Two days in Abu Dhabi

Day 1

Qasr Al Watan

Start your trip at Qasr Al Watan, the stunning Presidential Palace. This is not just a tourist attraction, it’s an active government building used for official state visits, diplomatic meetings, and important national events. When world leaders visit the UAE, this is where they are received. Part of the palace has been opened to the public to give visitors insight into Emirati governance, craftsmanship, and heritage.

Architecturally, it’s monumental. The scale, the marble, the symmetry… It’s the kind of grandeur we honestly don’t see much anymore in recent public buildings. It feels bold and unapologetically impressive.

A few recommendations if you plan to visit: it can get quite busy, especially during peak season, so arriving early is a good idea to avoid long waits and buy tickets online.

There is a dress code for both men and women. Shoulders and knees need to be covered, and clothing shouldn’t be too tight or revealing. Since you’ll be visiting Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque later in the afternoon, it’s actually smart to plan a long-sleeved outfit for the whole day so you don’t have to change in between.

Lunch at Erth Abu Dhabi

Head to Erth, located close to Qasr Al Hosn. Expect locally sourced ingredients from farms across the Emirates, blending Emirati and regional cuisine in an elegant yet minimalist setting.

Despite not being specifically a kids-focused restaurant, it was extremely child-friendly. The staff were super helpful and welcoming, happily accommodating menu options for children.

Although it has one Michelin star, the menu remains relatively affordable. Main courses range between AED 95 and AED 225.

We definitely recommend this restaurant and will be back for sure.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

No trip to Abu Dhabi is complete without visiting Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
One of the largest mosques in the world, it’s known for its white marble domes, reflective pools, and the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet (not necessarily the colour I would have chosen, but impressive nonetheless).

I was genuinely surprised to learn it was only inaugurated in 2007, as it carries the charm and presence of something much older. The architecture draws inspiration from Mughal design (think Taj Mahal), alongside Moorish and Ottoman influences, which gives it that timeless feel.

Modest clothing is essential. Women must cover their hair, arms, and legs (no transparent or tight clothing), and men should wear trousers and shirts that cover the shoulders and knees. If your outfit doesn’t meet the guidelines, you will not be able to enter. 

Entry is free, but you need to register online in advance to obtain a free Visitor Access Pass. 

If you are able to arrange your schedule accordingly, sunset and evening are the best times to visit: the illumination is beautiful, and temperatures are far more pleasant than during the peak daytime heat.

Sunset at Wahat Al Karama

Just across from the mosque, Wahat Al Karama offers one of the most beautiful sunset views in the city, with the mosque perfectly framed in the distance.

Evening at Buddha Bar Beach

For a relaxed but stylish evening, head to Buddha-Bar Beach at St. Regis Saadiyat Island, with sea views and a chic atmosphere.

Day 2

Louvre Abu Dhabi

Start your day at Louvre Abu Dhabi.
It’s mostly the architecture that makes this place remarkable. The floating dome filtering sunlight over the sea, creating that beautiful “rain of light” effect, is what truly sets it apart. Even if you didn’t step inside, the building alone would be worth the visit.

The permanent collection follows a chronological journey through different civilisations, placing artworks from Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East side by side. It’s thoughtfully curated and easy to follow, even if you’re not an art expert. 
That said, the collection is much smaller than what you can find at other world-renowned museums, so manage your expectations if you’re comparing.

In addition to the permanent galleries, temporary exhibitions regularly bring in international works, which keeps the program varied and interesting.

If you’re visiting with kids, don’t miss the Children’s Museum, an interactive space designed specifically for younger visitors, making the experience much more engaging for families.

Plan around 2–3 hours for your visit, including time to walk around the waterfront and enjoy the architecture from different angles. to avoid queuing onsite, buy your tickets online.

Lunch at Café des Artistes

Located at the Bassam Freiha Art Foundation, this is a peaceful cultural stop, perfect for a relaxed midday break. On the menu, you’ll find all-day breakfast, salads, sandwiches, lovely pastries, and a nice soft drink selection.

The Bassam Freiha Art Foundation (BFAF) is a non-profit art space on Saadiyat Island founded by collector HE Bassam Said Freiha. It showcases works from his Orientalist collection alongside regional and international art, while also supporting emerging artists. 
The foundation is free and open to the public, making it lovely to stroll through before or after lunch and take a quick look around.

Abrahamic Family House

Visit the Abrahamic Family House, one of Abu Dhabi’s most meaningful recent additions. Located in the Cultural District on Saadiyat Island, this interfaith complex opened in 2023. 

The vision behind the complex is simple but powerful: peaceful coexistence, inclusivity, and human fraternity. It aims to encourage dialogue and mutual understanding between faiths.

The site brings together three equal houses of worship in one space: the Imam Al-Tayeb Mosque, St. Francis Church, and the Moses Ben Maimon Synagogue. Each one is oriented according to its faith: towards Mecca, the east, and Jerusalem. Yet, they all share a central forum designed for learning and conversation.

I found the atmosphere calm, reflective, and full of light. It doesn’t feel overwhelming or overly grand. Instead, it’s balanced and thoughtfully designed. The architecture is minimal, almost understated, which makes the message even stronger.

Entry is free, but it’s best to book online in advance. As with other religious sites in the UAE, modest dress is required when entering the worship spaces. If you don’t have appropriate attire, garments are provided free of charge.

Sunset at Mamsha Al Saadiyat

Stroll along Mamsha Al Saadiyat for beach views, cafés, and a laid-back coastal atmosphere.

Evening : Dinner with Atmosphere

Stay on the beach and pick between Antonia (for authentic Italian) or NIRI (for elevated Japanese cuisine). Both offer stylish settings to end your trip.

If you take the kids

    - Jubail Mangrove Park : Walk through peaceful mangrove boardwalks
    - Kayaking in Mangrove National Park
    - Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital
    - TeamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi for immersive digital art
    - Children's Library at the Cultural Foundation
    - Animal Barn at Umm Al Emarat Park

Extra time in Abu Dhabi? 

If you have more than two days, consider adding:

    - Qasr Al Hosn: The oldest stone building in Abu Dhabi
    - Cultural Foundation (art exhibitions & library)
    - A safari in the Liwa desert
    - Al Wathba Salt Lake
    - BAPS Hindu Mandir
    - Bassam Freiha Art Foundation
    - Zayed National Museum (instead of Abrahamic Family House on day 2 is an option)

Best time to visit Abu Dhabi

The ideal months to visit are October to April, when temperatures are pleasant for outdoor activities.

I would personally avoid the summer months, as spending long periods outside can be very challenging due to the heat. However, if you do visit during that time, focus on indoor attractions and hotel swimming pools, even the sea can feel very warm.

Final thougts

Two days in Abu Dhabi are enough to see the highlights but the city offers much more if you stay longer.

Mix culture, beaches, art, and modern dining to create your own perfect itinerary.
 
Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning, Abu Dhabi always surprises.

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