Abu Dhabi and Dubai are the landmark cities of the UAE. A perfect place to embrace the Emirati culture. Explore several places of interest in the day tours in Abu Dhabi. Each landmark on this emirate carries its own charm and a story something which is worth discovering – no matter whether it is the Burj Khalifa, Burj Al-Arab, traditional gold and spice souks, Sheikh Zayed Center, Abu Dhabi Corniche, Emirates Palace Hotel, Yas Island, Grand Mosque, Ali Port, and much more.
You will be in awe discovering this amazing gateway between the east and the west. Explore these marvels with a full-day Abu Dhabi sightseeing tours. As you cross over from Abu Dhabi to Dubai, you will pass through the clinical largest artificial harbor in the world, Jebel Ali Harbor. Admire the architectural marvels in Dubai and get amazed by the transformation of this beautiful dynamic city from a fishing village to a modern world-class destination. Some of the must-visit during your Emirate tour are:
- Sheikh Zayed Mosque
The first stopover on your day tours in Abu Dhabi has to be Sheikh Zayed Mosque, the largest mosque in the UAE and the 8th largest in the world. One of the central places of worship for the Muslim faith residing in this emirate. This massive mosque can house 40,000 people in one go and houses the largest marble mosaic in the world in its courtyard along with the largest carpet in the world in its main prayer hall. This massive mosque is a result of several thousands of workers from a dozen design companies making it one of the most expensive mosques ever built on earth. White marble was imported from almost 28 different countries to build it gigantic mosque along with exclusive chandeliers from Europe and exquisite carpets from Iran.
Even though a huge amount of money and time has gone into building this beautiful marvel, admission is free of cost for the public. There is a strict dress code followed by visiting these mosques. Women should cover their hands and legs and their head with a scarf. Transparent or see-through clothing should be avoided. Similarly, men should also cover their legs while entering the mosque. In general, avoid tight clothes and wear loose clothes.
- Abu Dhabi Corniche
This marvelous structure stretches 5 miles along the northwestern shores of Abu Dhabi. One of the popular recreation spots among both locals and tourists alike. This massive stretch features a range of attractive waterfronts like cafes, playgrounds, walking paths, bicycle rentals, and much more. No matter what the indulgence you choose, the stunning view of the Abu Dhabi skyline can never be missed.
Post sunset, you can explore the promenade which is excellent for an evening stroll. One of the star linings of the Corniche is the white sandy beach which is open to the public. This is a happening and safe place for families traveling with their little ones. Visit the beach during the weekday as you can beat the rush on weekends. The beach is constantly guarded and monitored by numerous lifeguards during swimming hours and the floating fences ensure that the water babies do not go beyond 40 meters of the beach.
- Explore the Grand Emirates Palace
Abu Dhabi houses its own 7-star hotel which was launched in the year 2005. This hotel is managed by the Kempinski Group and is placed on the outskirts of the city on its private sandbar. Some of the highlighting features of this grand hotel are its domed, sand-colored palace, lush green gardens, sparkling pools, and enchanting water fountains.
There are 302 rooms and 92 suites, most of which are given final touches with gold and marble. All rooms are furnished with world-class entertainment systems coupled with stylish Arabian interiors which ooze opulence to the core. Marbles were imported from 13 different countries along with 1,002 exclusive chandeliers which light up the hotel.
If you do not have a budget to book a room in this extravagant hotel, catch up on a meal at one of the 10 restaurants or a drink at one of its four bars or indulge in a refreshing treatment at the Anantara Spa.
- Abu Dhabi Heritage Village
The last stopover should be the ancient Abu Dhabi Heritage Village, which highlights the past journey and gives you an insight into the life here before the oil boom. A visit to this village gives you access to drive along the stunning Abu Dhabi Corniche. Located on the Corniche breakwater, this is a renovated ancient village which reflects the lifestyles and rich traditions of the native Emirati cultures. Get a glimpse of the history of Abu Dhabi before the oil boom when pearl diving and fishing were the main contributors to the economy. Early morning visits do not work for both tourists and visitors as the open-air museum gets too hot to handle.
The ancient goats’ hair tent gives insight about the traditional falaj irrigation system which was instrumental in desert dwellers to cultivate and grow crops. Check out the local skilled craftsmen at work as they design pottery, spinning, and weaving. Do visit the gift shop during your visit. The offerings include local herbs and spices along with items prepared by the local artisans residing in the village.
- Classic and Modern Dubai
Explore Dubai in its full glory as you check out exquisite Jumeirah Mosque, the ultra-luxurious Burj Al Arab, the Burj Khalifa, and the spectacular Jumeirah Beach. For a deeper experience, head to the Palm Islands, the artificial island of Palm Jumeirah and the royal archway like resort, the Atlantis. A ride along the Sheikh Zayed Road towards the Burj Khalifa will uncover various highlights of the city. Grab a photo of the enchanting Burj Khalifa and check out the dazzling Dubai fountains placed behind this classic landmark.
Browse through the Jumeirah Shoreline and you will get a glimpse into the opulent nature of Dubai’s residential areas. There are also a fleet of luxury hotels and a picturesque palace along with the white marble dome and minarets of the Jumeirah Mosque. Your next stopover in Dubai should be the ancient old quarter of Al Bastakiya. The Old Al Fahidi Fort in the Al Bastakiya quarter also houses the Dubai Museum. Before leaving Dubai, drift past the central waterway of Dubai. Wave off goodbye to Dubai in style by hopping on to a water taxi ride, often referred as the Abra at the Dubai Creek.
For a unique shopping experience, head to the Gold Souk and the Spice Souk on the Dubai Creek. Apart from the shining armor of incredible variety of jewelry, you can also pick up many interesting souvenirs while you fulfill your shopping cravings.
I Am Akshay, loves travelling across the world. I think there are lot to see and do in the world, You just need to up for it. Apart from travelling, I love writing blog/articles and poems also.
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