Abu Dhabi has quietly become one of the most romantic destinations in the Middle East, offering the perfect blend of desert adventure, cultural elegance and five-star indulgence. Whether you're planning a honeymoon, celebrating an anniversary or simply after a getaway that feels a little more special, an Abu Dhabi holiday has plenty to offer couples. Here are some of the best things to do in Abu Dhabi for couples, all designed with romance in mind.
1. Watch the sunset over the desert on a private safari
Few experiences feel more romantic than watching the sun dip below the dunes. A private desert safari for two, complete with a candlelit dinner set up in the sand is one of the most memorable couple’s activities in Abu Dhabi. Many experiences include dune buggying beforehand for a bit of adventure, followed by a quiet, star-filled evening once the sun goes down.
2. Take a sunset dhow cruise along the Corniche
A traditional dhow cruise along Abu Dhabi's waterfront is a wonderfully relaxed way to spend an evening together. As the boat drifts past the illuminated skyline, most cruises include a private dinner on board with some operators offering entirely exclusive charters for couples wanting complete privacy.
3. Watch the Sunset at Louvre Abu Dhabi
The Louvre Abu Dhabi is stunning at any time of day but it's particularly magical in the late afternoon, when sunlight filters through the museum's famous dome, casting a shifting pattern of light across the courtyards. It's a beautifully atmospheric spot for a slow wander together and one of the more unique places to visit in Abu Dhabi for couples. If you're keen to explore more of the city's cultural side, our guide to museums in Abu Dhabi has plenty of further inspiration.
4. Enjoy afternoon tea at Emirates Palace
For a touch of old-school glamour, afternoon tea at Emirates Palace is hard to beat. Set within one of the most opulent hotels in the world, complete with gold-leaf domes and marble interiors, it's the kind of experience that makes an anniversary or honeymoon feel genuinely special.
5. Take a hot air balloon ride over the desert
Rising above the dunes at sunrise is a bucket-list experience for many couples, and Abu Dhabi's desert makes for a spectacular backdrop. Most balloon rides include a champagne breakfast on landing, rounding off an early start with a proper celebratory touch.
6. Unwind together at a spa
Abu Dhabi is home to some outstanding spa retreats, many of which offer dedicated couples' treatment rooms complete with private pools, steam rooms and side-by-side massage tables. It's a perfect way to slow down mid-trip, particularly if you've paired a few more active days with some downtime.
7. Dine at a rooftop restaurant with skyline views
Abu Dhabi's rooftop dining scene has grown considerably in recent years, with several restaurants offering sweeping views over the Corniche and the Arabian Gulf. Booking a table for sunset is a simple but effective way to combine a great meal with one of the city's best views, ideal for date night during your stay.
8. Relax at a private beach cabana
For couples wanting a slower day, several of Abu Dhabi's beachfront resorts offer private cabanas along the Corniche or Saadiyat Island. With sun loungers, shaded seating and attentive service, it's an easy way to spend an afternoon together without needing to plan much at all. Many resorts offering this experience are part of an all-inclusive trip to Abu Dhabi, making it even easier to relax without worrying about extras.
9. Go stargazing in the desert
Away from the city lights, Abu Dhabi's desert offers some of the clearest night skies in the region. Several tour operators run stargazing experiences complete with telescopes and guides, often paired with a private dinner setup, making for a quiet, intimate evening under the stars.
10. Explore Yas Island's quieter side
While Yas Island is best known for its theme parks, it also has a quieter, more romantic side worth exploring as a couple, from waterfront strolls at Yas Bay to a round of golf at Yas Links. If you fancy combining a romantic day with a little more excitement, our guide to things to do in Yas Island covers everything the island has to offer.
Ready to book your romantic getaway?
From desert sunsets to private beach cabanas, Abu Dhabi has no shortage of ways to make a trip feel special, whatever the occasion. Whether you're planning a honeymoon in Abu Dhabi or a well-earned anniversary trip, the city offers the perfect mix of culture, adventure and indulgence.
At Away Holidays, our travel experts can help you put together the perfect itinerary, tailored around exactly what makes a trip romantic for you. Get in touch with the Away Holidays team today and start planning your romantic Abu Dhabi getaway.
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