If you only have one day to visit Abu Dhabi, or even just a layover between flights, don't despair. This city of sheikhs offers enough beauty and experiences to discover in 24 hours. I had exactly that amount of time - and I decided to visit two places that, in my opinion, perfectly capture the soul of this fascinating emirate: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque a the Corniche promenade.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Jewel of the Desert
The Grand Mosque of Sheikh Zayed was inaugurated in 2007 and is still one of the most important symbols not only of Abu Dhabi, but of the entire Arab world. It is the largest mosque in the Arabian Peninsula - and it looks exactly as you would expect: grand, moving and perfect.
It's relatively quick to get here from the airport, so you can manage your visit with a shorter layover. As you enter the sprawling grounds, you're greeted by dazzling white marble, glittering domes and reflecting pools that mirror the postcard-perfect architecture.
Total 82 domes, the largest marble mosaic in the world in the courtyard and huge hand-woven carpetwhich holds a world record - all this makes the mosque a unique place. Inside, the monumental Swarovski mirrorsthat give the space a subtle glow and spiritual atmosphere.
"In the hot courtyard, the mosque glitters like jewel in the middle of the desert," says the author of the article.
Practical tips:
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Free entry, but you must register online or at the venue (you will receive a time-limited ticket).
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There is no Wi-Fiso keep your mobile data.
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Dress code: long trousers, women must cover their shoulders and hair.
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Small backpacks onlylarger suitcases belong in the storage room.
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In winter expect crowds of tourists, in summer with extreme heat - umbrellas can be rented for free
The total number of domes in this building is 82.
In the courtyard of the mosque is the largest marble mosaic in the world.
The mosque glitters in the hot courtyard like a jewel in the middle of the desert.
Exclusive chandeliers were supplied by the prestigious Swarovski brand.
Corniche promenade: The beauty of the city between the palm trees and the sea
If you want to soak up the true atmosphere of the city in a short time, head to the Corniche promenade. It stretches along the coast of the Persian Gulf for almost 10 kilometres and is lined with palm trees, parks, jogging trails and fine sand beaches.
On one side the sea, on the other futuristic skyscrapers - a contrast that perfectly describes Abu Dhabi. Even in the sultry summer, it's worth coming here early in the morning, when the sun is still merciful. Personally, I couldn't resist taking a short dip in the sea, which warmed me up rather than refreshed me - in fact, in the summer it has the temperature of a nice hot tub.
The Corniche is an ideal place for a walk, photography and a short rest after a long flight. Here you'll meet local joggers, families on a picnic and stray cats lazily basking on the rocks while eating breakfast overlooking the bay.
The promenade is almost 10 kilometres long
Apart from the beach, there are also a number of parks.
A cat enjoys breakfast on the Gulf Coast.
Football practice on the beach. In summer, it is only possible to play the sport early in the morning, before the sun begins to shine strongly over the horizon.
Corniche promenade.
Accommodation and prices: luxury and affordability
Many people believe that Abu Dhabi is an expensive city. But the truth is different - it's up to you which comfort you choose.
I treated myself to the five-star Royal Rose Hotel for about 2000 CZK per night including breakfast (in the summer season, when prices are lower). In winter, expect higher prices, but you can still find reasonably priced apartments or hostels.
When it comes to food, I recommend trying Indian restaurants - are excellent and cheaper than in the Czech Republic. A fresh juices for a few dirhams you can buy literally on every corner
Weather forecast - better to stay in air-conditioned environment
Exclusive hotel breakfast
Useful tips for travellers:
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Yandex Go - a local version of Uber, cheap and reliable.
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Upon arrival you can buy an eSIM with a free 24-hour data package.
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VAT refundA: At the airport, you can ask for a VAT refund on purchases at special kiosks - keep your receipts.
Airport Lounge: luxury and comfort before departure
If you have a longer wait, I recommend a visit Pearl Lounge at Abu Dhabi airport. It offers a wide selection of hot dishes, desserts and fruit - and even beer on tapwhich is quite a surprise in a Muslim country.
The offer is so varied that it could inspire even a Prague airport lounge.
At the Pearl Lounge at Abu Dhabi Airport, I always choose from the available menu
Above: the Ferrari World
On departure, I had the unique opportunity to see from the plane Ferrari World - a huge theme park with a red roof in the shape of the Ferrari logo. It's monumental even from the top. While I'm not a fan of thrill rides, I can see why this place is so popular.
In conclusion: Abu Dhabi will surprise you
In one day, I learned that Abu Dhabi is a city of contrasts - between tradition and modernity, the silence of the mosque and the hustle and bustle of the city, the desert and the sea.
If you have 24 hours, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Corniche promenade will offer you the best this city has to offer.
What about you? Would you visit Abu Dhabi as a final destination or just during a layover?
Share your opinion in the comments - I'm interested in how this city affects you.
Sources:
Information about VAT refunds on purchases:
https://tax.gov.ae/en/services/tourist.vat.refunds.aspx?utm
https://www.planetpayment.ae/tourists-landing/tourist-frequently-asked-questions/?utm
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