The best-kept secret in the Middle East: less than 6 hours away, this Gulf city hides unsuspected treasures between beaches and museums – no, it’s not Dubai, and it’s the perfect refuge from the cold this winter!

Lesser-known than Dubai, but culturally richer: Why is Abu Dhabi THE new pearl of the Gulf?

Sun, sea and corniche: the call of relaxation

Stroll along Abu Dhabi’s Corniche, a 6.5 km long promenade along the seafront, between supervised beaches and quiet spots where you can throw back your towel and enjoy an unbeatable view of the skyline.

Fancy alternating between idleness and a lively night out? Abu Dhabi combines the calm of the seaside with the hustle and bustle of its modern streets, its refined cafés and its more discreet corners where you can relax in peace.

Culture & museums: a rich and accessible heritage

Built by Jean-Nouvel (a true architectural feat), the Louvre Abu Dhabi embodies this unique marriage of modernity and tradition: a luminous dome, universal collections and works from all over the world. The museum is a must-see for art lovers looking for a cultural break away from the crowds.

But the capital’s metamorphosis doesn’t stop there. Its ambitious plan aims to transform Saadiyat Island into a new cultural reference point: modern museums, contemporary art, historical heritage… A mishmash of future and tradition that’s a pleasure to discover, without any preconceived ideas. Who said the Middle East was devoid of cultural nuggets?

Abu Dhabi also lives by night: our ideas for outings

1. The ultra-chic rooftops of Yas Island

At Yas Bay, parties often start on the rooftops, withsignature cocktails , DJ sets and spectacular views of the waterfront.

2. A cocktail party at the Conrad Etihad Towers

The bars of the Etihad Towersare particularly renowned for their expertise and sophistication when it comes to mixology. With their hushed ambience, glittering skyline and lounge music, they are the ideal setting for a glamorous date or evening out.

3. Live events – including a legendary concert

Abu Dhabi is welcoming more and more international artists. This year, it’s John Legend who tops the bill for an exceptional evening at the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental. Rendezvous on December 31, 2025 to set the musical tone for 2026! A precious moment to be experienced in the first person under the starry Persian Gulf sky, with gourmet dinner, fireworks and DJ sets to boot.

4. Elegant evenings and racy DJ sets

Whether in high-end lounges or prestigious hotel clubs, Abu Dhabi’s nightlife features a refined atmosphere, with international DJs mainly from the house culture.

5. Waterfront dining at Al Qana

This trendy new district offers a lively evening stroll:
designer restaurants, bars, intimate live concerts… A vibrant, 100% cosmopolitan atmosphere, perfect for bonding.

6. An evening on Saadiyat Island: art and cocktails

After a visit to the Louvre Abu Dhabi, head for the elegant beach clubs of Saadiyat Island to enjoy a more festive atmosphere as night falls. Some beaches are transformed into electro-chic parties under the palm trees.

7. Night cruise on the mangrove

For a memorable evening, consider booking a dinner or a moonlit boat trip through the mangroves of Al Reem Island. Calm, elegant… the setting seems almost unreal.

8. Beach clubs & “sunset seeker” atmosphere

As night falls, the beach clubs offer evenings exactly under the sunset : dimmed lights, DJ sets, cocktails, a chill atmosphere in the first part of the evening that builds to a crescendo… The beach day may well last longer than you thought.

9. Michelin-starred dinner in a palace

Dubai has nothing to envy in terms of gastronomy! Between the Emirates Palace and the St-Regis Saadiyat, the culinary scene offers exceptional tables, perfect for a sophisticated evening before or after a concert, for example.

In short, if you want to get away from it all and visit the Persian Gulf while escaping Dubai’s saturated tourism, for a more serene, elegant and intimate stay, we recommend you visit Abu Dhabi.