9 hours
No Cancel
5 people
English, Francais
Experience the best of Abu Dhabi, the stunning capital city of the United Arab Emirates, on this full-day guided tour. From the opulent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to the glamorous Emirates Palace, this tour takes you to Abu Dhabi’s most iconic landmarks. Learn about the history, culture, and modern wonders of the city while enjoying the comfort of a small group tour. Discover the rich heritage of the UAE and the architectural marvels that make Abu Dhabi a global metropolis.
Meet your guide and driver at your hotel lobby at 9:00 AM, where you’ll begin your day with a comfortable drive to Abu Dhabi, which is approximately 1.5 hours away from Dubai. Enjoy the scenic views of the desert landscape during the journey.
Arrive in Abu Dhabi and head straight to one of the world's most magnificent mosques – the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. This architectural masterpiece, built in honor of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, is known for its intricate design, stunning white marble, and the largest hand-woven carpet in the world. Explore the mosque with your guide, who will provide insights into its religious and cultural significance.
Next, you will visit the Emirates Palace, a luxury hotel and one of the most iconic landmarks in Abu Dhabi. This opulent palace features grandiose architecture, lush gardens, and extravagant interiors. Take some time to admire the palace’s beauty, snap photos of the exterior, and enjoy the grandeur of the luxurious setting.
Take a scenic drive along Corniche Road, a waterfront promenade offering breathtaking views of the turquoise Persian Gulf. Your guide will point out the stunning modern architecture that lines the coast, including the Etihad Towers and National Exhibition Centre.
Afterward, explore Heritage Village, a recreated traditional Emirati village that offers a glimpse into the country’s history before the discovery of oil. Learn about the traditional Bedouin way of life, visit the artisan workshops, and explore exhibits showcasing the UAE’s cultural heritage, from jewelry to clothing.
Your next stop is Qasr Al Watan, the Presidential Palace of the UAE. This incredible palace is a symbol of the nation’s cultural heritage and its modern-day progress. Marvel at the stunning architecture, intricate designs, and expansive gardens. Inside, explore the Palace’s exhibition halls showcasing the UAE’s governance and history, as well as beautiful rooms and courtyards.
Depending on the tour package, you may have the option to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Abu Dhabi. Savor traditional Emirati dishes such as lamb mandi, hummus, and fresh salads, or opt for an international buffet to fuel up for the rest of the tour.
In the afternoon, you can opt to visit Louvre Abu Dhabi, a world-renowned museum designed by architect Jean Nouvel. Explore its impressive collection of art, culture, and history, which spans centuries and continents. Admire the striking architecture of the museum and explore the galleries that feature pieces from both Eastern and Western civilizations. Please note that this is an optional stop based on availability and may require additional time.
After a day of exploration, enjoy a relaxing drive back to your hotel in Dubai. Arrive by early evening, with your head full of new knowledge and a camera full of stunning photos from your Abu Dhabi adventure.
Professional Guide: Your experienced guide will share insights and historical context about the landmarks and culture of Abu Dhabi.
Private Tours: Private tours can be arranged for a more personalized experience.
Transportation: Travel in comfort with air-conditioned transportation throughout the day.
Seasonal Considerations: The best time to visit Abu Dhabi is during the cooler months (November to April), when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing. However, this tour operates year-round, and indoor attractions like the Sheikh Zayed Mosque and Emirates Palace are comfortable to visit any time.
Peak Hours: Abu Dhabi’s major landmarks can get busy during weekends and public holidays, so visiting during weekdays is recommended for a more relaxed experience.
Your tour will conclude in San Francisco on Day 8 of the trip. There are no activities planned for this day so you're free to depart at any time. We highly recommend booking post-accommodation to give yourself time to fully experience the wonders of this iconic city!
Day 1 of this tour is an arrivals day, which gives you a chance to settle into your hotel and explore Los Angeles. The only planned activity for this day is an evening welcome meeting at 7pm, where you can get to know your guides and fellow travellers. Please be aware that the meeting point is subject to change until your final documents are released.