Fall weekend in Abu Dhabi
Autumn in Abu Dhabi — foliage walks, harvest markets and the cafés worth lingering in once the patios cool down.
Top spots in Abu Dhabi
Louvre Abu Dhabi
CultureSaadiyat Island
Jean Nouvel's perforated dome rains light over a global art collection.
Qasr Al Watan
CultureRas Al Akhdar
Working presidential palace open to visitors — gold-leaf domes, library.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
CultureAl Maqta
82 marble domes, world's largest hand-knotted carpet — modest dress required.
Where to eat
Beirut Sur Mer
$$$Lebanese seafood · Yas Bay
Sea-facing terrace, charcoal-grilled fish and arak by the carafe.
Café Arabia
$$Levantine café · Al Karama
Three-storey Levantine villa — brunch on the rooftop, manakeesh till late.
Mezlai
$$$$Emirati · Emirates Palace
First fine-dining Emirati restaurant — camel, lamb ouzi, dates and saffron rice.
Li Beirut
$$$Lebanese · Jumeirah at Etihad Towers
Skyline views, live oud and the city's gold-standard mezze.
Frequently asked
- Standouts right now: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Corniche Beach & Promenade. The shortlist is curated by people who live in Abu Dhabi and refreshed regularly so it reflects what's actually open and worth your time.