What To Do on a Layover in Abu Dhabi Airport: A Traveler's Guide

Are layovers boring, or is it just a myth? Sometimes, it might be because the place isn't good. But it cannot be boring in Abu Dhabi. People love to spend time in Abu Dhabi because it is the capital city of the UAE and is known as a magical paradise where every breeze calms and soothes the mind. 

It might be confusing if we ask you where to start if your layover is between 6 and 10 hours. Don't worry, contact the best travel agency, Next Holidays, and get assistance in minutes.  

Through this blog, varied options will be provided so that you can spend the time in layover in Abu Dhabi. Let's get started…! 

Sometimes it feels too long, even when the layover is under 6 hours. We suggest you explore the following things to do in Abu Dhabi. It will not let you get bored.  

The layover at Abu Dhabi airport can be relaxing if you choose a spa to calm down and go stress-free. The airport has luxurious spas like the Timeless Spa as well as the Plaza Premium Spa, where visitors can unwind before their trip with facials, massages, and other spa treatments. Apart from this, you can enjoy a little relaxation at one of the lavish spas within the terminal. Be Relax Spa offers pedicures, facials, and massages among its amenities. If you're going through jet lag, a brief massage might help your body and mind feel refreshed. 

Minimum cost: AED 100 per person 

Are you thinking about what some of the best things to do in Abu Dhabi layover are? Nothing is better than eating to satisfy hunger. There are several cafés and restaurants, most of which are open 24x7. Dining options include sit-down businesses like O'Learys Sports Bar, Yumcha Asian Food, and Montreux Jazz Cafe, but also takeout alternatives, including McDonald's and Burger King. Note that many of the other options are expensive. The good news is that cheaper food items are available at the Starter Supermarket in the Skypark, which is located close to the airport. 

If you are getting bored at the layover in Abu Dhabi airport, there are some amazing shopping options at the airport. Terminal A at Abu Dhabi Airport offers a beautiful and relaxing atmosphere with over 150 duty-free shops selling expensive brands like Omega, Hermes, and Gucci. In a huge or contemporary space, visitors can take advantage of tax-free offers on clothing, gadgets, items, and more. Sitting at the departures area of Abu Dhabi Airport is a fantastic way to pass the time. Don't ignore designer things, dates, and Arabic perfumes. From large duty-free retail areas to Middle Eastern and foreign shops, Terminals 1 and 3 provide countless shopping options. Among the most expensive features are Emporio Armani, Burberry, Bulgari, Rolex, and Mont Blanc.  

A short layover in Abu Dhabi airport is fine, but what if it's longer than usual (6 to 10 hours)? It will be boring and feel like time is running slowly. Now what should one do? Check out the options below, pick your favourites, and enjoy the time. 

Are you dying to get some excitement in the desert? Your most significant option for thrilling experiences and lasting recollections is a desert safari. Now hold on tight as the 4x4, which rides like a roller coaster, is going to rise to the highest point of the dunes and fall into valleys. However, the journey has not come to an end; it's just a start! Take photographs with beautiful hawks, ride a horse or camel in the open air, or try to succeed at sandboarding. You will also have the chance to end the evening with a tantoura dancer, fascinating belly dancing, and a delicious BBQ meal under the stars. This is a possible choice for enjoying during a layover Abu Dhabi airport because a lot of desert travel companies provide customizable itineraries that include airport pick-up and drop-off, so you don't have to worry about the difficulties. 

There are sleeping pods placed throughout the airport premises for passengers who want to relax and get a little sleep during their layovers. These can enable visitors to relax on the land for a while before enjoying their journey. Additionally, there are power stations accessible throughout the property to assist visitors in keeping their phones charged. To avoid the luggage from being stolen at the Abu Dhabi airport, another baggage storage facility can be used. The most fascinating thing is the free wifi at Abu Dhabi airport, which will help to scroll through the feed or enjoy the time. 

The 500 meters of sand and serene waters at Kai Beach may help you rest and erase that extra layer of tension. Stress can be reduced by listening to the sound of the breaking waves and the softly whispering trees close to the beach. Another famous beach is the Corniche, where you might get the options for food, and if you want a staycation, even then you prefer the nearby.  

Recommendation: Places to visit in Abu Dhabi for free  

People get tired or feel irritated when the layover is more than 10 hours or even overnight. But we came up with a solution. If you want to know what it is, check the following. 

What to do during an Abu Dhabi layover? Don't think much, as we have found the best option. You must spend time exploring the huge landmarks along with other attractions in the Abu Dhabi airport during long layovers. The Louvre Abu Dhabi, which has some top-notch displays with colourful forms of art and historical gems all around the grounds, is one of the greatest spots to pass the time. Another remarkable monument to see here is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, which attracts tourists with its beautiful construction and Arabic calligraphy on the walls. 

Minimum cost: AED 70  

The luxury lounges at Abu Dhabi Airport make it easy to find ease in the middle of travel chaos. One of the most energizing activities close to Abu Dhabi Airport is spending time in the Etihad Premium Lounge or Al Dhabi Lounge. These lounges offer free Wi-Fi, tasty refreshments, comfortable chairs, and a peaceful escape. There are showers at Abu Dhabi airport provided for extended layovers, allowing you to freshen up before your next journey. Lounges like the Al Reem Lounge offer a continuous experience if one would prefer to lounge in a quieter setting. Lounges are excellent for both productivity and relaxation because they feature workstations and outlets for charging. 

Minimum cost: AED 250 

Yas Island is another excellent spot to relax on long layovers at Abu Dhabi airport. There are relaxing and enjoyable activities to do on this site, which makes it an entertainment area. Some excellent spots for enjoying a car race or a round of golf in the region are the Yas Marina and the Yas Grounds. Furthermore, people can spend their time in Abu Dhabi's Ferrari World, where they can experience thrilling roller coasters and attractions on Yas Island.  

Did you check? Places to visit in Abu Dhabi for couples   

Yes, if you have the entry permit, then you may go out to have a good time by exploring the capital city.  

You can start by relaxing at the lounge for a few hours. After this, you may explore the mix of cultural attractions, famous places, and cafes.  

It is the perfect destination, as this city won’t let you get bored during your layovers. 

Yes, you can explore the city the way you want. Make sure you arrive at least 2 hours before the scheduling to avoid inconveniences.