8 Best Abu Dhabi Tours from Dubai (2025 Reviews)

An Abu Dhabi tour from Dubai is the perfect way to experience the UAE’s magnificent capital without the hassle of changing cities or hotels.

I have now spent 3 afternoons wandering beneath Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque’s alabaster domes and gazing up at Etihad Towers’ sleek silhouettes while returning to my Dubai hotel by nightfall. The contrast is powerful, and the transition is smooth.

You can soak in the United Emirates Capital’s culture by day, then catch a Dubai dinner cruise along the Marina by night, a golden skyline in place of a golden dome.

The journey between these sister cities reveals fascinating glimpses of desert landscapes and modern infrastructure, a visual story of how the Emirates transformed from Bedouin settlements to global powerhouses in a single generation.

It’s this blend of heritage and ambition that makes both cities worth exploring in tandem.

If you’re planning your time carefully, a Dubai city tour is also worth weaving into your stay, especially if you’d like to connect the historical and contemporary layers before heading out on a day trip. It’s the kind of tour that fills in the blanks between the soaring towers and winding alleyways.

Below, I’ve shared my absolute 3 favorite day trips, followed by reviews of all 8. Each offers a unique perspective on Abu Dhabi’s cultural treasures and architectural marvels.

Day Trips from Dubai

Compare Top Tours: From Dubai: Abu Dhabi Premium Full-Day Sightseeing Tour, Abu Dhabi City Tour From Dubai With Lunch, and From Dubai: Abu Dhabi Day Tour with Ferrari World Ticket

From Dubai: Abu Dhabi Premium Full-Day Sightseeing Tour	Abu Dhabi City Tour From Dubai With Lunch	From Dubai: Abu Dhabi Day Tour with Ferrari World Ticket
Duration: Full Day (8-9 hours)	Duration: Full Day (9 hours)	Duration: Full Day (10 hours)
Pickup: Hotel pickup included	Pickup: Hotel pickup included	Pickup: Hotel pickup included
Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours in advance	Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours in advance	Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours in advance
Includes: Transportation, English-speaking guide, Grand Mosque visit, photo stops	Includes: Transportation, guide, lunch, Grand Mosque visit, Heritage Village	Includes: Transportation, Ferrari World ticket, Grand Mosque visit, driver/guide
Perfect for culture lovers wanting a comprehensive introduction to Abu Dhabi’s highlights with comfortable transportation	Great value with included authentic local lunch while seeing all major Abu Dhabi landmarks	Ideal for thrill-seekers combining cultural highlights with Ferrari World’s attractions and rides
👉 Reserve Your Spot!	👉 Reserve Your Spot!	👉 Reserve Your Spot!

Abu Dhabi Day Trip from Dubai

• Tour 1: From Dubai: Abu Dhabi Premium Full-Day Sightseeing Tour
• Tour 2: Abu Dhabi City Tour From Dubai With Lunch
• Tour 3: From Dubai: Abu Dhabi Day Tour with Ferrari World Ticket
• Tour 4: From Dubai: Abu Dhabi Grand Mosque & Louvre Museum Full-Day
• Tour 5: Abu Dhabi Premium Full-Day Sightseeing Tour From Dubai
• Tour 6: Dubai: Abu Dhabi Trip with Lunch at Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant
• Tour 7: Abu Dhabi Trip and Sheikh Zayed Mosque By SUV From Dubai
• Tour 8: Private Abu Dhabi City Tour with Pick up from Dubai or Abu Dhabi

Dubai to Abu Dhabi Day Trip (2025 Reviews)

Tour 1: From Dubai: Abu Dhabi Premium Full-Day Sightseeing Tour

✅ Meeting Point: Hotel pickup from Dubai hotels
✅ Departure Time: Around 8:00-9:00 AM
✅ Duration: 8-9 hours
✅ Guide: English-speaking
✅ Free Cancellation: Yes, up to 24 hours in advance
✅ Includes: Air-conditioned transportation, professional guide, Grand Mosque visit, photo stops at major landmarks

There’s something undeniably magical about stepping into the From Dubai: Abu Dhabi Premium Full-Day Sightseeing Tour.

My day began with a comfortable hotel pickup, a small luxury I’ve appreciated after years of fumbling with maps in unfamiliar cities.

As we cruised down Sheikh Zayed Road, our guide shared fascinating insights about the rapid development of the UAE, transforming what could have been a mundane highway journey into an engaging cultural primer.

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque was, without question, the highlight of this experience. I’ve visited religious sites across five continents, but few match the breathtaking combination of spiritual tranquility and architectural grandeur found here.

The brilliant white domes against the azure sky create a photograph that genuinely doesn’t need a filter, though I’ll admit I still applied one for my Instagram.

Ladies, they provide abayas for women visitors, but I’d recommend wearing light, loose clothing underneath as the UAE heat is no joke, even in air-conditioned spaces.

What impressed me most was our guide Ahmed’s ability to read the group’s energy, knowing precisely when to provide detailed historical context and when to allow us quiet moments of wonder.

The tour includes strategic photo stops at Emirates Palace, the Corniche, and Heritage Village, giving you just enough time to capture the perfect shot without feeling rushed or herded like tourist cattle (we’ve all been there, haven’t we?).

Unlike some tours that feel like a blur of monuments, this one has a thoughtful rhythm, balancing iconic sites with authentic local experiences.

Tour 2: Abu Dhabi City Tour From Dubai With Lunch

✅ Meeting Point: Hotel pickup from Dubai hotels
✅ Departure Time: Between 8:00-9:00 AM
✅ Duration: 9 hours
✅ Guide: English-speaking professional guide
✅ Free Cancellation: Yes, up to 24 hours in advance
✅ Includes: Hotel pickup/drop-off, air-conditioned vehicle, professional guide, lunch, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque visit, Heritage Village visit

Let me tell you about my experience with the Abu Dhabi City Tour From Dubai With Lunch – it genuinely exceeded my expectations.

The morning pickup was punctual (a rarity in my travel experiences!), and our guide Faisal immediately created a warm atmosphere with his infectious enthusiasm for sharing his country’s story.

The journey to Abu Dhabi passes surprisingly quickly when you’re learning about the fascinating transformation of the UAE. Faisal shared personal anecdotes about growing up in a rapidly changing Dubai that gave us insight no history book could offer. By the time we reached our first stop, we felt less like tourists and more like visiting friends.

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, with its 82 domes and over 1,000 columns, is a sight that photographs simply cannot do justice. The play of sunlight across the marble floors creates an almost heavenly atmosphere.

I found myself hanging back from the group several times just to absorb the serene beauty in moments of quiet contemplation. Pro tip: the best photos come from the reflecting pools outside, where you can capture both the mosque and its perfect mirror image.

What sets this tour apart is the included lunch at a local restaurant.

After years of being disappointed by included meals on tours worldwide (you know the type—bland buffets that cater to the least adventurous palate), I was delighted to experience authentic Emirati flavors.

The machboos (spiced rice with meat) was genuinely delicious, not just “good for tourist food.” This midday break provided not just nourishment but a chance to connect with our fellow travelers, turning strangers into friends over shared dishes and travel stories.

The afternoon visits to Heritage Village and the Corniche offered a perfect balance of old and new Abu Dhabi. As the sun began to set, casting golden light across the modern skyline, I couldn’t help but appreciate how thoughtfully the day had been arranged to showcase the city’s contrasting faces.

Tour 3: From Dubai: Abu Dhabi Day Tour with Ferrari World Ticket

✅ Meeting Point: Hotel pickup from Dubai hotels
✅ Departure Time: Early morning (typically 8:00 AM)
✅ Duration: 10 hours
✅ Guide: English-speaking driver/guide
✅ Free Cancellation: Yes, up to 24 hours in advance
✅ Includes: Hotel pickup/drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, Ferrari World admission ticket, driver/guide, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque visit

The From Dubai: Abu Dhabi Day Tour with Ferrari World Ticket offers that perfect blend of cultural immersion and pure adrenaline that I’m always seeking in my travels.

The day begins with the requisite visit to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a stunning architectural masterpiece that somehow manages to feel both imposing and serene simultaneously. Our guide provided just enough historical context without overwhelming us with dates and dimensions, allowing the space to speak for itself.

But if I’m being honest, my heart was racing in anticipation of the afternoon portion: Ferrari World. As someone who typically gravitates toward cultural experiences over theme parks, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this attraction.

Formula Rossa, the world’s fastest roller coaster, is not for the faint of heart (the safety goggles they provide should be your first clue). The acceleration forces you back into your seat in a way that makes your cheeks do things you didn’t know were physically possible, and I mean that in the best possible way!

What makes this tour particularly brilliant is the contrast between morning and afternoon. The mosque’s tranquil spirituality creates an almost meditative state that makes the subsequent Ferrari World adrenaline rush all the more intense. It’s like the UAE itself a fascinating juxtaposition of ancient traditions and futuristic ambitions.

A practical note about timing: the tour allocates about 4-5 hours at Ferrari World, which feels just right. It’s enough time to hit the major attractions (definitely prioritize Formula Rossa and Flying Aces) without the fatigue that can set in after a full day at a theme park.

The air-conditioned comfort of the venue is also a welcome respite from the Abu Dhabi heat, especially during summer months when stepping outside feels like walking into a hair dryer.

By the time we returned to Dubai in the evening, I had experienced both the cultural and entertainment highlights of Abu Dhabi, making for a perfectly balanced day trip that would appeal to mixed groups with varying interests.

Tour 4: From Dubai: Abu Dhabi Grand Mosque & Louvre Museum Full-Day

✅ Meeting Point: Hotel pickup from Dubai hotels
✅ Departure Time: Morning (8:00-8:30 AM)
✅ Duration: Full day (9-10 hours)
✅ Guide: English-speaking guide
✅ Free Cancellation: Yes, up to 24 hours in advance
✅ Includes: Hotel pickup/drop-off, transportation, guide, Louvre Abu Dhabi entrance ticket, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque visit

For art and architecture enthusiasts like myself, the From Dubai: Abu Dhabi Grand Mosque & Louvre Museum Full-Day tour is nothing short of transformative. This expertly curated experience combines two of Abu Dhabi’s most magnificent structures, each representing a different facet of the emirate’s cultural aspirations.

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, our morning destination, is a poem of light and marble. Standing beneath its soaring domes, I found myself repeatedly tilting my head back in wonder, trying to absorb the intricate floral mosaics adorning the columns.

Our guide shared fascinating details about the mosque’s construction, like the fact that the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet lies beneath our feet, or that the spectacular chandeliers incorporate millions of Swarovski crystals.

These aren’t just impressive statistics; they’re testaments to the UAE’s commitment to creating spaces of extraordinary beauty.

After the spiritual grandeur of the mosque, the afternoon at the Louvre Abu Dhabi offers a different kind of transcendence. Jean Nouvel’s architectural masterpiece with its famous “rain of light” dome creates an atmosphere that’s both contemplative and awe-inspiring.

The filtered sunlight dapples the walkways between galleries in constantly shifting patterns that seem alive—I spent nearly as much time photographing the building itself as I did the artwork inside.

What makes this tour particularly special is how it reveals Abu Dhabi’s dual identity: deeply rooted in Islamic heritage while simultaneously reaching outward to embrace global culture.

The museum’s thoughtful curation brings together artifacts from civilizations worldwide, arranged not by geography but by universal human themes—a curatorial choice that feels particularly meaningful in this crossroads of cultures.

I appreciated having a guide to navigate both massive venues efficiently, pointing out highlights we might otherwise miss. That said, the tour also provides enough free time to wander independently, allowing for those serendipitous discoveries that often become the most treasured memories of a trip.

Tour 5: Abu Dhabi Premium Full-Day Sightseeing Tour From Dubai

✅ Meeting Point: Hotel pickup from Dubai hotels
✅ Departure Time: 8:00-9:00 AM
✅ Duration: 8-9 hours
✅ Guide: Professional English-speaking guide
✅ Free Cancellation: Yes, up to 24 hours in advance
✅ Includes: Hotel pickup/drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, professional guide, bottled water, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque visit, photo stops at major landmarks

The Abu Dhabi Premium Full-Day Sightseeing Tour From Dubai offers the perfect introduction to Abu Dhabi’s highlights for those with limited time in the Emirates. Our guide, Mohammed, picked us up promptly from our Dubai hotel in a comfortable, spotlessly clean SUV that immediately set the tone for a premium experience.

The journey to Abu Dhabi became an educational experience in itself as Mohammed shared insights about the remarkable development of the UAE over the past decades. Having visited ten years ago, I was astonished by the landscape transformation between the two emirates. What was once an empty desert is now dotted with ambitious new developments and gleaming infrastructure.

Upon reaching Abu Dhabi, the tour provides well-timed photo stops at the city’s most photogenic spots. The brief visit to the Heritage Village offers a glimpse into pre-oil Emirati life that provides valuable context for understanding the nation’s meteoric rise.

While some might find this stop a bit touristy, I appreciated the opportunity to see traditional architecture and crafts that have largely disappeared from the modern cityscape.

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is, unsurprisingly, the crown jewel of this tour. Unlike some rushed guided experiences I’ve had elsewhere, this tour allocates a generous amount of time to fully appreciate this architectural marvel.

The late morning timing meant the harsh midday sun beautifully illuminated the mosque’s pristine white façade while our guide explained the significance of various design elements.

Do note that women are provided with abayas (traditional robes) and headscarves for the mosque visit, but I’d recommend wearing modest clothing underneath both out of respect and for comfort in the heat.

What sets this tour apart is the thoughtful balance of guided information and free time. Too often, guides overwhelm you with excessive details or provide frustratingly little context.

Mohammed struck that perfect middle ground, offering fascinating insights while also stepping back to allow us to experience each location without constant narration. His genuine pride in showcasing his country’s achievements was evident throughout the day.

Tour 6: Dubai: Abu Dhabi Trip with Lunch at Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant

✅ Meeting Point: Hotel pickup from Dubai hotels
✅ Departure Time: Around 8:00 AM
✅ Duration: 9-10 hours
✅ Guide: Professional English-speaking guide
✅ Free Cancellation: Yes, up to 24 hours in advance
✅ Includes: Hotel pickup/drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, professional guide, lunch at Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque visit, photo stops

The Dubai: Abu Dhabi Trip with Lunch at Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant perfectly combines sightseeing with authentic culinary experiences, which I always seek in my travels. As someone who believes that food is one of the most direct pathways to understanding a culture, this tour immediately caught my attention.

Our guide Khalid, was exceptional from the moment he picked us up at our Dubai hotel. His personal stories about growing up in the region provided insights into Emirati culture that no guidebook could offer.

During the journey to Abu Dhabi, he carefully prepared us for what we would see at each stop, providing just enough background information without overwhelming us with facts.

The morning portion follows a similar itinerary to other Abu Dhabi day trip visits to the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, photo stops at Emirates Palace and along the Corniche, but what sets this tour apart is the midday dining experience. Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant serves traditional Emirati cuisine in an authentic and comfortable upscale setting.

The lunch was a revelation. Having traveled extensively throughout the Middle East, I was familiar with Arabic cuisine broadly, but this was my first opportunity to taste dishes specific to the Gulf region.

The lunch included machboos (spiced rice with tender lamb), delicate fish saloona (stew), and my favorite, luqaimat, golden honey-soaked dumplings that somehow manage to be crisp and pillowy. Our guide explained each dish as it arrived, adding cultural context that enhanced the dining experience.

What made this particularly special was the restaurant’s setting within a heritage complex, with traditional architectural elements and views of the water. It wasn’t just a meal—it was a cultural experience that deepened my appreciation for Emirati traditions. The staff were incredibly welcoming, happy to answer questions about preparation methods and ingredients.

The afternoon continued with visits to remaining Abu Dhabi highlights, but I found myself reflecting on lunch throughout the day. I

t’s often these sensory experiences—the taste of unfamiliar spices, the sound of traditional music playing softly in the background—that create the most lasting travel memories.

Tour 7: Abu Dhabi Trip and Sheikh Zayed Mosque By SUV From Dubai

✅ Meeting Point: Hotel pickup from Dubai hotels
✅ Departure Time: Between 8:00-9:00 AM
✅ Duration: 8 hours
✅ Guide: Professional English-speaking driver/guide
✅ Free Cancellation: Yes, up to 24 hours in advance
✅ Includes: Hotel pickup/drop-off, luxury SUV transportation, English-speaking driver/guide, bottled water, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque visit

I’m typically hesitant about large group tours, often finding them impersonal and rushed, which is precisely why the Abu Dhabi Trip and Sheikh Zayed Mosque By SUV From Dubai immediately appealed to me.

The premium SUV experience offers the perfect middle ground between a private tour and a large coach excursion.

Our guide Ali, arrived in a pristine Lexus SUV that comfortably accommodated our small group of six. The vehicle itself was a significant upgrade from the usual tour vans—leather seats, excellent air conditioning (critical in the UAE heat), and enough space to spread out made the journey between Dubai and Abu Dhabi a pleasure rather than just a means to an end.

The smaller group size created an intimate atmosphere that encouraged conversation. By the time we reached Abu Dhabi, we had bonded with our fellow travelers, exchanging travel stories and recommendations.

Ali’s personalized approach meant he could adjust the pace based on our group’s interests, spending more time at sites where we showed greater curiosity and offering photography tips at scenic viewpoints.

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, as on all Abu Dhabi tours, was the centerpiece of our day. But this tour’s advantage became apparent immediately Ali navigated us efficiently through the entry procedures, avoiding the crowds that can sometimes accumulate with larger tour groups.

His knowledge of the mosque’s architecture and spiritual significance was impressive, and the smaller group meant we could ask questions freely without feeling like we were holding others up.

What particularly impressed me was Ali’s attention to detail. He knew precisely where to position us for the best photographs, sometimes suggesting creative angles I wouldn’t have considered. He even offered to take group photos for us, ensuring everyone was included in the memories.

The SUV experience also allowed for flexibility in our itinerary.

When we expressed interest in seeing more of Abu Dhabi’s modern architecture, Ali added a brief detour to see additional buildings of note. This kind of spontaneous adjustment simply isn’t possible with large coach tours operating on strict schedules.

Tour 8: Private Abu Dhabi City Tour with Pick up from Dubai or Abu Dhabi

✅ Meeting Point: Hotel pickup from Dubai or Abu Dhabi hotels
✅ Departure Time: Flexible (typically 8:00-9:00 AM)
✅ Duration: 8-9 hours
✅ Guide: Private English-speaking guide
✅ Free Cancellation: Yes, up to 24 hours in advance
✅ Includes: Private hotel pickup/drop-off, private air-conditioned vehicle, personal guide, bottled water, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque visit, customizable itinerary

After several trips to the UAE, where I joined standard group tours, I decided to splurge on the Private Abu Dhabi City Tour with Pick up from Dubai or Abu Dhabi for my parents’ first visit to the region.

The difference was remarkable and, in my opinion, entirely worth the higher price point for the personalized experience it provides.

The day began with our guide Rashed arriving punctually at our Dubai hotel in a comfortable, spacious vehicle. The immediate advantage became clear: rather than making multiple hotel pickups, we set off directly for Abu Dhabi, already saving precious time.

During the journey, Rashed asked thoughtful questions about our interests, using our responses to subtly customize the day’s focus. My father’s interest in architecture and my mother’s passion for gardens were both seamlessly incorporated into our itinerary.

The private format allowed us to experience Abu Dhabi at our own pace—lingering longer at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, where my mother was captivated by the floral inlay work, while moving more efficiently through areas of less interest to us.

Rashed proved exceptionally knowledgeable, not just reciting rehearsed information but engaging in genuine conversation about Emirati culture, answering our sometimes unusual questions with patience and insight.

One highlight was the flexibility to adjust our schedule on the fly. When we mentioned we hadn’t had proper Arabic coffee yet, Rashed made an unplanned stop at a local café he personally frequented, where we experienced gahwa (Arabic coffee) served with dates in an authentic setting away from tourist crowds.

These spontaneous moments often become the most cherished memories of a trip.

The private tour also allowed us to visit locations at optimal times. Rather than adhering to a fixed large-group schedule, Rashed timed our visit to the Heritage Village during the quietest period and suggested we have lunch slightly later than most tour groups, ensuring we avoided the midday rush at restaurants.

For photography enthusiasts like myself, the private format was particularly valuable. Rather than feeling rushed to grab quick snapshots before rejoining a waiting group, I could take my time composing shots. Rashed even suggested some unique vantage points that offered perspectives of Abu Dhabi I hadn’t captured on previous visits.

FAQs (8 Best Abu Dhabi Day Tours from Dubai (2025 Reviews))

How long is the drive from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?

The journey between Dubai and Abu Dhabi typically takes between 1-1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions and your starting point in Dubai. The route follows the modern E11 highway (Sheikh Zayed Road), making for a comfortable and scenic drive past desert landscapes and developing areas.

Do I need to bring my passport for an Abu Dhabi tour from Dubai?

Yes, it’s highly recommended to bring your passport on any Abu Dhabi tour from Dubai. While both cities are in the UAE and there are no formal border checkpoints between emirates, random security checks can occur. Additionally, many attractions like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque may request ID verification.

What should women wear for the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque visit?

Women must dress modestly for the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. While complimentary abayas (full-length robes) and headscarves are provided at the entrance, it’s recommended to wear loose, non-transparent clothing that covers shoulders, arms, and legs. Avoid tight-fitting clothes underneath the abaya for comfort and respect.

Are there Abu Dhabi tours that include Ferrari World and the Grand Mosque on the same day?

Yes! Several tours combine these experiences, including Tour 3 in our list. These tours typically visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in the morning followed by 4-5 hours at Ferrari World in the afternoon, allowing you to experience both culture and entertainment in a single day trip.

Is lunch included in most Abu Dhabi day tours from Dubai?

Not all tours include lunch. Tours 2 and 6 on our list specifically include lunch experiences, while others provide time for lunch at your own expense. Tours with included meals typically feature traditional Emirati cuisine or international buffets at selected restaurants.

How much free time do I get at each attraction during these tours?

This varies by tour. Group tours typically allocate 45-90 minutes at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and 30-45 minutes at other photo stops. Private tours offer more flexibility. Ferrari World tours usually provide 4-5 hours at the theme park, while Louvre Abu Dhabi visits include approximately 2 hours at the museum.

What is the best time of year for an Abu Dhabi day trip from Dubai?

The most comfortable months for sightseeing are November through March when temperatures range from 18-30°C (65-86°F). Summer months (June-September) can be extremely hot with temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C (104°F), though all vehicles and major attractions are well air-conditioned.

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501 Places and Tours Editor’s Ranking: From Dubai: Abu Dhabi Premium Full-Day Sightseeing Tour