Abu Dhabi: Ferrari World & Grand Mosque Day Trip from Dubai

Summary

Ferrari World rides grand mosque domes skyline photos and palace gold

You’ll feel awe stepping into Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque’s quiet halls before catching gold-tipped domes at Emirates Palace and snapping skyline views along Abu Dhabi Corniche. Then comes pure speed at Ferrari World — heart-thumping rides included — all with easy hotel pickup from Dubai and a local guide who makes every stop feel personal.

What’s the experience like?

The morning started with me realizing I’d forgotten my long pants for the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque — classic. Our guide, Ahmed, just grinned and handed me a pair from a stack in the van, like he’s seen this a hundred times. The drive from Dubai to Abu Dhabi was quieter than I expected; sand stretching out forever, then suddenly all these white domes appeared on the horizon. Inside the mosque, it was almost silent except for the soft shuffling of socks on marble. I caught a whiff of frankincense somewhere near the main hall — or maybe that was just my imagination running wild. Either way, it felt… important to pause there.

We swung by the Emirates Palace next (you can’t actually go inside unless you’re staying there or have a reservation, which none of us did), but even from outside those golden arches looked unreal against the sky. Ahmed pointed out how many domes there were — 114, apparently — and joked about losing count after twenty. We stopped for photos along the Corniche too; honestly, I didn’t expect Abu Dhabi’s skyline to be so glassy and blue. There was this moment when a breeze came off the water and someone’s headscarf fluttered right into my shot. Made me laugh.

The real adrenaline hit at Ferrari World. I’m not really a rollercoaster person (my stomach still hasn’t forgiven me), but everyone said Formula Rossa was non-negotiable on an Abu Dhabi city tour with Ferrari World tickets. So yeah, I did it — eyes shut half the time, not gonna lie. The rest of the park is loud and bright and smells faintly like popcorn and engine oil. It’s weirdly comforting? We had enough time to try most rides before heading back to Dubai, legs still wobbly.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Abu Dhabi city highlights and Ferrari World

• Visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
• Photo stop at Capital Gate Hotel
• Drive past royal family palaces
• Photo stop at Emirates Palace Hotel
• Photo stop at Etihad Towers
• View Abu Dhabi skyline
• Pass by Louvre Abu Dhabi
• Pass by Abu Dhabi Corniche
• Photo stop near Yas Marina Circuit
• Enjoy Ferrari World rides and shows
• Return to Dubai

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Abu Dhabi day trip?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Dubai are included in your booking.

Are Ferrari World tickets part of the tour price?

General admission tickets to Ferrari World are included; go-karting and simulators cost extra.

Can women enter Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque without special clothing?

No worries — appropriate dress is provided for women before entering the mosque.

How long does it take to get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?

The drive usually takes about 90 minutes each way depending on traffic.

Will we see Emirates Palace inside?

You’ll stop outside Emirates Palace for photos but won’t enter unless you have a reservation or are staying there.

Is lunch included on this day trip?

No lunch is provided, but water and soft drinks are available during the tour.

What language is the tour conducted in?

The tour is available in English only during July and August or last-minute bookings.

Do I need my passport for this tour?

Yes, bring your original passport for ID verification at pickup.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Dubai, entry ticket to Ferrari World (most rides covered), guided visits with live commentary at each stop including Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (with dress provided if needed), photo stops at Emirates Palace and Etihad Towers, plus complimentary water and soft drinks throughout before returning in the evening.