Abu Dhabi Day Trip from Dubai: Grand Mosque, Qasr Al Watan and Etihad Towers

9–10 hoursHotel pickup · Selected hotels (check when booking)Guided in English, Italian, French, SpanishRated 4.9/5 · 10,491 reviews
From $80 per personRated 4.9/5 · 10,491 reviewsFree cancellation up to 24 hours before
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About Abu Dhabi Day Trip from Dubai: Grand Mosque, Qasr Al Watan and Etihad Towers

This guided day trip takes you from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, the UAE capital, to see its best-known landmarks. It has 10,491 reviews and a 4.9 rating.

The tour lasts about 9 to 10 hours, depending on traffic, with prices from about $80 per person. Hotel pickup and entry tickets are included.

Itinerary

  1. (1.5 hours)
  2. Louvre Abu Dhabi (15 minutes)
  3. Abu Dhabi (45 minutes)
  4. The Corniche
  5. Qasr Al Watan (1.5 hours)
  6. Etihad Towers (1 hours)

What’s included

  • Visit to the observation deck of Etihad Tower
  • Entry ticket to the Qasr Al Watan Presidential Palace
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Louvre Museum photo stop
  • Live professional tour guide
  • Unlimited water
  • Entry ticket to the Sheikh Zayed Mosque
  • Clean Abaya for ladies for mosque visit (to be returned)

What to expect on the day

Your guide picks you up in Dubai and drives you to Abu Dhabi. You visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, with its white marble domes, and the Qasr Al Watan presidential palace. Next comes the observation deck at Etihad Towers, a drive along the Corniche and a photo stop at the Louvre Abu Dhabi. You also pass by Yas Island and Saadiyat Island. The order of stops may change.

Prices and extra costs

  • Included: Hotel pickup and drop-off, a live guide, entry to the Grand Mosque and Qasr Al Watan, the Etihad Towers observation deck, unlimited water, and an abaya for women at the mosque.
  • Not included: Lunch. Luggage is not allowed on the tour.

What to bring

  • Modest clothing: long sleeves and long pants or skirt, and a head scarf for women.
  • Your WhatsApp number, shared at booking, for pickup updates.
  • Money for lunch.

Tips for a better day

  • Dress for the mosque: Men must cover shoulders and knees, and tattoos must be covered. Women can borrow an abaya and scarf.
  • Pickup area: Pickup is free from Dubai city hotels, apartments and the Port Rashid and Dubai Harbour cruise terminals. Pickup outside the city costs extra.
  • Inside the palace: Guided tours are not allowed in Qasr Al Watan, so your guide explains the palace before you go in.

Who it’s best for

Best for: First-time visitors who want to see Abu Dhabi’s main sights in one day without driving.

Consider another option if: You would rather stay in Dubai and explore its history. The Old Dubai souks and food tour is shorter and covers the creek and markets.

Restrictions

Suitable for most fitness levels, but not recommended for travelers with poor heart health. Infants sit on an adult’s lap. Qasr Al Watan may close without notice during presidential events.

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time.

FAQ about Abu Dhabi Day Trip from Dubai: Grand Mosque, Qasr Al Watan and Etihad Towers

How long is the Abu Dhabi day trip from Dubai?

About 9 to 10 hours, depending on traffic.

Is hotel pickup included?

Yes, from Dubai city hotels, apartments and cruise terminals.

Is lunch included?

No. Lunch is at your own expense.

Which places do you visit?

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Qasr Al Watan, the Etihad Towers observation deck, the Corniche and a Louvre Abu Dhabi photo stop.

Are entry tickets included?

Yes, for the Grand Mosque, Qasr Al Watan and the Etihad Towers deck.

What should I wear?

Long, loose clothing that covers arms and legs. Women also cover their hair.

Do women get an abaya?

Yes. A clean abaya is lent for the mosque visit.

Can I bring luggage?

No. Luggage is not allowed.

Do you go inside the Louvre Abu Dhabi?

No. It is a photo stop only.

What is the cancellation policy?

Cancel at least 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.