One Day in Abu Dhabi for Tourists

By Katie Sagal

Heading to the Emirates with Abu Dhabi on your list, but only have one day to explore? Check out our ideas for attractions and activities to enjoy if you only have one day in Abu Dhabi. Whether you’ve spent plenty of time in the Emirates, or this is your first visit to this spectacular part of the world, we hope our sample itinerary has some potential ideas you can incorporate into your own plans. This one-day itinerary includes:

  • Morning Desert Safari
  • Kayak Tour of the Mangroves
  • Sunset Cruise in Abu Dhabi

Save on Admission

Looking to save on admission to these top Abu Dhabi attractions and activities? Pick up the Go Dubai® Card today and save up to 52% on combined admission! Spending more time in Abu Dhabi? Check out our 2-day (weekend) and 3-day itineraries for tourists visiting Abu Dhabi.

Morning Desert Safari

Image of Adult, Male, Man, Person, Shoe, Female, Woman, People, Glasses, This is a great way to start off your one day in Abu Dhabi. Head out into the desert wilderness for an amazing opportunity to experience the sun and sand via this once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Enjoy an exhilarating and active ride on a 4X4 vehicle, a camel ride, sand-boarding, and some refreshments, served at a desert camp evocative of traditional Bedouin culture. This safari takes about four hours, so it will be your entire morning. Getting In: Morning Desert Safari tickets are included with the Go Dubai® Card.

Kayak Tour of the Mangroves

Image of Water, Boat, Canoe, Kayak, Rowboat, Vehicle, Lifejacket, Vest, After lunch, you’ll want to explore Abu Dhabi’s most beloved hidden gem – the Mangrove National Park. This gorgeous stretch of wilderness encompasses an unexpected wealth of plant and animal life, including turtles, flamingos, heron, several species of fish, and more. The chance to explore this beautiful expanse via kayak also gives you the opportunity to get a bit closer – and it’s an eco-friendly attraction option, too. Win-win! Your kayak excursions will take about two hours. Getting In: Kayak Tour of the Mangroves tickets are included with the Go Dubai® Card.

Sunset Cruise

Image of Nature, Outdoors, Sky, Sunrise, Scenery, Horizon, Sunlight, Sun, Astronomy, Moon, Night, For your last attraction of the day, you’re back out on the water. But this time, it’s no work and all play aboard this relaxing vessel. Tour Abu Dhabi’s inshore coastline for unbeatable views of Raha Beach, Samaliyah Island (including its traditional-style village), mangrove forests, and the ultra-modern skyline of the city itself. This cruise lasts an hour and a half and is the ideal way to end your one day in Abu Dhabi. Getting In: Sunset Cruise in Abu Dhabi tickets are included with the Go Dubai® Card.

Don’t Forget to Save

As you’re planning your one perfect day in Abu Dhabi, don’t forget to save on your activities. The Go Dubai® Card can help you save up to 52% on combined admission prices versus paying at the gate, and will cover these and other top Abu Dhabi and Dubai-area attractions. Be sure to check it out before your trip!

Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

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A Christmas panorama at a Dubai mall
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