Abu Dhabi, UAE 3 Day Itinerary

Abu Dhabi 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of the City

  • Morning: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Breakfast Club, located in Al Bahar Towers. This place offers a variety of international dishes and is popular among locals and tourists alike.

  • Mid-Morning: Visit the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world. Entry costs AED 10 for visitors from outside the UAE, and guided tours are free. Women need ankle-length clothing, wrist-length sleeves and hair fully covered.

  • Lunch: Head to Café Milano at Yas Marina, known for its authentic Italian cuisine.

  • Afternoon: Explore Yas Island, home to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld, and the Formula 1™ Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix circuit. Choose one that suits your interest or time constraints.

  • Dinner: Dine at Soi Thai on Al Maryah Island. This restaurant offers an authentic Thai dining experience with a stunning view of the Louvre Abu Dhabi.

  • Evening: End your day with a visit to the Louvre Abu Dhabi, an architectural marvel and a must-visit for art enthusiasts. The museum is open until 10 PM.

Day 2: Cultural Exploration

  • Morning: Begin your day with a traditional Arabic breakfast at Al Fanar Restaurant & Café. Try the popular dish, Luqaimat (sweet fried dough balls).

  • Mid-Morning: Visit the Qasr Al Hosn, the capital’s landmark fort. It offers a glimpse into Abu Dhabi’s past and houses a museum and art gallery.

  • Lunch: Savor Emirati cuisine at Bait Al Mannaj located in Heritage Village. The restaurant serves traditional dishes in a traditional setting.

  • Afternoon: Explore the Heritage Village, an open-air museum that showcases Emirati life before the discovery of oil. Next, head to the Corniche, Abu Dhabi’s waterfront promenade, for a relaxing walk.

  • Dinner: Dine at Taste of Italy on the Corniche, offering a wide range of Italian dishes with stunning views of the city skyline.

  • Evening: Visit The Emirates Palace, one of the world’s most luxurious hotels, for a desert safari experience. Many tour operators offer evening safaris with dinner included.

Day 3: Relaxation and Shopping

  • Morning: Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or explore the local markets in Al Mina Road for a more authentic dining experience.

  • Mid-Morning: Head to Saadiyat Public Beach, one of Abu Dhabi’s cleanest and most beautiful beaches. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, or rent a kayak.

  • Lunch: Have lunch at Zumo located on the Saadiyat Island Pro Shop & Clubhouse. They offer a variety of Mediterranean dishes.

  • Afternoon: Spend your afternoon shopping at The Galleria Al Maryah Island, home to luxury brands, or Marina Mall, which offers a mix of high street and luxury brands.

  • Dinner: Enjoy a final meal at Cipriani on the Corniche, known for its elegant Venetian cuisine.

Things to Know:

  • Dress modestly when visiting mosques or public places.
  • Ramadan (the holy month of fasting) dates change each year based on the lunar calendar. During this time, food and drink are not available in public between sunrise and sunset.
  • Taxis are widely available and affordable, but consider getting a prepaid SIM card for mobile navigation.
  • The local currency is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED). Major credit cards are accepted at most establishments.
  • Tips are appreciated in restaurants and taxis, but not always required. A 10% tip is customary.