Delve Deep into Emirati Culture
Abu Dhabi Delights
14 Nights Self-Drive Road Trip
Abu Dhabi is a place of striking contrasts – the largest Emirate in the UAE where sleek skyscrapers rise beside centuries-old forts, and where the bustle of the city melts into the stillness of the desert. To truly appreciate this contrast, we’ve created this special road trip to help you get the most from your trip.
Your journey begins in downtown Abu Dhabi, indisputably the sophisticated heart of the capital. Explore the grand Qasr Al Watan Palace, marvel at the galleries of the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and see the future taking shape with the under-construction Guggenheim and Sheikh Zayed National Museum. Amid the modern skyline, you’ll also find history – the oldest surviving building here dates back to the early 1700s.
Next, venture deep into the Al Dhafra region and the legendary Rub al Khali, or Empty Quarter. In Liwa, you’ll be surrounded by an endless sea of dunes – vast, remote, and utterly mesmerising.
From the desert, your road leads to Al Ain, the lush “Garden City,” where shady date-palm oases – some recognised by UNESCO – and traditional forts paint a vivid and captivating picture of the Emirate’s heritage. Keep an eye out for camels, gazelles, and other desert wildlife.
Your adventure ends with three relaxing nights on Yas Island, a hub of leisure and entertainment. Here, you can unwind on sandy beaches, try world-class attractions, or enjoy a final taste of the city’s vibrant dining scene before your journey home.
From vibrant city streets to peaceful oases and the boundless beauty of the desert, this road trip reveals Abu Dhabi in all its variety and charm.
Abu Dhabi Delights Gallery
Tour Itinerary
Jump into your hire car and follow our meticulously curated route to explore the Sultantate of Oman, where each day brings new adventures and unforgettable experiences.
Day 1
Arrival in Abu Dhabi
Arriving at Zayed International Airport, Abu Dhabi, collect your hire car and make your way to a 4-star hotel which will be your base for the next four days.
Day 2-4
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi offers a plethora of attractions, shopping districts, and lush green spaces for visitors to explore. The city boasts a diverse array of dining options, ranging from quaint shawarma shops to Michelin-starred restaurants.
Day 5-7
Al Dhafra/Liwa
.Escape the city and venture into the Al Dhafra Region, where thousands of camels roam and breathtaking dunescapes await. Your accommodation is the 4-star Tilal Liwa Hotel, Madinat Zayed, followed by two at the Western Hotel in Liwa, the gateway to the Empty Quarter.
Day 8-11
Al Ain
Your next stop is Al Ain, known as Abu Dhabi’s Garden City. Here, you’ll stay at a 4-star hotel for four nights. Al Ain is rich in history and culture while maintaining a modern city feel, with excellent communication networks and great restaurants. Be sure to visit Qasr Al Muwaiji, drive up Jebel Hafeet, and explore the early morning camel market!
Day 12-14
Yas Island
Returning to the outskirts of Abu Dhabi, you’ll find an abundance of activities. Visit the Louvre Abu Dhabi and explore the various theme parks on Yas Island. You’ll be staying at a 4-star hotel on Yas Island, next to the Yas Links Golf Course and close to a private beach.
Day 15
Departure
Savor your final breakfast at the hotel before checking out and embarking on the short drive to the airport. Take a moment to reflect on your memorable experiences and the highlights of your trip as you prepare for your journey home.
Abu Dhabi Delights
Our Road Trip Summary
Abu Dhabi Delights offers a rich blend of urban and natural experiences in Abu Dhabi and its surrounding regions. Begin with the city’s attractions, dining, and shopping, then venture into the Al Dhafra Region for stunning desert landscapes and a stay in Madinat Zayed. Continue to Al Ain for cultural and historical exploration, before returning to the outskirts of Abu Dhabi to enjoy world-class attractions and relaxation on Yas Island.
A Road Trip Tailored to You
We can adjust this itinerary to meet your preferences, but for our pricing examples, we have used the following hotels, prices based on 2 adults sharing a room.
- 4 Nights Meridian Abu Dhabi – 5* – B&B with Club Access
- 1 Night Tilal Liwa Hotel, Madinat Zayed – 4* – Dinner, bed and breakfast
- 2 Nights Western Hotel, Liwa – 4* – Bed and breakfast
- 4 Nights Al Ain Rotata – 5* – Bed and breakfast in the new wing with balcony
- 3 Nights Crowne Plaza Yas Island – 4* – Dinner, Bed and Breakfast
The car hire example is a small SUV, with unlimited kms. Petrol is not included, but currently costs around 55p per litre.
Shoulder Season is Mid-April to May, and the month of September. Temperatures are high, hotel rooms are usually cheaper, and if you plan indoor activities, or driving for the hottest hours of the days it is quite tolerable.
Guide Prices
For the Shoulder Season, with daytime flights wherever possible
- Ex LHR, flying direct with Etihad, from £2400 per person
- Ex EDI, flying with Turkish Airlines, from £2350 per person
- Ex MAN, flying direct with Etihad, from £2500 per person
High Season is from October through to mid-April, with the best (coolest) weather between November and February
Guide Prices for High Season, all daytime flights
- Ex LHR, flying with Turkish Airlines, from £2990 per person
- Ex EDI, flying with Turkish Airlines, from £2890 per person
- Ex MAN, flying direct with Etihad, from £2990 per person
This itinerary can be tailored to your needs to ensure a personalized and unique travel experience
Consider these customizable options to enhance your experience:
- Extend by one day and stay at Liwa Nights: Bedouin Glamping Retreat for 1 night
- Re-route your itinerary to include a destination already on your bucket list.
- Fly to Dubai instead of Abu Dhabi.
Additional options available:
- Half board
- 5-star hotels
- Guided tours in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain
- Desert tour
Jump into your hire car and follow our meticulously curated route to explore the Sultantate of Oman, where each day brings new adventures and unforgettable experiences.
Ready to Explore?
Adventure awaits! Plan your escape with Arabian Cities and Sands and uncover the hidden wonders of the Arabian Peninsula. Whether it’s ancient cities, pristine beaches, or epic desert drives, our carefully curated holidays deliver authentic experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Don’t wait—contact us today and start planning your unforgettable journey!
