Overview
The Al Zahyiah district is one of the most vibrant parts of Abu Dhabi. For many years this area was known as the Tourist Club – a term still used in unofficial capacity.
It’s an older part of the city, but everything you could ever need is all within a few streets of each other.
Where is it located?
Al Zahyiah is located at the far end of Abu Dhabi island. It is easily accessible as the E10 – Shaikh Zayed Street – runs straight through it.
Transport & Parking
Roads Shaikh Zayed Street runs right through the district, making it easily accessible. The Shaikh Zayed Tunnel also runs underneath it. As part of the neighbouring Al Maryah island project, Al Zahyiah seems to have a permanent temporary one-way system, so take care when driving around, it can be a little confusing
Parking Parking is in plentiful supply, but only in certain areas. It can be a nightmare in some streets, despite it costing Dh2 per hour
Taxis There is no shortage of taxis
Bus There is a city bus terminal in the district, with several routes passing through, offering access to the rest of the city.
Good for Dining and walking. There is no shortage of restaurants and cafes, and everything can be reached on foot
Bad for Parking and the beach. Parking can be hit and miss, and make sure you’re not parking in private spots. While you can access the beaches at the Le Meridien and Beach Rotana hotels, these are not free.
Hotels
There are several two, three, and four star hotels in the area, some much better than others. Hotel chains like Al Diar and Rotana have a presence. Be warned, though, not all of them have dedicated parking.
We recommend the five-star Beach Rotana (pictured above) or the four-star Le Meridien.
Outdoors
There is a park with children’s apparatus located in the middle of the one-way system, and Electra Park is located just off Zayed the First Street.
3 restaurants to try
Trader Vics Located at the Beach Rotana, the Polynesian restaurant is a favourite with the city’s residents. Gorge on lobster thermidor and crab Rangoon. Phone 02 697 9000
49ers, The Gold Rush This place does an amazing steak, but it’s best to get there early. A live band draws a big crowd after 9pm. Top floor of the Dana Hotel. Phone 02 645 2000
Pappagallo Part of Le Meridien’s courtyard of dining options, Pappagallo serves good ol’ fashioned Italian dishes. Spaghetti and pizza are in abundance. Phone 02 644 0348
Shopping
Abu Dhabi Mall Abu Dhabl Mall is a sensible destination if you’re after the usual like branded clothes and plasma TVs. Parking at the mall is average, as it can get crowded. It’s not helped by the fact that the entrance to the car park is not clearly signposted, and missing it means you have to go around the one-way system again.
The streets There is no simple way to define what’s around the streets of Al Zahyiah. You will find everything you could ever need, from stationers to textile merchants.
