How to Experience Abu Dhabi Like a Local - Discover something special in every corner!

 There is something unique in encountering Abu Dhabi through the eyes of a local, a completely different experience than visiting the place as an average tourist. So, opt for some of these suggestions, you will be able to see the local attractions and get the opportunity to comprehend Abu Dhabi's culture, its people and its history.

Shaibalahmar, EtihadTowers, Abu Dhabi, November 2012, CC BY-SA 2.0

 Join a locally guided tour

 If you really want to encounter Abu Dhabi through a native mindset, the best way is to join a local operation that has Emiratis as your tour guides.

Guided tours by an Emirati will guarantee that you appreciate the attractions, its background, and any interesting accounts that go along with them. Apart from acquiring first-hand knowledge of Abu Dhabi culture, you will get useful inside information to obtain more reasonable deals at local markets and shops.

 The beaches 

 Abu Dhabi has several scenic beaches, however, according to local standards, Saadiyat Beach is the best. This beach has powdery white sand alongside clear sky-blue waters, which is just perfect for swimming and paddling. It is further encircled by resorts, hotels and structures that cater to the tourism industry.

 Experience Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

 This is one of the top attractions in the world and is visited by millions each year. It was constructed in remembrance of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan. Apart from being a religious site, it is a spectacular sight to behold. Its captivating architecture, coupled with its elegant designs and patterns makes the mosque one of Abu Dhabi’s top sites. Go in the evenings to witness a magical sunset overlooking the beautiful architecture and the effects of the illumination on the mosque. One important piece of information is that to experience it as a local the timing has to be right. The mosque remains open for tourists from 9.00 a.m. to 10.00 p.m. through Saturday till Thursday, the final entry is scheduled for 9:30. 

Fridays, especially the mornings are dedicated to prayer. Unless you are a Muslim, entrance will be denied to you at that time. The interior of the mosque will be closed till 4:30 pm on Fridays. Entry is free of charge on all days.

 Eat like a local

 To experience the city like a local and perhaps save some money along the way eat like them! It means testing out authentic Middle Eastern dishes to gain a genuine appreciation for the local palate. Several food outlets found on the side roads along the city offer Emirati, Egyptian, Lebanese, Iraqi, and Moroccan dishes at a very affordable price.

 Experience an Emirati Brunch

 Friday brunches are somewhat of a craze for residents and tourists in Abu Dhabi. Some are decked out in enormous buffets and others offer à la carte menus, especially in fancy restaurants and hotels. Some are extremely cheap while exorbitant. The takeaway is that there are tons of options available to suit your style and budget.

 Qasar Al Hosn 

 It is Abu Dhabi’s metaphorical birthplace, and Qasr Al Hosn is a must on your places to visit checklist. The structure is deemed the most ancient gravel construction in the city, it was also the first permanent structure made in Abu Dhabi. Furthermore, one can learn about the intriguing past of the Emirate via a free display, full of oral accounts and fascinating pictures recalling the city’s history.

To appreciate all of this and more, ideally, visit the site when the yearly Qasr Al Hosn Festival is taking place. It is planned each year in February. If looking for a place to stay, you can find hotel apartments in Abu Dhabi such as those in Oaks Liwa Executive Suites.