Abu Dhabi: Grand Mosque, Qasr Al Watan & Etihad Towers Tour

Summary

Sheikh zayed mosque marble light qasr al watan etihad towers views

You’ll step inside Abu Dhabi’s Grand Mosque under glowing marble domes, ride along the Corniche for city views, snap photos at Emirates Palace and Etihad Towers, and wander through Qasr Al Watan’s ornate halls with time to take it all in. Includes hotel pickup and entry tickets—just bring curiosity (and maybe your camera skills).

What’s the experience like?

“You’ll want to look up now,” our guide said as we stepped out of the van in front of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. I did — and honestly, it’s hard to describe that first moment. The marble was almost too white against the sun, like it was glowing from inside. There was a faint scent of incense in the air (or maybe just my imagination), and I could hear someone quietly sweeping tiles somewhere nearby. They handed me an abaya and scarf at the entrance — I fumbled with it a bit, but one of the staff ladies helped me tie it right. I’m not sure I’ve ever felt quite so out of place and welcomed at the same time.

The drive along Abu Dhabi Corniche felt like a movie set — palm trees, blue water on one side, glassy buildings on the other. We stopped for photos outside Emirates Palace (I tried to get everyone in frame but failed spectacularly; my sister still laughs about that). Then came Etihad Towers — if you’ve seen that scene in Furious 7, you know what I mean. Our guide pointed out which tower was used in the film, grinning like he’d told this story a hundred times but still liked it.

Qasr Al Watan was last. It’s hard to believe people actually work there — everything gleamed: gold details, blue mosaics, even the doorknobs looked fancy. Our guide couldn’t come inside (something about rules), so he gave us a quick rundown before we went in on our own. I got lost for a second just staring at the ceiling patterns. Walking back outside into the heat felt weirdly grounding after all that grandeur. I keep thinking about those quiet moments — standing in socks on cool marble floors, hearing nothing but distant footsteps.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Abu Dhabi city landmarks tour

• Pick up from hotel
• Visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
• Drive along Abu Dhabi Corniche
• Photo stop at Emirates Palace
• Visit Etihad Towers
• Visit Qasr Al Watan Palace

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Abu Dhabi tour?

Yes, pickup and drop-off from your selected location or hotel in Abu Dhabi are included.

Do women need to wear special clothing to enter Sheikh Zayed Mosque?

Yes, women must cover arms, legs, and head; an abaya with scarf is provided for mosque entry.

Are entry tickets for Qasr Al Watan and Etihad Towers included?

Yes, entry fees for Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Qasr Al Watan Palace (public spaces), and Etihad Towers are included.

Is lunch provided during this day trip?

No, lunch is not included; you’ll need to arrange your own meal during free time.

Can men wear shorts on this tour?

No, men must cover shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites; shorts above the knee are not allowed.

Will our guide join us inside Qasr Al Watan Palace?

No guided tours are allowed inside; your guide will explain key points before you enter independently.

How long does this sightseeing tour last?

The tour duration is fixed but may vary slightly depending on city traffic (sometimes 30–45 minutes extra).

What happens if Qasr Al Watan is closed during my visit?

If closed due to presidential events, it will be replaced by Qasr Al Hosn or Heritage Village if available that day.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off anywhere in Abu Dhabi city limits, entry tickets for Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (with abaya/scarf loaned for women), access to public areas of Qasr Al Watan Palace and its gardens, entrance to Etihad Towers observation area, cold mineral water throughout the trip, travel by modern air-conditioned vehicle with a licensed local guide narrating stories along the way—and plenty of time for photos at each stop before heading back home.