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Abu Dhabi Culture & history

Our most recommended Abu Dhabi Culture & history

From Abu Dhabi: Grand Mosque, Royal Palace, and Etihad Tower

1. From Abu Dhabi: Grand Mosque, Royal Palace, and Etihad Tower

Explore Abu Dhabi's top sights on a guided tour of the city. Visit the Etihad Towers, learn about the government of the UAE at the Presidential Palace, and marvel at the beauty of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Get picked up by your driver from your hotel or selected location in Abu Dhabi. Hop into an air-conditioned vehicle and get ready to explore the capital city of UAE. Make your first stop at the beautiful Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Enter this world-famous example of Islamic architecture. See the fabulous craftsmanship of this space which can accommodate around 40,000 worshippers inside its walls.  View the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet, 82 domes, chandeliers, and flower-patterned designs before heading to Marina Mall for a lunch break. Either dine in the mall restaurants or food court, at your own expense. Continue on to the Etihad Towers, a complex of 5 opulent skyscrapers. This entertainment hub offers you the chance for leisure dining and shopping. Enjoy the panoramic views of Abu Dhabi city from the observation deck of the Etihad Towers. Finally, visit Qasr Al Watan, the Presidential Palace, a tribute to Arabic heritage and craftsmanship. Gain an insight into governance, knowledge, and artistry that has shaped the nation of UAE. At the end of the tour, be dropped off back at your hotel or a select location in Abu Dhabi.

From Dubai: Abu Dhabi Premium Full-Day Sightseeing Tour

2. From Dubai: Abu Dhabi Premium Full-Day Sightseeing Tour

With its natural islands, premium resorts, cultural attractions, and architectural wonders, Abu Dhabi offers something for every traveler. Brace up to explore the most-iconic attractions of Abu Dhabi on a full-day sightseeing tour from Dubai! Start your day after being picked up from your hotel in Dubai and learn about one of the richest cities in the world as you travel along the Persian Gulf. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the largest mosque in the UAE, is a place that is closely knit to the culture and religion of the UAE. You will see one-of-a-kind treasures while navigating the marbled halls, such as Swarovski chandeliers, patterned designs, and the largest hand-knotted carpet in the world. A drive along the Abu Dhabi Corniche offers you a beautiful view of the Persian Gulf, its turquoise blue waters, and the skylines. Then, the Etihad towers, a striking architectural landmark on the Abu Dhabi Corniche, offer dining, stay, and entertaining options in one location. The breathtaking panoramic views of the city, including the view of Emirates Palace, and the Arabian Gulf from the observation deck enchants anyone who comes there. Experience the dining options at the Marina Mall. You will get the time to enjoy lunch (at your own expense) here. If you prefer dining at a local restaurant, you will get the option for that as well. Touring around the Qasr Al Watan, a functioning presidential palace and a cultural place in Abu Dhabi, lets you learn more about the tradition that has defined the history of the UAE. The palace is also an architectural marvel and houses artifacts and treasures. After a full day of fun and sightseeing, enjoy a ride back to your hotel, where we’ll drop you off safely.

From Dubai: Abu Dhabi Full-Day Trip with Louvre & Mosque

3. From Dubai: Abu Dhabi Full-Day Trip with Louvre & Mosque

Enjoy a two-in-one day trip to two UAE essentials. Marvel at architectural and artistic wonders new and old on this inclusive excursion from Dubai. After pickup, sit back and enjoy the journey to the Mosque. On arrival, admire the shining exterior of white Greek and Macedonian tiles. Step inside and see the world’s largest hand-woven carpet, crystal chandeliers, and glass panels studded with thousands of Swarovski crystals on a guided tour. Next, visit the Louvre Museum on Saadiyat Island. Take a self-guided tour of the largest museum in the Gulf region, which displays both classic and modern works of cultural and sociological significance from all over the world. Admire pieces from French museums such as the Louvre, Pompidou Center, and Musee d’Orsay. Linger at the Children’s Museum, relax for a bite to eat in the cafe, or browse in the boutique. After the tour, enjoy the drive back to your hotel in Dubai.

Louvre Abu Dhabi: Entry Tickets

4. Louvre Abu Dhabi: Entry Tickets

Experience a major collection of master artworks from around the world. Explore significant classic and modern works which bridge the gap between Western and Eastern art. Set foot in one of the largest museums in the Gulf Region. Take in its landmark architecture and iconic dome. Marvel at its design which is built to resemble palm leaves as you walk through the sun-filled promenades. Browse the museum's immense collection. See a wide array of works from all over the world, and discover the connections between East and West. Enjoy access to the permanent collection and special exhibitions as well as the children's museum. Encounter ancient artifacts or classical works by artists like Manet. After browsing the galleries, pause to reflect in one of the museum's public spaces.

From Abu Dhabi: City Tour with Grand Mosque and Royal Palace

5. From Abu Dhabi: City Tour with Grand Mosque and Royal Palace

Explore Abu Dhabi on a sightseeing tour of the city's important landmarks. Visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Corniche, Etihad Towers, and more. Start your day of adventure with pickup service at your hotel or selected location in Abu Dhabi. Here, your friendly driver/guide will be waiting to meet you before taking you to explore the capital city’s iconic attractions. This sightseeing tour begins at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world. Afterward, stroll along the City Corniche, a pleasant waterfront, before stopping to take photos of the Emirates Palace and visit the Etihad Towers, which were used in the Fast and Furious 7 film. Afterward, visit the beautiful Qasr Al Watan Palace housed in the presidential palace compound of UAE. Notice the architectural features, historical artifacts, and other historical treasures of the palace. Finally, you will be taken back to your hotel or selected location.

From Dubai: Abu Dhabi Day Tour with Lunch & Royal Palace

6. From Dubai: Abu Dhabi Day Tour with Lunch & Royal Palace

Enjoy a day trip by van to Abu Dhabi from Dubai. Stop at the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, take a stroll at the Abu Dhabi Corniche, and see sights like the Emirates Palace. Following a pickup from your hotel in Dubai, travel along the Gulf coast to Abu Dhabi, listening to the fascinating stories about one of the richest cities in the world along the way. Your first stop is the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, an incredible mosque exemplifying the beauty of Islamic architectural brilliance. Spend time in the mosque with your guide. Take a lunch break and get refreshed with a delectable lunch from the local restaurant. Next, enjoy a visit to another of Abu Dhabi's landmarks, the Etihad Towers. Those who have seen the ‘Furious 7’ movie will remember the imposing tower. Afterward, stop at the Abu Dhabi Corniche, and take a stroll with scenic views of the Arabian Gulf. See the Emirates Palace from afar and take snaps for your photo collection with these wonderful structures as the backdrop. Make a stop for lunch at the Marina Mall, the Carrefour, the food court, or a restaurant with a view of the Corniche. Visit the beautiful Qasr Al Watan Palace housed in the Presidential Palace compound of UAE. Notice the architectural features, historical artifacts, and other historical treasures of the palace. Finally, relax on the return journey to Dubai.

Dubai: Abu Dhabi Tour, Qasr Al Watan, & Founder's Memorial

7. Dubai: Abu Dhabi Tour, Qasr Al Watan, & Founder's Memorial

Embark on a fascinating cultural tour departing from your accommodation in Dubai. Explore the highlights of Abu Dhabi in one day, including the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi Corniche, the Etihad Towers, the Founder's Memorial, and the gorgeous Qasr Al Watan palace. A surreal work of architecture spread across 30 acres of land - that’s how you can describe the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the first destination of your experience. Admire the remarkable beauty of the pure white marble and huge domes of the mosque. Witness the most impressive features in the mosque - the world’s largest hand-loomed carpet and the gold-clad Swarovski Crystal Chandeliers. Take in the scenic views of the Persian Gulf and the skylines as you drive along Abu Dhabi Corniche. Enjoy a visit to the Etihad Towers, the imposing structure that appeared in the famous Furious 7 movie. Feel your heart pounding in excitement as you enjoy the bird’s eye view of the city from the observation deck. Thereafter, take a lunch break at your own expense. Get refreshed with a delectable lunch from local restaurants. Visit the Founder's Memorial, a permanent memorial to the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. As you explore, learn more about the Sheikh's life, heritage, and principles. Swing by the Qasr Al Watan palace to get insights into Arab heritage and the governing principles that shaped the history of the UAE. Explore the palace’s fascinating exhibits and marvel at its overall exquisite craftsmanship. Hold all the day's memories tight as you are driven back to your accommodation.

Dubai: Full-Day Sightseeing Tour From Abu Dhabi

8. Dubai: Full-Day Sightseeing Tour From Abu Dhabi

Start your full-day Dubai adventure by meeting your guide in your hotel in Abu Dhabi. After a short meet and greet you will set off to discover one of the world's most fascinating, modern cities - Dubai.  Begin your tour with a drive to Dubai from Abu Dhabi - along the way, whilst heading through the outskirts of Dubai along the main highway you will witness one of the largest concentrations of skyscrapers in this region, and the third-largest concentration in the world. This tour will showcase the difference between Old Dubai and New Dubai, giving you some insight into this multi-faceted city. Visit popular tourist locations in Old Dubai such as the Spice Market, Gold Souk, and the Abra Ride water taxi. Follow this with a trip to New Dubai where you will pause for photo stops at landmarks such as the Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeriah, Dubai Mall, and Burj Khalifa. End your journey through Dubai with a convenient and relaxing car ride back to your hotel in Abu Dhabi. 

From Abu Dhabi: Al Ain Full Day Tour with Lunch

9. From Abu Dhabi: Al Ain Full Day Tour with Lunch

Visit Al Ain, the traditional seat of the Sheikhs and perhaps the most traditional of the main cities in the UAE where desert life is best demonstrated. See a true series of oases and take a visit to the Al Ain National Museum and Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum, as well as a trip to the camel race track and the livestock market where you can watch real-life bargaining, an important part of the culture.  Following this, head to Jebel Hafeet, the great mountain and its remarkable location that overlooks the beauty of Al Ain city. Also, visit the Hot Springs situated at the foot of the mountain and discover the healing water which is found abundantly in this area. Then, enjoy lunch in a hotel before heading back to Abu Dhabi. 

Abu Dhabi: Louvre Museum & The National Aquarium Guided Tour

10. Abu Dhabi: Louvre Museum & The National Aquarium Guided Tour

Experience the excitement of exploring two of the iconic attractions of Abu Dhabi as you’ll be picked up in our comfortable vehicle from your hotel and ride to the Louvre Museum. As soon as you step into the beautiful museum, you’ll be greeted with a beautiful ‘Rain of Light’, that is formed when the sunlight enters through the multi-layered roof. Find yourself beaming with joy as the light design illuminates the museum walls. Get ready to enjoy a visual journey through the celebrated masterpieces of art showcasing the development of human creativity at the Louvre Museum, the Arab World’s first universal museum. Guide your eyes to the art wonders from around the world, including the works of Claude Monet, Leonardo da Vinci, Giovanni Bellini, and many more. Don’t miss out on the Children’s museum, especially if you are coming with kids. Your fun doesn’t end here! From the world of art and history, we take you to an oceanic haven, where some beautiful experiences await you. Experience the unparalleled beauty and ecosystems of the marine world as you take a stroll through the 10 themed zones, home to varieties of rare species on the planet. Find yourself immersed in the fun of interacting with rays, whale sharks, and other 46,000 creatures from over 300 species. Whether you come with family or friends, the aquarium visit is sure to be an unforgettable experience for you. Wish to enjoy it more? Then opt for our All Access tickets to upgrade your experience. Be the lucky one to enjoy a glass dhow sail, a peek to behind the scenes and even more! By the end of the experience, find yourself holding the memories tight as we drive you back to the hotel.

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Frequently asked questions about Abu Dhabi

What are the best day trips and excursions from Abu Dhabi?

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What people are saying about Abu Dhabi

Overall rating

4.6 / 5

based on 4,778 reviews

Fabulous tour in a small-ish group of 16 people - the guide David was excellent and engaging The mosque is just so impressive and we had plenty of time to view it all. The entrance is strict and many people got caught out with incorrect dress and turned away but out tour provided abayas if needed . It is a very busy place and you need to be prepared to queue and walk in lines to get round - lots of photo opportunities and David was very informative and super helpful all the way through. We were picked up in the morning and taken to a rendezvous point where we joined the bus and dropped back after our return to Dubai We highly recommend this tour - very reasonably priced and enjoyable

Our guide Noor was excellent, friendly and efficient. He was super helpful at the Grand Mosque, making us feel comfortable and informed about this amazing place. It was truly awesome. The Louvre was great too. We could have spent a little longer there to take into account getting a bite to eat, but overall it was a really good tour. It was relaxing and interesting thanks to Noor.

What a magnificent experience. The tour was enlightening and included both the mosque and history of Abu Dhabi. Our guide, Shaun, was knowledgeable and professional taking the time to take pictures for us. I would recommend this tour to anyone. If I hadn't been flying home. I would have taken the full day tour

Sishan did an amazing job today! He was very engaging and a very motivated tour guide who loved to share information on tje tour. Very well done! Also transportstion was perfectly organised. Thank you

Amazing sites, lot of information from our guide Abdul, had great time.