Planning a trip to the UAE and wondering whether you should add Abu Dhabi to your itinerary, even if it’s just for a day?Our article “1 Day in Abu Dhabi” has everything you need — discover what to see, how to get around the city, and how to travel between Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
If you’re continuing your journey to Dubai, don’t miss our guide “1 Day in Dubai,” packed with activities and experiences you can choose based on your travel style and interests.
Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates, located on the coast of the Arabian Gulf, and the second-largest city after Dubai. It is the center of politics with the presidential palace, and a significant cultural and commercial center. Compared to Dubai, it is a less-visited city in the Emirates, with a more relaxed and slower pace.
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1 DAY IN ABU DHABI ITINERARY
Whether you’re planning to visit Abu Dhabi for just one day or staying a bit longer, the city offers plenty of attractions in and around its center. It’s suitable for all types of travelers, and everyone is sure to find something they enjoy. We visited both Dubai and Abu Dhabi during the summer months, when the weather was extremely hot and humid. While we didn’t manage to see everything we had planned, Abu Dhabi left a strong impression, and we definitely intend to return on our next trip to the Middle East.
Now, let’s take a look at some of the city’s most popular attractions.
SHEIKH ZAYED GRAND MOSQUE
The magnificent mosque in Abu Dhabi is a true landmark of the city and one of the most visited attractions in the Emirates. It is named after the founder of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who is also buried on the mosque grounds.
The mosque features several remarkable elements, including the largest hand-woven carpet in the world and stunning Swarovski chandeliers, one of which contains over one million crystals. In addition, the entire structure is built from white marble, which looks especially breathtaking at sunrise and sunset.
Entry to the mosque is free, but you must book a time slot in advance through the official website.
➡️ Book your tour of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque here ⬅️
As it is an active place of worship, all visitors must adhere to the dress code.
Dress Code:
For women: Hair and head must be covered with a scarf. Arms, legs, and ankles must be completely covered, and loose, long dresses or abayas are required. Abayas were previously available for free at the entrance, but now visitors can either dress modestly with their own clothing or purchase an abaya at a nearby shopping mall, though it may be more expensive. To save money, it’s better to buy one outside of the tourist areas, where prices are lower.
For men: Shorts and sleeveless shirts are not allowed. A t-shirt with long pants is acceptable.
You can find opening hours and time slot availability on the mosque’s official website.
We unfortunately didn’t manage to visit the mosque during our trip, as we were in the Emirates in the summer months when temperatures exceeded 45°C. Instead, we focused on other attractions. But this certainly wasn’t our last visit to the UAE, and we’re planning to return and experience the mosque during the cooler season.
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LOUVRE ABU DHABI
A historical museum designed for lovers of art, architecture, and history, the Louvre Abu Dhabi is the first universal museum in the United Arab Emirates and opened in 2017. It houses artworks by renowned artists such as Da Vinci, Van Gogh, Monet, and many others, along with significant historical artifacts from ancient Egypt, China, and the Islamic world.
To explore the museum fully, you’ll need around 2 to 3 hours. It’s best to visit early in the morning or shortly before closing time, when it’s less crowded and the lighting is ideal. Tickets can be conveniently purchased through the museum’s official website.
QASR AL WATAN
As the political center of the UAE and home to the Presidential Palace, Abu Dhabi opened the doors of this majestic landmark to the public in 2019, giving visitors the opportunity to explore the country’s rich culture, history, and craftsmanship.
The palace houses an extensive library filled with rare manuscripts and books. If you’re lucky, you can catch the stunning evening light and sound show, Palace in Motion, which illuminates the palace’s façade with a story of the UAE’s past, present, and future. Tickets can be purchased on the official website, and don’t forget to dress respectfully when visiting.
➡️ Book your combination of Abu Dhabi attractions here ⬅️
ABU DHABI BEACH
A sandy public beach located between the Corniche and Lulu Island, offering great views of the city skyline. The beach is equipped with changing cabins, toilets, showers, and nearby parking. It’s also conveniently close to the promenade and a scenic cycle path.
CORNICHE BEACH
Stretching over 8 km, Corniche Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Abu Dhabi. It’s known for its clean, fine sand, crystal-clear waters, and stunning panoramic views. The beach offers sun loungers and sun umbrellas (for a fee), as well as public showers and changing rooms. Lifeguards are on duty to ensure safety. A promenade with a cycle path runs alongside the beach, perfect for walking, running, or other sports. To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit early in the morning or just before sunset.
ETIHAD TOWERS OBSERVATORY
Etihad Towers consists of five futuristic towers that house luxury residences, high-end hotels, and office spaces. The towers offer breathtaking views from the observation deck, where you can take in the sights of nearby beaches and the Arabian Gulf. The buildings also feature gourmet restaurants, each with impressive panoramic views.
The observation deck is open daily, and visiting at sunset is a great way to experience the beauty of the city as it transforms from day to night. However, it can get a bit crowded, especially during peak times.
Be sure to bring your camera if you plan to visit the observation deck!
➡️ Here you can book a tour for your 1 day in Abu Dhabi ⬅️
ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES FOR 1 DAY IN ABU DHABI
WORLD TRADE CENTER MALL
Probably the most popular shopping destination in Abu Dhabi, the mall houses a wide range of international and local brands, offering everything from fashion and electronics to homewares and cosmetics. As with many other shopping malls, you’ll also find a variety of dining options here, perfect if you’ve spent the day at the beach and need something to eat.
QASR AL HOSN
Qasr Al Hosn, also known as the White Fort, is a historically significant monument located in the heart of Abu Dhabi. Dating back to the 18th century, it is the oldest stone building in the city. Originally serving as the residence of the ruling Al Nahyan family, the fort now operates as a historical museum. In this museum, visitors can learn about Abu Dhabi’s fascinating transformation from a small fishing village to a thriving modern metropolis.The fort and museum are open daily to the public, offering both guided and self-guided tours.
HERITAGE VILLAGE
Abu Dhabi Heritage Village is a cultural museum where you can browse stalls featuring handmade products, spices, textiles, and traditional souvenirs. The site also includes reconstructed Bedouin dwellings, offering a glimpse into life in the Emirates before the oil era.
Visitors can watch live demonstrations of traditional crafts, explore artifacts from desert life, and view a variety of tools, weapons, and jewelry used in daily life centuries ago.
Admission is free, and you’ll need around two hours to explore the entire village comfortably. To avoid the heat, it’s best to visit early in the morning.
FERRARI WORLD YAS ISLAND
An indoor amusement park located on Yas Island, Ferrari World is the first Ferrari-themed park in the world. It opened in 2010 and continues to impress visitors with more than 40 rides and attractions. The park is home to the world’s fastest roller coaster, offers electric go-karts, and includes an interactive play area for younger visitors.
On-site, you’ll also find a restaurant, a café for refreshments between rides, and an exclusive Ferrari store where you can shop for branded merchandise. Tickets can be purchased through the official website or via websites like GetYourGuide.
🏎️ Book your ticket for Ferrari World here 🏎️
SEAWORLD ABU DHABI
Another attraction on Yas Island is SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, an aquatic park home to more than 100,000 marine animals. The park features several themed zones, including the world’s largest multi-species aquarium with sharks, rays, and sea turtles.
There’s also an underwater-themed playground for children, a variety of dining options, and several SeaWorld-themed retail stores. This attraction is a great choice for families with children or for days when the weather isn’t ideal.
✨Book your tours for 1 day in Abu Dhabi with GetYourGuide:
1. Abu Dhabi: SeaWorld Entry Ticket (valid for one day)
2. Abu Dhabi: Guided Speedboat Sightseeing Tour (45min- 75min)
3. Abu Dhabi: Morning Desert Tour, Camel Ride, & Sandboarding (4 hours)
DAY TRIPS FROM ABU DHABI
If Abu Dhabi is just a short stopover on your way to Dubai or another destination, and you’re not in the mood to explore the city’s attractions, you can opt for a day trip to the desert or try sandboarding. There are plenty of excursions available from Abu Dhabi — just choose the one that suits your interests best.
✨Discover and book tours and excursions from Abu Dhabi with GetYourGuide:
1.Abu Dhabi: Desert Safari with BBQ, Camel Ride & Sandboarding (6 hours)
2.From Abu Dhabi: Dubai Full-Day Sightseeing Tour (8hours)
3.Abu Dhabi: Morning Desert Tour, Camel Ride, & Sandboarding (4 hours)
4.Abu Dhabi: Overnight Desert Safari (7 hours)
5.Abu Dhabi Evening Desert Safari & Dinner Under the Stars (5-7 hours)
HOW TO GET AROUND ABU DHABI
Abu Dhabi’s attractions are spread out across different areas, and the city isn’t particularly walkable — especially in the heat. However, it offers several reliable transportation options.
Taxis, Uber & Careem
Probably the most convenient (though not the most budget-friendly) way to get around Abu Dhabi is by taxi. In the UAE, ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem allow for easy, cashless travel. Your driver will pick you up and drop you off right where you need to go. It’s a fast and efficient option, especially for short trips.
Regular street taxis are also widely available and can be flagged down or booked via phone. However, they are generally more expensive than those ordered through Uber or Careem.
Buses
Abu Dhabi has an extensive bus network operated by the Department of Transport. This is the most affordable way to travel around the city. That said, it may not be the most convenient for tourists, as many routes are designed to serve residential areas and don’t always stop near major tourist attractions.
⬇️ Check out our other articles about United Arab Emirates ⬇️
🏙️ 1 day in Dubai
🏨 Where to stay in Dubai
🏖️ Worst time to visit Dubai
🚢 Ferry Dubai to Iran
Car Rental
If you prefer exploring at your own pace, renting a car might be the best option. It offers the most flexibility, allowing you to visit more remote places like the desert or Yas Island, where many popular attractions are located. The downside is heavy traffic during rush hours. Still, Abu Dhabi’s roads are well-maintained, signage is clear, and navigation is straightforward with GPS apps.
🚗 Rent a car for your Abu Dhabi trip here 🚗
HOW TO GET TO ABU DHABI
If your stay begins in Dubai or you are heading there after visiting Abu Dhabi, make sure to check out our video about the bus connection between the two cities. This route is also popular among tourists traveling to Abu Dhabi for various events and concerts held throughout the year at the Etihad Arena on Yas Island.
🚐Book your private transfer from Dubai to Abu Dhabi with GetYourGuide:
1.Private Dubai to Abu Dhabi Transfer with Options (2-8 hours)
2.Dubai or Abu Dhabi: Private Chauffeur Service (10 hours)
3.One-Way Private Transfer between Dubai & Abu Dhabi (2 hours)
We used the bus for a one-day trip from Dubai to Abu Dhabi and back. It was a comfortable 2.5 hour ride, covering a distance of 135 kilometers. The ticket cost approximately 6 euros (25 AED) one way. Cash payments are not accepted, so you must purchase a Nol Card at the Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station or in Dubai and add credit to it.
➡️ WATCH OUR VIDEO TRAVELING UAE: DUBAI TO ABU DHABI BUS ⬅️
WHERE TO STAY IN ABU DHABI
There are several great areas to stay in Abu Dhabi, with the most popular being near the city’s beaches — Abu Dhabi Beach and Corniche Beach.
Al Markaziyah is one of the best-located neighborhoods, not only close to the beach but also near major attractions like Qasr Al Hosn and the World Trade Center Mall. This area offers hotels and accommodations across all price ranges. We personally stayed in this area and found it very convenient — just a 10-minute taxi ride from the city beach and promenade.
Yas Island is ideal for those focused on entertainment and theme parks. It’s home to major attractions such as Ferrari World, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, and Yas Mall. Because of this, you’ll find several modern hotels in the area. While it’s not centrally located, it’s perfect for families or travelers looking for fun and leisure.
➡️ Book your stay in Abu Dhabi ⬅️
Some visitors choose to stay near the airport, especially since flights to Abu Dhabi International Airport are often cheaper than flights to Dubai. However, keep in mind that if you’re planning to visit the main city attractions, staying near the airport means you’ll be quite far from the action — it’s more suitable for short stopovers or early morning flights.
Even if your stay is short, we recommend choosing a hotel with a swimming pool to cool off after your arrival.
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CONCLUSION
Abu Dhabi is a much calmer and more relaxed city than Dubai, designed to suit every type of traveler. Within the city, you’ll find a wide range of attractions, and just outside, unforgettable experiences in the desert. With a well-planned itinerary, it’s absolutely possible to see the highlights in just one day.
The city also offers beautiful public beaches, perfect for a walk along the Arabian Gulf or watching the sunset. It’s a great destination for budget-friendly travelers too, with accommodation options ranging from hostels to luxury hotels.
Even if you don’t manage to see everything in one visit, Abu Dhabi is a place you’ll want to return to. We definitely plan to go back, as we visited during the peak of summer and didn’t manage to see the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Mosque. Next time, we’ll aim for a cooler season to enjoy it fully.
No matter how much time you have, Abu Dhabi is well worth a visit.
Q&A
Is it worth spending a day in Abu Dhabi?
Abu Dhabi is definitely worth a visit. It offers a much slower pace compared to the fast and furious lifestyle of Dubai. You won’t find as many tourists here, which makes it ideal for a more relaxed experience. Whether you visit as a day trip or spend a full day exploring the city, it is well worth your time. After seeing a few key attractions, you can end your day by watching the sunset from one of the city’s beaches, a perfect way to unwind.
What to do in Abu Dhabi in 24 hours?
There is quite a lot to do in Abu Dhabi in 24 hours. The most popular attraction is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, and it’s important to secure your tickets in advance. Visiting the mosque is free, but you must book a time slot ahead of your visit. In addition to the mosque, the city offers a variety of other experiences, such as dinner in the desert, sandboarding, or water activities.
Abu Dhabi is also home to some impressive museums like the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and you’ll find several modern shopping malls perfect for cooling off, relaxing, or picking up a few things. It all depends on what type of traveler you are and what kind of experiences you enjoy most.
Is Abu Dhabi cheap or expensive?
The city has many faces. Some attractions, like swimming at the beach or visiting the main highlight — the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque — are free of charge. Accommodation in Abu Dhabi, especially luxury resorts directly on or near the beach, can be quite expensive, particularly during the high season. That said, there is definitely something for every type of visitor, from budget-friendly options to high-end, luxurious stays. The Emirates are not the cheapest destination overall, and Abu Dhabi is quite similar to Dubai in that regard, especially during peak travel months.
Is Abu Dhabi a walkable city?
The city is not very walkable. Distances between attractions are much greater than in many other urban areas. Unlike Dubai, Abu Dhabi does not have a metro system, and during the hot summer months, the high temperatures and humidity can make even short walks quite challenging. Most visitors rely on ride-hailing apps like Careem or Uber to get around the city at a reasonable cost. There is also a public bus network, but the schedule and routes may not be convenient for all travelers.
What is the most famous thing in Abu Dhabi?
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is undoubtedly the most famous and magnificent attraction in all of Abu Dhabi. It is one of the largest mosques in the world — a masterpiece of Islamic architecture, featuring over 1,000 columns, 82 white domes, sparkling Swarovski chandeliers, and one of the world’s largest hand-knotted carpets. You can spot this breathtaking structure from afar as you arrive in the city from Dubai, and it truly leaves a lasting impression.
Can you do Abu Dhabi on a budget?
Abu Dhabi is definitely worth a visit, even if you’re traveling on a tight budget. Attractions like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and public beaches are free to visit, making it easy to save money if you plan ahead and avoid the high season. The city also offers a range of budget-friendly hotels, apartments, and hostels in convenient locations. If you’re not interested in expensive restaurants or fine dining, there are plenty of affordable places to eat — or you can choose to cook for yourself if you’re staying in an apartment.
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