Got a stopover in Abu Dhabi? Here’s what you can do in 6, 12 or 24 Hours | Things to do in Abu Dhabi
- Abu Dhabi Review
- 2 hours ago
- 4 min read
Whether you’ve got a short layover or a full day in the capital, Abu Dhabi makes it surprisingly easy to dip into its culture, sights, and food scene. Here’s how to make the most of your time depending on how many hours you have. (and don't forget the tips for the most efficient way to see the capital)
6-Hour Stopover
Best for: quick cultural highlights close to the airport
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (20 mins from the airport) – A must-see. Give yourself at least an hour to walk through the marble courtyards and intricate prayer halls. Go early to avoid crowds.
Qaryat Al Beri & Souk (15 mins from the mosque) – Grab a bite at the waterside restaurants with a view of the mosque. It’s close enough that you won’t be stressed about traffic.
ADR Tip: Factor in airport transfer/security times – aim to be back at the airport at least 90 minutes before your next flight.
12-Hour Stopover
Best for: mixing culture with city highlights
Start at the Grand Mosque (20 mins from the airport). It’s the most efficient way to begin your trip.
Corniche Drive & Breakwater (25 mins from the mosque) – A scenic drive along the seafront. Stop for a quick stroll at the Corniche or a coffee with sea views.
Qasr Al Watan or Qasr Al Hosn (10–15 mins further into town) – Both are strong cultural stops: Qasr Al Watan for palace grandeur, Qasr Al Hosn for Abu Dhabi’s oldest fort.
Lunch or early dinner at Yas Island (20 mins back towards the airport) – Choose from Yas Bay Waterfront for a trendy meal or Yas Mall if you want something quicker.
ADR Tip: Distances are manageable, but leave time for city traffic. Focus on 2–3 stops max to avoid rushing.
24-Hour Stopover
Best for: a full taste of the capital
Morning: Culture First
Grand Mosque (20 mins from airport)
Louvre Abu Dhabi (30 mins from mosque, on Saadiyat Island) – iconic architecture and world-class galleries.
For more culture on Saadiyat Island, you could pop into the Abrahamic Family House, which houses a church, synagogue, and mosque. And if art is more your thing, head across to teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, the capital’s newest interactive art venue
Afternoon: City & Sea
Stroll the Corniche or head to Saadiyat Beach Club (10 mins from Louvre) for some downtime by the water.
Option: Desert experience – some tours offer short dune drives and camel rides if you want something adventurous.
Evening: Yas Island (20 mins from Saadiyat)
Dine at Yas Bay Waterfront, or catch an event if you’re lucky with timing (concerts, sports, theatre).
Stay overnight at Yas Island or Saadiyat for a smooth return to the airport the next day.
ADR Tip: Abu Dhabi is spread out but the key islands – Saadiyat, Yas, Al Maryah, Reem – are within 30 minutes of each other. Base your day around one side of the city (Saadiyat/Yas) to keep it efficient.
Tips for Travellers
Taxis are plentiful and affordable, but for more control you can pre-book a car service. If you only have carry-on luggage, you’ll save loads of time. They also take card payment!
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Dress code: modest clothing required (shoulders and legs covered; women must cover hair – abayas and kanduras available on site).
Closed to visitors during Friday midday prayers (approx. 12pm–3pm).
Best visited in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and better light for photos.
Qaryat Al Beri & Souk
Restaurants may pause service during prayer times on Fridays.
The souk is quieter than the city malls, making it good for a quick, relaxed stop.
Great spot for canal views of the mosque, especially around sunset.
Corniche & Breakwater
Public beaches are open daily and free to use; family areas are busier on Fridays.
Evenings are cooler and livelier, with cafés opening onto the promenade.
Cycling and e-scooter rentals are available if you want to cover more ground quickly.
Qasr Al Hosn
Closed on Mondays.
Entry ticket required but inexpensive; allows access to both the fort and House of Artisans.
Best for travellers keen on Abu Dhabi’s local history and crafts.
Qasr Al Watan (Presidential Palace)
Ticketed entry with security checks, so allow extra time.
Closed during official government events (check online before visiting).
Don’t miss the evening light show if timing allows.
Louvre Abu Dhabi
Closed on Mondays.
Tickets are cheaper online; booking in advance saves time.
The dome’s “rain of light” is especially stunning in late afternoon sunlight.
Saadiyat Beach Club / Public Beaches
Saadiyat Beach Club requires an entry fee but has full facilities (pool, loungers, dining).
Public Corniche Beach is free, with family and single areas.
Summer afternoons can be very hot — mornings or evenings are more comfortable.
Desert Safari (short tours)
Must be booked in advance; not always available for very short stopovers.
Afternoon departures give you sunset views over the dunes.
Weather dependent — may be cancelled during sandstorms or heavy rain.
Yas Island (Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Mall, Yas Marina)
Restaurants at Yas Bay open from midday, but the atmosphere is best in the evenings.
Fridays and Saturdays are peak times, so expect a lively crowd and possible table waits.
Events (concerts, sports, theatre) can cause extra traffic — always factor in travel time back to the airport.
