Abu Dhabi

Day 1: Historical Wonders of Abu Dhabi

Morning Activity:
Visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

• Description: This architectural marvel is one of the largest mosques in the world, featuring stunning white marble domes and intricate mosaics.
• Duration: 2 hours
• Tips: Dress modestly (women should wear a long abaya, provided at the entrance). Visit early to avoid crowds.

Lunch Suggestion:
Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe

• Cuisine: Traditional Emirati dishes. Try their lamb ouzi or machboos.
• Location: Near the mosque.

Afternoon Activity:
Explore Qasr Al Watan

• Description: A majestic presidential palace that showcases Emirati heritage and governance through its beautiful architecture and exhibitions.
• Duration: 2 hours
• Tips: Join a guided tour for deeper insights into the palace's history.

Evening Activity:
Dinner at Emirates Palace

• Description: Experience luxury dining at one of the world's most opulent hotels. Consider their Arabic buffet.
• Location: Emirates Palace Hotel.
• Reservation: Recommended.

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Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Morning Activity:
Heritage Village Visit

• Description: A reconstructed traditional Emirati village where you can see crafts, traditional homes, and local customs.
• Duration: 1.5 hours
• Tips: Engage with artisans and try local crafts.

Lunch Suggestion:
Al Ibrahimi Restaurant

• Cuisine: Pakistani and Indian dishes, known for their biryanis and kebabs.
• Location: Near Heritage Village.

Afternoon Activity:
Louvre Abu Dhabi

• Description: A stunning art and civilization museum with works from around the world, showcasing the interconnectivity of cultures.
• Duration: 2-3 hours
• Tips: Don’t miss the stunning dome and its light effects.

Evening Activity:
Dinner at Café 302

• Description: A trendy café offering a mix of international and local cuisine.
• Location: Al Maryah Island.

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Day 3: Adventure Awaits

Morning Activity:
Desert Safari with Dune Bashing and Camel Ride plus Sand Boarding

• Description: An exhilarating journey through the desert, including dune bashing, camel rides, and sandboarding.
• Duration: Half-day (approximately 4-5 hours)
• Tips: Book in advance and wear comfortable clothing.
• Link: Desert Safari Experience
  

Lunch Suggestion:
Picnic in the Desert

• Cuisine: Traditional BBQ set up by the safari operators.

Afternoon Activity:
Return to Abu Dhabi and Relax

• Description: Enjoy some downtime at your hotel or visit the Corniche for a leisurely stroll.
• Duration: 2 hours.

Evening Activity:
Dinner at Pier 77

• Description: Enjoy waterfront dining with a seafood focus.
• Location: Near the Corniche.

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Day 4: Thrills and Spills

Morning Activity:
Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi Entrance

• Description: A thrilling water park featuring numerous slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers.
• Duration: 4 hours
• Tips: Arrive early to avoid long lines.
• Link: Yas Waterworld
  

Lunch Suggestion:
Yas Mall Food Court

• Cuisine: Various international options, including fast food and local cuisine.

Afternoon Activity:
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

• Description: Experience the world's fastest roller coaster and other thrilling rides at this iconic theme park.
• Duration: 3-4 hours
• Tips: Purchase tickets online to skip the lines.

Evening Activity:
Dinner at Cipriani

• Description: Fine Italian dining experience at Yas Marina.
• Reservation: Recommended.

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Day 5: Scenic Views and Nature

Morning Activity:
Scenic Helicopter Tour

• Description: Experience breathtaking aerial views of Abu Dhabi's skyline and landmarks.
• Duration: 17 minutes (book in advance for best times).
• Link: Helicopter Tour
  

Lunch Suggestion:
The Observation Deck at 300

• Cuisine: International cuisine with stunning views from the 74th floor of the Etihad Towers.
• Reservation: Recommended.

Afternoon Activity:
Visit Al Wathba Wetland Reserve

• Description: Explore nature trails and bird-watching opportunities, particularly for flamingos.
• Duration: 2-3 hours
• Tips: Dress for outdoor conditions and bring binoculars.
• Link: Flamingos and Fossil Dunes Trip
  

Evening Activity:
Dinner at Al Dhafra

• Description: A local spot offering traditional Emirati cuisine, including grilled meats and rice dishes.

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Day 6: Day Trip to Liwa Oasis

Full-Day Trip:
Liwa Desert Safari

• Description: Explore the majestic Liwa Oasis, known for its vast desert landscape and incredible sand dunes.
• Duration: 9 AM - 7 PM
• Highlights: Dune bashing, camel farms, and a visit to Qasr Al Sarab resort.
• Link: Liwa Desert Safari
  

Lunch Suggestion:
Picnic at the Oasis

• Cuisine: Traditional meals prepared by the safari operators.

Evening Activity:
Return to Abu Dhabi

• Description: Relax at your hotel after an adventurous day.

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Day 7: Leisure and Shopping

Morning Activity:
Visit Al Ain Oasis

• Description: A UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases traditional falaj irrigation systems and palm groves.
• Duration: 2 hours
• Tips: Bring comfortable shoes for walking.

Lunch Suggestion:
Local Café in Al Ain

• Cuisine: Try local dishes such as shawarma or falafel.

Afternoon Activity:
Shopping at Marina Mall

• Description: Explore brands, souvenirs, and enjoy the waterfront views.
• Duration: 2-3 hours
• Tips: Don’t miss the food court for local snacks.

Evening Activity:
Farewell Dinner at Zuma

• Description: Experience contemporary Japanese cuisine in a vibrant setting.
• Reservation: Recommended.

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Summary

This 7-day itinerary in Abu Dhabi allows you to experience the rich cultural heritage, thrilling adventures, and luxurious dining options that the city has to offer. From the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to the exhilarating desert safaris and the serene beauty of Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, each day is designed to immerse you in the unique essence of Abu Dhabi while providing a balanced mix of relaxation and exploration.