Abu Dhabi: Full Day City Tour, BAPS Mandir & Grand Mosque

Summary

Abu Dhabi’s vibrant city tour with BAPS Mandir and Grand Mosque

You’ll start your day at Abu Dhabi’s serene BAPS Hindu Mandir before glimpsing Ferrari World on Yas Island and learning Emirati crafts at House of Artisans. Enjoy lunch at Marina Mall, stroll along Corniche Breakwater, and end with a quiet moment inside Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque — a day full of contrasts and small surprises.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to start my day in Abu Dhabi surrounded by the scent of incense and quiet voices at the BAPS Hindu Mandir. Our guide, Samira, handed me a scarf with a little smile — apparently my shoulders were still showing (rookie move). The marble felt cool under my feet and I caught myself just standing there, watching sunlight flicker through the carvings. It’s strange how peaceful it was, considering we’d only left Dubai an hour or so before.

We zipped past Yas Island after that — you can actually hear the distant roar from Ferrari World if you crack your window a bit. Samira pointed out the F1 track but honestly, I was more interested in people-watching: families heading into malls, kids waving from school buses. At the House of Artisans, I tried my hand at weaving (badly) while an older Emirati woman showed us how she’d learned from her grandmother. I still think about her hands — so steady and quick.

Lunch was at Marina Mall (not included), which gave us time to wander and grab whatever looked good. I went for shawarma and fresh juice; there’s something about eating mall food in another country that just feels different — maybe it’s the view of all those yachts bobbing outside. After that we stopped for photos at Emirates Palace (felt like we were trespassing on royalty), then strolled along the Corniche where you get this salty breeze off the Gulf and a skyline that doesn’t quite fit in your camera frame.

The last stop was Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Everyone goes quiet when they walk in — even the kids. The white domes almost glow against the sky and you can smell jasmine somewhere nearby. Our guide explained some of the traditions but honestly, I just wanted to sit for a minute and take it all in. Leaving felt too soon, but our driver was already waiting by the van with cold water bottles and a tired grin.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Abu Dhabi city tour and cultural visits

• Visit BAPS Hindu Mandir
• Stop at Ferrari World for photos
• Explore Qasr Al Hosn fortress
• Visit Abu Dhabi Heritage Village
• Lunch and shopping at Marina Mall
• Visit Marjan Islamic Art House
• Photo stop at Emirates Palace
• Walk along Corniche Breakwater
• Tour Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
• Return to Dubai hotel

Top questions

How long is this Abu Dhabi city tour?

The tour lasts approximately 11 hours including transfers from Dubai.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Can I visit BAPS Hindu Mandir on any day?

No, BAPS Mandir is closed on Mondays; check your booking date accordingly.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

No, lunch is not included but you’ll have free time to eat at Marina Mall.

Are there dress code requirements for Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque?

Yes, knees and shoulders must be covered; women should bring a scarf for their head.

Will we stop inside Ferrari World?

No, it’s just a photo stop outside Ferrari World on Yas Island.

What are some highlights of this Abu Dhabi city tour?

BAPS Hindu Mandir, Yas Island drive-by with Ferrari World stop, House of Artisans, Marina Mall lunch break, Emirates Palace photo stop, Corniche Breakwater walk, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque visit.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle from Dubai or Abu Dhabi hotels, all entry fees to sites like BAPS Hindu Mandir (unless Monday), House of Artisans and art gallery visits, guided stops at key landmarks including Emirates Palace for photos, plus plenty of free time for lunch at Marina Mall before returning in the evening.