As the exciting, glitzy capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi attracts eager hordes of visitors from all over the world. It’s a place you could spend two weeks exploring, but equally, even on a short whistle-stop visit, its accessibility and range of attractions mean you can pack a lot in. From fascinating cultural events and interesting historical sites, to invigorating outdoor pursuits and immersion in nature, this diverse destination has no dearth of experiences waiting to be had.
Two Days to Enjoy the Highlights of Abu Dhabi
If you’re visiting Abu Dhabi as part of a longer trip (perhaps including Dubai), two days is the ideal length of time. The suggested itinerary below will allow you enough scope to fit as much in as possible, without feeling rushed.
Day One
Hop on hop off sightseeing bus: There’s no better way to get the lay of the land, and see a host of the city’s sights, than by joining a hop-on, hop-off bus tour. The famous “Big Bus” double decker tour buses travel around the city, with 24 stops where you can disembark and board again. You can buy tickets good for one, two or even five days, which offers fantastic independence and allows you to see the attractions you want, at your own pace. You can alight and explore highlights including the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Marina Mall and the Corniche, spending as much or as little time as you like.
The Louvre: After a morning spent hopping on and off the bus, a visit to the Louvre Abu Dhabi will provide culture of a different kind. Partnering with its famous Parisian namesake, the stunning contemporary gallery is the largest in the Arab region, home to a magnificent collection of artworks from all over Arabia and Europe. The architecture of the construction itself is nothing short of breathtaking, bringing Jean Nouvel’s vision of tradition and modernity to fruition and cementing itself as one of the ‘urban wonders of the world’.
Dinner cruise: Dining on board a traditional wooden “dhow”, against the backdrop of the sparkling city skyline is a truly magical experience, and a fabulous way to end the day. You’ll cruise the waterways of Abu Dhabi Creek, enjoying a delicious Arabian buffet meal while taking in the sights. These beautiful double decker vessels were once used for pearling and the transport of merchant goods, but today provide a wonderful connection to the culture and history of Abu Dhabi.
Day Two
Heritage Village: Close to the centre of the city (on Marina Mall Island) this well-curated site is a superb way to step back in time and get an insight into the origins of life in the old days of the United Arab Emirates. Complete with its own souk and mosque, the village is set within palm lined grounds. Wander around observing craftspeople at work, using traditional skills like weaving, spinning, pottery and metalwork. You can purchase artisan products and souvenirs, and even get involved by taking part in a workshop.
Top Tip: Don’t miss the fabulous spice shop, filled with a huge range of exotic, aromatic herbs and spices.
Jubail Mangrove Park: Head away from the hustle and bustle of the city to this unique parkland, on Jubail Island, which comprises a network of boardwalks through mangroves. As you stroll, you’ll encounter a host of animal and birdlife, including deer, turtles, flamingoes, herons, and many more. Created to provide an immersive “educational and leisure experience”, to showcase the extreme biodiversity of this fascinating ecosystem, the park is a beautiful sanctuary and an interesting insight into a very different side of Abu Dhabi.
Evening Desert Safari: What better way to wrap up your holiday than an evening safari into the iconic desert landscape, just outside the city? There are various tours from which to choose, all giving you a taste of adventure – including options for a 4 x 4 drive through the dunes, sunset dinner in a Bedouin-style camp, camel rides, sand-boarding, belly-dancing, and, of course, the opportunity to experience those breathtaking desert sunsets. Memorable, magical and unlike anything else you’ve ever seen…
Where to Stay
Jannah Burj Al Sarab: World-class service and high-end amenities are par for the course at this fabulous hotel, which is located right in the heart of the city. The elegantly appointed rooms and suites offer the best of everything, from furnishings and decor, to bedding and technology. Hotel facilities include a rooftop gym and swimming pool, all day dining, and 24-hour room service.
Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort: This 5-star beach resort puts you in the perfect location to explore all the city attractions. The luxury rooms feature marble bathrooms and private balconies with stunning views over the Arabian Gulf, while the expansive facilities include outdoor pools, a sauna and steam room, well-equipped gym, and tennis and squash courts.
Royal Rose Abu Dhabi: An outstanding central location, sophisticated French-style ambience, and attentive service are the hallmarks of this excellent 5-star accommodation. With rooms appointed in elegant Baroque decor and furnishings, and the very best in amenities including an outdoor pool, restaurants, gym and spa, you’ll feel warmly welcomed in this home-from-home in the city centre.
How to Get There
It’s very straightforward to get to the UAE to begin your break in Abu Dhabi. You’ll need to fly into Abu Dhabi Airport (AUH), which will take just under seven hours from various places in the UK. A number of carriers operate the route, including British Airways, Air New Zealand, Aer Lingus, Etihad, and more. March is the cheapest month, with flights starting at £121 each way from the UK.
When you land at the airport, the most convenient and comfortable way to get from the airport at Abu Dhabi to Abu Dhabi city centre is on a pre-booked shared or private service with Shuttle Direct. A professional local driver will be at the airport to get you to your onward destination in the fastest possible way.
Overview
UK to AUH Flight Time: 6 hour 55 minutes
AUH to Abu Dhabi Distance: 35 kilometres
Shuttle Direct Transfer: 30 minutes approx.
Types of Transfer
You have a number of options to transport you from Abu Dhabi Airport to Abu Dhabi city centre. At Shuttle Direct, we appreciate that our customers have different priorities, so we offer several services to suit your budget and requirements.
If saving as much as possible is important to you, one of our shared shuttle bus services will get you from Abu Dhabi Airport to Abu Dhabi centre easily. At the airport you’ll meet at a designated point, then you’ll travel with other passengers to a central drop-off in the city. While it’s very economical, we don’t ever compromise on comfort and safety.
If you prefer to travel alone, a cost-effective way of doing it is on a pre-booked airport taxi. Instead of standing with a whole lot of other weary travellers in a queue, your driver and taxi will be waiting for you as soon as you exit the terminal. You’ll be taken from the airport at Abu Dhabi to Abu Dhabi centre, and right to the door of your accommodation.
When it comes to travelling with a group of extended family or friends, booking a minibus transfer is the ideal solution to get you from the airport at Abu Dhabi to the door of your hotel or resort. Because you’ll all be able to travel in the same vehicle, you’ll negate the logistical headache of trying to keep track of everyone and their luggage.
Looking for luxury all the way? Our private Abu Dhabi transfers have you covered. You’ll be met inside the terminal, and your driver will escort you to a luxury vehicle, before setting off to deliver you to the doorstep of your accommodation. This service offers the ultimate in both comfort and convenience.
Choosing the Right Transfer
The best Abu Dhabi transfer for your personal requirements and budget is something only you can decide. In short, that decision will generally be based on whether you want to prioritise cost or convenience.
Convenience: If a door-to-door service is the most important factor to you, and you’re happy to pay a little extra for the privilege, then one of our luxury private transfers or a pre-booked taxi will suit you.
Cost: But if paying less is your main priority, the most economical airport transfer is a shared shuttle bus. You’ll still get the Shuttle Direct comfort and reliability, but because the cost is shared across other travellers in the same vehicle, it costs a lot less than a private service.
About Shuttle Direct
Shuttle Direct is one of the most renowned providers of onward airport transfers to and from a huge range of destinations around the world. No matter what your budget and how you like to travel, one of our economical shared or luxury private services will suit you. With comfortable vehicles, a track record for safety and reliability, and a fleet of professional drivers, we’re here whenever you need us!
