Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, is a captivating destination that attracts tourists from around the world. With its futuristic designs and impressive architecture, it is a city that must be experienced, savoured, and explored. Although 48 hours are not nearly enough to see everything the city has to offer, here is a short list of must-visit places and activities if you’re on a tight schedule.
1. Yas Bay and dinner at Yas Marina + Hotel check-in (Evening arrival – Day 1)
When arriving late somewhere, having some food and resting before embarking on an exploration journey is crucial. Yas Bay, specifically Yas Marina, is the perfect place for dinner. There is a wide variety of restaurants that would mostly likely accomodate everyone’s needs with regard to cuisine. For instance, if you fancy Asian cuisine, some of the options are Akiba Dori, Daikan Izakaya, and Zeera.
2. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (Morning – Day 2)
No visit to the UAE is complete without seeing the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. An architectural marvel, the mosque attracts visitors from across the world, willing to tap into a different culture and explore the richness of Emirati culture. The first considerations to build the Mosque began in the late 1980s, and construction began on November 5th, 1996. The mosque opened for worship on Eid Al Adha 2007. Its design and construction ‘unite the world,’ using materials and help from artisans from various countries, including Italy, Germany, Morocco, India, Turkey, China, United Kingdom, New Zealand, and Greece. Interestingly, more than 3,000 workers and 38 contraction companies participated in the Mosque construction.
3. Yas Mall (Lunch – Day 2)
If you prefer a more relaxed agenda, having lunch in Yas Mall and exploring local perfumes is a worthwhile experience. The mall offers a mix of Western brands and local boutiques, including shops and stalls selling Middle Eastern perfumes. These fragrances are renowned for their long-lasting scents, making them unique souvenirs or gifts.
4. Qasr al Watan tour (Day 2)
The Palace of the Nation – Qasr Al Watan is a place that may look ancient to some. Yet, the palace is only 8 years old. Being finished in 2017, this remarkable building is the place where important government events and ceremonies take place. However, the palace has been open to the public only since 2018. Divided into different sections, the interior is adorned with beautiful details in blue, white, and yellow, each colour signifying different things. Blue in this context represents the sea, white is related to peace, while yellow is associated with the desert sand. There are over 5,000 unique designs inspired by nature, most of which are influenced by Islamic art that focuses exclusively on flowers, with no representation of humans or animals.
One of the most impressive things about the Qasr Al Watan is the chandelier in The Spirit of Collaboration room. Crafted from 350,000 dazzling pieces of crystal and weighing 12 tons, this chandelier is so large that a person can actually fit inside to clean it. To facilitate maintenance, inside the chandelier a staircase has been designed, which makes moving around easier.
5. Edition hotel: Library Bar + dinner at Oak Room or Alba Terrace (Day 2)
If interested in exploring mixology and fine dining, the Edition Hotel is an excellent option. It offers a range of experiences which include the Library Bar is a speakeasy place, inspired by the written word. Award-winning mixologist Ryan Remulta serves drinks while guests enjoy the quiet, intimate space away from the city crowds.
Moreover, those who are rather peckish or ultimately starving can indulge in the Mediterranean restaurant Alba Terrace. Another option at the same location, at Edition Hotel, is the Oak Room, a British steakhouse with a rock ‘n’ roll touch, offering “prime grade” meat cuts led by Meat Sommelier Alejandro de la Fuente.
6. Breakfast at CAF Cafe, Corniche Beach and check-out (Morning – Day 3)
Starting the last day slowly at CAF café near Corniche beach is another way to relax. This café is the perfect spot for breakfast or brunch, offering a wide selection of food and drinks. Afterwards, taking a stroll along the Corniche beach is a must-do. This beautiful beach isn’t just home to turquoise water and soft, white sand, it also has a beautiful seaside boardwalk with lush gardens and benches overlooking the picturesque Arabian Gulf. Of course, if the time allows everyone willing to go for a dip, can indulge themselves in a swim in the crystal-clear water. The beach is certified as disability-friendly and has earned Blue Flag and Green Flag recognition for its quality and environmental standards.
7. Heritage village (Bonus)
If time allows, the heritage village is something definitely interesting to explore and experience. The site offers a peak at Abu Dhabi’s past, where visitors can shop, discover artefacts and watch artisans working.
What’s more, the Heritage village is home to the Emirates Heritage Club, which regularly offers workshops for traditional crafts, in which craftsmen demonstrate their skills in pottery, weaving yarn and metalwork.
