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Layover Tour to Qasr Al Watan and Emirates Palace
Travelling between these magnificent landmarks is a breeze, with taxis, Uber, and Careem readily available. A 40-minute drive from the airport will take you to Qasr Al Watan. A short 5-minute journey connects you to Emirates Palace, with another 40-minute ride back to the airport. An efficient and comfortable transit maximises your time enjoying these iconic sites.
Highlights
4-5 hours
Car
Highlights
4-5 hours
Car
Day 1 highlights
Your day in Abu Dhabi promises to be an unforgettable exploration of culture and splendour. At Qasr Al Watan, walk through majestic halls, admire the intricate architecture, and gain insight into the nation's governance and history. Later, at Emirates Palace, you'll be embraced by luxury and an array of gastronomic experiences, set against a backdrop of gold and marble. Qasr Al Watan and Emirates Palace offer a glimpse into the United Arab Emirates' regal heritage and contemporary affluence, making this tour an ideal snapshot of Abu Dhabi's unique blend of tradition and modernity.
Stop 1
Recommended Time: 2 hours
Qasr Al Watan is a working Presidential palace in Abu Dhabi and a majestic cultural landmark that invites you to discover the rich legacy of knowledge and tradition that has shaped the UAE's journey. More than just a traditional palace, Qasr Al Watan boosts cultural understanding of the nation and emphasises its incredible history. The palace stands as an icon of Abu Dhabi's skyline with a design exquisitely crafted to tribute to its Arabian heritage and artistry. You will feel the grandeur as you enter the grounds. The structure and open halls echo its significance in Emirati culture.
The palace in Abu Dhabi has one of the city's most impressive and unmissable attractions, the family-friendly Palace In Motion event. Be astounded by the spectacular light and sound show that celebrates the UAE's journey in three breathtaking acts that unfold in front of the main palace every 30 minutes after sundown, with the final entry taken 30 minutes before showtime. Timings are subject to change.
Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental Abu Dhabi
Stop 2
Recommended Time: 2 hours
Emirates Palace, Mandarin Oriental Abu Dhabi is where luxurious comfort, impeccable service and unique dining experiences come together in an enchanting setting. From a distance, the hotel looks like something out of an Arabian fairytale, with the main building alone stretching over one kilometre from one wing to the other and the gardens spreading across 100 hectares. Walking in, you will find a sense of deep relaxation washing over you. With a pristine 1.3km private beach, stunning pools, a private marina and natural bay, a beautiful spa and highly-rated dining venues - you can't go wrong with a holiday here.
Emirates Palace, Mandarin Oriental Abu DHabi is one of the most remarkable buildings in Abu Dhabi when it comes to architecture. Picture this: During the day, the palace's golden exterior contrasts with the lush greenery, silvery water fountains, and crisp blue sky. And at night, the hotel's lighting changes subtly, with an ethereal rainbow effect displayed on the main dome. Featuring 114 domes, the palace's central dome is a striking 72.6 metres above the ground, meticulously crafted with gold, mother of pearl and crystals. The building also boasts 1,002 chandeliers - the largest weighing 2.5 tons - with other photo-worthy features, including two handmade wall displays portraying the palace.
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.
Qasr Al Watan
Recommended Time: 2 hours
Qasr Al Watan is a working Presidential palace in Abu Dhabi and a majestic cultural landmark that invites you to discover the rich legacy of knowledge and tradition that has shaped the UAE's journey. More than just a traditional palace, Qasr Al Watan boosts cultural understanding of the nation and emphasises its incredible history. The palace stands as an icon of Abu Dhabi's skyline with a design exquisitely crafted to tribute to its Arabian heritage and artistry. You will feel the grandeur as you enter the grounds. The structure and open halls echo its significance in Emirati culture.
The palace in Abu Dhabi has one of the city's most impressive and unmissable attractions, the family-friendly Palace In Motion event. Be astounded by the spectacular light and sound show that celebrates the UAE's journey in three breathtaking acts that unfold in front of the main palace every 30 minutes after sundown, with the final entry taken 30 minutes before showtime. Timings are subject to change.
