Sheikh Zayed Mosque & Emirates Palace High Tea: Day Trip from Dubai
A private day trip from Dubai to Abu Dhabi that pairs a visit to the monumental Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque with a luxurious traditional high tea at Emirates Palace. Expect polished marble, meticulous dress rules, and a six-hour, curated cultural outing.
The Experience
Before You Go
Respect the dress code
Wear long trousers and covered shoulders; women should carry a scarf—abayas are often provided but bringing your own saves time.
Beat the heat
Book early-morning visits to avoid midday temperatures and large coach groups; the mosque grounds are exposed to sun.
Stay hydrated
Carry a refillable water bottle for the drive—restaurants can provide water but keeping your own is faster between stops.
Mind photography rules
Photography is allowed in many public areas but respect restricted spaces and avoid photographing worshippers without permission.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Qasr Al Hosn—an early stone fort and museum close to downtown Abu Dhabi
- •The Eastern Mangroves boardwalk for quiet birdwatching and skyline views
Wildlife
- •Wading shorebirds and flamingos in coastal lagoons
- •Occasional monitoring of green sea turtles near Abu Dhabi’s coastal waters
Conservation Note
Both sites encourage respectful visitation and the mosque limits access to preserve sacred spaces; travelers are asked to minimize waste, use provided recycling where available, and avoid disturbing nearby coastal habitats.
Sheikh Zayed Mosque was completed in 2007 and honors the UAE’s founding father; Emirates Palace opened in 2005 as a flagship of modern Emirati hospitality.
What to Bring
Lightweight scarf or abayaEssential
Required for women at the mosque to cover hair and shoulders; having your own speeds entry.
Comfortable slip-on shoesEssential
Easy to remove for mosque entry and comfortable for walking on marble and gardens.
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Protects against strong sun while walking between sites and on exposed palace grounds.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Keeps you hydrated during transfers and waits—important in UAE’s dry climate.
Common Questions
Do I need to pay to enter Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque?
General admission to the mosque is free; this tour includes guided entry and often covers any administrative access fees.
Is the Emirates Palace high tea included?
Yes—this tour’s itinerary includes a traditional afternoon tea at Emirates Palace, typically with a selection of teas and a signature cake.
Are there restrictions on clothing and photography?
Yes—modest dress is required for mosque entry, head coverings for women are enforced, and photography is allowed in most public areas but not inside prayer halls during services or where signage prohibits it.
Can the operator pick up from Dubai hotels?
Yes—this private excursion offers hotel pick-up and drop-off in Dubai; confirm your pickup point when booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6 hours
Location
Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; involves short periods of standing and walking on flat ground
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