Planning a trip to Abu Dhabi in 2026? This guide covers everything — including the grand BAPS Hindu Mandir, Yas Island theme parks, cultural attractions, beaches, museums, best hotels, food, visas, transportation and complete travel tips for Indian tourists.

Abu Dhabi Travel Guide 2026 Complete Tourism Guide for Indian Travelers

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is known for its clean beaches, world class attractions, luxury hotels, cultural landmarks and family friendly theme parks. With new developments and the opening of the BAPS Hindu Mandir, 2026 is expected to attract a record number of tourists from India and around the world.

This guide provides complete information to help you plan your trip responsibly and efficiently.

BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi

A Major Attraction for 2026

The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi is the first traditional stone Hindu temple in the Middle East. It has quickly become one of the most visited places by international tourists as well as the Indian community.

Highlights

Spread over 27 acres
Constructed using limestone and pink sandstone
Features detailed carvings of deities, saints and Indian cultural themes
Peaceful environment suitable for meditation and family visits
Entry is free
Modest clothing is recommended

Location
Abu Mureikhah, near Al Rahba

Timings
Daily from 9 AM to 8 PM, but timings may vary on festival days

Best Time to Visit
Morning or evening

Major Attractions in Abu Dhabi 2026 (Updated List)

Below is a complete and updated list of must see attractions for 2026.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
A global architectural masterpiece and one of the worlds largest mosques.
Louvre Abu Dhabi
A universal museum featuring global art, culture and innovative architecture.
Yas Island Attractions
Ferrari World
Warner Bros World
Yas Waterworld
SeaWorld Abu Dhabi
CLYMB Abu Dhabi
Etihad Arena
Yas Marina Circuit
Yas Bay Waterfront
Qasr Al Watan
The Presidential Palace offering guided tours and a notable light show.
Abu Dhabi Corniche
A clean and well maintained waterfront area suitable for swimming, jogging, and family outings.
Saadiyat Island
Home to luxury resorts, Saadiyat Beach, cultural districts and the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi.
Desert Safari
Offers dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding and traditional Emirati entertainment.
Emirates Park Zoo
Offers animal encounters suitable for children and families.
Heritage Village
Showcases traditional Emirati life and craftsmanship.
Mangrove National Park
A natural reserve offering kayaking and wildlife observation.
Jubail Mangrove Walk
A wooden walkway over scenic mangroves.
Al Maryah Island
A modern business and lifestyle district with high end restaurants and malls.
Manarat Al Saadiyat
Cultural center for exhibitions and workshops.
Traditional Dhow Cruise
Dinner cruise offering city skyline views.

Best Places to Stay in Abu Dhabi 2026

Yas Island
Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island
The WB Hotel Abu Dhabi
Crowne Plaza Yas Island

Corniche Area
Emirates Palace
St Regis Abu Dhabi
Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche

Saadiyat Island
Park Hyatt Saadiyat
Rixos Premium Saadiyat
Jumeirah Saadiyat Island

Budget Hotels
Premier Inn Abu Dhabi
City Seasons Al Hamra
Holiday Inn Downtown

Food and Dining Options

Local Food to Try
Shawarma
Machboos
Grilled kebabs
Luqaimat
Arabic coffee and dates

Popular Indian Restaurants
India Palace
Gazebo
Kailash Parbat
Biryani Pot

Vegetarian and Jain food options are widely available.

Shopping in Abu Dhabi

Main Shopping Locations
Yas Mall
Galleria Mall
Marina Mall
Souk Central Market
Madinat Zayed Gold Centre

Items Worth Buying
Gold
Dates
Dry fruits
Oud perfumes
Electronics

Best Time to Visit Abu Dhabi

November to March is the most pleasant period for outdoor sightseeing.
April to May and September to October offer moderate weather.
June to August is hot but offers discounted hotel and theme park deals.

Abu Dhabi Visa Guide for Indians 2026

Visa Types
14 Day Tourist Visa
30 Day Single Entry Visa
30 Day Multiple Entry Visa
48 and 96 Hour Transit Visas

Documents Required
Valid passport
Photograph white background
Return air tickets
Hotel confirmation
Bank statement if required

Processing Time
Three to five working days

Plan Journeys offers visa assistance for Abu Dhabi and all UAE destinations.

Transportation in Abu Dhabi

The city has efficient transportation options including
Taxis
Public buses
Free Yas Express shuttle
Car rentals
Dubai to Abu Dhabi shuttle buses

Metro expansion plans may improve connectivity in upcoming years.

Suggested 3 Day Abu Dhabi Itinerary for 2026

Day 1
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
BAPS Hindu Mandir
Heritage Village
Emirates Palace
Corniche Beach

Day 2
Yas Island
Choose one or two attractions
Ferrari World, Warner Bros World, Yas Waterworld, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi
Dinner at Yas Bay Waterfront

Day 3
Louvre Abu Dhabi
Manarat Al Saadiyat
Saadiyat Beach
Qasr Al Watan Light Show

Travel Tips for 2026

Dress modestly at religious places.
Book theme park tickets online for discounts.
Carry water while sightseeing due to dry climate.
Fridays are prayer days and some attractions may open late.
Alcohol is served only in licensed hotels and restaurants.

Conclusion

Abu Dhabi offers culture, adventure, beaches, temples, museums and world class theme parks, making it an ideal destination for Indian families, couples, groups and solo travelers. With the addition of the BAPS Hindu Mandir, travel facilities and tourism have further improved for 2026.