Getting ready for a quick three-day trip to Abu Dhabi? Excellent decision. Abu Dhabi, the capital and largest city of the United Arab Emirates, offers countless opportunities for enjoyment. With a full 72 hours in Abu Dhabi, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the city’s top-notch theme parks, discover the unspoiled wilderness, and even venture out to the places and things that will give you a glimpse of its illustrious cultural past and heritage. But if you’re unsure of how to fit all of these sights and activities into your limited time, this three-day Abu Dhabi city tour itinerary that we’ve put together for you will come in handy.
What to Do and See in Abu Dhabi for Three Days
A Three-Day Abu Dhabi Guide and Itinerary
DAY 1: START OFF THE FIRST DAY WITH ABU DHABI’S MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS
After breakfast today, set out to explore Abu Dhabi’s renowned landmarks. Include the following in your sightseeing checklist, please.
1) The Mosque of Sheikh Zayed:
This is one of the most magnificent architectural wonders in the Islamic world. With This all-white religious site of interest will astound you with its sheer size, magnificent architectural features, and striking tranquilly, with a capacity to accommodate 40,000 worshippers at any given time. In particular, this is a must-see during your trip to Abu Dhabi; the best part is that Sheikh Zayed Mosque entry is free and non-Muslims are welcome inside.
2) Observation Deck at 300:
The glitzy cityscape of Abu Dhabi is unmatched, and the Observation Deck at 300 offers one of the highest vantage points in the area from which to see it all. This is located on floor 74 of Jumeirah at Etihad Towers.
3) Qasr Al Hosn
One of the richest cities in the world, Abu Dhabi combines modernity with centuries-old culture and traditions. And since Qasr Al Hosn is the area’s oldest heritage site, it offers the most authentic look into its past.
4) Historic Village:
Want to know what Emiratis’ lives were like prior to the oil boom? Visit Heritage Village, which is designed to resemble an actual Arabian village. You’ll undoubtedly get a glimpse of the area’s traditional way of life as well as learn about the fascinating local arts and crafts, like weaving and pottery.
5) Market date:
Without some date shopping, what good is an Arabian holiday? And one of the best places in the UAE to buy the highest quality dates is at this historic Date bazaar.
6) Mall at Marina
Abu Dhabi’s malls serve more purposes than just serving as places to shop. But Marina Mall exceeds your expectations; after all, it has the biggest Carrefour store in the city as well as a variety of entertainment options like a multiplex theatre, a bowling alley, and an observatory.
7) The Qasr Al Watan
You should definitely pay this palace a visit because it has some fascinating sections and exhibits, whether you want to see the royal magnificence or the illuminating arts and artefacts that reveal the Emirati past.
8) Dubai Palace:
This is one of the most opulent hotels in the entire United Arab Emirates, not just Abu Dhabi. Even if you don’t intend to stay, come here just for the amazing photo opportunities.
9) Corniche in Abu Dhabi:
Relax and unwind at this beautifully designed location after your busy sightseeing. Because there are so many opportunities, you can participate in a wide range of activities, such as football, volleyball, water sports, etc.
10) Dhow cruise:
A dhow cruise along the Corniche will be the ideal way to cap off your first day. You can view the city skyline of Abu Dhabi while taking a leisurely cruise on a traditional Arabian ship. About two hours of the best dining and entertainment are included in the trip.
Day 2: Select from the Yas ISLAND ATTRACTIONS AND EXPERIENCES.
Did you know there is an entire island in Abu Dhabi devoted to pure entertainment and fun? To see it for yourself, go to Yas Island! Yes, this island destination is worth a full day trip because it has a number of family-friendly theme parks and other exciting attractions.
1) Ferrari world Abu Dhabi:
For die-hard Ferrari fans, this location is an absolute paradise. It is, after all, the first Ferrari-branded theme park in the world. Ferrari World has it all, whether you want fast, entertainment for children, or anything in between. For those who don’t know, it has Formula Rossa to its credit—the fastest roller coaster in the entire world.
2) Abu Dhabi CLYMB:
The tallest climbing wall in the world and the largest skydiving chamber can both be found at this recently added attraction to the island.
3) Water world Yas
4) Abu Dhabi’s Warner Bros.
It is a haven for lovers of rides and attractions with a superhero or cartoon theme. Due to its six distinctive zones, which excite both the child within you and your own child.
5) Abu Dhabi’s KidZania:
Let your children, who range in age from 4 to 16 years old, run this miniature city on Yas Island. This enables your children to take on the role of an adult as they enthusiastically pursue their preferred profession and earn money using KidZos currency.
6) Yas beach:
Want to take a break from action-packed adventures and thrilling rides? Spend some time at Yas Beach, which boasts beautiful scenery and imposing waters.
7) Circuit at Yas Marina:
Being one of the most expensive racetracks in the world, it is a must-see. The annual Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Formula One race is held there as well.
DAY 3: INSPIRED BY ABU DHABI’S UNEXPLORED NATURE & CULTURE
A list of things to do in Abu Dhabi would be lacking without exclusive excursions that introduce you to the area’s pristine surroundings. So why not set aside today to celebrate nature, culture, and unique adventures? Start the day with a visit to the Mangrove National Park, then continue on to the Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum and a desert safari tour.
1) National Mangrove Park:
Even though it’s only a short drive from the city centre, you’ll feel like you’ve left the concrete jungle behind. Given that it makes up nearly 75% of the nation’s total mangrove forest, Abu Dhabi’s hidden gem is a delight for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. You can sign up for a stand-up paddleboard tour, a kayak tour, or just a boat cruise to get a close-up look at this lush environment and its flora and fauna. Stay at one of Abu Dhabi’s most well-known 5-star hotels, which is situated directly across from the mangroves, if you have a few extra days to spend outside of the city centre. At this Anantara Resort in Abu Dhabi, go on an adventure in the desert and then unwind with Turkish hammam rituals.
2) Abu Dhabi’s Louvre Museum:
Make sure to put this stunning museum on your Abu Dhabi itinerary if you love art. More than just its name—a play on the Louvre Museum in Paris, or its incredible collection of artwork—which features pieces by Leonardo da Vinci and Vincent Van Gogh—describe it. The Saadiyat Island Cultural District is where it is located. The first universal museum in the Arab world is the Louvre Abu Dhabi. Additionally, it has stunning architecture that is immediately recognisable, including a sizable perforated dome that creates the illusion of raining light.
3) The desert safari
Prepare yourself for an incredible off-road adventure that will provide you with the fun and thrill of a lifetime this evening. A desert safari in Abu Dhabi not only takes you deep into the Arabian sand dunes, but also provides you with a number of thrilling experiences. Take part in 4X4 dune bashing, ride a camel, get beautiful henna designs on your hands, and try Shisha smoking. Before your desert tour comes to an end, chow down on a sumptuous BBQ dinner and take in more traditional performances like belly dancing, tanura, and fire shows.