How to plan 5 days in Abu Dhabi?

Are you planning a short trip to Abu Dhabi? Can you explore the city in such a short time? Of course, all you need is a bit of planning and guidance. Pick your activities with care, plan for plenty of down time, and you can enjoy a relaxing yet eventful holiday.

Where to stay in Abu Dhabi on a short holiday?

Look for 5 star hotels in Abu Dhabi that offer easy access to the entertainment hotspots. When you’re on a short holiday, it’s better to find a hotel in the centre of the city. You’ll be able to get around faster and save time and energy for fun. Check with hotels like the Anantara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi for early bird deals.

Enjoy Yas World  

Enjoy a lavish hotel breakfast in the morning, and get to Yas World by 10 to 10:30 am. You can spend half a day at Yas. Pick out the rides and tours that appeal to you. The mangrove tour and the water world are rather fun. Once you’ve had your fill of rides, go to the Yas beach to wind down. You can get in some luxury retail therapy too.

Enjoy Ferrari Word

Car lovers flock to Ferrari World to revel in its abundance. But, you don’t have to be one to enjoy the rides. Try the world’s fastest roller coaster – Formula Rossa, and follow up with turbo track, flying aces and Scuderia. Ferrari World stays open until 8 pm.

Go to a public beach to spend the day  

On your second day, go to either Saadiyat Beach or Al Lulu Island to spend the day. Saadiyat is popular with tourists and offers lots of activities for the entire family. You can seek thrills with watersports. And, there are sun lounges for those who wish to chill on the beach. Eat something at a charming bistro, and watch the sea and the horizon.
Expect golden sand and blue-green seas at Al Lulu Island. The shoreline stretches from the Abu Dhabi Breakwater to the Zayed Sea Port. There are plenty of beach shops and shacks around.

Visit the Louvre Museum and Abu Dhabi Mall

Abu Dhabi’s Louvre presents an extensive collection of famous masterpieces and contemporary art. The building itself is a work of art and awe-inspiring. You’ll get to see the work of celebrated artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Monet, Jacques-Louis David and the incomparable Van Gogh.
After your glimpse into art and culture, make your way to the Abu Dhabi Mall. One of the oldest and grandest malls in the city, Abu Dhabi Mall is home to global brand outlets. Shop for elegant wear and accessories, and then sit down to a lavish meal at a high-end restaurant.

Jpbowen, Abu Dhabi Mall, CC BY-SA 4.0 

Enjoy Friday brunch and spa time

Friday brunch is a special, epicurean affair in Abu Dhabi. Book table service and al fresco options. Take your time to feast on both Arabic and international dishes, and flowing beverages. Forget your diet for just a day, and give free range to your taste buds.
Afterwards, go to your pre-booked spa session. Pick a half-day spa therapy, including herbal baths, hot oil massages, ambient music and light refreshments. Pamper yourself before the last phase of your short holiday. 

Go on a desert safari

End your holiday on a high note with a nomadic (but luxury) adventure. Enjoy a bit of dune bashing and a 4WD ride along the sandy stretches. Come dusk, sit by a luxurious, well-decked tent and draw warmth from the roaring fire. Tuck into a delicious Arabic feast, watch the beautiful belly dancers and enjoy your shisha in peace. Let the spell of the desert stir your soul.