Abu Dhabi Highlights: 4 Perfect Excursions in 4 Days
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) had been on my list of places I wanted to see for some time and when I found out Etihad offered a free layover in Abu Dhabi on my way home from South Africa, I knew that was my chance. I spent four days in Abu Dhabi - the capital of the UAE. Here’s the best of what I experienced during my short, but exciting visit.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
MY FAVORITE PLACE TO STAY
I used my SPG Starwood Preferred Guest points to splurge a little and stay at the incredible St. Regis Abu Dhabi. The hotel is located in one of the two Nation Towers skyscrapers in the heart of the Corniche. The Nation Galleria Mall is conveniently connected to the hotel as well. Staying here was worth every point!
my 4 favorite things to do in 4 days
No visit to Abu Dhabi is complete without visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the largest mosque in the country and main place of worship. This architectural phenomenon was designed by Syrian Yousef Abdelky and was built with materials from around the world. Meant to unite the diverse Islamic world, this gorgeous place brings together almost 6 million people a year. The Grand Mosque is dedicated to Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al-Nahyan, the founder of the UAE, who also ruled the country for 38 years and is buried on the grounds.
Make sure to check out the largest carpet in the world, measuring over 60,000 square feet, located in the main prayer hall. Proper dress code is strictly enforced (long sleeves and skirts, pants, headscarfs for women and no shoes when entering the Mosque). Allow at least 2 hours to tour the grounds.
One of the most architecturally stunning art museums I have ever seen, the Louvre Abu Dhabi is the largest in the Arabian peninsula. It opened in November 2017, only two months before my visit. Designed by architect Jean Nouvel, the Louvre Abu Dhabi is part of a thirty-year agreement between the city and the French government. It houses art from around the world. The metallic dome ceiling reflects light into the museum. When planning your visit, keep in mind the Louvre is closed on Mondays but is otherwise open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (until 10 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays).
DAY TRIP TO DUBAI
When you’re only an hour and half car ride away from Dubai, you go to Dubai. The largest city in the UAE and global center of the Middle East, the best and simplest way I can describe Dubai is “grand”. From the majestic 160 story Burj Khalifa (the tallest building, man made structure and free standing structure), to the (almost) largest waterfront in the world - Dubai has it all and you won’t be able to see it in one day, but it’s worth the ride! Stay a couple of nights if you can so you can take it all in.
4x4 DESERT SAFARI ADVENTURE
There’s no better time to experience the Arabian desert than sunset. Take an exhilirating half day tour with a professional safari driver in a 4x4 across the sand dunes, followed by a barbecue dinner and belly dancing show in a traditional Arabic camp. You can also give henna, sheesha (hookah) or local sweets and coffee a try to end your day in the desert under the stars.
“Once a year, go someplace you’ve never been to before. ”