Activities and Information about
Abu Dhabi
Practical Info
Weather
Abu Dhabi enjoys a desert climate, characterized by mild winters and extremely hot summers. In January, the weather is generally pleasant with average temperatures around 24°C (75°F) during the day and 12°C (54°F) at night. The city experiences sunny days with clear skies and moderate humidity during this time, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Most buildings in Abu Dhabi are equipped with air conditioning, providing a cool respite from the outdoor heat.
Campus
New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) is situated on the vibrant Saadiyat Island, a cultural hub within Abu Dhabi. The campus is renowned for its modern facilities and architectural elegance, designed by the celebrated Uruguayan architect Rafael Viñoly. It features a wide range of amenities including a state-of-the-art gym, a competitive swimming pool, an ATM for local currency withdrawals (AED), a convenience store, pharmacy, travel agency, as well as various dining and coffee shop options for students and visitors.
Saadiyat Island
This island is a focal point of art and culture in Abu Dhabi, home to the Louvre Abu Dhabi, which showcases artworks from around the globe. Other attractions include the luxurious Saadiyat Beach Club, the scenic Mamsha promenade, and the tranquil Soul Beach. For accommodations, options range from the opulent St. Regis and Park Hyatt to the comfortable Rixos and Rotana hotels.
Lodging
Detailed lodging information is currently being updated. Saadiyat Island and the mainland offer a variety of hotels ranging from luxury to budget-friendly options, catering to all preferences and needs.
Transport
Abu Dhabi's transport system is efficient and affordable. Taxis are readily available and are a convenient way to travel around the city. The NYUAD campus has a designated taxi rank outside its Welcome Center. Taxis accept both cash and card payments. A taxi ride to the main island near the Corniche area is approximately 35 AED. Abu Dhabi also supports ride-sharing apps like Uber and Careem, along with a local taxi app for ease of travel. For those preferring public transport, bus services are also accessible and inexpensive. Bus 170 travels between the city and Saadiyat Island, including stops by NYU, and costs 2-5 AED depending on trip length.
Parking
Visitor parking at NYUAD is accessible via the East Parking entrance. Visitors may be required to show identification upon entry.
Activities
Abu Dhabi is home to a plethora of activities and attractions. We have compiled some of the most noteworthy below.
The Louvre Abu Dhabi
The Louvre Abu Dhabi, located on Saadiyat Island, is distinguished by its impressive architectural design, including a striking dome that creates a captivating play of light. The museum displays paintings by famous artists such as Van Gogh, alongside a wide range of artworks from various cultures and periods.
Ferrari World
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, located on Yas Island, is the world's first Ferrari-branded theme park. It features the fastest roller coaster in the world, Formula Rossa, alongside a variety of other attractions. The park includes a collection of Ferrari cars and offers simulators that provide realistic racing experiences. Ferrari World is designed to entertain visitors of all ages with its combination of high-speed rides, advanced technology, and automotive exhibits.
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the largest mosque in the UAE and the 7th largest in the world. The architectural wonder is known for its stunning white marble structure, which features 82 domes, over 1,000 columns, 24-carat gold gilded chandeliers, and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet. The mosque is open to visitors of all faiths and showcases intricate Islamic art and craftsmanship. Its vast courtyard and reflective pools magnify its beauty, making it a prominent cultural and spiritual landmark in the UAE.
Mamsha Al Saadiyat
Mamsha Al Saadiyat is a vibrant beachfront promenade located on Saadiyat Island. This area offers leisure facilities, pristine beaches, retail outlets, and dining options. It's also known for its cultural attractions, including art galleries and museums nearby. With its scenic views of the Arabian Gulf and modern architecture, Mamsha provides a unique blend of cultural and recreational activities in a luxurious setting.
Jubail Mangrove Park
Jubail Mangrove Park is a natural haven dedicated to the conservation of the mangrove forests in the region. This park offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich biodiversity of mangrove habitats through its boardwalks that extend across the mangroves, providing close encounters with the flora and fauna. Visitors can engage in educational walks, kayaking tours, and bird watching.
Desert Safari
Desert trips are a popular activity in Abu Dhabi, offering an insight into the desert landscape through dune bashing, camel rides, and sandboarding. These excursions typically conclude with a traditional Arabian dinner and cultural performances in a desert camp, providing an authentic experience of the local heritage and natural environment.
Beach Clubs
Abu Dhabi is home to an array of upscale beach clubs, offering residents and visitors a luxurious seaside experience. These clubs provide exclusive access to some of the city's most beautiful beaches, along with a range of amenities including stylish infinity pools, upscale dining options, and relaxing spa services. Saadiyat Beach Club is one of Abu Dhabi's noteworthy beach clubs.
Shopping Malls
Abu Dhabi features a variety of upscale and mid-range malls that offer shopping, entertainment, and dining experiences. The Galleria on Al Maryah Island is one of the premier shopping and dining destinations, featuring a wide selection of international luxury brands and high-end boutiques, alongside an array of dining options that cater to diverse tastes.
The Abrahamic Family House
The Abrahamic Family House in Abu Dhabi is a landmark project that symbolizes the commitment of the UAE to fostering religious harmony and understanding. Located on Saadiyat Island, it uniquely houses a mosque, a church, and a synagogue in one complex, reflecting the mutual respect and peaceful coexistence of Islam, Christianity, and Judaism.