Top Ways To Enjoy Abu Dhabi On a Budget

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, has in recent years emerged from Dubai’s shadow as a popular tourist destination. However, the city is admittedly not much cheaper than its flashier neighbor- with both megacities ranking in Mercer’s top 50 with regard to the cost of living in 2023. With world-class events being held all year round and the abundance of luxury everywhere you turn, it’s easy to find yourself overspending on things like coastal resorts and desert retreats. However, with a little planning and a lot of self-restraint, you can get the most out of your stay in Abu Dhabi without breaking the bank. 

The first step to ensuring an affordable stay in Abu Dhabi is to secure affordable accommodation. Apart from popular luxury resorts, you will find many three-star hotels that suit your budget without having to skimp on quality. Next comes affordable transportation. The city’s comprehensive bus route is a good option for most people. However, it doesn’t offer convenience, comfort, or flexibility which might be a problem, especially for those in Abu Dhabi for an extended period. A rental car takes care of all the problems listed above and more. Find the Abu Dhabi long term car rental from a reliable and affordable marketplace like OneClickDrive and enjoy the benefits of owning your car without the costs and hassle of maintenance. 

Now that we have both affordable accommodation and means of transportation down, we can safely move onto fun activities to engage in Abu Dhabi, and here are our top 5 picks.

1. Visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Truly an embodiment of marvelous architecture, this Mosque has been a major tourist attraction since its inauguration in 2007. Observe the splendid views of stunning marble work, intricate designs, and the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet inside the prayer hall. You can also enjoy the guided tours around the Mosque. The facilities are open to everyone and the best part? It’s all free!

2. Corniche Beach: Abu Dhabi’s Corniche is a beautiful waterfront with a picturesque beach stretch. It’s the perfect place for a fun day out, whether you’re swimming, sunbathing or just enjoying a stroll along the long corniche. The beach has facilities like showers, shaded areas, and changing rooms which are all open to the public.

3. Visit the Heritage Village: Located along the corniche, this cultural attraction offers a glimpse into the Emirati past. It is a recreation of a traditional Emirati village where visitors can wander through the traditional houses, watch cultural performances that are hosted often, and witness skilled workers creating traditional crafts such as weaving, metalwork, and pottery. Entry into the Heritage Village is free of charge, making it an accessible option for locals and tourists alike.

4. Mangrove National Park: For nature lovers and enthusiasts, Abu Dhabi’s Mangrove National Park provides an affordable means of escape from the city into nature’s embrace. With several activities to do, there’s something for everyone. Observe the marine life, diverse bird species, and the unique ecosystem from a rented Kayak or the boardwalks and trails

5. Visit the fish market: This may not sound like the most glamorous of tourist activities, but you get to immerse yourself in Abu Dhabi’s maritime culture where the local fishermen haul in their daily catch. You get to observe various fish species, learn about traditional and modern fishing methods, and buy the freshest of seafood at reasonable prices. You may enjoy your catch at any of the nearby eateries that cook your seafood to order. 

Conclusion

Exploring Abu Dhabi on a budget offers a plethora of natural, cultural, and historical experiences without breaking the bank. From the tranquil Corniche Beach to iconic landmarks and natural treasures, a lot can be seen and done on a budget. And when you incorporate affordable accommodation and transportation options such as car rental Abu Dhabi long term, you have a recipe for a fun, yet affordable stay in the UAE’s capital.