This article provides an in-depth guide on the cost of traveling to Abu Dhabi in 2025, covering various aspects such as accommodation, dining, transportation, and entertainment. It aims to help tourists plan their budget, offering insights into expenses ranging from budget to luxury options. Whether you’re looking for affordable street food or luxurious dining, budget hostels or opulent hotels, the guide breaks down the costs to expect per day, ensuring travelers can make informed choices tailored to their preferences and budget. Is Abu Dhabi expensive to visit? This guide answers that question, offering practical tips for all types of travelers.
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Is Abu Dhabi Expensive or Cheap?
Abu Dhabi is widely regarded as expensive, with high prices for accommodation, dining, and entertainment, reflecting its reputation as a wealthy city with an elevated standard of living.
The cost of a trip to Abu Dhabi remarkably depends on your preferences, travel style, duration of your stay, and the season in which you organize your plan to visit Abu Dhabi. However, there are countless options to visit Abu Dhabi on a budget; there is a variety of luxurious activities offered in this stunning city. If you are planning to travel to Abu Dhabi on a budget, you can enjoy street food, 2-3 star hotels, and buses as public transportation. On the other hand, if you are a luxurious traveler, you can eat in high-end restaurants, book a 4- 5-star hotel, and take a taxi or a chauffeur-driven vehicle for transportation. As a result, Abu Dhabi is a capital of opportunities for all types of travelers from all over the globe to let them explore this pearl.
How much does it cost to go to Abu Dhabi?
Abu Dhabi Hotel Prices
Abu Dhabi Budget Hotels
- Hostels: from US $50–80 (~AED 185–295) per night instead of US $15–25.
- 2‑3‑star hotels: from US $100–150 (~AED 370–550) per night, not US $50–100.
- The Villa Hostel Abu Dhabi (2.6 km from the center)
- Oasis Hostel Abu Dhabi (3.9 km from center)
- Sunrise Inn by DSV Property (1.6 km from center)
- Grand Villaggio Hotel Abu Dhabi (2.8 km from center)
- Grand Continental Hotel (0.5 km from center)
- Al Jazira Club Hotel (4.8 km from center)
Mid-range Hotels in Abu Dhabi
Many mid‑range accommodation options in Abu Dhabi now start from around $150 to $300 per night, depending on location, amenities, and timing.
- Millennium Al Rawdah Hotel (11.7 km from center)
- Courtyard by Marriott World Trade Center (1.3 km from center)
- Jannah Burj Al Sarab (1.2 km from center)
- Le Royal Meridien Abu Dhabi (0.8 km from center)
- Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort (1.1 km from center)
- Beach Rotana – Abu Dhabi (1.5 km from center)
- Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences Emirates Pearl (6.2 km from center)
Abu Dhabi Luxury Hotels
Top-tier hotels in Abu Dhabi now generally range between $200 to $800+ per night for standard luxury rooms, while ultra-luxury suites can reach $1,000 to $4,000+ per night, depending on season and exclusivity.
- Rosewood Abu Dhabi (2.1 km from center)
- Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas (8.9 from center)
- Nurai Island, Saadiyat (17.5 km from center)
- Paradise Nurai Villa (17.9 km from center)
- Shangri-La Hotel Apartments Qaryat Al Beri (15.4 km from center)
Public Transportation Cost in Abu Dhabi
Bus Ticket in Abu Dhabi Price
The standard bus fare in Abu Dhabi now starts at AED 2 (boarding fee) plus AED 0.05 per kilometre for city and suburban routes.
- Week‑pass: AED 35
- 30‑day pass: AED 95
Abu Dhabi Taxi Fare
The standard taxi flag‑fall in Abu Dhabi is AED 12 (including the first ~3.8 km). After that, it’s AED 1.80 per km. Waiting time costs AED 30 per hour.
Car Rental Fee in Abu Dhabi
International Flight Cost to Abu Dhabi
- A round-trip flight ticket from Europe: Approximately costs from 400$ to 750$, depending on the season.
- A round-trip ticket from the US: Costs around 700$ to 1200$
- A round-trip flight ticket from Asia: costs around 300$ to 900$ based on the distance.
Best Entertainment in Abu Dhabi Fees
Abu Dhabi Ferrari World entrance fee
- Adult Ticket: From around AED 345 per person when booked online.
- Junior/Child Ticket: Typically around AED 290–AED 300, but check for age/height definitions and online savings.
- Multi‑Park Offers: Combination tickets (2‑park or 3‑park passes) start at approx. AED 395–AED 475 and offer access to multiple attractions on Yas Island.
Note: Prices may vary based on season, promotions, or booking method — always check the official site for the latest rates before you visit.
Yas Water World entrance fee
- Adult Ticket: From AED 295 when booked online in advance.
- Junior/Child Ticket: Around AED 250 for children under ~1.1 m in height.
- Free Entry: Children under 3 years old may enter for free.
Note: Prices are subject to change depending on season, promotions, and whether the ticket is purchased online or at the gate.
The Warner Bros. World™ entrance fee
- Adult Ticket: From AED 345 per person when booked online.
- Junior / Child Ticket: Typically around AED 290–300, though age/height definitions may vary.
Online Booking Tip: Booking ahead can save you up to 10% and guarantee your preferred date.
Cost of Desert Safari in Abu Dhabi
- A typical half‑day desert safari in Abu Dhabi now starts from around AED 350–450 per person, which includes dune‑bashing, camel ride, sand‑boarding, and a BBQ dinner.
- For premium or overnight experiences, expect prices from AED 650–800+ per person, depending on inclusions and season.
Abu Dhabi National Aquarium entry fee
- Adult Ticket: From AED 175–190, depending on date and online booking.
- Children under 3 years: Free entry (when accompanying a paying adult).
Discounts & Online Booking: Purchase your ticket online for potential savings of 5–10% and to secure your visit time slot.
Best Free Entertainment in Abu Dhabi
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
- Al Bateen Beach
- Corniche Beach
- The Founder’s Memorial
- Heritage Village
- Masdar City
- Yas Marina
- The Abrahamic Family House
- Umm Al Emarat Park
- Qasr Al Hosn (Outer areas)
Best shopping malls in Abu Dhabi 2025
- Abu Dhabi Mall
- Yas Mall
- WTC
- Galleria Mall
- Dalma Mall
- Marina Mall
- Al Wahda Mall
- Mushrif Mall
- Reem Mall
Abu Dhabi Restaurant Prices
Several amazing options for dining are waiting for you in Abu Dhabi, from street food to luxurious meals in a restaurant with a view of the city. Here are all the types of restaurants in Abu Dhabi, containing the prices and names of the most recommended ones.
Affordable Restaurants in Abu Dhabi
- Evergreen Indian Restaurant
- Rashid Al Zaabi Mandi Restaurant
- Mallah Arabic Restaurant
- Lahmajoon Arabic-Armenian Restaurant
- Sangeetha Vegetarian Restaurant
- Lebanese Mill Restaurant
- Bonna Anne Ethiopian Restaurant
You can enjoy a budget meal in Abu Dhabi ranging from 5$ to 11$ in these restaurants.
Best Mid-Range Restaurants in Abu Dhabi
- Hakkasan Chinese Restaurant
- Zuma Sushi Bar
- LPM Restaurant & Bar
- Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe
- Sole Restaurant
- Mamafri Asian Restaurant
- Shang Palace Chinese Restaurant
- Si Ristorante Italiano & Bar
- Penelope’s European Restaurant
Luxurious Restaurants in Abu Dhabi
- Moksh Indian Restaurant & Lounge
- Olea Mediterranean Restaurant
- The Terrace On The Corniche Restaurant
- Sofra BLD Restaurant
- NURI Grill & Bar Restaurant
Last Words
FAQ
Is Abu Dhabi more expensive than Dubai?
Generally, Abu Dhabi and Dubai have similar price levels, though accommodations may vary by area.
What is the average daily travel cost in Abu Dhabi?
According to the most recent data for 2025, the corrected range for daily travel costs in Abu Dhabi is closer to AED 143 to AED 724 (~US $39–$197) per person for budget to mid‑range travel.
Are there free things to do in Abu Dhabi?
Yes, you can visit beaches, mosques, and cultural sites like the Heritage Village at no cost.
Is public transportation affordable in Abu Dhabi?
Yes, buses and taxis are reasonably priced and well-connected throughout the city.
How much money do you need per day in Abu Dhabi?
For 2025, the updated daily cost for budget travelers in Abu Dhabi is approximately AED 180 to AED 370 (around $50 to $100 USD), covering accommodation, meals, and transportation. Luxury travelers can expect much higher daily expenses, with costs reaching AED 600 to AED 1,500+ per day depending on the level of luxury.
Is Abu Dhabi expensive to eat?
Abu Dhabi offers a wide range of dining options to suit various budgets. Local eateries and street food remain affordable, with meals ranging from AED 15 to AED 30. For those seeking a mid‑range dining experience, meals at mid‑range restaurants typically cost between AED 60 to AED 120. However, high-end restaurants can be expensive, with meals reaching AED 200+ per person, especially in luxury hotels and fine dining spots.
