7 days in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Abu Dhabi, the vibrant capital of the United Arab Emirates, boasts an irresistible charm that’ll leave you in awe. With its impressive skyline, luxurious hotels, and pristine beaches, this city perfectly pairs modernity with rich cultural heritage. Don’t miss out on the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the thrilling rides at Ferrari World, or the traditional Bedouin experiences. Plus, the mouth-watering Emirati cuisine will have you craving for more!
Things to Consider Before Arriving in Abu Dhabi
Excellent safety and cleanliness
A shopper’s paradise, thanks to numerous shopping malls and markets
The scorching heat in summer can be overwhelming
Abu Dhabi is perfect for luxury seekers, adventure enthusiasts, and history buffs.
What to Bring with You
• Light, modest clothing (covering knees and shoulders)
• Comfortable sandals or shoes to walk around
• Sunscreen and sunglasses for protection against the desert sun
• Universal power adapter for your electronic devices
Best Time of the Year to Visit
The ideal time to visit Abu Dhabi is between November and March, when temperatures are pleasant, and you can comfortably explore the city without breaking a sweat. In addition, many exciting events and festivals take place during these months.
How to Get into the City
1. By plane: International travelers can fly directly into Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH), which provides ample ground transportation options to reach the city center, such as taxis and buses.
2. By bus: If you happen to be in neighboring cities like Dubai, you can use the Intercity Bus services, which offer a cost-effective and comfortable ride.
3. By car: Renting a car and driving to Abu Dhabi is also a convenient option, especially if you’re a fan of road trips and want to explore nearby destinations at your own pace. Just make sure to follow local traffic rules and customs to ensure a smooth journey.
7 Day City Guide Trip to Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Day 1: Cultural Immersion
Start your trip by visiting the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the third-largest mosque in the world. Learn about the history and significance of this landmark. Afterwards, head to the Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum to see the impressive collection of art from around the world.
For lunch, try the traditional Emirati dish of Machboos, a spiced rice dish with meat or fish. In the afternoon, visit the Qasr Al Watan Palace to learn about the country’s political history and see the stunning architecture.
Day 2: The Great Outdoors
Escape the city’s hustle and bustle and head to the lush greenery of Khalifa Park, where you can enjoy a picnic or go for a walk. Afterwards, take a trip to the stunning Al Ain Oasis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and learn about the ancient irrigation system used in the region.
For dinner, try the local specialty of shawarma, a Middle Eastern wrap filled with grilled meat and veggies. End the day by watching the mesmerizing Water and Light Show at the Dubai Fountain.
Day 3: City Adventure
Start your day at the Emirates Palace, a luxurious hotel with impressive architecture and beautiful landscaped gardens. After exploring, head to the Marina Mall and go shopping or enjoy the breathtaking view of the Arabian Gulf from the top floor.
For dinner, try the famous grilled seafood at Al Dhafra Restaurant. End the day at the Corniche, a beautiful waterfront promenade where you can take a relaxing stroll, rent a bike, or even go kayaking.
Day 4: Day Trip to Dubai
Take a day trip to Dubai, just an hour away from Abu Dhabi. Visit the world-famous Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and the Dubai Mall, the largest mall in the world with over 1,200 shops.
For lunch, try traditional Lebanese food at Al Hallab Restaurant. In the evening, head back to Abu Dhabi and enjoy a sunset dinner at the Observation Deck at 300, with stunning views from the 74th floor of the Jumeirah at Etihad Towers.
Day 5: Desert Adventure
Experience the thrill of the desert by booking a desert safari. Ride a camel, go sandboarding, and watch the beautiful sunset over the sand dunes. Afterwards, enjoy a traditional Bedouin-style dinner and watch a belly dancing show.
Day 6: Beach Day
Spend the day relaxing at the luxurious Saadiyat Island, home to some of the city’s best beaches. Enjoy water activities such as kayaking or paddleboarding, then take a break and enjoy a refreshing drink at one of the beachfront cafes.
For dinner, try the delicious Indian cuisine at Indigo Restaurant. End the day by enjoying the vibrant nightlife at Yas Island, with several bars and dance clubs to choose from.
Day 7: Yas Island Adventures
Spend your last day exploring the exciting attractions at Yas Island, such as Ferrari World, the world’s largest indoor theme park, or Warner Bros World, a theme park based on popular movies and TV shows. For lunch, head to the Yas Mall and try the Lebanese cuisine at Almaz by Momo.
How to Continue Your Travel After Spending 7 Days in Abu Dhabi
After completing your 7-day trip in Abu Dhabi, consider taking a day trip to the nearby city of Al Ain, where you can explore the beautiful Jebel Hafeet mountain and the Al Ain Zoo. Alternatively, take a trip to the nearby city of Sharjah to see the historic landmarks such as the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization and the Sharjah Art Museum. Both cities can be reached within an hour’s drive from Abu Dhabi.
