2 Days in Abu Dhabi Itinerary: The Perfect Itinerary for Tourists

Planning a trip to Abu Dhabi? Read on for a complete 2 days in Abu Dhabi itinerary including the best things to do and where to stay.

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2 Days in Abu Dhabi Itinerary for Tourists

Many people don’t know that it is Abu Dhabi and not Dubai that is the capital of the United Arab Emirates. Although Abu Dhabi lacks the glitz and glamour of its ostentatious neighbor, it is a more cultural city that has well preserved its heritage in the face of modernization and urban development. If you’re visiting the UAE, you’re likely to spend majority of your time in Dubai. However, it would be worth to consider spending 36-48 hours in Abu Dhabi and visit some iconic monuments and majestic landmarks.

Here is the ideal 2-day Abu Dhabi itinerary if you’re planning to visit this burgeoning capital city.

If you are looking for more things to do in Abu Dhabi, check out this 3 days in Abu Dhabi itinerary.

Day 1: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Corniche & Observation Deck at 300

If you have limited time or just 1 day, I urge you to visit this one iconic destination, which in my opinion is an architectural masterpiece that is bound to leave you speechless. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque recently ranked 2^nd at the TripAdvisor Travelers Choice Award for Top Landmarks in the World and rightly so. The sparkling clean marble white façade of this grand structure is as awe-inspiring as the interiors, with the intricately designed flower patterns, magnificent chandeliers and exquisite windows. As the mosque observes a strictly conservative dress code, you need to ensure your ankles, arms and head (for women) are covered. The mosque is closed for tourists on Fridays between noon and 3:00 p.m. so plan your trip accordingly. Here is a complete guide to visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque with tips to plan your visit.

From here, head to Abu Dhabi corniche, one of the liveliest areas of Abu Dhabi, which stretches across 8 kms of white sandy beaches, walking paths, cafes, children’s play areas, water sports, beach clubs, restaurants and so much activity! The crystal-clear waters are extremely inviting and you might want to grab an umbrella and sun lounger at the public beach for as less as Dhs 25. The beach itself stretches for 2 kms and has areas separated out for couples, single people / groups and families with children. Alternatively, if you want to sip on a cocktail and munch on snacks, you may choose to visit Nation Riviera Beach Club, a part of St Regis Hotel (although there is steep entrance fee) which gives you access to a water sports centre, beachside gym, a terrace restaurant, and even a swimming pool with bar.

Observation Deck at 300 is Abu Dhabi’s equivalent of ‘At the Top, Burj Khalifa’. Located at the end of the corniche beach road, across the stunning Emirates Palace hotel, are some of the tallest buildings in the emirate, known as Etihad Towers. One of the towers is home to an ultra-luxury hotel and boasts of the highest observation deck in Abu Dhabi, located on its 74^th floor. Observation Deck at 300 is not like the usual viewing platforms, it is a lounge that offers 360-degree views of the splendid skyline of the city, which although no match to that of Dubai, stands at a close second. A minimal Dhs 95 entrance fee (with a Dhs 55 voucher to spend on food and beverages) gives you access to an elegant seating area with sweeping views.  (Tip: You can get a discount if you purchase your admission ticket in advance here.)

Optional: Saadiyat Beach

Yet another fabulous beach in Abu Dhabi, I personally like this one better than Corniche beach because it is lesser crowded and much prettier! But it is also more expensive – Dhs 25 for entry only (Dhs 50 for sun lounger and umbrella) on weekdays and Dhs 50 for entry only (Dhs 75 with sun lounger and umbrella) on weekends. There is a small beach café at the entrance where you can enjoy refreshing drinks (non-alcoholic), snacks and ice cream.

Read my post on 10 things you must know BEFORE travelling to the UAE.

Day 2: Yas Island

A modern-day entertainment and leisure destination, Yas Island has enough attractions to keep you busy for the day. Many resorts and hotels are also located in this area so you might want to consider staying in one if you want proximity to these attractions. Here are some things that might capture your interest on Yas Island:

Yas Waterworld: 

In my opinion, this is the best waterpark in the region. A perfect way to spend time in a city that enjoys sun 360 days a year, people who love water slides, no matter that their thrill level is, can have fun here. The winding tube rides, which end with you slipping out of a serpent’s mouth, are my favourite. For the daring, two extremely steep slides are sure to test your mettle! The rest can glide along the lazy river or swim in the wave pool.

Ferrari World: 

Situated right across Yas Waterworld is one of the largest indoor theme parks in the UAE. With a host of 4D experiences, stimulation rides, exhibitions and roller-coasters, this is a one-of-its-kinds amusement park in Abu Dhabi. Do not miss Formula Rossa, the fastest roller-coaster in the world, which accelerates from 0-240 km/h within a span of 6 seconds- a crazy ride from the start until the finish. Even before you’re able to catch your breath, the ride is over! My second favourite ride here (another roller coaster) is the Flying Aces, which not only has the tallest loop in the world but also one of the steepest! There will be moments more than you can remember, when you will feel total weightlessness on this one. Beware of long queues outside these two rides; there is a separate queue for those who want to sit only in the front and it is usually even longer than the normal one! There are small car tracks for the children, where they can enjoy driving their own little vehicles. Ferrari World is not exciting only for motoring enthusiasts but also theme park lovers and kids alike.  If you are traveling with children, here are some more fun things to do in Abu Dhabi for kids.

There is a pass that allows you 1-day or 2-days entry to both these parks. Unless you’re interested in skipping either of the two, this is a reasonable one to purchase.

Yas Mall: Also located on the Yas Island, this is one of the largest malls in Abu Dhabi. With unique and exclusive stores and brands from around the world, it’s one of the primary visited destinations in the emirate. Connected to Ferrari World on one end, it is easily accessible by foot. With terrace restaurants overlooking the amusement park, offering cuisines from around the world and flavoured shisha pipes, this is the perfect place to sit back and relax after a tiring day at the parks.

Optional: Yas Marina Circuit

Although this isn’t a place a lot of people like to visit unless the Grand Prix finales are taking place, it might be of interest to motorsports fans who can enjoy a unique opportunity to drive on these famous tracks! An expensive experience no doubt, but with several options of sports cars that can be zoomed and tested on their extreme performance, thrill-seekers will love sliding, swerving and drifting on these world-class tracks in these exceptional vehicles.

Read my post on 15 amazing things you can do for FREE in Dubai.

Getting to and Around Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is hardly a 1.5-hour drive away from Dubai (you can find the best prices on rental cars here) and there are buses as well as taxis that can be hired to take you there. The budget way to travel would be by a bus which can be taken from either Al Ghubaiba Bus Station in Bur Dubai, departing every 15 minutes (for those staying in old Dubai) or Ibn Battuta Metro Station, departing every 30 minutes (for those staying in the new part of the city). You can also book a private transfer here.

Once in the city, you can take either buses or taxis from one point to another. Most of the tourist destinations are well-connected by public transportation. There is, however, no metro rail in Abu Dhabi.

You can also sign up for a Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off tour which visits most of the top tourist attractions.

Where to stay in Abu Dhabi

There are two popular areas to stay in the city:

Corniche: This is the liveliest and most happening area to stay in and is in close proximity to most places. You will find all types of hotels here ranging from luxury beach resorts to city hotels and budget stays.

• Emirates Palace:  If you are looking for a luxury hotel, this iconic but pricey hotel is one of the most luxurious hotels in Abu Dhabi. Many of the suites are furnished in gold and marble and you can even try its famous gold cappuccino sprinkled in real 24 carat gold flakes. Amenities include a private beach, pools (one for adults and one for children), fitness center, spa, tennis court, free wi-fi, and more. Click here to see latest prices and click here to read reviews.
• Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers (formerly Jumeirah at Etihad Towers): Although a 5 star hotel, this is a more affordable option and get great reviews. Amenities include free wi-fi, infinity pool and free parking. Guests also get free admission to the Observation Deck at 300. Click here to see latest prices and click here to read reviews and click here to see latest prices.  (Families might prefer the atttached Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Residence which have a full kitchen and access to the same hotel amenities.)

Yas Island: Although there are not a lot of resorts here yet, the ones that have come up are really nice and close to the Yas Island attractions. It is also not very far from the corniche/ downtown area.

• W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island (formerly Yas Viceroy).  W Abu Dhabi has a great location near Ferrari World and Yas Waterworld and offers views of the racetrack for those that want to see the Grand Prix. Amenities included free wi-fi, pool, spa and free parking. Click here to see latest prices and click here to read reviews and see the latest prices.
• Centro Yas Island Abu Dhabi by Rotana. One of the more affordable options in Yas Island this is a good value hotel with a pool, free-wifi and free parking.  Click here to see latest prices and click here to read reviews.

Medha’s bio: I’m a travel blogger at Hopping Feet and storyteller who loves adventure, food and wine, roadtripping, camping, hiking and everything crazy! I’m high on life and have springs under my feet. I love nature, historical old towns, and great nightlife. I’m a sucker for good deals and budget travel and a total romantic at heart! I have a full time job but globetrotting is my passion. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

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