amb

I have a 17 hour stop over at Abu Dhabi and don't want to splash out to book hotel accomodation. From what I can see there's a hotel gym that I can pay to use to have a shower and eat up some time, is this the case? And is it a safe place to find a corner and sleep for a few hours? Cheers.

shakh your bootie

Go to a mosque. Free washing facilities, and you can sleep in the shade of the minaret...

Inselaffen

get a taxi to Dubai! have fun! go back to AD for your flight

amb

I arrive at midnight! Are there lots of sights near to the airport? It's my first time travelling alone and I'm utterly petrified of getting lost or losing my bags!

twistopher

Nothing of interest near the airport.
They have loads of seating, but have never tried sleeping in it, so wouldn't know.
There is a small amount to do in the airport that, i guess, you could stretch to a few hours, but not 17!
I'd suggest you waste a few hours in the airport (perhaps get some sleep), then get a taxi into the city for sunrise (have a walk along the corniche) and find somewhere for some brekkie. There is good shopping in any one of the malls - then back for your flight.
Sorry i can't be of more help, but there really isn't much to do in or around the airport.