You’ll have heard the news: The Walt Disney Company is bringing their seventh Disney theme park resort to Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island. Expected to open at some point between 2030 and 2033, it’ll be the first-ever Disney theme park and resort for the Middle East – and great news for South African families who want to experience Disney magic a little closer to home.

But it’s not the biggest news out of Abu Dhabi this year. Their Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT Abu Dhabi) has just announced that 1.4 million overnight guests visited the UAE’s capital city in the first quarter of 2025 alone. It’s a staggering number – even for a city that hopes to welcome 39.3 million visitors a year by the end of the decade.

And they’re working hard to ensure the city becomes more than a convenient layover, and a sought-after destination in its own right.

As Disney explains, the UAE is located within a four-hour flight of one-third of the world’s population, making it a compelling proposition. Although an 8-hour flight for South Africans, Antoinette Turner, GM Flight Centre South Africa, agrees.

“Last year, Dubai was our second-most popular international destination behind London,” says Turner. “Of course, it’s a great Emirates layover option, but we’re also starting to see a shift. Travellers are increasingly recognising both Dubai and Abu Dhabi as irresistible holiday destinations, either extending layovers to experience the UAE (and enjoying two holidays in one) or planning dedicated trips to explore what each have to offer in terms of an exciting, memorable trip.”

Spoiler alert: plenty of spoils and adventures await.

Disney will be joining Ferrari World (home to Formula Rossa, the world’s fastest rollercoaster), Yas Marina Circuit (known for authentic F1 track experiences), Warner Bros. World and Yas Waterworld on Yas Island, making it THE destination for those looking for an epic, adventure-packed itinerary alongside some good, old-fashioned family fun.

But as Turner explains, there’s much more to Abu Dhabi than meets the eye. In no particular order, here are Flight Centre’s top five reasons to visit in 2025:

1. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (arguably the most beautiful and impressive in the UAE, and home to the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet) captivates visitors with its stunning architecture, white marble domes, mosaic floors, lunar lighting, Murano glass and intricate design details, including beautiful floral motifs (it’s often called the “Flower Mosque” for good reason).

While the visual experience alone is remarkable, Turner suggests booking a guided tour, as local guides can transform even a short visit into something far more meaningful, unlocking the history and cultural significance of this incredible landmark.

“It’s important to be aware and respectful of local customs,” she says. “As with other mosques around the world, there’s a dress code, so be prepared to cover up – or be offered a loose-fitting abaya to wear.”

2. Year-round sunshine and warm hospitality

As Turner explains, Abu Dhabi’s cooler winter months (with an average daytime temperature of 25°C) coincide perfectly with South Africa’s long end-of-year school holiday, making it the perfect time to visit with kids.

“Abu Dhabi is famous for warm Emirati hospitality,” comments Turner. “There are also plenty of family-friendly hotels and resorts – for example, the Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, which has great views of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, two private beaches and an impressive pool. The hotel also has a free shuttle bus to some of the city’s top attractions. Do chat to your travel advisor about the best accommodation to meet your needs. There are great options to choose from.”

Make sure to enjoy the balmy weather on a speedboat tour, harbour cruise or dhow – Abu Dhabi looks spectacular from the water!

3. Desert adventures

Of course, all visitors to Abu Dhabi should get out into the desert – and there’s more than one way to experience it, including sandboarding, dune bashing, 4×4 safaris, camel rides, star-gazing and moonlit dinners under Bedouin tents.

“A desert adventure is the highlight of any trip to Abu Dhabi,” says Turner. “Many operators bundle a few activities together, making it a great day out. Your travel expert will be able to suggest a reputable operator, plus the best deals around.”

4. Stratos Revolving Lounge Bar & Grill

Abu Dhabi boasts an exciting culinary scene. Foodies will love the city’s delicious mix of traditional Emirati cuisine (don’t leave without trying machboos and khuzi), fresh seafood, street food and high-end dining.

But for the novelty of a revolving restaurant, gorgeous views and a great steak, it’s difficult to beat Stratos restaurant. “It’s a very touristy thing to do,” explains Turner “But why not? It promises 360-degree views of Abu Dhabi’s skyline and the turquoise Arabian Gulf!”

 

5. Al Ain, the living oasis of Abu Dhabi

If you’ve ever wanted to experience the magic of a living, breathing desert oasis, then the quaint city of Al Ain is worth the 90-minute (or so) drive to the UAE’s eastern border with Oman. This UNESCO Heritage Site promises lots more to do, including a drive to the top of Jebel Hafit (also known as Jebel Hafeet and the UAE’s second highest peak), a walk through the city’s evergreen oasis and even white-water rafting at Wadi Adventure – a water adventure park near Jebel Hafit’s natural hot springs.

 

There’s no doubt about it, Abu Dhabi ticks all the boxes for an immersive, high-thrills holiday like no other. But there’s another reason to add it to your list: there are more flights between South Africa and the UAE than ever before.

“Emirates operates 49 weekly flights between South Africa and Dubai, from Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban,” Turner says. “From there, Abu Dhabi is easily accessible via airline-organised transfers, shuttles, private taxis or the reliable Interline Bus service.”

Meanwhile, Etihad Airways operates four weekly return flights between Abu Dhabi and Johannesburg, with plans to increase to daily flights by August 2025.

If a trip to the Middle East is on your wish list, this might just be your sign to make it happen.