Places Rated: Abu Dhabi

Though often overshadowed by Dubai, the capital of the United Arab Emirates perhaps offers a better overall travel experience than the federation’s largest city. Traditional architectural styles and sustainability principles have informed new development in Abu Dhabi. The city has thus retained a stronger sense of place than its more over-the-top neighbor (which received a dismal score of 37), and the surrounding desert has sustained less ecological damage in the wake of the country’s recent building boom. A lower carbon footprint would have resulted in an even higher score.

Why did the place earn this score? Read representative panelist comments after the jump.

“A fantastic city with a different and powerful development approach, from the sustainable Masdar City to the island of Saadiyat. Lots of museums designed by world-famous architects.”

“Abu Dhabi is a real place, in contrast to Dubai. Visiting it provides insight into contemporary UAE culture.”

“Fairly low-key tourism developments, well planned and generally exclusive, based on large hotel chains. Appeals to the wealthy.  Well-designed, expensive resorts that sometimes reflect Bedouin traditions (but these are often a pastiche). They cater mostly to Western tastes and rarely employ local residents.”

“In comparison to Dubai, Abu Dhabi is taking a conservative and measured approach to development.”

Survey scoring system:
   74-84 Top Rated
   65-73 Doing Well
   55-64 In the Balance
   48-54 Facing Trouble
   34-47 In Trouble
   22-34 Near Catastrophic

See all 99 ratings and representative panelist comments online and share your thoughts below.

Photo: T.J. Bardwell