Abu Dhabi
Saadiyat Island
Unsplash / Unsplash
The cultural island — Louvre Abu Dhabi, beach resorts, the future Guggenheim and Zayed National Museum.
A 27km-square barrier island just north of downtown, designed as Abu Dhabi's Saadiyat Cultural District. Louvre Abu Dhabi is already open, the Guggenheim and Zayed National Museum under construction. Pristine 9km natural beach on the eastern side, home to nesting hawksbill turtles. Premier resort hotels (St Regis, Park Hyatt, Rixos).
Scores
Walkability
Transit
Price
Local feel
Nightlife
Family-friendly
Centrality
What you gain
- ↑Louvre Abu Dhabi on the doorstep
- ↑9km natural beach with turtle nesting
- ↑St Regis, Park Hyatt and Rixos all on Saadiyat Beach
What you sacrifice
- ↓Most expensive resort cluster in the city
- ↓20-min taxi to Corniche shopping and Sheikh Zayed Mosque
Best for
Avoid if
Other Abu Dhabi neighbourhoods
Old Abu Dhabi — souk-style streets, working Emirati neighbourhoods, the cheapest hotels on the island.
The 8km waterfront crescent — Etihad Towers, Emirates Palace, the city's public face.
The financial district — Galleria luxury mall, Four Seasons, Rosewood, walking-distance fine dining cluster.
Know where to stay — now find when to go.
Best time to visit Abu Dhabi →