Etihad Towers is a complex of five landmark skyscrapers on the Corniche in Abu Dhabi, directly opposite Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental. The tallest tower rises to 305 metres, and Tower 2 is home to Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers and the Observation Deck at 300 on level 74, with 360 degree views over the Arabian Gulf, the Corniche and the city. The complex also holds luxury apartments, offices, fine dining and The Avenue at Etihad Towers shopping mall. Planning a trip to Abu Dhabi? White Sky Travel and Tourism can arrange your flights, hotels and transfers, with flexible payments through Tabby, Tamara or UAE credit card installments for up to 12 months.
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Table of Contents
What is Etihad Towers?
Etihad Towers is made up of three residential towers, one office tower and the Conrad hotel tower, all connected by a podium with shops and restaurants. Since opening in 2011, the curved glass towers have become one of the best known sights on the Abu Dhabi skyline, and they even appeared in a famous car jump scene in the movie Furious 7. Many people think the whole site is just a hotel, but it is a full community where people live, work, stay, shop and dine. Visit Abu Dhabi describes Etihad Towers as one of the iconic landmarks of the capital.
Visiting the Etihad Towers observation deck
The Observation Deck at 300 sits on level 74 of Tower 2 and is the highest public viewing point in Abu Dhabi. Here is how a typical visit works.
- Head to Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers in Tower 2 on West Corniche Road.
- Follow the signs to the Observation Deck at 300 lift.
- Get your entry ticket and carry a valid ID or passport.
- Ride the lift up to level 74.
- Enjoy the 360 degree views and the telescopes.
- Use your food and beverage credit at the café for coffee, tea, afternoon tea or light snacks.
Entry has typically been around AED 95 per person, usually including a food and beverage credit you can use at the café. Opening hours and prices may change and T&C apply. If you are travelling to Abu Dhabi, contact White Sky on WhatsApp at +971 4 220 2133 for flights, hotels and transfers.
Planning your visit at a glance
Use this quick guide to plan your trip to the Etihad Towers observation deck.
| Situation | Best time | Time needed | Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morning photos | Late morning | About 1 hour | Clear views of the sea and islands |
| Sunset views | Late afternoon | 1 to 2 hours | Arrive early to get a window seat |
| Families with kids | Weekday daytime | 1 to 2 hours | Lifts make it easy with strollers |
| Afternoon tea | Afternoon | About 2 hours | Use your food and beverage credit |
| Solo travellers | Weekday | About 1 hour | Weekends are busier |
Arrive a little early to allow time for security and the lift ride.
Getting the best view from the towers
The light changes the view up here. Mornings give you sharp views of the water, the Corniche beach and the islands. In the afternoon, the sun can cause reflections on the glass, so the west side is better for photos after sunset starts to colour the sky.
Timing your arrival
For a quiet visit, choose a weekday morning. For golden light, arrive about an hour before sunset. Sunset in Abu Dhabi ranges from around 5:30 PM in winter to around 7 PM in summer, and the best colours only last a short while.
What to bring and leave behind
Travel light. Bring your phone or camera, a valid ID and your ticket. Large bags slow down security, so leave them at your hotel if you can.
Common issues during a visit
Things sometimes go wrong even with a solid plan. Here is how to handle the most common ones.
| What you notice | What it usually means | What to do first |
|---|---|---|
| Hazy view outside | Humidity or dust in the air | Visit on a clear morning, winter months are usually clearest |
| Long lift queue | A group just arrived | Wait a few minutes and try again |
| Reflections in photos | Light on the glass | Hold your phone close to the glass and turn off the flash |
| Entry desk asks for ID | Security or ticket check | Show your passport or Emirates ID |
| Card payment declined | Bank travel block | Call your bank or use another card |
Carry a backup card in case your bank blocks a payment, especially if you are visiting from outside the UAE.
Rules for visiting the deck
Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers manages access to level 74. Smart casual dress is expected, so swimwear, beachwear and gym clothes are not suitable. Professional tripods may need approval because they can block walkways. Outside food and drinks are not allowed, but the café serves drinks and snacks. Security checks happen before you reach the lifts. House rules may change, and T&C apply.
Hotels and resorts near Etihad Towers
Staying close to Etihad Towers puts you in the heart of the Corniche. Popular choices include:
- Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, the five star hotel inside the complex with sea views and its own beach.
- Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, the famous palace hotel directly across the road.
- Bab Al Qasr Hotel, a stylish beachfront option along the Corniche.
- InterContinental Abu Dhabi, a family friendly hotel with a marina and private beach.
- Saadiyat Island beach resorts, around 20 minutes away, ideal for a relaxing beach break.
White Sky can arrange your stay through our worldwide hotel bookings service, and you can check the latest UAE staycation deals for weekend breaks in Abu Dhabi.
Places to visit near Etihad Towers
Etihad Towers is a great starting point for exploring Abu Dhabi. Here are places worth adding to your day:
- Abu Dhabi Corniche, a long seafront promenade with beaches, cycling paths and parks.
- Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, known for its grand interiors and famous gold flake coffee.
- Nation Towers Mall, a relaxed boutique mall on the Corniche with sea view cafes and VOX Cinemas.
- Qasr Al Watan, the presidential palace open to visitors, with a light and sound show in the evening.
- Etihad Modern Art Gallery in Al Bateen, a free villa gallery with rotating contemporary art exhibitions and a garden café.
- Marina Mall and Heritage Village, for shopping, sea views and a look at traditional Emirati life.
- Louvre Abu Dhabi on Saadiyat Island, home to world class art under its famous dome.
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the most beautiful mosques in the world.
If you have more time, explore the creative 421 Arts Campus, enjoy an evening picnic at Al Wathba Lake, or take a day trip to Al Ain for the mini train at the hot spring. For more ideas, see our list of UAE tourist attractions near me.
How to get to Etihad Towers
Etihad Towers is on West Corniche Road, Al Ras Al Akhdar, Abu Dhabi. It is about 30 minutes by car from Zayed International Airport and around one hour and a half from Dubai. Valet and self parking are available at the towers. White Sky can arrange comfortable airport transfer services so you arrive relaxed.
Keeping your plans ready
Before you go, save the address of Etihad Towers on your phone and keep your ID with you. If you are flying in or coming from another emirate, White Sky Travel and Tourism can book your flights, hotels and transfers. Our flexible payment options with Tabby, Tamara and UAE credit cards keep your budget steady while you plan the rest of your trip.
When the observation deck isn’t right
This visit does not suit every schedule. If you only have 30 minutes in Abu Dhabi, the drive and security check will take your whole window. A simple Corniche walk is a better choice.
If you want a late night rooftop scene, look at the evening lounges on Yas Island or Saadiyat Island instead.
If your group has more than 20 people, plan ahead, as standard entry may not suit big groups on busy days. White Sky Travel and Tourism can take care of your group flights, hotels and transfers via WhatsApp at +971 4 220 2133.
Related Articles
Planning more of your UAE trip? These guides can help.
- 421 Arts Campus Abu Dhabi: Opening Hours, Exhibitions and Visitor Guide
- Al Wathba Lake Abu Dhabi: Camping, BBQ, Timings and Locations
- Mini Train Hot Spring in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi: Tickets, Timings and Tips
- UAE Staycation Deals
- UAE Tourist Attractions Near Me
- Airport Transfer Services
Frequently asked questions
What is Etihad Towers in Abu Dhabi?
Etihad Towers is a complex of five skyscrapers on the Corniche in Abu Dhabi. It includes three residential towers, one office tower and the tower of Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, plus The Avenue at Etihad Towers shopping mall and the Observation Deck at 300.
How tall are the Etihad Towers?
The tallest of the five towers reaches 305 metres. The Observation Deck at 300 sits on level 74 of Tower 2 and is named for its height of around 300 metres.
Where is Etihad Towers located?
Etihad Towers is on West Corniche Road, Al Ras Al Akhdar, Abu Dhabi, directly opposite Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental. Taxis and ride apps know the Conrad drop off point well.
How much does the Etihad Towers observation deck cost?
Entry has typically been around AED 95 per person, which usually includes a food and beverage credit for the café. Prices may change and T&C apply.
What are the observation deck opening hours?
The deck usually opens daily from the morning into the evening. Timings may change by season and for private events.
Is there a dress code at the observation deck?
Yes. Smart casual dress is expected because the deck is part of a five star hotel. Avoid swimwear, beachwear and gym clothes.
Can White Sky help me plan a trip to Etihad Towers?
Yes. White Sky Travel and Tourism can book your flights, hotels and transfers to Abu Dhabi, with Tabby, Tamara and UAE credit card installments for up to 12 months. Message +971 4 220 2133 on WhatsApp to start planning.
How long does a visit to Etihad Towers take?
Plan for one to two hours on the deck, plus around 20 to 30 minutes for arrival, security and the lift ride. Add more time if you want afternoon tea or a meal in the towers.
Is Etihad Towers good for families with kids?
Yes. The deck is indoors and air conditioned, with tall glass windows and lift access, so it works well for families and strollers. Children must stay with an adult at all times.
Which hotels are near Etihad Towers?
Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers is inside the complex. Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental is across the road, and Bab Al Qasr Hotel and InterContinental Abu Dhabi are a short drive away along the Corniche.
What can I do near Etihad Towers?
Nearby you can walk the Corniche beach, visit Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, tour Qasr Al Watan presidential palace, shop at Marina Mall and explore Heritage Village. Louvre Abu Dhabi and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque are around 20 minutes away by car.
Do I need to book the observation deck in advance?
Entry tickets are usually available at the deck in Tower 2, and timed tickets are also sold in advance. Weekends and public holidays are busier, so arrive early for the best window spots.
Conclusion
Etihad Towers is one of the most iconic places to visit in Abu Dhabi. In one stop you get record breaking views from the Observation Deck at 300, afternoon tea above the clouds, luxury shopping and easy access to the Corniche, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental and Qasr Al Watan. Whether you plan a quick visit or a full Abu Dhabi stay, White Sky Travel and Tourism can arrange your flights, hotels and transfers, with Tabby, Tamara or UAE credit card installments for up to 12 months. Message us on WhatsApp at +971 4 220 2133 to start planning.
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