5 Days in Abu Dhabi: From Deserts to Beaches

Discover luxury for less in Abu Dhabi.

21 June 2023

Abu Dhabi is an ideal destination for budget travelers as the city is full of affordable attractions and activities. One of the best things to do is visit the beautiful beaches and parks, which are free to access. Food can also be cheap if you stick to local eateries and street food.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Welcome to Abu Dhabi

Check in at Premier Inn Abu Dhabi Capital Centre, a budget-friendly hotel located near Corniche Beach
Head to the observation deck of Etihad Towers for a stunning view of the city and its surroundings
Explore the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, an iconic landmark that showcases Islamic architecture and art
Enjoy a seafood dinner at Al Dhafra restaurant, known for its fresh catch and Arabic-style barbecue

Day 2

Desert Safari Adventure

Join a half-day or full-day desert safari tour that includes dune bashing, camel riding, and sandboarding
Visit a Bedouin-style camp and experience traditional Emirati activities such as henna painting and shisha smoking
Watch a live performance of Arabic music and dance, including the mesmerizing tanoura dance
Feast on a buffet of Arabic and international cuisine, complete with grilled meats and sweet treats

Day 3

Cultural Immersion

Walk around the Qasr Al-Hosn fort and palace, which dates back to the 18th century and served as the royal residence and seat of government
Browse the collections of the Louvre Abu Dhabi, a world-class museum that showcases art and artifacts from around the world
Stroll along the promenade of The Corniche, a waterfront area with parks, cafes, and public art installations
Enjoy a local meal at Al Arish restaurant, which serves authentic Emirati dishes such as machboos, harees, and luqaimat

Day 4

Island Hopping

Take a ferry or speedboat to the nearby islands of Saadiyat or Yas, both of which offer a range of activities and attractions
Visit the Saadiyat Island Cultural District, home to the Manarat Al Saadiyat exhibition center, the NYU Abu Dhabi campus, and the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi
Check out the Yas Island entertainment complex, which boasts theme parks, a marina, a mall, and a Formula 1 track
Try the Italian cuisine at Cipriani Yas Island, an upscale restaurant with a beautiful setting overlooking the marina

Day 5

Final Day in Abu Dhabi

Visit the Emirates Palace hotel, a lavish property with a stunning beach and opulent interiors
Go shopping at the Abu Dhabi Mall, one of the largest malls in the city with over 200 stores and a cinema complex
Take a sunset stroll in the Al Ain Oasis, a UNESCO World Heritage site that features a network of date palm plantations
End your trip with a farewell dinner at Li Beirut, a restaurant that serves modern Lebanese cuisine with a twist of French sophistication.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Abu Dhabi by plane is to fly to Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) from major airports around the world. A number of airlines operate regular flights to Abu Dhabi, including Etihad Airways, Emirates, and Qatar Airways. Make sure to check for the best deals on flights before booking your trip.

Car

If you are driving from Dubai, take Sheikh Zayed Road (E11) south towards Abu Dhabi. The journey should take approximately one hour and a half or longer depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can take the E311 road, which is slightly longer but less congested.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no direct train service to Abu Dhabi. The nearest train stations are in Dubai and Al Ain, which are both about an hour and a half away from Abu Dhabi by bus or car.

Boat

There are no regular boat services to Abu Dhabi, but you can charter a private boat from Dubai or other places along the coast of the Persian Gulf. This can be a great way to enjoy the picturesque coastal views and arrive in style. Make sure to check the prices and availability of boat charters before booking your trip.

Bus

The easiest way to get to Abu Dhabi by bus is to take the E100 bus from Dubai. The bus departs from the Al Ghubaiba Bus Station in Dubai and goes directly to Abu Dhabi. The journey takes about two hours, depending on traffic.