Abu Dhabi, the bustling capital of the United Arab Emirates, offers a delightful blend of modern attractions and cultural heritage. While it’s known for luxury resorts and glamorous experiences, you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy everything this city has to offer.
Here’s your guide to exploring Abu Dhabi on a budget while making the most of its unique charm.
Choosing the right accommodation is the first step to keeping costs down and Abu Dhabi has plenty of budget-friendly options that don’t compromise on quality.
Premier Inn Abu Dhabi Airport (Business Park) is ideal if you’re arriving by plane, as it’s a short free shuttle ride to Terminal A for a seamless start to your trip. With super-comfy beds and free Wi-Fi, it’s a convenient and comfortable choice.
For those attending events or conferences, Premier Inn Abu Dhabi Capital Centre is just across from the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) and offers great value for business and leisure travellers alike.
Eating well on a budget in Abu Dhabi is easy, thanks to the city’s diverse culinary scene. Skip the high-end restaurants and head to local gems:
● Falafel Shacks: These street-side spots offer freshly made falafel sandwiches at wallet-friendly prices
● Indian Restaurants: Known for their generous portions and flavourful dishes, these eateries are great for affordable dining, especially if you enjoy vegetarian food
● Lebanese Bakeries: Perfect for a quick bite, try a Manakish (a delicious flatbread) for breakfast or lunch. Wash it down with sweet mint tea or strong Arabic coffee
Staying at Premier Inn?
Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Nuevo Restaurant, where you’ll find both local Emirati flavours and international favourites, or relax with a drink at Lounge One.
You don’t need to spend much to enjoy Abu Dhabi’s top attractions. Here are some fantastic options:
● Parks and Gardens: Abu Dhabi’s green spaces are perfect for relaxing or picnicking. The Corniche Park and Khalifa Park (which charges a small fee) are great spots for families
● The Heritage Village: Learn about the UAE’s history at this open-air museum, complete with displays of traditional crafts, camel rides and cultural performances
● The Corniche: Stroll along this 8km stretch, where you can take in the sea breeze, explore gardens and visit the family-friendly public beach with its excellent facilities
Public transport in Abu Dhabi is both reliable and affordable. The city’s bus network offers inexpensive fares, with regional routes costing around AED 5 and monthly passes available for AED 95.
Make sure to look for bus stops with the DoT sign to ensure you’re in the right place.
For a different experience, hire a bike through the Careem Bike share scheme and cycle along the Corniche or explore the city’s quieter streets, a fun and budget-friendly way to see the sights.
Adventure seekers can find budget-friendly activities across Abu Dhabi. Test your skills at the go-karting track at Al Ain Sportplex or enjoy sailing and wakeboarding at one of the city's many water sports centres. For a slower pace, consider fishing trips or a guided desert safari for a memorable day out.
Exclusive Premier Inn Guest Discounts
As a Premier Inn guest, you can enjoy 50% off admission to select attractions in Abu Dhabi's Al Qana district:
● The National Aquarium: Explore one of the Middle East's largest aquariums, home to 46,000 animals across 10 zones.
● Adrenark Adventure: Experience the largest indoor adventure park in the region, offering a variety of thrilling activities for all ages.
● Pixoul Gaming: Dive into a state-of-the-art virtual reality and esports gaming hub, featuring cutting-edge technology and immersive experiences.
To get this amazing discount, present your Premier Inn booking confirmation at the ticketing desk of the respective attraction.
Please note: Discounts are subject to availability and may change. It's advisable to check with the hotel reception or the attraction's official test information.
These exclusive offers provide an excellent opportunity to enjoy some of Abu Dhabi's top attractions at a fraction of the cost, making your stay even more enjoyable.
At Premier Inn hotels, budget doesn’t mean basic. Enjoy amenities like swimming pools, gyms and all-you-can-eat breakfasts that start your day off right.
Rooms come equipped with en-suite bathrooms, tea and coffee facilities and those signature super comfy beds for a great night’s sleep.
Abu Dhabi is packed with experiences that suit every budget, from cultural landmarks to outdoor adventures and delicious local eats.
With affordable stays at Premier Inn, you’ll have the perfect base to explore the city while keeping your costs under control.
Book your stay today and make the most of your Abu Dhabi getaway.