Abu Dhabi is a place of elegant contrasts. Heritage meets innovation, natural beauty sits beside thrilling design. To glide along the dhow-lined Corniche and see Saadiyat Cultural District’s world-class museums shimmering in the distance is to see a sight like none other.

These are not just landmarks, they are statements of intent that speak to Abu Dhabi’s commitment to culture, creativity and mindful modernity. In a few short decades, the UAE capital has evolved from a quiet port with pearl-diving heritage into a confident, cosmopolitan city. Political and economic stability, combined with a pro-business environment, makes it attractive for living and working. And with a state-of-the-art airport and Etihad Airways as its flagship carrier, Abu Dhabi seamlessly bridges East and West.

Thankfully, progress hasn’t come at a cost to the exemplary quality of life. Ranked the world’s safest city for the past nine years, Abu Dhabi is clean, green and carefully planned, with culture and community prioritised alongside cutting-edge developments such as Masdar City, which set global benchmarks in sustainability.

Over the following pages, Monocle presents highlights from Destination Abu Dhabi, our new 200-page guidebook offering a deeper dive into the cultural fabric of the UAE’s dynamic capital.

Highlights from Destination Abu Dhabi