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Visit Abu Dhabi in one day: wear an abaya and visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, be amazed by the luxe of the Emirates Palace and… what else?
Finally I am here in the United Arab Emirates, ready to visit Abu Dhabi in one day, the city that I always wanted to see. And now that I’m here… I can’t wait to go home!
No offense Abu Dhabi, but you are not as fun as your sister Dubai!
The city itself doesn’t have much to offer besides the beautiful Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
VISIT THE SHEIKH ZAYED GRAND MOSQUE.
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a super recent construction: it was built between 1996 and 2007 by Sheikh Zayed (duh) as an Islamic worship site.
Before you enter the Mosque the women will be given an abaya to cover their hair and body.
The visit is free and you can wonder by yourself and take pictures also inside the Mosque.
What stands out is its bright whiteness.
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a beautiful and peaceful place that you can’t miss to your visit in the United Arab Emirates.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Opening Hours:
Every day (except Fridays): 9:00 – 10:00
Fridays: 16:30 – 22:00
During Ramadan: Every day 9:00 – 14:00 (except Fridays)
Once you have visited the Big Mosque you wander what to do next during your visit to Abu Dhabi in one day.
Like the seal of the Burj Al Arab Hotel is the icon of Dubai, the shape of the Emirates Palace is the icon of Abu Dhabi.
VISIT THE EMIRATES PALACE.
The Emirates Palace is a luxury hotel. Or you can just say that the Emirates Palace is luxe itself.
Unlike the Burj Al Arab in Dubai, you don’t have to book anything inside the hotel to visit its interior.
As soon as they open the main door for you, you will be astonished by the gold and the crystals.
There used to be a gold vending machine in the lobby, but now they moved it to the Dubai Mall.
I can’t be bothered to go to a jewelry store so I guess I’ll skip my gold shopping for today!
WALK ALONG THE CORNICHE.
The Emirates Palace is located at the southern end of the Corniche.
The Corniche is a beachfront promenade with cycle and pedestrian pathways that stretches for about 8 km.
Its concept is actually a good idea, just not in Abu Dhabi! The heat makes the walking impossible and every 5 minutes you need an air conditioning break.
You can then relax on a beach, just make sure you follow the beach rules and regulations! And stay away from jellyfish and sea snakes!
I have to say that I got quite bored in this city. The rules and the unbearable heat don’t help to make your stay here pleasant.
Dubai entertained me with its extravagant malls, impressive constructions and souks.
Abu Dhabi is more moderate and lacks interesting attractions.
Anyway I think that a trip to the United Arab Emirates is not complete if you don’t see them both. And if you don’t know how to answer the question: do you prefer Abu Dhabi or Dubai?
See also:
USEFUL INFORMATION AND TRAVEL TIPS FOR DUBAI AND ABU DHABI
Back to:
TRAVEL TO THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
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