Abu Dhabi is the perfect destination for a weekend city break – it’s easy to get around, packed with great places to eat and drink, and home to some of the UAE’s top hotels. There are plenty of things to do in the UAE’s capital too, from lazy days on the beach to arts and culture hubs, and of course, some of the world’s most thrilling theme parks.
Nowadays, the weekend falls on Saturday and Sunday (this was changed in recent years), so whether you’re making the most of your days off, on a 36-hour stopover or just taking a short break for yourself, this three-day itinerary will help you pack in as much fun as possible.
Friday
Arrival
Touching down at Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) is a breeze – the airport is modern and easy to navigate, and the city is practically on its doorstep. Regulated taxis are readily available outside the arrivals hall, and you can also use a ride hailing app like Careem or Uber to book a pick-up. Driving into the city takes about half an hour, and it’s just 15 minutes to Yas Island. There are also several public buses that connect the airport with downtown and cost just a few dirhams.
Where to stay
Abu Dhabi has everything from glamorous city-centre hotels to desert getaways, so there’s bound to be accommodation to suit. Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara is a palatial retreat set among the sand dunes, perfect for a calm, peaceful stay. At the other end of the spectrum, The St. Regis Abu Dhabi offers glamorous beachfront luxury right on the Corniche, while W Abu Dhabi Yas Island is ideal for those seeking a social, buzzy vibe and a thriving nightlife.
Afternoon
After checking in, take a few hours to relax and explore the local area. If you're staying in the city centre, stroll along Abu Dhabi’s Corniche, hire a bike or scooter, or grab a coffee with sea views at any of the casual cafes along the waterfront.
Evening
Get an authentic taste of the region with a traditional Emirati dinner at Al Fanar Restaurant. This atmospheric, lantern-lit dining room is decorated with antiques and vintage photographs, and the restaurant serves classic Emirati dishes such as machboos (a spiced rice and meat dish) and chebab, pancakes infused with saffron, cardamom and turmeric. If you prefer to eat somewhere more international, Coya Abu Dhabi offers Peruvian fusion dishes in a dramatically colourful setting on Al Maryah Island, often with live music sets. And if the jet lag hasn’t kicked in yet, stay up even later at Bla Bla Bar, where there are drinks, DJ sets and a dancefloor open until 3am on weekends.
Saturday
Morning
Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. It's one of the biggest mosques in the world and is constructed with beautiful white marble inlaid with floral mosaics. The world’s largest hand-knotted carpet can be seen in the main prayer hall, and there are several extraordinary chandeliers here too, featuring bright Swarovski crystals. It’s a fully-functioning mosque but is also very tourist-friendly, with tours, workshops and cultural programming open to visitors of all faiths. Modest dress is essential, and entry is free.
Next, head to Qasr Al Watan, the UAE’s Presidential Palace, about 20 minutes’ drive away. Visitors can admire the opulent Great Hall, explore exhibitions on Emirati culture, and see falconry displays. Those who visit later in the afternoon instead can listen to military music performances or catch the light-and-sound show too.
Lunch
If you’re not staying at the nearby Emirates Palace but want a chance to see this extravagantly lavish destination hotel (It’s the only hotel in the world to have an in-house gold leaf specialist), stop in for lunch instead – try Broadway, a modern American brasserie serving upmarket comfort food. Alternatively, for something more casual, head to Tashas Al Bateen, where you can enjoy a Mediterranean menu while enjoying pretty marina views.
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon exploring the cultural hub on Saadiyat Island, where the Louvre Abu Dhabi is the biggest draw. The magnificent architecture, surrounded by water, is worth the visit alone, especially the ‘rain of light’ dome that creates dappled patterns inside. Exhibitions change regularly, and feature sculptures, installation, paintings and antiques.
If you prefer to spend your afternoon outdoors, head to Saadiyat Beach Club, where you can enjoy soft white sands and the warm blue sea in peace and quiet. Book a private cabana and sip a refreshing drink by the pool, or stroll along the beach in search of dolphins, as there have been occasional sightings in this area.
Evening
Start the night with panoramic views at the Observation Deck at 300 in Etihad Towers – it’s the highest vantage point in Abu Dhabi and you can grab some early evening snacks and drinks here. Then enjoy dinner under the stars in one of Abu Dhabi’s many elegant terrace restaurants. Brick Rooftop is an ever-popular, breezy spot known for its great sunset views and sharing platters.
Sunday
Morning
Finish the weekend on a high, with an action-packed morning on Yas Island. There are world-class theme parks to choose from, including Ferrari World for high-speed roller coasters (including the world’s fastest), Warner Bros. World for movie-themed rides and Yas Waterworld for slides, wave pools, and family fun.If you prefer a more serene experience, start your day with a mangrove kayaking tour. The Eastern Mangroves are an often-overlooked part of Abu Dhabi, but offer a rich, natural environment of calm, green waterways and peaceful bird watching opportunities.
Lunch
Head to Antonia Saadiyat for relaxed pizza and fresh pasta right on the beach. The vibe is friendly, and the sea breeze is unbeatable. Seafood lovers should try Fishmarket at the InterContinental, a long-standing favourite where you choose your catch of the day, and have it cooked to order.
Afternoon
Spend your final hours treating yourself. At The Galleria Al Maryah Island there’s a whole host of designer boutiques, both Arab and international, to splash your cash in. Pick up Middle Eastern perfumes and accessories for memorable souvenirs. Or for more traditional buys, visit the Dates Market at Mina Zayed or browse spices and crafts at the Heritage Village gift shop.
