Emirates Palace
The hotel that defined Gulf luxury — come for the gold cappuccino
Eight kilometres of Blue Flag beachfront along the capital's front porch
The Corniche is Abu Dhabi's defining public space: eight kilometres of Blue Flag-certified beach, lawns, cycle track and promenade curving along the island's northern face, with the city's towers on one side and turquoise shallows on the other.
The beach divides into family and quiet gated sections (a few dirhams, with lifeguards, showers and calm, shallow swimming) and free open stretches. Behind them, the promenade carries a constant flow of joggers, cyclists and evening strollers — the closest thing the UAE has to a seaside boulevard culture.
For visitors it's the easy half-day: swim, rent a bike, walk to a café, and watch the sun drop behind Emirates Palace at the western end.
The hotel that defined Gulf luxury — come for the gold cappuccino
Abu Dhabi from 300 metres — high tea above the Corniche
Back to all Abu Dhabi spots — landmarks, beaches, desert, hidden gems and more.