Abu Dhabi in a Day: First-Time Tour Highlights
A land of culture, beauty and modern attractions, Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates. There’s a lot to explore in this amazing city, whether you’re visiting it for a short time or your plan to have an extended stay. There is so much to explore in Abu Dhabi that you may feel a bit lost. You can’t really decide where to begin.
A Guide to Help You Explore Abu Dhabi
Since there is a lot on offer for those visiting Abu Dhabi, we bring you a guide that helps you as a first time visitor to plan your Abu Dhabi City tour more efficiently. Read on as we share a well planned itinerary.
Morning: Start Your Day at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Give your day an early start and visit the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. A true architectural masterpiece, it’s one of the largest mosques in the world. The atmosphere in the mosque is calm and peaceful and the white marble edifice is absolutely stunning. The interiors are no less beautiful, adorned with beautiful chandeliers. The reflective pools add to the beauty of the mosque.
You can take free guided tours at the mosque which is open to the public every day. Make sure that you dress modestly showing your respect for the local culture. Men should wear long trousers and women should cover their hair and wear loose clothes. A visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque teaches you about Islam giving your day a spiritual beginning.
Late Morning: Visit Qasr Al Watan – The Presidential Palace
Your next stop on the tour is the Qasr Al Watan, the Presidential Palace. Apart from being the seat of political power, it’s also a cultural landmark. A visit to the Qasr Al Watan tells you about the history and culture of the Emirates as you admire the building, a wonderful specimen of Arabian architecture.
Learn about the Emirates’ system of governance and walk through the halls, each one of them decorated beautifully. There’s also a library where you can learn about Emirati culture. You’ll love taking photographs in the beautiful gardens at the palace which also has an amazing courtyard. Set aside an hour or two to explore the Qasr Al Watan before you have your lunch.
Lunch Break: Try Local Emirati Cuisine
Enjoy local Emirati fare when you take the lunch break. Step into restaurants like the popular Al Fanar or Mezlai that serve delicious local dishes. Ask for preparations like machboos (rice with meat or fish), harees (wheat and meat) and juicy dates.
You can choose between indoor and outdoor seating at the restaurants in Abu Dhabi. With many of them being located close to the Corniche, You can enjoy the stunning views while having your lunch.
Early Afternoon: Discover the Louvre Abu Dhabi
Located on Saadiyat Island, you’ll be visiting the Louvre Abu Dhabi next. This surely is one of the Middle East’s most impressive museums. Displayed in a unique and modern way, the museum features artwork and artefacts collected from all parts of the world.
A major highlight of the museum is its unique design. Witness the magical “rain of light” as daylight filters through the building’s dome creating a very beautiful effect. The museum is therefore worth visiting even if you aren’t really an admirer of art. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the museum exploring the exhibits for one or two hours.
Mid-Afternoon: Explore the Corniche and Relax
Take a drive or enjoy walking along the Abu Dhabi Corniche after your visit to Louvre Abu Dhabi. With clean beaches, walking paths and parks, this is a beautiful long stretch of road by the blue waters of the sea.
Stop for a while and relax at the Corniche Beach, one of the beautiful public beaches here. Enjoy a swim in the clear waters or just relax on the clean sands. If you want to grab a quick bite, step into one of the cosy cafes. You can also shop for souvenirs at the local shops. You’re sure to love unwinding at the Corniche as you admire how beautiful Abu Dhabi is.
Late Afternoon: Head to the Heritage Village
Visit the Heritage Village and learn about Abu Dhabi’s past. When you visit this outdoor museum, you get to know about life in the Emirates before oil was struck. You’ll see traditional tents in the village and the old tools that would be used earlier. Watch in awe as potters and weavers work their magic.
Take a peek into the life of the Bedouins and learn about their culture at this quiet place during an educational experience. There are small shops here from where you can buy handmade souvenirs. Those who love art and culture will love visiting the Heritage Village where you needn’t spare more than an hour. The Heritage Village is considered an important landmark among Abu Dhabi tours and attractions.
Evening: Enjoy Yas Island Adventures
Head to yas island, a modern entertainment zone as evening sets in. It’s an area where there’s something for everyone. You could visit the Warner Bros. World, a perfect place for those with families. If you love thrills, you should visit the Ferrari World, home to the world’s fastest roller coaster, the Formula Rossa.
Visit Yas Mall, one of the largest in the city if you love shopping. The mall is home to many shops and restaurants and even a cinema. Take a walk around the Yas Marina for some relaxation and enjoy a delicious dinner by the waterside.
Night: End with a Desert Safari (Optional)
Book the exciting Evening Desert Safari if you want to explore the desert. You are picked up from your hotel and taken to the desert for an unforgettable adventure. Enjoy the super thrilling dune bashing or a more relaxing camel ride.
Dig into a lavish Arabian dinner under a clear starlit sky. Experience the charm of the desert as you draw the curtains on an adventure filled day. Do make a note of the point that since a desert safari takes a long time, you might have to skip your visit to Yas Island.
Final Thoughts
A blend of the old and the new, Abu Dhabi is an exciting city. Book a tour with a leading travel agency in Dubai to explore the amazing city. You experience both ancient culture as well as modern attractions on your visit to Abu Dhabi. This well-planned one day itinerary brings first time visitors like you the best of Abu Dhabi. Enjoy your visit to the city and make memories that last a lifetime.
Also Read – Is June a Good Time to Visit Dubai? Weather Insights