abu Dhabi is the perfect destination.

Lifestyle in Abu Dhabi – History and Heritage

Abu Dhabi has a rich history and heritage that reflects Islamic and Arab values. The city’s culture is rooted in the region’s Islamic traditions and its foremost message of peace. The history of Abu Dhabi dates back to the 18th century when the Nahyan dynasty of the Banū Yās ruled the area.

Their earliest seat was in the Līwā (Al-Jiwāʾ) oasis district. In 1761, they found wells of potable water at the site of Abu Dhabi town on the coast, and they made their headquarters there in 1795.

Emiratis

Emiratis are the local people of the United Arab Emirates, of which Abu Dhabi is the capital city. They have a rich cultural heritage, and their traditions and values are deeply rooted in Islam.

Emirati culture blends Bedouin and Arab traditions across food, sports, art, and social life. Emiratis are known for their hospitality and generosity and take pride in their practices and heritage.

Nationalities

Abu Dhabi is a cosmopolitan city with a diverse population. The city has a mix of international influences paired with loyalty to local heritage, resulting in a welcoming capital city that boasts a charming blend of new and old. The city’s population comprises people from all over the world, including Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas. The city’s diverse population has contributed to its vibrant and cosmopolitan culture.

Abu Dhabi’s Heritage Village is a family-friendly spot to experience the traditional way of life in the desert. The village showcases the conventional life of the Bedouin people who lived in the desert before the discovery of oil. The village has a mosque, a souq, and a museum, providing visitors with a glimpse of the city’s rich cultural heritage.

In conclusion, Abu Dhabi’s history and heritage are essential to the city’s culture. The city’s rich cultural heritage reflects Islamic and Arab values and is deeply ingrained in the traditions and values of the Emirati people. The city’s diverse population has contributed to its vibrant and cosmopolitan culture, making it a welcoming and fascinating place to visit.

Culture and Tradition

Abu Dhabi’s culture and tradition are deeply rooted in the region’s Islamic heritage. The city’s unique blend of international influences and local customs has resulted in a welcoming capital that boasts a charming mix of old and new.

Local Culture

Abu Dhabi’s captivating history is a grand tale of endurance and perseverance, woven with threads of Bedouin resilience and the city’s impressive transformation. The city’s local culture is a rich tapestry of customs and traditions that are a way of life, arts and skills passed down from generations, and a distinctive literary ethos.

Ramadan and Religious Practices

Ramadan is a significant period in Abu Dhabi’s cultural calendar. During this time, Muslims fast from dawn until dusk, and the city’s mosques come alive with the sounds of prayers and religious gatherings. Visitors to Abu Dhabi during Ramadan can enjoy an array of traditional activities, including iftar (the breaking of the fast) and suhoor (the pre-dawn meal).

Arts and Entertainment

Abu Dhabi is a hub for art, music, film, and books. The city is home to the Louvre Abu Dhabi, a world-renowned museum showcasing art worldwide. Abu Dhabi’s art scene is vibrant, with numerous galleries and exhibitions showcasing local and international talent. The city also hosts various music and film festivals throughout the year, including the Abu Dhabi Film Festival and the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Festival.

In conclusion, Abu Dhabi’s culture and tradition are integral to the city’s identity. Visitors to the city can experience a unique blend of old and new, with a rich tapestry of customs and traditions, a vibrant arts scene, and a deep-rooted religious heritage.

Living in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is a bustling city with a vibrant lifestyle. As an expat, you will find a welcoming community, excellent schools, and quality healthcare. This section will explore the different aspects of living in Abu Dhabi.

Expat Life

Abu Dhabi is home to a large expat community, and the city offers a range of activities and events for expats to enjoy. From shopping malls to cultural festivals, there is always something to do. The city also has a diverse range of restaurants serving cuisine worldwide.

Education and Schools

Abu Dhabi has a range of excellent schools offering international and local curriculums. The city is home to several international schools, including the British School Al Khubairat, the American Community School, and the Abu Dhabi International School. The schools offer a range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and drama.

Healthcare

Abu Dhabi has a high standard of healthcare, with both public and private hospitals. The public healthcare system is free for UAE nationals, and expats can access it for a fee. The private healthcare system is of a high standard, and many expats choose to use private hospitals. The city also has several clinics and pharmacies, making it easy to access healthcare services.

In summary, living in Abu Dhabi offers a fantastic lifestyle for expats. A welcoming community, excellent schools, and quality healthcare make it a great place to call home.

Working in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is a future-focused city that offers a range of opportunities for those who want to build an exciting career, invest in growing companies, or turn a bright idea into a business. The emirate’s business environment is well-regulated and flexible, with various incentive packages to encourage investment and support promising startups.

Business Environment

Abu Dhabi’s business environment is characterised by its stability, transparency, and ease of business. The government has implemented various measures to attract foreign investment, including tax breaks, streamlined procedures, and access to world-class infrastructure. The emirate is home to multiple industries, including oil and gas, finance, healthcare, and education, which offer a range of opportunities for professionals with diverse skill sets.

Work Days

Working days in Abu Dhabi are fixed at a maximum of eight hours following the UAE Labour Laws. Employers are required to provide their employees with a minimum of one day off per week, which is usually Friday. However, some companies may require their employees to work on weekends or public holidays, in which case they must provide additional days off or overtime pay.

Holidays

Employees in Abu Dhabi are entitled to a minimum of 22 to 30 days of holiday per year, depending on their length of service. In addition, they are entitled to public holidays, including Eid Al Fitr, Eid Al Adha, National Day, and New Year’s Day, among others. During these holidays, employers must provide their employees with paid leave following the UAE Labour Laws.

In conclusion, Abu Dhabi offers a range of opportunities for those who want to build a successful career or business. The emirate’s business environment is well-regulated and flexible, with various incentive packages to encourage investment and support promising startups. Working days are fixed at a maximum of eight hours, and employees are entitled to a minimum of 22 to 30 days of holiday per year.

Leisure and Recreation

Abu Dhabi is a city that offers a wide range of leisure and recreational activities for its residents and visitors. Abu Dhabi has everything if you are looking for shopping, sports, fitness, or culinary experiences.

Shopping and Malls

Abu Dhabi is known for its luxurious shopping malls that offer a unique shopping experience. The city is home to some of the largest malls in the world, such as Yas Mall, The Galleria Al Maryah Island, and Abu Dhabi Mall. These malls offer various international and local brands and entertainment options, such as cinemas, restaurants, and indoor theme parks.

Sports and Fitness

Sports and fitness are an integral part of the lifestyle in Abu Dhabi. The city has various sports facilities, including world-class golf courses, tennis courts, and football stadiums. Many gyms and fitness centres offer a range of fitness classes and training programmes.

Culinary Scene

Abu Dhabi is a foodie’s paradise, with a rich culinary scene that offers a diverse range of cuisines worldwide. The city has a variety of restaurants, cafes, and food markets that cater to all tastes and budgets. Whether looking for fine dining or street food, Abu Dhabi has something for everyone.

In conclusion, Abu Dhabi is a city that offers a diverse range of leisure and recreational activities for its residents and visitors. Abu Dhabi has everything if you are looking for shopping, sports, fitness, or culinary experiences.

Residential Areas in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi has a wide range of residential areas, each with a unique character and lifestyle. In this section, we’ll look at three of the most popular residential areas in Abu Dhabi: Al Reem Island, Saadiyat Island, and Yas Island.

Al Reem Island

Located just off the coast of Abu Dhabi, Al Reem Island is a rapidly growing residential area that offers a range of housing options, from luxurious waterfront apartments to more affordable family homes. Some of the critical features of Al Reem Island include:

• Easy access to the city centre via the Sheikh Zayed Bridge
• A wide range of amenities, including shopping centres, restaurants, and parks
• A variety of schools and healthcare facilities

Saadiyat Island

Saadiyat Island is a cultural hub of Abu Dhabi, with world-class museums and galleries and some of the city’s most luxurious residential properties. Some of the critical features of Saadiyat Island include:

• A range of high-end residential properties, including villas and apartments
• Proximity to some of Abu Dhabi’s best cultural attractions, including the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi
• A variety of schools and healthcare facilities

Yas Island

Yas Island is one of Abu Dhabi’s most popular entertainment destinations, with various attractions, including Yas Waterworld and Ferrari World. It’s also a great place to live, with various residential properties to suit all budgets. Some of the critical features of Yas Island include:

• Proximity to some of Abu Dhabi’s best entertainment venues, including Yas Marina Circuit and Yas Links Golf Course
• A range of residential properties, from luxurious waterfront apartments to more affordable family homes
• A variety of schools and healthcare facilities

Whether you’re looking for a luxurious waterfront property or a more affordable family home, Abu Dhabi has a range of residential areas to suit all tastes and budgets.

Moving to Abu Dhabi

If you are planning on moving to Abu Dhabi, there are a few things you need to know about visas and residency and the cost of living.

Visas and Residency

Before moving to Abu Dhabi, you will need to obtain a visa. The type of visa you need will depend on your reason for moving to Abu Dhabi. If you are moving for work, your employer will typically sponsor your visa. If you are moving for other reasons, you must apply for a visa through the UAE embassy in your home country.

Once you arrive in Abu Dhabi, you must obtain a residency permit, also known as an “iqama.” This permit allows you to live and work in Abu Dhabi for a specified period. You must provide various documents, such as your passport, visa, and proof of employment or residency.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Abu Dhabi can vary depending on your lifestyle and the area you choose to live in. Generally, Abu Dhabi is considered to be a more expensive city than many others in the world. However, there are ways to save money and live comfortably.

One of the most significant expenses in Abu Dhabi is housing. The cost of renting an apartment or house can be pretty high, especially in popular areas. However, more affordable options are available if you are willing to live further from the city centre.

Other expenses to consider include transportation, food, and entertainment. Public transportation is relatively affordable, but many people choose to own a car. Food costs vary depending on dietary preferences, but many affordable options are available. Entertainment options can also be expensive, but plenty of free or low-cost activities exist.

Moving to Abu Dhabi can be a great experience, but it is essential to be aware of the visa and residency requirements and the cost of living. With careful planning and budgeting, you can enjoy all Abu Dhabi offers without breaking the bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

People also ask.

Where are the best areas to live in Abu Dhabi?

Abu Dhabi has many significant areas, depending on your preferences. Some popular sites are Al Reem Island, Saadiyat Island, Al Raha Beach, and Yas Island. These areas offer a range of housing options, from apartments to villas, and have access to amenities such as malls, supermarkets, and schools.

What are the pros and cons of living in Abu Dhabi?

The pros of living in Abu Dhabi include a high standard of living, tax-free income, and a safe environment. The cons include high living costs, a conservative culture, and limited social activities.

What is the cost of living in Abu Dhabi?

The cost of living in Abu Dhabi is relatively high, especially for housing and transportation. However, salaries are higher than in many other countries, and no income tax exists. The cost of groceries and dining out is also reasonable.

What is the lifestyle like in Abu Dhabi?

The lifestyle in Abu Dhabi is influenced by Islamic culture and traditions. While there are restrictions on alcohol and dress codes, there are also many opportunities for outdoor activities, such as beach sports and desert safaris. The city has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with museums, galleries, and festivals.

What are the benefits of moving to Abu Dhabi?

Moving to Abu Dhabi can offer many benefits, such as a high standard of living, tax-free income, and a safe environment. The city also has a diverse expat community and offers opportunities for career advancement.

What is the expat salary package in Abu Dhabi?

Expat salary packages in Abu Dhabi vary depending on the industry and level of experience. However, many expats receive benefits such as housing allowances, health insurance, and annual flights home. It is important to negotiate your salary package before accepting a job offer.