3-Day Abu Dhabi Food, Wine, & Shopping Trip with Friends

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

3 days

Al Jahili Fort in Al Ain
Qasr Al Sarab in Liwa, Al Dhafra
Sheikh Zayed Mosque
The famous Louvre museum
A luxury hotel in Saadiyat island

About Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends traditional Arabic charm with modern cosmopolitan life. It offers a rich cultural experience with its grand mosques, like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, and traditional markets, or souks. The city is also home to world-class attractions such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Ferrari World, and Yas Waterworld. Indulge in luxury shopping at the Marina Mall or enjoy the tranquility of the Corniche, a pristine waterfront. Abu Dhabi's culinary scene is diverse, offering Emirati, Asian, and European cuisines. The city's desert landscapes provide opportunities for thrilling adventures like dune bashing and camel trekking. With its year-round sunshine, Abu Dhabi is a perfect destination for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Iconic Landmarks

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the world's largest mosques. Its stunning architecture and beautiful white and gold colors are a sight to behold. Dress modestly and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Emirati lunch at a local restaurant. Try dishes like Harees, Majboos, and Luqaimat. These dishes are a blend of rich flavors and spices that will surely satisfy your taste buds.

Afternoon

After lunch, head to the Louvre Abu Dhabi, a world-class museum that houses a diverse collection of art and artifacts from around the world. Spend the afternoon exploring the exhibits and admiring the stunning architecture of the museum.

Dinner

For dinner, indulge in a luxurious dining experience at a high-end restaurant. Sample a variety of international cuisines and enjoy the beautiful views of the city's skyline.

Evening

End your day with a relaxing walk along the Corniche, a waterfront promenade with stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. The area is also home to numerous shops and cafes where you can unwind and enjoy the evening.

Morning

Start your second day with a visit to the Qasr Al Hosn, the oldest stone building in the city. Learn about the city's history and culture as you explore this historic fort.

Lunch

For lunch, enjoy a meal at a local seafood restaurant. Try dishes like Hammour, a local fish, and other fresh seafood delicacies.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon shopping at the Marina Mall, one of the largest and most luxurious shopping malls in Abu Dhabi. Here, you'll find a wide range of high-end brands and local boutiques.

Dinner

Enjoy a traditional Arabic barbecue for dinner at a local restaurant. Try dishes like Shish Tawook and Kofta, paired with fresh salads and warm bread.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Observation Deck at 300 for panoramic views of the city. Enjoy a cup of Arabic coffee or tea as you take in the stunning cityscape.

Morning

On your last day, visit the Emirates Palace, a luxurious hotel that is a testament to the city's wealth and opulence. Take a guided tour of the palace and marvel at its stunning architecture and lavish interiors.

Lunch

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a beachfront restaurant. Try local dishes while enjoying the beautiful views of the Arabian Gulf.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon at the Yas Mall, another shopping haven in Abu Dhabi. Here, you'll find a mix of international and local brands, as well as a variety of dining options.

Dinner

For your final dinner, enjoy a meal at a rooftop restaurant. Savor the flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine while enjoying the stunning views of the city.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to the Yas Marina Circuit. Take a tour of the circuit, or if you're feeling adventurous, try a driving experience. It's a fitting end to your exciting trip to Abu Dhabi.

Attractions in Itinerary (9)

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

1
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

One of the world's largest mosques, with a capacity for an astonishing 41,000 worshippers. It features 82 domes, over a 1,000 columns, 24 carat gold gilded chandeliers and the world's largest hand knotted carpet.

Attractions
Landmarks
Religious Sites
Louvre Abu Dhabi

2
Louvre Abu Dhabi

An art and civilization museum, part of a 30-year agreement between the city of Abu Dhabi and France. It is approximately 24,000 square metres in size, with 8,000 square metres of galleries, making it the largest art museum in the Arabian peninsula.

Attractions
Museums
Architecture
Corniche

3
Corniche

A waterfront area with beautiful beaches, parks, and a pedestrian pathway offering stunning views of the city's skyline.

Attractions
Beaches
Parks
Qasr Al Hosn

4
Qasr Al Hosn

The oldest stone building in the city of Abu Dhabi, formerly home to the ruling Al Nahyan family. The palace contains a museum that traces the history and culture of Abu Dhabi, with a particular focus on the lifestyle of the ruling family.

Attractions
Monuments
Cultural Experiences
Marina Mall

5
Marina Mall

An Abu Dhabi shopping mall and entertainment venue which opened in March 2001. One of the biggest in Abu Dhabi, the Mall is located along the breakwater on Corniche road, close to the Emirates Palace hotel.

Shopping
Entertainment
Food and Drink
Observation Deck at 300

6
Observation Deck at 300

The highest point in Abu Dhabi, offering panoramic views of the city.

Attractions
Landmarks
Emirates Palace

7
Emirates Palace

A luxury five star hotel in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Operated by Mandarin Oriental, it is located on 1.3 km of private beach. 85 hectares of lawns and gardens surround the hotel, as well 114 domes that are 80 meters high.

Attractions
Architecture
Hotels
Yas Mall

8
Yas Mall

The largest mall in Abu Dhabi, located on Yas Island. It serves as a place for shopping, dining and entertainment for both locals and tourists alike.

Shopping
Yas Marina Circuit

9
Yas Marina Circuit

The venue for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The circuit was designed by Hermann Tilke, and is situated on Yas Island, about 30 minutes from the capital of the UAE, Abu Dhabi.

Attractions
Sports

Local Food and Drinks (11)

Harees

Harees

A traditional Emirati dish, Harees is a porridge-like dish made from wheat and meat, usually chicken or lamb. It is a staple during Ramadan and other festive occasions in Abu Dhabi.

Majboos

Majboos

Also known as Makbous, this is a spiced rice dish mixed with meat, typically chicken or lamb, and vegetables. It's a popular dish in Abu Dhabi and across the UAE.

Shawarma

Shawarma

A popular street food in Abu Dhabi, Shawarma is a wrap filled with thinly sliced meat (chicken, beef, or lamb), vegetables, and a variety of sauces.

Al Harees

Al Harees

A sweet version of Harees, Al Harees is a dessert made from ground wheat and sugar. It's a traditional Emirati dessert often served during special occasions.

Stuffed Camel

A dish reserved for special occasions, Stuffed Camel is considered a luxurious and extravagant dish in Abu Dhabi. It consists of a whole camel stuffed with lamb, chicken, fish, and rice.

Luqaimat

Luqaimat

These are sweet dumplings made from butter, milk, sugar, saffron, and cardamom. They are deep-fried until golden and then drizzled with date syrup. Luqaimat is a popular dessert in Abu Dhabi.

Kabsa

Kabsa

Kabsa is a traditional Middle Eastern dish of spiced rice, usually served with chicken, lamb, or fish. It's a common dish in Abu Dhabi and is known for its rich and aromatic flavors.

Falafel

Falafel

A popular street food in Abu Dhabi, Falafel is a deep-fried ball or patty made from ground chickpeas or fava beans. It's often served in a pita or flatbread and topped with salads, pickled vegetables, and hot sauce.

Al Jabab bread

A traditional Emirati bread, Al Jabab is a thin, round bread that is often served with meals or used to make sandwiches in Abu Dhabi.

Balaleet

Balaleet

A traditional Emirati breakfast dish, Balaleet is a sweet and savory dish made from vermicelli noodles cooked with sugar, saffron, cardamom, and rose water, and served with an omelet on top.

Gahwa

Gahwa

Also known as Arabic coffee, Gahwa is a strong, bitter coffee made from lightly roasted coffee beans. It's a popular drink in Abu Dhabi and is often served with dates.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates is between November and April. During these months, the weather is relatively cooler with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 35°C, making it perfect for sightseeing and beach activities. The months from December to March are particularly pleasant and are also the peak tourist season. However, if you want to avoid crowds and enjoy lower hotel rates, the shoulder months of November and April are ideal.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

April 10

Wed

Eid al-Fitr

April 11

Thu

Eid al-Fitr Holiday

April 12

Fri

Eid al-Fitr Holiday

June 16

Sun

Arafat (Hajj) Day

June 17

Mon

Eid al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice)

June 17

Mon

Eid al-Adha Holiday

June 18

Tue

Eid al-Adha Holiday

July 8

Mon

Al-Hijra (Islamic New Year)

September 16

Mon

Mouloud

December 2

Mon

National Day

December 3

Tue

National Day Holiday

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Abu Dhabi's Department of Transport operates a comprehensive network of public buses serving the city and its suburbs. Buses are air-conditioned, comfortable, and equipped with Wi-Fi. They run on various routes and timings, making it a convenient option for getting around the city.

Taxis are a common way to get around in Abu Dhabi. They are metered, plentiful, and can be hailed from the street, booked by phone, or picked up from designated taxi ranks at malls, hotels and other public places. They offer a comfortable and convenient way to travel around the city.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Careem operate in Abu Dhabi. These services can be booked through their respective mobile apps. They offer a convenient, reliable, and often cheaper alternative to traditional taxis. You can choose from a range of car types and payment options.

Renting a car is a popular option for getting around Abu Dhabi, especially for those planning to visit the city's outskirts or other Emirates. A variety of car rental companies operate in the city, offering a wide range of vehicles. An international driving license is required.

Abu Dhabi has been increasingly promoting cycling with dedicated cycle paths in certain areas. Bicycles can be rented from various outlets and are a great way to explore the city at a leisurely pace.

Many of Abu Dhabi's attractions are located close to each other, especially on the Corniche, making walking a viable option. However, due to the city's hot climate, this method of transportation is more suitable during the cooler months.

Ferries operate from Abu Dhabi to various islands like Delma Island. The ferry is a convenient and scenic way to travel, offering beautiful views of the city's skyline and the Arabian Gulf.

Abu Dhabi is planning to introduce a metro and tram system in the future. This will provide another convenient and efficient way to travel around the city.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currencyد.إ AED

Time zoneUTC+4

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone998, 999

Drinking waterYes, but some opt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type G

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates as a first time visitor

1

Abu Dhabi is the capital city of the United Arab Emirates.

2

The official language is Arabic, but English is widely spoken and understood.

3

The local currency is the UAE dirham (AED). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or markets.

4

Abu Dhabi is a Muslim city, and it's important to respect local customs and dress modestly, particularly in public places and religious sites.

5

The city is very safe, but it's always wise to take standard precautions with your belongings.

6

Tipping is not obligatory but is appreciated. A service charge is often added to your bill in restaurants.

7

The city has a hot desert climate. Summer temperatures (June to September) can reach up to 108°F (42°C), while winter temperatures (December to March) range from 59°F (15°C) to 77°F (25°C).

8

Alcohol is available in licensed restaurants, bars, clubs, and hotels, but public drunkenness and drinking and driving are strictly prohibited.

9

Public displays of affection are frowned upon and can even be punishable by law.

10

The weekend in Abu Dhabi is Friday and Saturday, with Friday being a holy day.

11

The city is very pedestrian-friendly, with plenty of sidewalks and pedestrian crossings.

12

Taxis are plentiful and reasonably priced. You can also use ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem.

13

Abu Dhabi is one hour ahead of GMT. The UAE does not observe daylight saving time.

14

The city has a high standard of healthcare. It's recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers healthcare.

15

Abu Dhabi has strict laws on medicines, including some over-the-counter drugs. Check before you travel if your medication is on the controlled list.

16

The tap water is safe to drink, but most people prefer to drink bottled water.

17

The power sockets are type G (British three-pin). The standard voltage is 220 V.

18

Internet access is widely available, with free Wi-Fi in many hotels, malls, and cafes.

19

Abu Dhabi is a shopping paradise, with a mix of luxury malls and traditional markets (souks).

20

The city is known for its food scene, with a wide variety of cuisines available, from traditional Emirati dishes to international fare.

Basic Arabic to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

مرحبا

Marhaba

Greeting someone

Goodbye

وداعا

Wadaeaan

Leaving someone

Please

من فضلك

Min fadlak

Asking for something

Thank you

شكرا

Shukran

Showing gratitude

Yes

نعم

Naam

Agreeing with someone

No

لا

La

Disagreeing with someone

Excuse me

عفوا

Afuwan

Getting someone's attention

I'm sorry

أنا آسف

Ana asef

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟

Hal tatakallam al'injliziya?

Trying to communicate

I don't understand

أنا لا أفهم

Ana la afham

When you don't understand what was said

Where is the bathroom?

أين الحمام؟

Ayna alhammam?

Looking for the bathroom

How much does this cost?

بكم هذا؟

Bikam hadha?

Asking for the price

I would like to order

أود أن أطلب

Urid an atlub

Ordering food or drink

Water

ماء

Maa

Asking for water

Help

مساعدة

Musaeadah

In case of emergency

Taxi

تاكسي

Taksi

Looking for transportation

Hotel

فندق

Fanduq

Looking for accommodation

Airport

مطار

Matar

Traveling to/from the airport

Can you help me?

هل يمكنك مساعدتي؟

Hal yumkinuk musaadati?

Asking for help

Good night

تصبح على خير

Tusbih ala khair

Saying goodbye in the evening

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • Sleepwear

  • Swimwear

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Sandals

  • Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings

  • Scarf or shawl for visiting mosques

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Sunscreen

  • Lip balm with SPF

  • Moisturizer

  • Prescription medications

  • First-aid kit

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Visa if required

  • Driver's license

  • Health insurance card

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and car rental reservations

  • Emergency contact information

  • Local currency

  • Credit cards

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Power bank

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Universal travel adapter

  • Laptop and charger if needed

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel guidebook

  • Map of Abu Dhabi

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Snacks

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Books or e-books for leisure reading

  • Travel-sized laundry detergent

  • Plastic bags for dirty clothes or shoes

Weather Conditions

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is known for its hot desert climate. The city experiences high temperatures, especially during the summer months (June to September), where it can reach up to 108°F (42°C). Therefore, if you're planning to visit during this period, it's essential to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun with hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. The winter months (December to March) are relatively cooler with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). This is considered the best time to visit Abu Dhabi as the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities. However, it's still advisable to carry a hat or a parasol as the sun can still be quite strong. The city doesn't receive much rainfall, but when it does, it's usually between November and February. If you're visiting during these months, it might be a good idea to pack a light rain jacket or an umbrella. Regardless of when you visit, it's important to remember that the UAE is a Muslim country and modest clothing is expected. Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing is recommended to stay comfortable in the heat, but remember to respect the local customs and cover your shoulders and knees, especially when visiting religious sites. Lastly, don't forget to check the weather forecast regularly during your stay in Abu Dhabi to plan your activities accordingly and make the most of your visit.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

28° / 14°

January is a pleasant month to visit Abu Dhabi, with mild temperatures and low humidity. It's perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

February

29° / 15°

February continues the pleasant weather with slightly warmer temperatures. It's an ideal time for beach activities and desert safaris.

March

34° / 18°

March marks the beginning of the warm season, but the weather is still comfortable for outdoor activities. The evenings are particularly pleasant.

April

38° / 21°

April is warm, but not excessively hot. It's a good time to visit if you want to avoid the extreme summer heat.

May

42° / 25°

May is quite hot, but still bearable. Early morning and late evening outdoor activities are recommended.

June

45° / 28°

June is the start of the summer season with high temperatures. Indoor activities and water sports are popular during this time.

July

48° / 30°

July is the hottest month in Abu Dhabi. It's a good time to visit indoor attractions like malls, museums, and indoor theme parks.

August

48° / 30°

August is equally hot as July. The city's indoor attractions and beautiful beaches are the main attractions.

September

43° / 28°

September is still quite hot, but the temperature starts to drop slightly. It's a good time to enjoy the city's luxurious resorts and indoor attractions.

October

39° / 24°

October sees a significant drop in temperature. It's a great time to enjoy outdoor activities and explore the city.

November

34° / 20°

November offers pleasant weather, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and exploring the city's cultural heritage.

December

30° / 16°

December is one of the best months to visit Abu Dhabi. The weather is cool and perfect for enjoying all the city has to offer.

Did you know?

Did you know that Abu Dhabi is the capital city of the United Arab Emirates and the largest of the seven emirates that make up the country?

1 of 10

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