Where are you going?
  • Log in
  • Sign up

Private & personalized tours - just for you!

Experience the best of Abu Dhabi with Withlocals

Going to Abu Dhabi and wondering what to do? No need to worry, there's plenty of things to do in Abu Dhabi with a local. Join your favorite host and discover the best the city has to offer from an exclusive selection of unique experiences.

Tours in Abu Dhabi

Going to Abu Dhabi and wondering what to do? No need to worry, there's plenty of things to do in Abu Dhabi with a local. Join your favorite host and discover the best the city has to offer from an exclusive selection of unique experiences.

Tours in Abu Dhabi

Real People. Real Stories.
Really Good Travel.

  • Feel like a local, not a tourist

    Always private. It’s just you and your local host. No strangers, no groups.

  • More you, less checklist

    Let your local host tailor the experience completely to your wishes.

  • Travel that feels good

    Our tours are designed with people, places, and the planet in mind.



Top 3 things to do in Abu Dhabi

Make your stay in Abu Dhabi complete with these things to do

  1. 1Experience image
    Portrait from local Jose Gomez & Sandy Nat - Travel / food specialists
    With Jose Gomez & Sandy Nat

    The Best of Abu Dhabi Private Layover Tour

    663 reviews
    6 hours | city highlight tours | Abu Dhabi

    Did you know you can go to explore Abu Dhabi during your layover in Dubai? Yes! This 100% personalized layover tour takes you to explore the capital and its wonders. Why wait at the airport when there's so much to see out there! Visit from Yas Island, Ferrari world, a dates market, and more!

    €115per person
    Explore
  2. 2Experience image
    Portrait from local Anamaria  - Memory Maker
    Portrait from local Muhammad - Abu Dhabi & Dubai Tour Guide Service
    Choose your favorite local

    Explore the Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque with a Local Guide

    577 reviews
    2 hours | skip the line tours | Abu Dhabi

    Unveil the mysteries of the Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque and get the most out of your visit on this enriching tour! Get to know everything about this magnificent attraction with the insights provided by a local expert.

    €46.69per person
    Explore
  3. 3Experience image
    Portrait from local Khaled  -  Experience learning about Abu Dhabi’s landmarks, culture and restaurants
    Portrait from local Adnan Akbar - I'm Adnan, I have a passion to present my unique experience in my country. I was born and grew up in the United Arab Emirates.  I started tour guiding driven by the passion to have my guests experience and understand the unique Emirati heritage, life, and local culture. However, I always like to share special details about the local lifestyle, culture, and specific traditions that make your visit feel unique. It gives me great pleasure to share stories with people and see their smiling faces. I am guiding as a passion and happy to show you the flavor of my country.
    Choose your favorite local

    Withlocals Your Way! - Abu Dhabi City Tour

    575 reviews
    4 hours | city highlight tours | Abu Dhabi

    Did you know that the Abu Dhabi tour of your dreams exists? Yes, and it’s 100% personalized and created by your local host around your interests. Customize and see only the places that spark your interest. From classic landmarks to neighborhood walks - your wishes are our command!

    €99.27per person
    Explore
  • Feel confident in booking

    Cancel and get a refund up to 7 days before

  • Change of plans?

    Easily reschedule your booking

  • Pay your way

    Fast, secure checkout in your currency

Explore Abu Dhabi with our incredible locals

Learn about their personal stories and find out how you can explore Abu Dhabi with locals

  • Muhammad

    Abu Dhabi & Dubai Tour Guide Service

    2 reviews
    العربية・English・हिन्दी
  • Adnan Akbar

    I'm Adnan, I have a passion to present my unique experience in my country. I was born and grew up in the United Arab Emirates. I started tour guiding driven by the passion to have my guests experience and understand the unique Emirati heritage, life, and local culture. However, I always like to share special details about the local lifestyle, culture, and specific traditions that make your visit feel unique. It gives me great pleasure to share stories with people and see their smiling faces. I am guiding as a passion and happy to show you the flavor of my country.

    66 reviews
    English
  • Khaled

    Experience learning about Abu Dhabi’s landmarks, culture and restaurants

    19 reviews
    العربية・English
  • Anamaria

    Memory Maker

    18 reviews
    English・Italiano・Română
  • Jamshed

    Bringing Arabian tales to life

    5 reviews
    English・हिन्दी
  • Reem

    Immerse Locally

    29 reviews
    العربية・English
  • Jose Gomez & Sandy Nat

    Travel / food specialists

    663 reviews
    English・English


Things to do in Abu Dhabi

Our locals will give you the best experiences that Abu Dhabi has to offer

  • The Best of Abu Dhabi Private Layover Tour
    Jose Gomez & Sandy Nat - Travel / food specialists
    With Jose Gomez & Sandy Nat

    The Best of Abu Dhabi Private Layover Tour

    5.0
    663 reviews
    6 hours • city highlight tours
    from €115 per person
  • Explore the Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque with a Local Guide
    Anamaria  - Memory Maker
    Muhammad - Abu Dhabi & Dubai Tour Guide Service
    Choose your local

    Explore the Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque with a Local Guide

    4.9
    577 reviews
    2 hours • skip the line tours
    from €46.69 per person
  • Withlocals Your Way! - Abu Dhabi City Tour
    Khaled  -  Experience learning about Abu Dhabi’s landmarks, culture and restaurants
    Adnan Akbar - I'm Adnan, I have a passion to present my unique experience in my country. I was born and grew up in the United Arab Emirates.  I started tour guiding driven by the passion to have my guests experience and understand the unique Emirati heritage, life, and local culture. However, I always like to share special details about the local lifestyle, culture, and specific traditions that make your visit feel unique. It gives me great pleasure to share stories with people and see their smiling faces. I am guiding as a passion and happy to show you the flavor of my country.
    Choose your local

    Withlocals Your Way! - Abu Dhabi City Tour

    5.0
    575 reviews
    4 hours • city highlight tours
    from €99.27 per person
  • Full Coverage Abu Dhabi City Tour
    Muhammad - Abu Dhabi & Dubai Tour Guide Service
    Reem - Immerse Locally
    Choose your local

    Full Coverage Abu Dhabi City Tour

    4.9
    572 reviews
    4 hours • city highlight tours
    from €117 per person
  • Culinary Kickstart Tour: Abu Dhabi
    Khaled  -  Experience learning about Abu Dhabi’s landmarks, culture and restaurants
    Muhammad - Abu Dhabi & Dubai Tour Guide Service
    Choose your local

    Culinary Kickstart Tour: Abu Dhabi

    4.9
    50 reviews
    2.5 hours • food tours
    from €56.62 per person
See all experiences


Find experiences by category

Discover experiences based on your interest

  • City highlights tours 3
  • Food tours 1
  • Skip the line tours 1

Enjoy the Best of the Abu Dhabi
Like a Local

Top things to do in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is considered both the actual capital and cultural/historical capital of the Emirates with beautiful palm trees, lots of luxury, numerous cultural experiences, great food, and tons of fun! One of the richest cities in the world, this is a place you will want to add to any Middle Eastern trip.

  • Front view of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

    Marvel at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

    Perhaps one of the most breathtaking mosques you will ever see and certainly the most expensive in the world, this beautiful white-domed structure will leave you stunned. It is magnificent in every way. Inside, you will find stunning sights including the world’s largest loomed carpet and real gold chandeliers. The architecture combines ancient and contemporary Islamic styles.

    The best way to see any mosque in the UAE, especially if you are not Muslim is to go with a local. Your host will guide you in what is expected when visiting a mosque, for example entrances are different for men and women. Your host will also share incredible stories about the mosque’s history and Islamic rituals. Go with one of our local hosts and you won’t regret this unforgettable experience!

  • Three ladies taking a selfie at the waterfront in Abu Dhabi

    Stroll along the beautiful Corniche

    The Corniche or “waterfront” in Abu Dhabi is known for its breathtaking views of the city, panoramic views of the sea and miles upon miles of gorgeous white soft sand. It’s a sight not to be missed in Abu Dhabi! Grab your host at sunset and go for a long stroll along the shore’s promenade where you can meet other locals enjoying the views, looking at the fountains, having a meal, playing in the parks along the way, or stopping for tea and shisha (hubbly bubbly). If you’re up for it, rent a bike with your host and cover the entire length of the Corniche! Or you can spend the whole day relaxing at the beach!

  • Two girls at a table eating

    Enjoy the local dish of Al Machboos

    Emirati food is delicious and hearty featuring mounds of rice and meat filled with flavorful spices. And the best way to have it is in an Emirati home; the food is the definition of homey comfort food! Have one of our hosts make you the local favorite dish Al Machboos, a hearty delicacy of meat (lamb or chicken) and rice. Food coma!

    Your host will surely offer to stuff you even more with dates and tea afterwards, since the Emirates is home to some of the best dates the world has to offer with a vast range of varieties. A culinary experience you will love!

  • A vendor at a market stall showing dates in his hands

    Get lost in the markets of Al Mina neighborhood

    Al Mina is an amazing neighborhood with a variety of colorful markets, from the carpet souk (market) selling authentic Persian rugs by sellers from Iran, to the Fruit and Vegetable market where you can find everything from Jordanian watermelons to Turkish potatoes. Not to mention 45 varieties of dates!

    Let your local host give you a tour of the Al Mina markets showing you how to bargain and get the best deals for whatever you are looking for! After a long day of market wandering and shopping, head to the Mina Fish Market and pick out your choice of fish to have it grilled or made into a curry on the spot and then head outside to sit on the harbor and enjoy your meal with you host!

  • Two girls smiling at the camera in The White Fort, Abu Dhabi

    Lose yourself in the White Fort

    The White Fort, which is known as Qasr al-Hosn in Abu Dhabi is commonly known as the place where this city began. Abu Dhabi’s ruling family, the Al Nahyans lived in the fort until 1966. The clean white walls of the fort sparkle in the desert sun; it’s a beautiful sight!

    The fort is a great place to discover how the UAE came into being, the history of Abu Dhabi, and how the discovery of oil changed everything for this small but formidable country, allowing it to build itself from Desert to riches. Going to Qasr al-Hosn with a local host ensures you have the full story about this country’s fascinating and controversial history and not just the touristy sanitized version! This is one our top things to do in the UAE!

  • A few pillars & a hanging chandler in the Emirates Palace

    Indulge in the luxury of the Emirates Palace

    Edible gold? A cake made with real gold? What?! Yes! Only in Abu Dhabi’s seven star luxurious hotel where almost everything is made of gold can you find cakes made of gold. How could you miss this sight? Go with your host to the Emirates Palace who will dive into the controversial history behind this fantastical structure.

    Maybe even try a gold cake? Even the cappuccino is sprinkled with 24-carat gold flakes! The hotel cost billions to build. Enjoy this outrageously luxurious hotel with your local host and you will have an unforgettable experience!

  • Three girls looking through a blue tainted window

    Spend a day of wet & wild fun at Yas Waterworld

    Looking for a day of pure fun? Both locals and tourists alike love spending their day at Yas Waterworld; an extremely fun and enjoyable waterpark with all sorts of rides and food stands suitable for all ages. Its super fun! Bring your bathing suit and feel yourself let go while sliding down one of the many water slides!

    Then meet up with your host who will be happy to show you the rest of Yas Island, including where Formula 1 competes every year. Maybe you will want to detour to Ferrari world and explore its adventures? Perhaps a stroll around the Yas marina? Your host will tailor your entire experience to your desires!

  • The skyline of Abu Dhabi

    Travel forward in time in a Future City

    Want to experience what future urban living using clean energy might look like? Interested in observing the world’s most sustainable eco-city? Your host would love to show you around Masdar City, it is a city built completely on clean energy using solar power, no cars are allowed except those that are battery operated (which you can ride!) and the city’s design makes it automatically cooler than the rest of Abu Dhabi.

    Masdar City is meant to be a model for future cities and it is not typically found in tourist guides since it is still in its development phases and mostly used as a hub for research. Go with your local host who will show you the fascinating ins and outs of this futuristic city!

  • A view of some beds at the water in Abu Dhabi

    Party like a local at Al Maya Island

    No visit to this tiny Emirate would be complete without attending a BEACH PARTY! Al Maya Island Beach Party is a hidden gem and local favorite pool party. Go with your host who will guide you to the hidden island by boat—the only way to reach it. And then your host will be happy to show you around the island where you can take in the beautiful white sand and deep blue waters.

    Later head for an afternoon and evening of sun, fun, food, and dancing at one of the best pool parties in town. Dance the night away, take a swim in the pool or just relax on one of the many sun loungers around!

  • Two ladies on the streets of Abu Dhabi in the evening

    Enjoy an evening of shisha

    Smoking shisha or hubbly bubbly is a local pastime enjoyed by many locals. Shisha is a water pipe that comes in many different flavors. Shisha cafes are spread all over Abu Dhabi and all over the country. It is a widely enjoyed Middle Eastern activity. There are many fabulous shisha cafes in Abu Dhabi, go with a host who will take you shisha hopping to enjoy all the best shisha cafes in town.

    From TcheTche with its dozens of flavors and delicious food, to the cafes next to Abu Dhabi Marina Mall along the water, or the Special Coffee Shop along the Corniche, as locals call it “especial.” Check them all out and try one of the water pipes yourself or if you want to skip the shisha, you can still enjoy the relaxing atmosphere, delicious tea, desserts, and food at all these cafes. Your host will be happy to tailor your evening to your preferences!

Memories make the best gifts

Share the joy of travel! With a Withlocals gift card, your friends and family can explore unique experiences they’ll treasure forever.

Buy a gift card
Withlocals gift cardWithlocals €50 gift card

Why is Withlocals the best place to buy a tour?

  • Private & Personal

    Your tour is just for you. No strangers, no groups.

    You’ll experience the city one-on-one (or with your own travel group) in a relaxed, personal way. No rushing, no scripted group tours.

  • Tailored to your wishes

    From highlights to hidden gems, your host adjusts everything to fit you.

    Want to skip a museum, add a food stop, or focus on street art? Just ask. Every experience is shaped around your pace, preferences and interests.

  • Chat before you book

    Message your host directly to customize your experience.

    Ask questions, get local tips, or make special requests. Our hosts are real people, ready to make your day unforgettable.

  • Travel that supports locals

    Every booking supports independent locals and their communities.

    We believe tourism should benefit the people who live there. Your host earns directly and often invests it right back into their neighborhood.

  • Feel good about where your money goes

    You’re choosing meaningful travel, not mass tourism.

    Withlocals is built on fair pay, human connections and travel that leaves a positive mark for both you and the places you visit.

  • Trusted by millions

    Loved by over 1,000,000 travelers all around the world.

    Withlocals hosts consistently earn 5-star reviews for their kindness, knowledge and the personal stories they share.

  • Secure & flexible booking

    Book with peace of mind: safe payments and easy changes.

    Your plans can shift and that’s okay. We offer flexible cancellation and real support when you need it.

  • Private & Personal

    Your tour is just for you. No strangers, no groups.

    You’ll experience the city one-on-one (or with your own travel group) in a relaxed, personal way. No rushing, no scripted group tours.

  • Tailored to your wishes

    From highlights to hidden gems, your host adjusts everything to fit you.

    Want to skip a museum, add a food stop, or focus on street art? Just ask. Every experience is shaped around your pace, preferences and interests.

  • Chat before you book

    Message your host directly to customize your experience.

    Ask questions, get local tips, or make special requests. Our hosts are real people, ready to make your day unforgettable.

  • Travel that supports locals

    Every booking supports independent locals and their communities.

    We believe tourism should benefit the people who live there. Your host earns directly and often invests it right back into their neighborhood.

  • Feel good about where your money goes

    You’re choosing meaningful travel, not mass tourism.

    Withlocals is built on fair pay, human connections and travel that leaves a positive mark for both you and the places you visit.

  • Trusted by millions

    Loved by over 1,000,000 travelers all around the world.

    Withlocals hosts consistently earn 5-star reviews for their kindness, knowledge and the personal stories they share.

  • Secure & flexible booking

    Book with peace of mind: safe payments and easy changes.

    Your plans can shift and that’s okay. We offer flexible cancellation and real support when you need it.



Related Abu Dhabi pages

You might be interested in these

  • Guides in Abu Dhabi
  • Tours in Abu Dhabi
  • City Highlight Tours in Abu Dhabi
  • Food Tours in Abu Dhabi
  • Skip The Line Tours in Abu Dhabi
  • Abu Dhabi Souk in Abu Dhabi
  • Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi
  • Layover Tours in Abu Dhabi
  • Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi
  • Yas Island in Abu Dhabi
  • Things To Do Tomorrow in Abu Dhabi
  1. United Arab Emirates
  2. Abu Dhabi

About Withlocals

  • Our Story
  • Jobs
  • Sustainability
  • Destinations
  • Gift vouchers
  • Partner up

Guests

  • Guest help center
  • Guest cancelation policy
  • Guest terms & conditions

Hosts

  • Host help center
  • Host cancelation policy
  • Host terms & conditions
  • Become a host

Download our app

  • App Store
  • Google Play Store

Follow us

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • YouTube
  • Blog

We accept

Availability varies by destination
© 2026 Withlocals.com | Privacy Policy | Cookies | Sitemap
Trustpilot
B Corp certified logo

Travelers love our locals

Reviews from guests about our tours and locals

  • 5.0

    Wonderful tour!

    "Booked a last minute city tour and Anamaria was very accommodating and flexible. Very knowledgeable about the city and easy to talk to…was an enjoyable 4 hours! "

    local Anamaria
    guest Megan
    MeganAbout local Anamaria Abu Dhabi, February 15, 2026
  • 5.0

    Hreat guide

    "Khalid was a wonderful guide. Extremely flexible, knowledgeable and easy to understand. I would highly recommend him. "

    local Khaled
    guest Olive
    OliveAbout local Khaled Abu Dhabi, February 9, 2026
  • 5.0

    Authentic and amazing food tour with Reem

    "We had an amazing food tour in Abu Dhabi with Reem as our local guide. We were traveling as a family of four, and she took us to several places. One of the highlights was the fish market experience: we bought fresh seafood there and then had it prepared for us in a restaurant — it was absolutely delicious and such a unique experience. The tour was not only about tasting incredible local food, but also about learning a lot about Abu Dhabi, its people, and their traditions. Reem shared so many interesting insights and made the whole experience feel authentic and personal. This tour was truly a highlight of our trip and one of the best experiences we had in Abu Dhabi. If you want to really get to know the people and its culture, we highly recommend doing this tour with Reem. We were absolutely thrilled! Thank you very much Reem!!!!!"

    local Reem
    guest Heike
    HeikeAbout local ReemAbu Dhabi, February 6, 2026
  • 5.0

    Interesting Day with Adnan!

    "We had a wonderful morning with Adnan. He had excellent communication and was on time to pick us up at our hotel. We wanted to see the Grand Mosque and he was such a wealth of information. He provided a lot of the historical, political, and social details on our drive from Dubai. He also made sure we were aware of local customs. His car was very comfortable and he provided water. We will definitely book with him when we come back to the area!"

    local Adnan Akbar
    guest Heather
    HeatherAbout local Adnan AkbarAbu Dhabi, January 18, 2026
  • 5.0

    Great day in Abu Dhabi

    "We had the best day in Abu Dhabi with Sandy as our guide. He is very knowledgeable about many different areas so we got some great insights into the culture and people of this city. We ticked off the highlights and enjoyed a wonderful lunch at a local restaurant. Five stars!!! "

    local Jose Gomez & Sandy Nat
    guest Brenda
    BrendaAbout local Jose Gomez & Sandy NatAbu Dhabi, January 5, 2026
  • 5.0

    Khaled is incredibly caring

    "Khaled was waiting for us at the airport when we had a layover in Abu Dhabi. He took us for a coffee to start in a lovely area which was delicious. When we went to the Mosque my mothers arms were not properly covered and my covering was white and was too transparent so he bought my mum coverings for her arms and game me his jacket or we would have to have left. He was so knowledgeable. When we come back I wouldn’t hesitate to have Khaled take us on tours again ."

    local Khaled
    guest Jane
    JaneAbout local Khaled Abu Dhabi, January 2, 2026
  • 5.0

    Great Abu Dhabi Experience

    "Enjoyed our morning with Sandy, knowledge was very high and showed us many sights in our time. Enthusiastic friendly polite team."

    local Jose Gomez & Sandy Nat
    guest Michelle
    MichelleAbout local Jose Gomez & Sandy NatAbu Dhabi, December 13, 2025
  • 5.0

    Wonderful tour with Reem

    "My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed our 1/2 day city tour with Reem. Highly recommended. "

    local Reem
    guest Judy & Stuart
    Judy & StuartAbout local ReemAbu Dhabi, November 27, 2025
  • 5.0

    A meaningful and memorable experience!

    "We had an excellent experience with Adnan. He is extremely knowledgeable and explains the history and culture of Abu Dhabi and the UAE in a very clear and engaging way. He answered all of our questions with patience and made sure we understood everything. We especially appreciated how he explained the vision of the country’s leaders and introduced Islamic beliefs in a thoughtful and respectful manner. His explanations were so meaningful that they inspired us to want to know more in depth about the culture and faith. Adnan is friendly, professional, and genuinely caring. He also gave us wonderful suggestions on other places to visit and where to try traditional food, which made the rest of our trip even better. We truly enjoyed the tour and highly recommend Adnan. A 5-star experience from start to finish. Kristina Tong"

    local Adnan Akbar
    guest Kristina
    KristinaAbout local Adnan AkbarAbu Dhabi, November 11, 2025
  • 5.0

    Anamaria is the BEST!

    "Just finished a half day tour with Anamaria visiting the Sheik Zayed Mosque, Qasar Al Watan (Palace) and Heritage Village. She picked me up on time from my hotel, with a very clean and comfortable car and was an absolute JOY to spend the day with! She is VERY informative, answered my myriad of questions and provided history and insight through the day. She truly has a passion for what she does and Abu Dhabi. She is polite, fun, kind and very respectful. A very memorable day; Thank you Anamaria! 🥰"

    local Anamaria
    guest Nona
    NonaAbout local Anamaria Abu Dhabi, November 5, 2025