The best time to visit Abu Dhabi is November through March, when temperatures are comfortable and sightseeing is enjoyable. This is prime season for outdoor exploring, desert safaris, and beach days.
April and October can still work, but expect warmer days.
May through September is extremely hot — doable if you plan around indoor attractions, pools, and early mornings, but not ideal for first-timers.
Abu Dhabi may feel laid-back, but it delivers when it comes to bucket-list experiences.
Don’t miss:
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque — one of the most breathtaking buildings I’ve ever seen
Louvre Abu Dhabi — iconic architecture + rotating global exhibitions
Emirates Palace — even if you’re not staying there, it’s worth seeing
Observation Deck at 300 — skyline views without the crowds
Desert safari — dunes, camel rides, and sunset views outside the city
Corniche Beach — clean, calm, and surprisingly peaceful
Qasr Al Watan — the presidential palace that’s open to visitors
Abu Dhabi is easy to reach, especially if you’re already traveling through the Middle East.
Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) serves nonstop and connecting flights from Europe, Asia, and North America
Many travelers pair Abu Dhabi with Dubai — it’s about 1 to 1.5 hours by car
Taxis and private transfers from Dubai are straightforward and affordable
Getting around Abu Dhabi is simple and stress-free.
Taxis are plentiful, safe, and reasonably priced
Ride-share apps like Uber and Careem work well
Renting a car is helpful if you plan to explore outside the city or visit the desert
The city is spread out, so walking isn’t always practical
Dress modestly in mosques and cultural sites — shoulders and knees covered
Book mosque visits earlier in the day for cooler temps and better photos
Fridays are slower mornings due to prayer times
Alcohol is available in hotels and licensed venues, but not everywhere
Plan outdoor activities early morning or near sunset
Abu Dhabi is incredibly safe and well-organized — it’s a very easy destination to navigate
YES is always the answer... ✈️
I’m Wendy, and yes, I travel for a living (still pinching myself). After 15 years teaching middle school math, I traded the whiteboard for a passport and never looked back. Knoxville is home base, but Arizona sunsets are on another level, and if it’s been sitting on your list, this is your sign to finally say yes and book it. City guides, hotel reviews, and foodie spots are all on the blog. So glad you’re here 🌵☀️
A café, bakery, market, and wine shop all in one Phoenix stop 🍊
At La Grande Orange, order the crepes first, they’re the thing I’d go back for. The chicken salad sandwich is perfect if someone wants lunch while you’re still on breakfast, and the red velvet mini cupcake and a chai latte round it out. The sea salt chocolate chip cookie is heartier than gooey, so it’s best for dunkers. It’s counter service with easy parking, and the market has quirky gifts you won’t find elsewhere. Leave time to browse, because you’ll stay longer than planned.
Save this for your Phoenix trip ☀️
“Outside Terminal 3” is not a pickup location at PHX.
Before your driver pulls in, text them four things: your terminal, north or south side, door number, and inner or outer curb. Grab your bags first, then call them in. Drivers can wait free in the cell phone lot instead of circling. Getting through security is easy; getting picked up is the hard part.
Save this for your Phoenix trip ✈️
Come for the architecture, stay for the view.
The Chapel of the Holy Cross has been built into Sedona’s red rocks since 1956. The outside overlooks get busy, but inside is quiet, with huge windows framing the rocks. It’s free, takes 30-45 minutes, and has a paved, wheelchair-accessible ramp. Make sure to bring water in summer.
Save this for your trip planning!
Order it well done. Trust me.🍑🍕
Peach & Pancetta Pizza at Hideaway House in Sedona: roasted peaches, salty pancetta, ricotta, basil, extra-crispy crust. Split the house salad, grab a prickly pear lemonade, and get a patio table facing the red rocks. Skip the bread if you want room for another slice.
Save this for your Sedona trip✈️
Follow @travelwithwendyplummer for Beautiful Beach Destinations, City Guides, Foodie Spots, and Luxury Hotel Recommendations.
