Abu Dhabi, UAE 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Cultural Landmarks & Delicious Cuisine

Morning:

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Bateel (Al Bahar Tower, Corniche Rd - Breakfast buffet with a variety of Middle Eastern dishes)
  • Visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (Open from 9 AM to 10 PM, free entry but modest attire required for both men and women)
  • Take a guided tour of Qasr Al Hosn (Opens at 9 AM, last admission at 5 PM. Tickets: AED 20 for adults). It’s the capital’s landmark and the oldest building in Abu Dhabi.

Afternoon:

  • Head to Louvre Abu Dhabi (Open from 10 AM to 8 PM, tickets: AED 67 for adults). This museum offers a unique perspective on art and culture from around the world.
  • Explore The Corniche (Free entry) and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront with stunning views of the city and the Arabian Gulf.

Evening:

  • Dine at Al Dawaar (Rotana Capital Centre Hotel, Al Khaleej Al Arabi St - Enjoy international buffet while rotating 27 floors above the city)
  • Catch a performance at Etihad Arena (Tickets vary depending on the show)

Overnight:

  • Stay at The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal (Al Markaziyah - Luxurious accommodation with stunning views of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the city skyline)

Things to Know:

  • Always respect local customs and traditions. Modest attire is recommended when visiting mosques or public places.
  • Taxis are widely available, but consider using ride-hailing apps like Careem or Uber for convenience.
  • The official language is Arabic, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Day 2: Island Hopping & Traditional Experiences

Morning:

  • Take a speedboat to Saadiyat Public Beach (Entrance fee applies, AED 30 for adults) and enjoy the crystal clear waters.
  • Visit Yas Island, home to Yas Marina Circuit, Ferrari World, and Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi. Purchase a combo pass for multiple attractions or choose individual tickets based on your interest (Prices vary).

Afternoon:

  • Have lunch at Shake Shack in Yas Mall (Delicious fast food with a variety of options)
  • Take a traditional Abra (Water Taxi) to Al Boom Tourist Island and relax on the pristine beach or explore marine life at Al Boom Diving Center (Additional charges apply).

Evening:

  • Experience a traditional Arabic dinner with live entertainment at Bab Al Sham (Emirates Palace - AED 250 per person)
  • End your day with a breathtaking view of the city from the 360° Observation Deck at Jumeirah at Etihad Towers (Admission fee: AED 80 for adults)

Overnight:

  • Stay at Jumeirah at Etihad Towers (West Corniche, Abu Dhabi - Luxury accommodation with stunning city views)

Things to Know:

  • Yas Island attractions may have different operating hours and days. Check their websites for more information.
  • Al Boom Tourist Island is closed on Sundays.
  • Dress code applies at most restaurants and clubs, especially in luxury hotels.