If you’re facing a long layover or overnight stay, there are enough things to do at Abu Dhabi Airport to help pass the time comfortably, whether you stay airside or head into the city. How much you enjoy your stop will depend on your layover length, budget, and energy level, but the airport offers food, shopping, lounges, and reasonable access to nearby attractions for travellers who want to stretch their legs between flights.
1. Grab a bite to eat
Abu Dhabi Airport offers a wide range of food options both before and after security, with several outlets open 24 hours. Alongside familiar international fast food, travellers will find cafés and casual restaurants serving Middle Eastern, Asian, and Western dishes. Those curious about local flavours may want to try Arabic coffee, dates, baklava, or savoury snacks such as shawarma, mezze, or flatbreads, which are commonly available at cafés and regional eateries throughout the terminal.
Prices can be high, particularly airside, so travellers on a budget may prefer quick takeaway items or bakery-style counters rather than sit-down restaurants. Portions are generally filling, and many places cater well to travellers looking for something quick before a long flight.
2. Unwind in a lounge
Airport lounges can be a welcome break from the busy terminal, offering quieter seating, food and drinks, and a chance to recharge. At Abu Dhabi Airport, several lounges are available on a pay-to-use basis, even if you are not flying business or first class. Some lounges include showers, which can make a long layover more comfortable. For current lounge locations, access rules, and pricing, travellers should refer to the Abu Dhabi Airport Guide.
2. Go sightseeing
Travellers with six hours or more may consider leaving the airport to see some of Abu Dhabi’s best-known sights. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the city’s most iconic landmark and welcomes visitors of all backgrounds outside of prayer times, with modest dress required.
Art and architecture fans may enjoy the Louvre Abu Dhabi, which houses a permanent collection alongside rotating exhibitions in a striking waterfront setting.
Another popular option is Yas Island, located between the airport and the city centre. Here you’ll find attractions such as the Yas Marina Circuit and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, which is best suited to travellers with a longer layover and a higher entertainment budget.
Taxis are widely available and generally the most practical way to get around during a short visit. Public transport options exist but schedules and routes can change, so travellers should check current details before relying on them for a tight connection. Visit Tripadvisor for more things to do in Abu Dhabi.
4. Shop
Shopping is a major feature of Abu Dhabi Airport, especially in the duty-free areas of Terminals 1 and 3. In addition to international luxury brands and electronics, travellers can browse a good selection of regional products that make practical or gift-worthy souvenirs. Popular local purchases include boxed dates, date-based sweets, Arabic perfumes and oud fragrances, gold jewellery, and Middle Eastern chocolates.
Abu Dhabi Duty Free also runs its well-known raffle promotions, which are prominently advertised throughout the terminal. Availability and prizes vary, so travellers should confirm details at the point of sale rather than planning around them.
5. Stay connected
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, making it easy to message family, browse the web, or stream content during a layover. Shared computer kiosks are also available for travellers without personal devices, and lounges typically provide additional business services.
6. Relax in a spa
Spa and wellness services are available at the airport, offering treatments such as massages, manicures, and express therapies. Some services are located in terminal areas, while others are tied to premium lounges.
7. Sleep
For many travellers, Abu Dhabi is a midpoint between long-haul flights, so getting some rest can make a big difference.
Sleeping inside the terminal is possible but often challenging. Travellers commonly report bright lighting, background noise from cleaning and foot traffic, and cool air conditioning throughout the night. Seating with armrests is common, which limits the ability to lie down, and quiet corners can be hard to find during busy periods. If you plan to rest airside, packing earplugs, an eye mask, and warm layers can help make short naps more manageable.
Travellers who want proper rest have two main hotel options, depending on whether they want to stay airside or enter the UAE. AUHotel is located inside the secure transit area and is designed specifically for connecting passengers who do not want to clear immigration. Rooms are available for short stays and include private bathrooms and showers, making this a convenient choice during overnight or long layovers. For those willing to go landside, the Premier Inn Abu Dhabi Airport sits opposite the terminal complex and is connected by a short walk. It offers standard hotel rooms and 24-hour reception and is generally the best option if you want a full night’s sleep in a traditional hotel setting. See our Abu Dhabi Airport Guide for more details.
Updated 13 January 2026
These are just a few things to do on a layover at Abu Dhabi Airport. Visit our Abu Dhabi Airport Guide for more information about services and facilities, such as food, WiFi, mobile charging, luggage storage, nearby airport hotels, and much more.