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Architecture and shopping layover trip
Explore the cultural heritage and modern luxury of Abu Dhabi in a convenient 6-hour tour tailored for transit visitors. Begin your journey with a visit to the breathtaking Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, open from 9 am to 10 pm, where you can marvel at the architectural elegance and spiritual tranquillity. Then, immerse yourself in the Galleria Mall's world-class shopping experience, open from 10 am to 10 pm, featuring high-end retailers and gourmet dining options.
Transportation is effortless across Abu Dhabi. Simply catch a Taxi or book an Uber or Careem for additional flexibility.
Highlights
7 hours
Car
Highlights
7 hours
Car
Day 1 highlights
Your day in Abu Dhabi will be filled with contrasts, from the serene reflections at the mosque's pools to the bustling energy of the mall. At the mosque, dress modestly or rent on-site attire to explore the ornate prayer halls and an impressive library. At the Galleria Mall, enjoy the international brands, art installations, and waterfront promenade. These two destinations offer a snapshot of Abu Dhabi's remarkable blend of tradition and modernity, all easily accessible from the airport and well-connected by the city's transit options.
Stop 1
Recommended Time: 1 hours
With more than 50 airlines flying to and from some 102 destinations in over 56 countries, Zayed International Airport has been recognised by the World Airport Awards, with the ‘Best Airport in the Middle East’ accolade going to this airport more than once.
The airport’s Terminal 1, with design and architecture reflecting traditional Emirati elements set in a high-end, ultramodern ambience, delivers a five-star travel experience.
The home of Etihad Airways – the national airline of the United Arab Emirates – Terminal 3 welcomes travellers to plush Etihad lounges and an award-winning concierge-style check-in. Impressive retail is managed by DFS, the world’s largest luxury retailer, and is complemented by upmarket restaurants and cafés.
The soon-to-come Midfield Terminal Complex (MTC), a centrepiece of Abu Dhabi Airports Company’s (ADAC) multibillion-dollar investment programme, will provide a full terminal building, passenger and cargo facilities, duty-free shops and restaurants for between 27-40 million people a year in the future.
Are you flying into Abu Dhabi? Click here for full flight information.
Abu Dhabi International Airport is also well connected to the rest of the emirate by numerous bus services. For more information on bus services, fares and schedules, or to download bus routes, click here.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Stop 2
Recommended Time: 1 hours
When you enter Abu Dhabi's Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, you will understand why it is such a special place. Here, people from all walks of life come together to take in the architecture's beauty and gain a deeper understanding of religion and culture in the United Arab Emirates. The mosque is one of the world's largest and was the vision of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan - the Founding Father of the UAE. He envisaged the creation of a welcoming and cultural haven that inspires people from all backgrounds.
Even the construction was a cultural collaboration. The grand structure was designed and built by skilled teams from all over the world, including 1,300 Iranian artisans who hand-knotted the main prayer hall's carpet - the world's largest.
On your journey through the marbled halls, you'll see one-of-a-kind treasures, including gold-plated Swarovski chandeliers, the courtyard's vast marble mosaic artwork and reflective pools that mirror some of the many amethyst-and-jasper-embedded columns. When you're outside, look up to see the mosque's four stunning minarets that proudly stand at 106 metres.
The Galleria Al Maryah Island
Stop 3
Recommended Time: 2 hours
The Galleria Al Maryah Island is Abu Dhabi's premier shopping, dining, and entertainment destination. Located in the heart of Al Maryah Island, the city's thriving financial district, this luxurious mall offers an unparalleled experience. The Galleria mall is the perfect place to spend your day, with over 400 stores showcasing global fashion brands, a diverse culinary scene boasting 100+ dining options, and exciting entertainment for all ages.
Stop 1
Zayed International Airport
Recommended Time: 1 hours
With more than 50 airlines flying to and from some 102 destinations in over 56 countries, Zayed International Airport has been recognised by the World Airport Awards, with the ‘Best Airport in the Middle East’ accolade going to this airport more than once.
The airport’s Terminal 1, with design and architecture reflecting traditional Emirati elements set in a high-end, ultramodern ambience, delivers a five-star travel experience.
The home of Etihad Airways – the national airline of the United Arab Emirates – Terminal 3 welcomes travellers to plush Etihad lounges and an award-winning concierge-style check-in. Impressive retail is managed by DFS, the world’s largest luxury retailer, and is complemented by upmarket restaurants and cafés.
The soon-to-come Midfield Terminal Complex (MTC), a centrepiece of Abu Dhabi Airports Company’s (ADAC) multibillion-dollar investment programme, will provide a full terminal building, passenger and cargo facilities, duty-free shops and restaurants for between 27-40 million people a year in the future.
Are you flying into Abu Dhabi? Click here for full flight information.
Abu Dhabi International Airport is also well connected to the rest of the emirate by numerous bus services. For more information on bus services, fares and schedules, or to download bus routes, click here.
