Three days in Abu Dhabi can feel like a whirlwind, but with a little planning, you can hit all the highlights and enjoy some local flavor. Get ready for museums, deserts, and food that will make your taste buds do a happy dance. Grab your sunglasses and let’s dive into this unforgettable itinerary.
Day 1: Culture overload
Morning: Start your day at the Louvre Abu Dhabi. This architectural marvel is like a mix of art and science fiction. You’ll want to dedicate at least two to three hours wandering through the galleries. Keep an eye out for the stunning dome that creates a “rain of light” effect. It’s Instagram gold!
- Opening hours: 10 AM
- Entry fee: Around 63 AED
- Must-see: The Leonardo da Vinci painting and the Egyptian artifacts
Afternoon: After you’ve soaked in some culture, head to Saadiyat Beach for a leisurely lunch at a beachside café. Enjoy some fresh seafood while pretending you’re on a private island. It’s only a short 15-minute drive from the museum. A little sun and sand will do wonders for your soul.
- Recommended lunch spot: Fish Beach Taverna
- Lunch options: Grilled fish, mezze platters, and a view that makes you feel fancy
Evening: Wrap up your day with a visit to the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. This place is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. Head over just before sunset to catch the golden hour glow. You’ll be in awe as the mosque lights up. Guided tours are available, and it’s free to enter!
- Driving time from the beach: 20 minutes
- Tip: Dress modestly – it’s a mosque, not a nightclub
Day 2: Desert adventures
Morning: Time for some adventure! Book a desert safari for the day. Most tours pick you up around 9 AM. You can choose between dune bashing, camel riding, and sandboarding. You’ll feel like an action movie star zooming over the dunes. Just remember to hold on tight!
- Recommended tour company: Desert Adventures
- Duration: About 6 hours including travel
- Extras: Some tours include lunch and a chance to try traditional Arabic coffee
Afternoon: After the thrilling desert activities, enjoy a traditional Bedouin lunch under a tent. This is your chance to try shawarma and hummus that will ruin all other hummus for you. Post-lunch, take a moment to appreciate the peace of the desert. It’s a stark contrast to the bustling city life.
Evening: Head back to the city and freshen up. For dinner, visit Al Fanar Restaurant for an authentic Emirati dining experience. Try shawarma or machboos (a rice dish with spices and meat) that’ll make you wish your stomach had a bottomless pit.
- Travel time back to the city: About 30-45 minutes
- Ambiance: Cozy and traditional, with a touch of nostalgia
Day 3: Foodie fun
Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Abu Dhabi Farmers' Market (if you're there on a Saturday). Fresh produce, local crafts, and a chance to mingle with locals make this a delightful stop. Grab a breakfast wrap or a fresh juice to kickstart your day.
- Location: At the Abu Dhabi Corniche
- Time: 8 AM to 1 PM
Midday: Next, explore the Qasr Al Watan, the presidential palace. It’s like stepping into a royal fairytale. You can take a self-guided audio tour, which is a great way to learn about Emirati heritage while pretending you’re royalty.
- Entry fee: Around 60 AED
- Spend: 1.5 to 2 hours here
Afternoon: For lunch, venture to Caramel Restaurant & Lounge. Their lunch menu is a blend of Middle Eastern and international cuisines that will have your taste buds singing. The ambiance is chic, making it an ideal spot for foodies who want to feel fancy without breaking the bank.
Evening: End your trip with a stroll along the Corniche. The views of the skyline at sunset are breathtaking. Grab a gelato from one of the many shops nearby. It’s a perfect way to reflect on your adventures before heading home.
- Distance: Walkable from Caramel
- Recommended flavor: Pistachio or saffron
Three days in Abu Dhabi can fly by, but with this itinerary, you’ll have a taste of culture, adventure, and culinary delights. Whether you’re an art lover, an adventure seeker, or a foodie, this city has something for you. So pack your bags, grab your sense of adventure, and get ready to make some unforgettable memories!
