Abu Dhabi is the largest of the 7 emirates which together form the UAE. As the year’s go by, so does the popularity of this scorching desert city. If you happen to have just one day to enjoy the ultra-modern city of Abu Dhabi, you will be hard pressed to choose where to go and what to see first. Check out our suggested one-day itinerary for a helping hand.
Morning
Any visit to Abu Dhabi has to include a visit to the stunning beaches. With soaring temperatures, the best time to visit is in the early morning. With that in mind, the first stop of the day should be at the Corniche. The waterfront, backed by shops, restaurants, and other buildings runs for 6km. It offers a huge expanse of sparkling sand and twinkling warm water and plenty of facilities to enjoy. You will easily lose a few hours here.
The next place to visit will be Sheikh Zayed Mosque, the largest mosque in the UAE for a free guided tour at 10am. It isn’t only the size of the place that will take your breath away. The interior will do just that too. This stunning place of worship is also home to the world’s largest carpet which is worth in excess of £5 million.
Late Morning
Having completed the tour of the Mosque, the next place to visit should be the Gold Souk. Even if you aren’t looking to buy it’s a great place to get a cultural insight. Remember, no pictures are allowed but with around 100 shops selling gold it’s an experience you won’t forget in a hurry.
Once you’ve had your fill, head off to Yas Island to enjoy the next couple of hours. Yas Island is the home to Abu Dhabi’s Grand Prix circuit and you’ll also find Ferrari World Amusement Park here. This is said to be the largest indoor amusement park in the world. It also boasts the world’s fastest rollercoaster where you will reach speeds of 240km/h. For Those non-adrenaline junkies among you, there is plenty to keep you entertained on the island too.
Afternoon
After grabbing some lunch, it is time for some retail therapy. This is practically essential on any Abu Dhabi itinerary. There are some enormous malls on Yas Island itself but also back in the city centre. If you opt have cash to splash, head to the likes of Chanel and Burberry in the Marina Mall. If however you are looking for some gifts to take home, head to the Liwa Centre and check out 2nd Street, between Hamdan Street and Sheikh Zayed where there are a myriad of individual shops.
Once you have finished shopping, stop by at Manarat Al Saadiyat, the purpose built Abu Dhabi visitor Centre found in Saadiyat Island Cultural District. If you’re interested in the future of this maze of modern structures this place is for you. Play with the interactive touch screen where you will find a wealth of information too.
Evening
One of the very best ways to appreciate Abu Dhabi is by air. In the early evening, embark on a helicopter tour where you can enjoy the bird’s eye view as the sun sets and the bright lights of the city below begin to emerge.
Once you are back on the ground, treat yourself with dinner at The Emirates Palace. This is Abu Dhabi’s equivalent to the 7 star Burj Al-Arab. Here, you’ll find an interior laden with marble and gold, and rooms lit by Swarovski crystal chandeliers. Once you’ve finished eating, end your Abu Dhabi experience like a local with a visit to one of the many shisha cafes!
Have you been to Abu Dhabi? How did you spend your day there? Or are you planning a trip there soon? Let us know in the comments!
