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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: 2 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 2
Recommended Time: 2 hours
The Galleria Al Maryah Island is an impressive mall situated in the heart of Abu Dhabi. Home to over 400 stores, including 300 of the world's most popular brands, 100 food and beverage options and upbeat entertainment for people of all ages, The Galleria is a fun, family-friendly space great for whiling away a few hours.
First opened in 2013 as a luxury and fine-dining destination with brands such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Cartier, Gucci, Dior, La Petite Maison, Coya and Zuma, in 2019 it dramatically expanded its offering, opening 250 new stores including Zara, H&M, West Elm, Decathlon, Massimo Dutti, and Debenhams, as well as family favourites like The Cheesecake Factory, PF Chang's and Paul Café.
If you feel like catching a movie while you're shopping, the 21-screen VOX Cinema with IMAX can help. A flagship Xtreme Zone and urban parks catering to young adventurers and action-loving families are thoughtful additions, adding an active edge to shopping in the city.
Zayed International Airport, Abu Dhabi
Stop 3
Recommended Time: 1 hours
Zayed International Airport (formerly Abu Dhabi International Airport) serves as a global gateway with over 50 airlines flying to and from approximately 117 destinations across 56 countries. Twice awarded the 'Best Airport in the Middle East' by the World Airport Awards, it's a testament to its exceptional service and facilities.
The airport is conveniently located within a short distance from major Abu Dhabi destinations and Dubai, boasting the spectacular Terminal A, the new hub for Etihad Airways, alongside Terminal 1 which handles many more regional and international flights.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Recommended Time: 2 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.
