Observation Deck at 300

If you’re looking for the best panoramic view of Abu Dhabi, the Observation Deck at 300 is a must-visit. Perched on the 74th floor of Tower 2 at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, this deck sits 300 meters above the ground, making it the highest vantage point in Abu Dhabi. From this lofty perch you can marvel at a 360° skyline view – the city’s modern skyscrapers, the Corniche waterfront, and even the vast Arabian Gulf spread out beneath you. It’s no surprise that Observation Deck at 300 has become one of the top “Things to Do in Abu Dhabi” for tourists and families alike.

Beyond just the views, the Observation Deck at 300 offers a comfortable lounge-style experience. Unlike a typical open-air platform, here you’ll step into an elegant indoor viewing area with floor-to-ceiling windows. Plush seating and a café allow visitors to relax and enjoy refreshments as they take in the scenery. In fact, “300” in the name not only hints at its height in meters, but also the luxurious afternoon tea experience on offer. You can sip on high-quality teas or coffee and nibble on pastries while gazing at the city below – truly elevating your tea time to new heights!

Location and How to Get There

Where is it? Observation Deck at 300 is located in Tower 2 of the Etihad Towers complex, a cluster of five iconic skyscrapers on West Corniche Road in the Al Bateen area of central Abu Dhabi. It’s right across the road from the Emirates Palace hotel and near the Presidential Palace, so the area is a well-known landmark.

Getting there: The Etihad Towers are easily accessible by car or taxi – which is the most convenient option for most visitors. If you’re staying in downtown Abu Dhabi, a taxi ride along the Corniche will get you there in minutes. (For reference, it’s about a 30-40 minute drive from Abu Dhabi International Airport, roughly 36 km away.) Parking is available on site – the complex offers both self-parking and valet parking for a fee. This is handy if you have a rental car.

Public transport is an option too, with several bus routes stopping near the Corniche and Emirates Palace area. Look for any bus heading to “Corniche” or “Marina Mall” and hop off near Etihad Towers, but keep in mind buses can be time-consuming and stops might be a short walk from the towers. Given the UAE’s warm climate and spread-out city layout, most tourists find that hailing a taxi or using a ride-hailing app is the easiest way to reach the Observation Deck.

Once you arrive at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, head into the Tower 2 lobby and you’ll find signage or staff directing you to the observation deck elevator. The high-speed lift will whisk you up to the 74th floor in no time. Before you know it, you’ll step out to jaw-dropping views of the city!

Opening Hours and Ticket Prices

When can you visit? The Observation Deck at 300 is open seven days a week. Typical opening hours are from morning through early evening. Currently, the deck opens around 10:00 AM and closes around 7:00–8:00 PM daily (for example, 10 AM – 8 PM with last admission at 7:30 PM). Hours might vary slightly by season or day, so it’s a good idea to double-check the latest timings on the official website or by calling ahead. Visiting in the evening? Note that they generally allow the last visitors up about a half hour before closing time to ensure everyone has enough time to enjoy the view.

Ticket prices: There is an entrance fee for visitors who are not guests of the hotel. As of now, tickets cost around AED 95 per person, and here’s a nice perk – this price includes a AED 50 credit that you can spend on food or drinks at the observation deck’s café. In essence, your ticket doubles as a voucher for a coffee, treat, or even that famous afternoon tea. If you plan to indulge in the high tea or a couple of pastries, your entry fee bounces back to you in value.

Children under 4 years old can enter for free with an adult, which is great news for families. For older kids (typically ages 4–11), there might be discounted tickets available – it’s worth asking at the ticket counter or checking online. Also, if you happen to be staying as a guest at the Conrad Abu Dhabi (Etihad Towers hotel), the observation deck entry might be complimentary (it traditionally was free for hotel guests when it was Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, and the policy has generally continued under Conrad). Always verify current promotions; some Abu Dhabi tourist passes or combo tickets might also include the Observation Deck.

Where to buy tickets: You do not need to book in advance for general entry – tickets can be purchased on the spot at the entrance. The deck usually isn’t as crowded as, say, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, so same-day tickets are fine in most cases. However, if you’re specifically planning to have the Afternoon Tea experience (described below) at a particular time, it’s wise to reserve a table in advance (at least one day prior) due to limited seating during tea service. Some online tour vendors and hotel concierge desks also sell observation deck tickets, sometimes packaged with a drink or snack.

Dress Code and Visitor Guidelines

One thing to note before you visit: Observation Deck at 300 has a dress code. This keeps the atmosphere classy since the venue is part of a luxury hotel. The dress code is “smart casual” (business casual), so plan to dress neatly and modestly. In practical terms, this means no beachwear, swimwear, shorts or flip-flops. For men, shorts and sandals might be turned away; for women, shorts or very revealing outfits might not be permitted. Opt for attire like jeans or slacks and a nice shirt, or a casual dress, etc. Essentially, “dress to impress” just a little bit – think of what you’d wear to a nice lunch. The official advice is to dress classily to avoid being turned away. Abu Dhabi generally encourages modest dress in public, and at a high-end location like this, the rule is enforced.

Aside from attire, general visitor etiquette applies: respect that some people are there for a serene afternoon tea, so keep an eye on children so they don’t run around in the lounge area, and keep voices at a considerate volume indoors.

The deck is fully indoor and air-conditioned, which is a relief on hot desert days. You can take your time without worrying about the weather. Photography is welcomed (how could you resist taking photos of that view!), but avoid bringing large professional gear unless you have permission. Personal cameras and phones are absolutely fine. In fact, you’ll see many folks snapping selfies against the panoramic windows. If you are a photography enthusiast wanting to bring a tripod or specialized equipment, it’s best to ask ahead; generally personal camera equipment is allowed, but professional photo shoots would need prior approval. Also, out of courtesy, avoid using flash near other guests or during dusk when others are enjoying the ambiance.

Good news: There is no strict time limit for how long you can stay on the observation deck during operating hours. In most cases, you’re free to linger and soak in the view as long as you like (within the same day’s opening hours). This means you could feasibly arrive in the late afternoon and stay through sunset into early evening – a popular strategy (more on the best timing below). Just note that once you exit, you typically can’t re-enter on the same ticket, so make the most of your visit while you’re up there.

The View from Above: What to Expect

Stepping onto the 74th floor, you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of Abu Dhabi. The observation deck’s floor-to-ceiling windows and unobstructed sightlines let you take in all the major sights from one spot. On a clear day, you can see many of Abu Dhabi’s iconic landmarks from this bird’s-eye view. Right below and across the street is the palatial Emirates Palace hotel – its golden domes and sprawling grounds are easy to spot. To one side, you’ll overlook the lush green Presidential Palace complex and its private marina. Scanning across the city, you should be able to pick out the curving outline of the Corniche Road along the waterfront and the gleaming skyscrapers lining it. The turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf (Persian Gulf) surrounding the city make a stunning backdrop, especially when the sunlight dances on the waves.

In the distance, several other attractions can be seen. Look out for the distinctive shape of Louvre Abu Dhabi on Saadiyat Island – a white dome by the sea, visible on a clear day. If you peer towards the south, you might even spot the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque’s white domes far off (bring binoculars or use the on-site telescopes for a better view). The deck is equipped with fixed telescopes/binoculars that visitors can use to zoom in on points of interest, which is fun for kids and adults alike to play “I spy” with the city.

What’s great is that you can walk around the entire deck to see Abu Dhabi from every angle. There are informational plaques and maps that label some of the sights in each direction, helping you get your bearings. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, it’s delightful to identify familiar landmarks from this new perspective. Photographers will love capturing the cityscape – from the clusters of downtown high-rises to the open blue sea horizon.

Inside, the Observation Deck at 300 feels more like a sleek lounge than an observation platform. The décor is elegant, with comfortable chairs and even couches where you can sit and gaze out. Thanks to the five-star hotel hospitality, staff are on hand and the atmosphere is relaxed and refined. It never gets as overwhelmingly crowded as some famous towers elsewhere, so you often won’t have to jostle for window space. Take a moment to simply sit, sip a drink (if you order one), and absorb the view – it’s a tranquil experience above the bustle of the city.

Afternoon Tea at 300: Dining in the Clouds

One of the highlights of visiting Observation Deck at 300 is indulging in their Afternoon Tea or light refreshments – it’s not just about the view, but also about treating yourself. The deck features a café/restaurant area where you can order from a selection of teas, coffees, mocktails, as well as sweet and savory bites. In fact, many visitors plan their trip around enjoying a high tea experience here.

The Afternoon Tea typically includes a spread of delicate sandwiches, scones with jam and cream, and miniature pastries, served on a tiered tray, accompanied by your choice of fine teas or coffee. It’s a delightful way to celebrate the view. Do note that Afternoon Tea is usually served from about 2 PM to 6 PM each day. It’s very popular, so as mentioned earlier, make a reservation a day in advance if you definitely want the full high tea setup. The ambiance in late afternoon is lovely – you can watch daylight soften towards sunset as you savor your treats.

Even if you don’t go for the full high tea set, the café menu offers plenty of options. Many guests opt for just a coffee and cake, which might be included if you bought a ticket package that offers a coffee + cake deal. You can also order snacks like pastries, cookies, or small bites. A recommended favorite is to try their exclusive tea blends. The venue offers special TWG Tea blends (a luxury tea brand) such as the Silver Moon, Brothers Club, or White House tea – these are unique flavors you might not encounter elsewhere. For those preferring something cooler, check out the signature mocktail “Etihad Sparkler”, a refreshing mix of peach, apple, and elderflower – it’s a big hit and perfectly fitting as you “sparkle” high above the city.

And remember, your ticket’s AED 50 credit can be used toward these food and beverage purchases. So go ahead and treat yourself – it’s essentially “tea with a view” partly on the house! Prices for items beyond the credit are what you’d expect at a 5-star hotel lounge (on the higher side), but many find the experience worth the splurge.

Whether you’re a tea lover celebrating a special occasion or a weary sightseer in need of a snack break, the Observation Deck’s dining options add a special touch. There’s something novel about sipping a hot cup of tea while looking down at birds flying past. If you time it right, you might even catch a spectacular sunset during your tea – which brings us to the next point…

Best Time to Visit

Timing can make a big difference in what you get out of your visit. So, when is the best time to go? Most locals and experienced travelers will tell you the late afternoon into early evening is ideal. If you arrive around 5:00 PM (depending on season) and plan to stay for a couple of hours, you’ll be able to witness the city in daylight, then watch a breathtaking sunset, and finally see the city lights come alive after dusk. This gives you the full range of Abu Dhabi’s beauty – golden sunlight on the buildings, the dramatic colors of sunset over the Gulf, and the twinkling lights of the skyline at night. Visiting during the late afternoon and staying through sunset offers the most captivating views as the cityscape transforms with the setting sun. It’s truly magical to see the transition.

Of course, sunset times vary by season (around 7:00 PM in summer, 5:30 PM in winter), so check the sunset hour for the day of your visit and plan accordingly. If you’re going for sunset, try to be up on the deck at least 30 minutes prior to sunset so you can get oriented and find a good viewing spot or settle at a window-side table.

Another great time can be morning right when they open – around 10 AM. Mornings tend to have very clear skies in Abu Dhabi before the midday haze or heat builds up. If you go early, you might have the place nearly to yourself, and the light is soft from the other side (sunrise is behind the city, so morning light illuminates the view from the east). This might be preferable if you’re keen on photography of distant sights like the Grand Mosque, which could be crisper in morning light.

Midday visits are usually the quietest in terms of crowds, but keep in mind the sun will be strongest and reflections on the windows might be harsher (plus, the outdoor landscape can look a bit washed out under the bright midday sun). Still, if midday is the only time you have, you’ll still enjoy sweeping views – just possibly with a bit of desert haze especially in the summer.

One more tip: try to avoid days when visibility is low. Occasionally, Abu Dhabi can get foggy mornings (especially in cooler months) or hazy days due to dust. If the weather looks poor for views, consider adjusting your schedule because you’ll want clear views for such a high vantage point. Fortunately, fog often clears by late morning. The observation deck staff or your hotel can advise if visibility is good on a given day.

Tips for Families Visiting

Traveling with kids or family? Observation Deck at 300 is quite a family-friendly attraction. Children generally love the thrill of being so high up – the elevator ride itself might earn a few wows. Kids of all ages are allowed (with adult supervision), and the environment is safe (fully enclosed and railing-lined windows). In fact, it’s a popular stop for families exploring Abu Dhabi, since it’s an experience that’s enjoyable for both parents and children. The venue even explicitly notes it’s a “family-friendly environment” welcoming visitors of all ages.

Here are a few family tips to make the most of it:

• Strollers: You can bring a stroller/pram into the elevators and observation lounge. The space is flat and carpeted, so moving a stroller around is no problem. If your little one is napping, they can snooze while you enjoy the view. There are also seating areas where you can park the stroller next to you.
• Free entry for toddlers: As mentioned, kids under 4 are free, which is great. If you have a baby or toddler, you won’t need to buy a ticket for them – just carry them or roll them in.
• Keep curious kids close: While there’s no danger of falling (again, it’s enclosed and the windows are solid panels), very active children should be reminded not to run or bump into the glass. The atmosphere is calm, so encourage them to use the telescopes and spot cool buildings (“Can you find the palace? Where’s the big mosque?”) to keep them engaged.
• Snack time: Use that food credit to get a treat for the kids. They’ll love a fancy cupcake, cookie or even a hot chocolate up in the clouds. Having a snack also helps them sit still and soak in the experience. The Observation Deck’s café has kid-friendly options (and plenty of napkins for any messes).
• Bathrooms and facilities: There are restrooms available on the observation deck level (so you don’t have to rush back down if a child needs a loo break). The facilities are clean and equipped, as you’d expect in a luxury hotel.
• Staying flexible: If you’re unsure how your kids will handle high heights, rest assured this isn’t a terrifying experience – it’s not like an open-air edge; it’s very much like being in a tall building with big windows. Most kids react with excitement or wide-eyed wonder at the view. But if anyone in the family has ear popping or pressure sensitivity from elevators, the ride is short enough that it’s rarely an issue (you can ask staff if you need any accommodations).
• Combine with nearby attractions: To avoid making the day too exhausting for little ones, you can plan this as a part of a relaxed day. Perhaps spend the cooler part of the morning at the nearby Corniche beach or a park, have lunch, then head up to the Deck in late afternoon when the sun isn’t as harsh. After your visit, if energy allows, the Etihad Towers also have a luxury mall and there’s the Nation Towers Mall further down the Corniche, or you could simply cross to Emirates Palace for a quick look or ice cream. Keeping your itinerary light will make the experience more enjoyable for everyone.

In summary, Observation Deck at 300 offers a mix of excitement and relaxation that works well for families. The kids get an awesome view and a “top of the world” feeling, and parents get to enjoy the scenery and maybe a peaceful cup of tea. Don’t forget to snap a family photo with the panoramic skyline behind you – it’ll likely be one of those shots you frame at home!

Tips for Photographers and View-Seekers

If you’re a photography enthusiast or just eager to capture stunning shots, you’ll find plenty of inspiration up here. Photographers should keep in mind a few pointers:

• Dealing with window glare: Since you’ll be shooting through glass, try to get your camera lens close to the window to reduce reflections. Using your hand or a lens hood to block stray light can help. If you have a polarizing filter, bring it – it can cut down reflections on the glass and deepen the blue of the sky/sea.
• Best times for photos: As mentioned in “Best Time to Visit,” late afternoon and sunset are prime. The golden hour light will make the city glow, and twilight gives a mix of dark blue sky and city lights – very photogenic. Night photography is possible too, as Abu Dhabi’s skyline is beautifully illuminated, but you’ll definitely want a steady hand or support (consider a mini tripod or beanbag for your camera pressed against the ledge – full tripods may not be allowed without permission). Morning can also yield crystal-clear shots if the air is especially clear.
• What lenses to bring: For DSLR or mirrorless users, a wide-angle lens is great for capturing the full sweep of the panorama. But also consider a telephoto or zoom lens – you can zero in on specific landmarks like the Grand Mosque domes or a distant island. The telescopes on site are fun, but photographers will want their own zoom for higher quality snaps.
• Unique angles: The design of Etihad Towers means you might get some interesting reflections or architectural shots from the deck’s interior as well. For example, you could capture the reflection of the sunset in the glass panels. Be creative! And if you have a person with you, this deck makes for dramatic portraits with the city backdrop (just mind the backlighting).
• Camera settings: If shooting cityscapes, consider using a smaller aperture (higher f-stop) for deeper focus so both near and far objects are sharp. With abundant daylight, that’s easy; in low light, you’ll need a steady hold due to slower shutter speeds. Many cameras and even modern smartphones have night modes – use them to get better clarity for the city lights at dusk.
• Drones: Note that drones are not allowed here (you’re in a controlled airspace and private property), so leave the drone at home. The vantage from the deck is better than any drone shot you could get legally in this area anyway.
• Enjoy with your eyes too: Lastly, don’t get so wrapped up in photographing that you forget to enjoy the moment. The view is truly spectacular and sometimes it’s nice to put the camera down and just absorb the sight in your memory.

Whether you’re a pro with a hefty camera or just using your smartphone, you’ll leave with some amazing shots from the Observation Deck at 300. And if you time it right, you might capture one of those postcard-perfect Abu Dhabi sunsets that will make all your friends back home jealous!

How Observation Deck at 300 Stacks Up (Q&A Fun Facts)

To put this experience in context, here are answers to a few common questions visitors often ask:

• What is the dress code for Observation Deck at 300? As noted above, the dress code is smart casual (business casual). Essentially, dress neatly – no flip-flops or beachwear – to match the elegant setting. Tourists sometimes get caught off guard in their shorts and are asked to change. So, throw on a nice outfit for this outing and you’ll be fine.
• Where is the highest observation deck in Abu Dhabi? It’s right here at the Observation Deck at 300! This deck holds the record as Abu Dhabi’s highest public viewing point, at 300 meters high. There’s no taller building or tower in the city offering a higher observation platform. So when you’re up there, congrats – you have the best view in town. (For comparison, the next best might be the rooftop bars or restaurants in some other tall towers, but none reach the 74th-floor height of Etihad Tower 2).
• What is the highest observation deck in the world? As of now, the title for the world’s highest observation deck belongs to the Shanghai Tower in China. Shanghai Tower’s top deck, called the “Top of Shanghai,” is on the 121st floor at about 562 meters (1,844 feet) above ground. This surpassed the previous record held by the Burj Khalifa in Dubai. Speaking of which…
• What about the Burj Khalifa’s observation deck – what floors are those on? The Burj Khalifa in Dubai, being the tallest building in the world, has multiple observation levels. The main “At The Top” observation deck is on the 124th and 125th floors (two levels for one deck experience) of Burj Khalifa, which opened back in 2010. Later, a higher premium deck called “At The Top SKY” opened on the 148th floor, at an altitude of 555 meters. So Burj Khalifa offers viewing from 124/125 (at about 452 m high) and an exclusive deck at 148 (at 555 m). In fact, that 148th-floor deck was once the highest in the world until Shanghai Tower eclipsed it in 2016. For trivia lovers: Burj Khalifa also added a lounge on floors 152–154, which is even higher at 585 m, but that’s more of a VIP lounge experience than a typical observation deck.

It’s interesting to compare – Abu Dhabi’s Observation Deck at 300 is roughly half the height of the Burj Khalifa’s top deck, yet when you’re up there, it feels every bit as impressive because you’re viewing a beautiful cityscape that stretches to the water and beyond. Not every observation deck needs to break world records to be memorable; the one at Etihad Towers has the distinction of giving you the highest view in the UAE’s capital and in a very pleasant, less crowded setting.

Soaring High in Abu Dhabi

Whether you’re a sightseer ticking off landmarks, a family looking for a fun outing, or a couple seeking a romantic high-tea date above the skyline, the Observation Deck at 300 delivers an experience to remember. It perfectly blends spectacular views with a touch of luxury and comfort. You can learn the layout of Abu Dhabi from above, capture incredible photos, and enjoy a literal high tea – all in one visit.

A few last tips: bring your camera, bring a good attitude (leave any fear of heights behind, because this is a very secure environment), and consider timing your visit for sunset to see Abu Dhabi at its most magical. Remember the smart-casual dress code – you’ll feel more at ease dressed up a tad, and it does make the visit feel like a special occasion. If you have time, linger and watch the city transition from day to night; it’s a peaceful and awe-inspiring sight that many say is the highlight of their Abu Dhabi trip.

In a city known for grand sights like Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Observation Deck at 300 holds its own as a top attraction by literally rising above them all. It’s the kind of place where you truly appreciate the phrase “the sky’s the limit.” So step into that elevator, ascend to the clouds, and enjoy an unforgettable panorama of Abu Dhabi from its highest observation deck! Safe travels and happy viewing from 300 meters up in the sky.