Abu Dhabi: Travel guide, prices and free housing · 2026

Alcohol may only be consumed inside licensed venues or within private residences. Public consumption outside authorized establishments remains strictly illegal. Licensed venues are primarily situated inside hotels.

City bus drivers do not accept cash payments. Passengers must obtain a dedicated transit smart card before boarding. Commuters tap the card upon entering and exiting the bus to record the trip.

Eating, drinking, and smoking in public outdoor spaces during daytime fasting hours is prohibited by law. Dining indoors at permitted restaurants, cafes, and hotels remains accessible to visitors during the day. In the evening, food establishments resume ordinary service for communal fast-breaking meals.

Street parking across the main island is limited and monitored by municipal transport authorities. Designated stalls are frequently assigned to specific institutions, leading many motorists to rely on taxis instead. Commercial shopping centres typically provide underground parking facilities for drivers.

Vegetarian dining is widely available across the city through local plant-focused cuisine and regional Indian eateries. Strict vegan dining may require clear communication with staff, though kitchens routinely modify dishes upon request. Specialised Indian vegetarian restaurants provide an extensive variety of meat-free dishes.

Tipping taxi drivers is voluntary rather than customary. Gratuities are appreciated by drivers but are not required for regular service. Fleets operate under central tracking systems to enforce official transit regulations.