New to Abu Dhabi? Getting a little overwhelmed by all there is to do? Don’t worry – we’ve got a complete list of all the helpful apps you need to download for a smooth transition to the capital.
Between applying for your residence visa, collecting your Emirates ID, and finding the perfect area to live, shifting is always a tiresome process. But a list of must-have apps in Abu Dhabi can make more of a difference than you think!
In recent years, government processes have streamlined and gone digital. And from ordering food to groceries, taxis to checking bus timings, getting your news and more – there’s hardly anything you can’t do using Abu Dhabi apps.
All of the apps below are compatible with both Android phones and iPhones, making it easier to use.
So, of course, we’ve curated the ultimate guide for you to take a look at and make life a little simpler.
All the apps you can download if you’re new to Abu Dhabi
Official government apps
- Tamm
Lately, this app has become a lifeline for those new to Abu Dhabi. From organising your documents to checking on and paying fines, you need to have TAMM on your phone. It’s a centralised portal for government services. Everyone can use it for updates on business, housing, permits, allowing users to interact with customer support, track applications, and make payments all from a single digital platform.
For more information, visit TAMM
- UAE Pass
This is a great app for anyone new to Abu Dhabi or the UAE.
The UAE’s official national digital identity and digital signature solution, users can digitally sign and authenticate documents, obtain digital copies of official documents, and manage their digital transactions. That includes your visa, EID, driving license, and just about anything else.
For more information, visit UAE Pass
- ICP
Similar to UAE Pass (which you can actually use to login to this app), the ICP app is used to access and manage services from the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP).
These services include applying for and renewing visas and residency permits, getting and renewing Emirates IDs, renewing passports for UAE citizens, paying government fines, and more. It’s definitely handy to have all soft copies of your documents in one place, that are also legally presentable.
For more information, visit ICP
Moving around
- Darbi
As an expat in Abu Dhabi, you might not always want to book the taxi. The city has an extremely well-connected bus network, that also makes it easy to discover at a lower price point.
Enter Darbi, and you’ll always know bus number, routes, and timings with ease! The app also has info on traffic conditions, traffic incidents and road works for easier navigation and skipping congested spots.
For more information, visit DARBI
- Careem/Yango/Uber/Abu Dhabi Taxi
Alternatively, you might be in a hurry and need to book at taxi. Fret not, Abu Dhabi has scores of options on that front as well.
While the Abu Dhabi Taxi app contains fleets managed by the UAE authorities, you could also opt for private services like Uber, Yango or Careem that can be used around the world as well. Prices might differ, especially during peak traffic hours – but you can schedule a taxi and avoid those charges as well!
- Waze
Move over Google Maps, Waze is here to lead the way(s). The application is a godsend for motorists in the country, showing you faster routes than most other navigation apps.
The best part? The app also issues warnings for speeding and in case of any radars on the way so you can avoid those fines and still drive safely!
For more information, visit Waze
Entertainment and great deals
- Bestbites
If you’re new to Abu Dhabi and count yourself as a foodie, this is an app that could get you hooked on to some of the best deals at great restaurants in town. From restaurant listings to event information and local deals – they have it all for gourmands.
And if you’re new to Abu Dhabi, the Best Bites Plus (BB+) subscription goes a long way when it comes to discounts at various venues, including restaurants, bars, and more!
For more information, visit Best Bites
- The Entertainer
This is the mother of all savings apps in Abu Dhabi that you need to have a subscription to! Enjoy Buy One Get One Free (BOGO) and other discounts at a wide range of businesses, including restaurants, spas, attractions, hotels, and retail stores.
You can redeem these offers through the app to get significant savings on their purchases, with deals often valid throughout the week for a variety of experiences.
For more information, visit The Entertainer
- Talabat/Deliveroo/Smiles
These food aggregator outlets are some of the must have apps in Abu Dhabi. No seriously, every resident or event tourist will swear by them.
Endless food options, discounts and dining out deals all at the tip of your fingers. They also do groceries, nearby porter delivers, medicines, flowers – pretty much anything you could think of!
- Groupon
Love a good bargain? This app is dedicated to just that, and it’s completely for free!
All you need to do is sign up, choose from categories like food & dining, spas, leisure, stays and more – and it’ll show you some great options to pick from. Nothing more satisfying than a great value-for-money experience.
For more information, visit Groupon
- Platinumlist
Apart from us (of course!) Platinumlist is an extremely reliable and comprehensive platform for all the latest events in Abu Dhabi and beyond.
From concerts to theme parks on Yas Island and any experience under the sun, they have all the details and you can also purchase your tickets here. With their ethical reselling option, you could also easily sell any extra tickets you might have.
For more information, visit Platinumlist
- Urban Company
If you’re new to Abu Dhabi – or really anywhere in the world, it can take a while to find trusted services for general home upkeep. OR, you could just download Urban Company, pick your service, schedule your preferred time, even pick your favourite service staff and have the service arrive at your doorstep! It’s so simple it’s almost unreal, and they have some great festive deals going on throughout the year as well. Definitely a must have app in town.
For more information, visit Urban Company
