Travel around Abu Dhabi with Bobby
Day 1Awe at the Grand Mosque and a Taste of Tradition
As soon as I touched down in Abu Dhabi, I knew I was in for an extraordinary experience. After settling into my hotel, the luxurious Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, I couldn’t wait to start exploring. My first stop was the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque—a marvel of architecture that left me speechless. The sheer scale of the mosque, with its towering white domes and intricate carvings, made me feel both humble and amazed. Walking inside, the gleaming chandeliers and handwoven carpets only added to the magic. As I walked barefoot on the cool marble floors, it felt as though I was stepping into a different world—one filled with peace and grandeur.
For lunch, I headed to Al Fanar Restaurant, known for serving traditional Emirati cuisine. I couldn’t resist trying the Machboos, a spiced rice dish with tender lamb that was both comforting and flavorful. Afterward, I explored the nearby Heritage Village, which gave me a glimpse into the UAE’s Bedouin past. Watching artisans weave and craft goods in this recreated old-world village was a great way to balance modern Abu Dhabi with its history.
Spend plenty of time at the Grand Mosque, especially around sunset when the light plays beautifully on the white marble. I’d also recommend Al Fanar for an authentic food experience—you won’t regret it.
Day 2Cultural Immersion at the Louvre and a Desert Adventure
Waking up to a beautiful view of the city skyline from my room, I knew today was going to be special. After a quick breakfast at the hotel, I made my way to Louvre Abu Dhabi. The museum is not just a gallery of incredible artwork but also a masterpiece of design itself. The way light filters through the intricate dome structure makes you feel like you’re walking through rays of sunshine. Inside, I marveled at everything from ancient artifacts to modern masterpieces. I even lost track of time admiring pieces like Da Vinci’s La Belle Ferronnière and the stunning sculptures that tell the story of human civilization.
Later in the afternoon, it was time for something completely different—an adrenaline-pumping desert safari. We rode 4x4s across the Liwa Desert dunes, speeding up and down like a rollercoaster. As the sun set over the horizon, painting the sky shades of orange and pink, we stopped for a traditional Bedouin camp experience. I had the chance to ride camels, smoke shisha, and enjoy a BBQ feast under the stars while watching a mesmerizing belly dance performance.
Dinner at the Bedouin camp during the desert safari was a unique experience. The BBQ spread was delicious, featuring traditional Middle Eastern flavors like lamb skewers and hummus. Dining under the stars with live entertainment made it even more special.
Food
After a long day of exploring, returning to the comfort of Jumeirah at Etihad Towers was a treat. The room’s plush bedding and quiet atmosphere made for a restful night, which was much needed after the desert safari.
Accomodation
The desert safari was thrilling, from dune bashing to riding camels. Watching the sunset over the desert was unforgettable, and the Bedouin camp provided a glimpse into traditional desert life.
Activity
The Louvre is a must, but give yourself a good three hours to really enjoy the exhibits. The desert safari is an absolute thrill—don’t miss the sunset as it’s a sight you won’t forget.
Day 3High-Speed Thrills and Relaxing on the Corniche
Today was all about excitement! I kicked off the morning with a visit to Ferrari World, and if you’re a fan of fast cars and thrilling rides, this place is a dream come true. I jumped on the Formula Rossa, the world’s fastest roller coaster, and felt my heart race as I zoomed through the track at speeds I never thought possible. After indulging in some Formula 1 simulations and checking out the sleek Ferrari models, I grabbed a quick bite at the Il Podio café inside the park—authentic Italian flavors in the heart of Abu Dhabi!
In the afternoon, I decided to slow things down a bit with a relaxing stroll along the Corniche. This waterfront promenade stretches for miles, offering spectacular views of the turquoise Arabian Gulf. I rented a bike and cycled the length of it, stopping at quiet beaches along the way to dip my toes in the warm water. To top it all off, I had dinner at Catch at St. Regis, a beautiful seafood restaurant right on the Corniche, where I enjoyed fresh lobster and a view of the sun setting over the sea.
Lunch at Il Podio inside Ferrari World was a quick, yet satisfying Italian meal. I enjoyed the pizza and pasta, which were surprisingly authentic for a theme park setting. It provided the energy boost I needed for a day filled with thrills.
Food
The view from my room at Jumeirah at Etihad Towers continued to amaze me. After an adrenaline-filled day, relaxing in the spacious and stylish room was the perfect way to unwind
Accomodation
Ferrari World was a high-octane adventure! The Formula Rossa was exhilarating, and the blend of theme park excitement with Ferrari’s racing history made it a must-visit for thrill-seekers.
Activity
If you’re a thrill-seeker, Ferrari World is a can’t-miss. But make sure to balance it out with a peaceful evening on the Corniche—it’s the perfect spot to unwind after an action-packed day.
Day 4Shopping in Style and a Night to Remember
For my final day in Abu Dhabi, I wanted to experience the city’s luxurious shopping scene. I started at the Yas Mall, which not only houses high-end designer brands but also has an array of entertainment options. I wandered through the shops, treating myself to a few souvenirs, before grabbing a light lunch at The Cheesecake Factory—yes, it’s an international chain, but after days of local cuisine, it hit the spot!
With evening approaching, I headed back to my hotel to freshen up for my last night in the city. For my farewell dinner, I went to Hakkasan at the Emirates Palace Hotel, one of the most opulent hotels I’ve ever seen. The contemporary Cantonese dishes here are nothing short of divine. After dinner, I wanted to experience Abu Dhabi’s nightlife, so I went to the Skylite Rooftop Lounge, which offers panoramic views of the city under a canopy of stars. The chic atmosphere, with chilled-out music and a trendy crowd, was the perfect way to wrap up my trip.
Dinner at Hakkasan was a culinary highlight of my trip. The contemporary Cantonese dishes were expertly crafted, with delicate flavors and beautifully presented plates. The ambiance in the Emirates Palace added to the luxury dining experience.
Food
My final night at Jumeirah at Etihad Towers was as comfortable as ever. The hotel’s luxurious touches and excellent service made me feel pampered throughout my stay.
Accomodation
Exploring the Corniche in the afternoon was a peaceful way to end my trip. Biking along the waterfront and watching the sunset over the Gulf was a calming, scenic experience.
Activity
Yas Mall is great for shopping, but don’t miss a meal at Hakkasan for a real taste of luxury. Skylite Rooftop is ideal if you want to end your trip with a stylish and relaxed night out.
Summary of My Trip
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Abu Dhabi was an incredible destination that offered a diverse range of experiences, from cultural immersion to adrenaline-pumping adventures. The city effortlessly blends luxury with tradition, making it a great choice for both relaxation and exploration. From the iconic landmarks to the vibrant food scene, every aspect of the city left a strong impression on me, and it’s a place I’d recommend to any traveler looking for a balanced and enriching experience.
Lunch at Al Fanar Restaurant was a fantastic introduction to traditional Emirati cuisine. The Machboos was flavorful and perfectly cooked, providing a comforting yet exotic meal. The ambiance of the restaurant, styled like a classic Emirati home, added to the experience.
Food
Staying at Jumeirah at Etihad Towers was a luxurious experience. My room had stunning views of the city skyline and the Arabian Gulf, with impeccable service and modern amenities. The hotel was well-located, making it easy to explore the city.
Accomodation
Visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque was a breathtaking experience. The scale and beauty of the mosque, with its intricate designs and serene atmosphere, made it the perfect way to start my Abu Dhabi journey.
Activity