Dubai to Abu Dhabi Day Trip: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Qasr Al Watan & Etihad Towers
Travel from Dubai to Abu Dhabi in a single day to visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, explore the ceremonial halls of Qasr Al Watan and take in skyline views from Etihad Towers. This guided day trip pairs cultural context with efficient transport and practical tips.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress for mosque entry
Women must cover arms, legs and hair—an abaya is provided if needed; men should cover knees and shoulders.
Hydrate and avoid midday heat
Carry water and plan indoor stops during summer; air-conditioned transit is included but outside exposure can be intense.
Timing and Fridays
Friday pickup and mosque hours differ due to Jumu’ah prayers—check start times and avoid same-day international flights.
Bring a camera with spare battery
There are several photo stops including the Corniche and Louvre exterior where battery and storage fill fast.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Qasr Al Watan’s gardens and reflective pools (less crowded early morning)
- •Louvre Abu Dhabi exterior terraces for clean sea views and architecture photos
Wildlife
- •Wading shorebirds along the Corniche
- •Occasional Arabian tahr or desert hare sightings on outskirts and protected areas
Conservation Note
Respect cultural sites by following dress codes and stay on designated paths; water use and heat mitigation are local sustainability priorities, so avoid single-use plastics where possible.
Abu Dhabi evolved rapidly after oil was found mid-20th century; modern landmarks blend traditional Islamic forms with contemporary materials to project national identity.
What to Bring
Modest cover-up (long sleeves, long pants or abaya)Essential
Required for mosque entry and useful for air-conditioned interiors.
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Marble floors and museum galleries reward supportive, non-slip footwear.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Staying hydrated is critical in the UAE heat; bottled water is usually provided but having your own is handy.
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Protect against strong UV on outdoor photo stops along the Corniche and at the Louvre plaza.
Common Questions
Do I need to wear special clothing to enter the mosque?
Yes—women must cover arms, legs and hair; an abaya and scarf can be provided. Men must cover shoulders and knees.
Will entrance fees for attractions be included?
Sheikh Zayed Mosque and Qasr Al Watan entry are included; some optional stops like museum interiors may vary—confirm with the operator.
How long is the drive from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?
Drive time is about 90 minutes each way depending on traffic; the tour includes round-trip transit in an air‑conditioned vehicle.
Is food provided?
Lunch is at your expense, typically at Marina Mall where you can choose from food court or restaurant options; plan 45–60 minutes.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
9 hours
Location
Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Light walking ability; comfortable on your feet for multiple short walks and museum galleries
Topics
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