Abu Dhabi 🏙️
"Coastal desert luxury and the Louvre of the Middle East."
Abu Dhabi offers incredible 5-star beachfront resorts. You can visit the stunning Qasr Al Hosn (the oldest stone building) and the cultural history of the Saadiyat Cultural District.
An elegant journey through the UAE's capital that balances high-end beach resort relaxation with deep dives into Bedouin history and UNESCO-listed heritage sites.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1 · Foundations of Abu Dhabi
Morning — Arrive in Abu Dhabi and check into your hotel. Start with a slow morning at the hotel pool to acclimate to the warmth.
Afternoon — Head to the Qasr Al Hosn, the oldest standing structure in Abu Dhabi, to explore the fort and the Cultural Foundation nearby.
Evening — Enjoy a sunset dinner at the Marina Village followed by a walk along the Corniche, taking in the city skyline views.
💡 Download the 'Abu Dhabi Taxi' app for reliable, metered rides outside of Uber.
Day 2 · Grand Landmarks and Presidential Palaces
Morning — Visit the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Aim to arrive at 9:00 AM to beat the heat and the largest crowds.
Afternoon — Take a guided 'Library Tour' or 'Palace in Motion' light show at Qasr Al Watan, the working Presidential Palace.
Evening — Dine at Al Qana, a new waterfront destination featuring some of the city's best local and international eateries.
💡 Dress conservatively for the Mosque; women must be covered to the wrists and ankles, and wear a headscarf.
Day 3 · Art and Island Life
Morning — Visit the Louvre Abu Dhabi. Spend your morning wandering through the 'Rain of Light' architecture and world-class galleries.
Afternoon — Relax at the hotel's beach club or head to Saadiyat Beach Club for a luxury day-pass experience on white sands.
Evening — Explore the Mamsha Al Saadiyat boardwalk for dinner with views of the Arabian Gulf.
💡 Book Louvre tickets online in advance to skip the queue and ensure your time slot.
Day 4 · Al Ain: The UNESCO Heritage Garden
Morning — Transfer to Al Ain (The Garden City). Wander through the UNESCO-listed Al Ain Oasis under the shade of 147,000 date palms.
Afternoon — Explore the Al Jahili Fort, the former summer residence of the ruling family, and the nearby Al Ain Palace Museum.
Evening — Drive up to Jebel Hafeet for sunset views over the desert before a quiet dinner in Al Ain.
💡 Rent a bicycle at the entrance of the Oasis to cover more ground comfortably.
Day 5 · Falconry and Desert Traditions
Morning — Visit the Al Ain Camel Market to witness traditional trading, then start the drive back toward the coast.
Afternoon — Visit the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital for a guided tour to learn about the ancient sport of falconry and its cultural importance.
Evening — Check into a desert resort or return to a Yas Island hotel. Enjoy a luxury buffet dinner.
💡 The Falcon Hospital tours must be booked weeks in advance as they are very popular.
Day 6 · Nature and Modern Amusements
Morning — Visit the Jubail Mangrove Park for a peaceful walk along the boardwalks to see the city's unique ecosystem.
Afternoon — Choose your speed: either relax at the Yas Beach or visit Ferrari World or Warner Bros. World for some thrills.
Evening — Farewell dinner at Yas Marina, surrounded by luxury yachts and the illuminated Yas Marina Circuit.
💡 Check the tide times for Jubail Mangrove Park; it's most beautiful during high tide.