Major airlines and their partners fly directly into Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH). Etihad Airways, based in Abu Dhabi, is the national carrier and flies routes to destinations around the world. Neighboring Dubai International Airport (DXB) is another port of entry and is also served by major carriers, including its own airline, Emirates. The drive from from DXB to downtown Abu Dhabi is about 90 minutes. The newer Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC)—also in Dubai—is 30 minutes closer to Abu Dhabi but is not yet served by as many commercial carriers.

Unless you plan on staying in one neighborhood, like Sir Bani Yas Island or the Corniche, a car is the best way to navigate Abu Dhabi. Cars drive on the right like they do in the U.S. Parking can be a challenge at busy times and a color scheme denotes which spots fall into which payment category, but taxis are reasonably priced should you decide to leave the car behind. Taxis originating at the airport cost slightly more. Typically taxis take cash, but it’s also possible to pay by credit card or Apple Pay by downloading the Abu Dhabi Taxi app. Uber and local equivalent Careem are also available. They usually work out to be slightly more expensive than local taxis but can be convenient, especially if you’re going to a location that a taxi driver might not immediately know.