Like the name “New York,” the name “Abu Dhabi” refers both to an emirate and to its principal city. The capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi stretches across the mainland and several interconnected islands. Over the past half-century the city has transformed from a small coastal settlement into a modern metropolis of glass-and-steel towers, expansive luxury malls and world-class museums, offering visitors a wide selection of hotels, dining and entertainment options.
The city’s original commercial core developed on the central island along the waterfront Corniche, anchored by the Sheikh’s Presidential Palace and the famous Emirates Palace Hotel. The Emirates Palace, with its Moorish-inspired design and lavish marble and gold finishes, remains an iconic landmark and a favored venue for high-level meetings and special events. However, the emirate’s business hub has shifted.
About a decade ago, Sowwah Island—now known as Al Maryah Island—was designated Abu Dhabi’s financial center. Today Al Maryah hosts the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange, the Abu Dhabi Global Market free zone, headquarters for numerous international banks and corporations, the Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, and upscale amenities including the Galleria luxury mall.
“When you come to do business, you go straight to Al Maryah and check into the Four Seasons or Rosewood,” says a frequent visitor who travels from the United States for meetings. The Four Seasons Abu Dhabi, with an exterior inspired by traditional textiles, provides comfortable public spaces for meetings and relaxation. Its Al Meylas lounge, furnished with sofas and armchairs, functions as a casual “living room” for informal gatherings, tea and networking. The hotel also offers multiple function rooms equipped with modern audiovisual technology.
Nearby, the Rosewood Abu Dhabi welcomes guests in the airy Majlis Lobby Lounge, a popular spot for breakfast and business lunches. Its contemporary dining options include Dai Pai Dong, a restaurant decorated with Chinese art that features a live-show kitchen and an all-you-can-eat dim sum service.
Rosewood Abu Dhabi Majlis Lobby Lounge © ROSEWOOD ABU DHABI
Dining in Abu Dhabi covers a broad spectrum of international cuisine. On Al Maryah Island visitors will find notable venues such as Roberto, a signature Italian restaurant, and La Petite Maison, which specializes in cuisine from Nice. Zuma offers contemporary Japanese dishes served Izakaya-style for sharing, while Nusr-Et Steakhouse is widely known for its steaks and dramatic presentations.
When doing business in Abu Dhabi, be aware that residents often prefer to host meetings at home. If you receive a home invitation, accept it graciously; bringing a modest gift such as flowers or chocolates is customary and appreciated.
Although the entire emirate covers roughly 375 square miles, the metropolitan area is relatively compact. Travelers seeking a more traditional atmosphere often favor Qaryat al Beri, located between the airport and downtown. Near the souk, the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Qaryat al Beri offers winding waterways and architecture that evokes classic Arabian design. Properties here, such as the Shangri‑La, use traditional abras to ferry guests along channels to rooms, spa facilities and the on-site souk. The resort also features a golf course and multiple meeting rooms outfitted with modern audiovisual equipment, plus dining venues with live cooking stations where guests can interact with chefs.
Adjacent to the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, the Hyatt Capital Gate provides convenient access to one of the Middle East’s largest convention venues. The hotel’s distinctive sloping tower hosts comfortable public areas and a well-regarded Mediterranean restaurant, 18 Degrees, known for its contemporary menu and city views.
For cultural outings, Saadiyat Island is home to the Louvre Abu Dhabi and its Museum Café, which serves an international menu ranging from seafood dishes to regional specialties. Leisure options include leisurely dhow lunches departing from Marina Mall—double-decker wooden craft that serve buffet-style international meals—and several nearby golf courses with tee times available for visitors.
Abu Dhabi International Airport lies roughly 20 miles from downtown. Metered taxis run to and from the airport, with fares to Al Maryah typically in the $25–30 range. Arriving passengers can pre-book VIP Golden Class services for personalized arrival assistance, baggage help and escorted transfers. For departures, remote check-in is available at the City Terminal downtown and passengers can arrange fast-track services at the airport for expedited immigration and security processing. VIP lounges and hospitality services are also available for travelers facing long layovers or flight delays.