The Ultimate Abu Dhabi Day Trip on a Budget

Experience luxury on a budget in Abu Dhabi.

21 June 2023

Abu Dhabi can be expensive, but there are ways to enjoy it on a budget. Start by staying in a hostel or budget hotel, and eating at local restaurants. You can also visit free attractions like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque or the Corniche beach.

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Day trip plan

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Day

Exploring Abu Dhabi on a budget

  • Start your day off with a visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a stunning architectural masterpiece that's free to enter.
  • Take a stroll along Corniche Road, a picturesque waterfront promenade. You can rent bikes or enjoy a leisurely walk while taking in the beautiful views.
  • Visit the Emirates Palace Hotel for a taste of luxury without breaking the bank. Enjoy a coffee or tea from their café, or splurge on their delicious breakfast buffet.
  • Head to the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital for a unique experience meeting and learning about these majestic birds of prey. Tickets start at just AED 170 per person.
  • Fill up on some traditional Emirati cuisine without overspending at Al Dhafra Restaurant. Try their lamb machboos or chicken biryani for a true taste of the region.
  • End your day with a sunset desert safari, where you can enjoy dune bashing, camel rides and a cultural show, all for under AED 200. A perfect end to an adventurous day in Abu Dhabi.

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.

Destination

Abu Dhabi

Welcome to the city where camels roam the streets and luxury cars are the norm. Get ready to experience the Middle East's answer to Beverly Hills!

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Number of days

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Type of trip

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