Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi: Things to Do, Hotels, and Where to Eat

White Sky Travel November 10, 2026November 12, 2026

Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi is a 114 hectare waterfront district in the centre of the capital, set between Al Zahiyah and Al Reem Island and linked to both by short bridges. It is home to Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), the city’s international financial centre, The Galleria Al Maryah Island with more than 400 brands and over 100 restaurants and cafés, the Four Seasons and Rosewood hotels, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi and a waterfront promenade with skyline views. Entry is free every day, making it one of the best places in Abu Dhabi for shopping, fine dining and sunset walks.

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Table of Contents

Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi at a Glance

What it is: a business, shopping and leisure island district in central Abu Dhabi, developed by Mubadala
Where: off Zayed The First Street, between Al Zahiyah and Al Reem Island
Main landmark: The Galleria Al Maryah Island, 107 Hamouda Bin Ali Al Dhaheri Street, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
Entry: free for the island, the mall and the promenade
Galleria hours: 10am to 10pm Sunday to Thursday, 10am to midnight Friday and Saturday (may change)
Parking: free for up to four hours on weekdays and all day on weekends and public holidays at The Galleria
Hotels on the island: Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island and Rosewood Abu Dhabi
Getting there: about 30 minutes by taxi from Zayed International Airport, or the free Experience Abu Dhabi shuttle (Route C)
Best time to visit: October to April, in the late afternoon and evening
Beach: none on the island; the nearest public beach is on the Abu Dhabi Corniche

Timings and rates may change.

Where Is Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi?

Al Maryah Island sits just off Zayed The First Street, on the northeast side of downtown Abu Dhabi. The Galleria Al Maryah Island, the main landmark, is at 107 Hamouda Bin Ali Al Dhaheri Street, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi.

The Abu Dhabi Corniche is around a seven minute drive away, Al Reem Island in Abu Dhabi is right next door, and Saadiyat Island is roughly a 15 minute drive. The island was renamed Al Maryah in 2012 and was developed by Mubadala as the business and lifestyle centre of the capital. In late 2026, Mubadala and Aldar announced a major expansion of the financial district, with more than 3,000 new waterfront homes and air conditioned walkways planned over the coming years.

What Is Al Maryah Island Known For?

Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM): the capital’s international financial centre and free zone, where many banks, investment firms and global companies have their regional offices.
The Galleria Al Maryah Island: a luxury and high street mall with brands such as Chanel, Cartier, Hermès, Gucci and Loro Piana, plus cinemas, family entertainment and award winning restaurants.
The Al Maryah Promenade: a waterfront walkway lined with terraces, perfect for an evening stroll with views of Al Reem Island and the city skyline.
Luxury hotels and residences: Four Seasons and Rosewood on the island, with new branded residences planned by names such as St. Regis, Ritz Carlton, Jumeirah and W.
Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi: one of the best known hospitals in the UAE.

Best Things to Do on Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi

Shop at The Galleria Al Maryah Island

The Galleria is the heart of the island. The original Luxury Collection holds the big fashion and jewellery houses, while the newer wing adds high street favourites, casual dining and family entertainment. New stores keep arriving too, with Skims, Squatwolf, Parfums de Marly and Guerlain among the recent announcements. The official Galleria website lists opening hours as 10am to 10pm from Sunday to Thursday and 10am to midnight on Friday and Saturday. Timings may change during Ramadan and public holidays. If you enjoy shopping days, our guide to malls in Abu Dhabi covers more places to explore.

Walk the Waterfront Promenade at Sunset

The promenade runs along the water outside The Galleria and is free to enjoy. Go about an hour before sunset, when the towers of Al Reem Island glow across the channel and the restaurant terraces start to fill up. From October to April the evenings are cool and pleasant, so this is the best season for walking outdoors.

Enjoy Family Fun and Entertainment

Families have plenty to do indoors. The Galleria has VOX Cinemas with the only IMAX screen in Abu Dhabi, Zero Latency free roam virtual reality, Game Over Escape Room, Mission: Play! by Mattel, Kidz Factory, Sparky’s and True Gamers. Outside, the rooftop Sky Park, Family Park and Sports Park give children open space to play. Brass Monkey, an adults only venue (21 and over) that mixes bowling, arcade games and dining, is also opening at The Galleria.

Watch Fireworks and Seasonal Events

The promenade outside The Galleria is a popular spot for fireworks during New Year’s Eve, UAE National Day (Eid Al Etihad) and Eid. Arrive early on these nights because roads, parking and viewing areas get crowded.

See the New Al Maryah Waterfront Take Shape

Mubadala is upgrading the waterfront in front of The Galleria. The plan includes a glowing 30 metre sphere surrounded by more than 1,000 AI powered water jets that can shoot up to 75 metres high, with music composed by Ramin Djawadi, who wrote the Game of Thrones soundtrack. The show is designed by WET, the studio behind the Dubai Fountain, and the project also adds a sea level boardwalk, shaded cooling zones and new food areas. Construction is underway, and no official opening date has been announced yet.

Where to Eat on Al Maryah Island

Al Maryah Island is one of the top food spots in Abu Dhabi, and The Galleria says its restaurants have won well over 180 dining awards since opening. Most of the fine dining sits along the waterfront promenade, with terraces facing the water.

Fine dining by the water: Zuma (Japanese), COYA (Peruvian), LPM Restaurant and Bar (French Mediterranean), 99 Sushi Bar and Restaurant (Japanese, listed in the Michelin Guide), Nusr Et (steakhouse), Asador de Aranda (Spanish) and Almayass (Lebanese and Armenian, a Michelin Bib Gourmand pick).
Newer openings: Isabel Mayfair, the first restaurant outside London from the Mayfair favourite, plus Novikov with its Riviera style terrace (also listed in the Michelin Guide) and Hanbok for modern Korean cooking.
Relaxed cafés and family dining: Flamingo Room by tashas, L’ETO, Craft by Side Hustle, The Cheesecake Factory and a wide food hall for quick meals.
Hotel restaurants: the Four Seasons and Rosewood have their own restaurants, lounges and rooftop spots.

The waterfront restaurants are busiest on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, so arrive early on weekends. Menus and opening hours are set by each restaurant and may change. Once the new Al Maryah Waterfront fountain opens, the promenade terraces near the Four Seasons and The Galleria will look straight onto the water show, as the artist’s impression below shows.

al maryah island in abu dhabi four seasons — Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi: Things to Do, Hotels, and Where to Eat

Hotels on Al Maryah Island and Nearby

According to the official Al Maryah Island website, the island has two five star hotels:

Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island: a tall waterfront tower inside the ADGM district with direct indoor access to The Galleria, an outdoor pool, a spa and several restaurants and bars.
Rosewood Abu Dhabi: a striking curved tower at Sowwah Square, a two minute walk from The Galleria, with a spa, an outdoor pool, a kids’ club and views over the Gulf.

For more choice and different budgets, nearby hotels across the bridge in Al Zahiyah include Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi, Southern Sun Abu Dhabi and Le Méridien Abu Dhabi. Serviced apartments in Al Maryah Vista and on Al Reem Island are another option for longer stays. These hotels are listed for information only, and rates change by season and on weekends.

How to Get to Al Maryah Island

By car: several bridges connect the island to Zayed The First Street and Al Zahiyah, and to Al Reem Island.
By taxi: taxis, Uber and Careem are easy to find. From Zayed International Airport, the ride takes around 30 minutes and costs roughly AED 80 to AED 100.
By bus: Visit Abu Dhabi notes that the free Experience Abu Dhabi shuttle (Route C) stops at The Galleria, and several public bus routes stop on or near the island. Pay public bus fares with a Hafilat card.
On foot: you can walk across the bridges from Abu Dhabi Mall in Al Zahiyah or from Al Reem Island.

Parking at The Galleria Al Maryah Island

The Galleria uses a ticketless parking system called As’Haal Park. Parking is free for up to four hours on weekdays and free all day on weekends and public holidays. After four hours on a weekday, the published rates are AED 20 for four to five hours, AED 40 for five to six hours, AED 60 for six to seven hours and AED 120 for seven hours or more. People of Determination park free at all times. Rates may change, so check the signs at the entrance.

Best Time to Visit Al Maryah Island

The best months are October to April, when the weather is cool enough to enjoy the promenade. Weekday afternoons are the quietest time for shopping, while Friday and Saturday evenings are the liveliest, with busy restaurants and a buzzing waterfront. In summer, plan indoor shopping and dining during the day and save the promenade for late evening.

Is There a Beach on Al Maryah Island?

There is no public beach on Al Maryah Island. The waterfront is built with paved walkways and terraces rather than sand, so it suits strolling and dining more than swimming. For a beach day, head to the Abu Dhabi Corniche, which is only a short drive away, or use the pools at the island’s hotels if you are staying there.

Nearby Attractions to Visit

Abu Dhabi Mall: just across the bridge in Al Zahiyah, easy to combine with a Galleria visit.
Reem Mall: on neighbouring Al Reem Island, with a large indoor snow park. Read our guide to Reem Mall in Abu Dhabi.
Qasr Al Hosn: the oldest stone building in Abu Dhabi and a must for history lovers.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: the city’s most famous landmark, about 20 minutes away by car.
Louvre Abu Dhabi and Zayed National Museum: world class museums in the Saadiyat Cultural District.
Ferrari World Yas Island: for theme park thrills, around 30 minutes by car.

Tips for Visiting Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi

Dress modestly in the mall and public areas, covering shoulders and knees.
Expect busy restaurants and crowds on weekend evenings and fireworks nights, so arrive early.
Use the free weekend parking at The Galleria, or take a taxi if you plan to stay late.
Carry water and sun protection if you walk the promenade during the warmer months.
Stay after dark, when the promenade and outdoor spaces light up with colourful installations.
Allow two to three hours for shopping and a promenade walk, and a full evening if you add dinner.

Explore more places to visit in Abu Dhabi:

al maryah island in abu dhabi waterfront — Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi: Things to Do, Hotels, and Where to Eat

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi?

Al Maryah Island is in central Abu Dhabi, just off Zayed The First Street, between Al Zahiyah and Al Reem Island. Its main landmark, The Galleria Al Maryah Island, is at 107 Hamouda Bin Ali Al Dhaheri Street, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi.

What is Al Maryah Island famous for?

Al Maryah Island is famous for Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), the capital’s financial centre, The Galleria Al Maryah Island mall, award winning waterfront restaurants, the Four Seasons and Rosewood hotels, and a promenade with skyline views.

Is it free to visit Al Maryah Island?

Yes. There is no entry fee for Al Maryah Island, The Galleria or the waterfront promenade. You only pay for shopping, dining, entertainment and parking after the free period.

Is parking free at The Galleria Al Maryah Island?

Parking at The Galleria is free for up to four hours on weekdays and free all day on weekends and public holidays. After four hours on weekdays, fees start at AED 20. People of Determination park free at all times. Rates may change.

What are the opening hours of The Galleria Al Maryah Island?

The Galleria Al Maryah Island usually opens from 10am to 10pm Sunday to Thursday, and from 10am to midnight on Friday and Saturday. Restaurant hours vary, and timings may change during Ramadan and holidays.

Which hotels are on Al Maryah Island?

There are two hotels on the island: Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island and Rosewood Abu Dhabi. Nearby options across the bridge in Al Zahiyah include Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi, Southern Sun Abu Dhabi and Le Méridien Abu Dhabi.

Does Al Maryah Island have a beach?

No, Al Maryah Island has no public beach. The waterfront has paved walkways and restaurant terraces. The nearest public beach is along the Abu Dhabi Corniche, a short drive away.

How do I get to Al Maryah Island from Abu Dhabi airport?

The quickest way is by taxi, which takes around 30 minutes and costs roughly AED 80 to AED 100. On a budget, take the A1 bus towards the city centre, get off near Abu Dhabi Mall in Al Zahiyah and walk across the bridge.

What is the new fountain on Al Maryah Island?

Mubadala is building the Al Maryah Waterfront fountain outside The Galleria. It will feature a 30 metre glowing sphere and more than 1,000 AI powered water jets set to music by Ramin Djawadi. Construction is underway and no opening date has been announced yet.

What is the best time to visit Al Maryah Island?

The best time is from October to April, when evenings are cool enough for the promenade. Visit on weekday afternoons for quieter shopping, or on Friday and Saturday evenings for a lively waterfront atmosphere.

Is Al Maryah Island worth visiting?

Yes. Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi is worth visiting for luxury shopping at The Galleria, Michelin Guide listed restaurants on the waterfront, family entertainment and sunset views from the promenade. Entry is free, and it is easy to combine with nearby sights such as the Corniche and Qasr Al Hosn.

What can you do on Al Maryah Island at night?

At night you can walk the lit up promenade, dine on the waterfront terraces, watch a film at VOX Cinemas, try Zero Latency virtual reality or enjoy fireworks on special occasions such as New Year’s Eve and UAE National Day. The Galleria stays open until midnight on Friday and Saturday.

Is ADGM on Al Maryah Island?

Yes. Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), the international financial centre of Abu Dhabi, is based on Al Maryah Island, next to The Galleria and the Four Seasons hotel.

Conclusion

Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi brings together the best of the capital in one compact spot: the ADGM business district, luxury shopping at The Galleria, award winning restaurants on the water, two five star hotels and a promenade made for sunset walks. With free entry, easy access by car, taxi or bus, and the new Al Maryah Waterfront fountain on the way, it deserves a place on any Abu Dhabi itinerary.

Planning a trip to Abu Dhabi? White Sky Travel can help with flights, hotels and transfers, and you can spread the cost with Tabby, Tamara or UAE credit card instalments for up to 12 months. Al Maryah Island is free to visit, so there is nothing to book for the island itself. Message us on WhatsApp at +971 4 220 2133 and our team will arrange your flights, hotels and transfers to Abu Dhabi.

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