The short answer
Observation Deck at 300, Etihad Towers: what visitors should know first
Worth it for a clear-day or sunset view if the deck is open. Confirm current opening, book a timed ticket, and allow about an hour; skip it on hazy days.
History and context
The story behind Observation Deck at 300, Etihad Towers
Etihad Towers began construction in October 2006 and was completed on 27 October 2011. It was designed by DBI Design, and the hotel in Tower 1 is now the Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers.
Useful facts
Observation Deck at 300, Etihad Towers facts at a glance
- Location
- Etihad Towers, west Corniche
- Experience type
- Observation deck by lift
- Known for
- Deck on the 75th floor of Tower 2
- Architect/Built
- DBI Design; completed October 2011
- Time or schedule
- Timed slots; check that it is open
Why it matters
Why Observation Deck at 300, Etihad Towers is worth your time
Abu Dhabi has few places where you can see the whole island at once, and this deck provides one. The five towers were completed in 2011 and were designed by DBI Design, and Tower 2 reaches 305 metres, which gives the view.
For first-time visitors, the layout makes more sense from above. The route from the Corniche to the palaces and the mosque looks short, but the deck shows how spread out the city is.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Corniche views
The whole sweep of the sea front is visible from the deck.
- 02
The palaces below
Emirates Palace and Qasr Al Watan are visible in the west.
- 03
Sunset slot
Late-afternoon light gives the best photographs.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Check that the deck is open and book a timed slot for an hour before sunset, when the light is softest. The lift goes up from the hotel podium, and you step into an enclosed deck with views along the Corniche, over the palaces and out to sea.
On a clear day you will see the layout of the city: the long Corniche, the mosque far off in the east, and the islands in the Gulf. Haze can flatten views even in winter, so look at the sky that morning and move your slot if needed.
Stay for a short while, then head to the Corniche for dinner. The towers face the sea, so the walk back along the promenade is a good way to close the day.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Check the deck is open
- Book a timed ticket
- Choose a clear day
- Combine with a Corniche walk
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Etihad Towers, across from Emirates Palace, west Corniche
- Time needed
- About 1 hour
- Best time
- Clear afternoon or sunset in winter
- Walking level
- Easy
- Senior comfort
- Reached by lift from a lower-level podium link, so there are no stairs. Lifts and standing queues are the main strain. Ask about seating on the deck.
- Tickets and access
- Check the official ticket seller for current opening status and prices, and book a timed slot. Operating arrangements for observation decks can change.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Observation Deck at 300, Etihad Towers
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
Reached by lift from a lower-level podium link, so there are no stairs. Lifts and standing queues are the main strain. Ask about seating on the deck.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
How high is the deck?
It is on the 75th floor of Tower 2, listed at about 281.6 metres on Wikipedia, and marketed as 300 metres.
Is it open now?
Operating status can change. Check the official seller before you plan.
Is it suitable for older travellers?
Yes, as it is lift-served. Queues and standing are the main strain.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
