E M B A R K O N A N E X T R AO R D I N A R Y C R U I S E S T O R YABU DHABI CRUISE TOUR TIPS

EMBARK ON YOUR DREAM VOYAGE OF THE ARABIAN GULF FROM ABU DHABI.

The Arabian Gulf’s clean, calm waters and our almost guaranteed sunshine are perfect for cruising, and our heritage-inspired shore excursions can lead to an authentic Arabian cruise experience.

Abu Dhabi also boasts the region’s only dedicated cruise beach stopover – a desert island day call to Sir Bani Yas Island, with first-rate facilities and exciting land and water-based tours unique to this island getaway in the sea.

Let us take you on a journey to Arabia’s most exciting cruise destination, rich in traditions and enthralling attractions, and experience our warm Arabian welcome first-hand.

ABU DHABI CRUISINGINTRODUCTION

WELCOME TO ABU DHABI, A DESTINATION WHERE YOU CAN ENGAGE WITH A CAPTIVATING PAST, INTRIGUING TRADITIONS AND CULTURE, AND EXPERIENCE THRILLING, MODERN-DAY ATTRACTIONS.

No matter how short your stay, we'll help you find something that will leave you wanting to come back for more.

Our not-to-be-missed attractions and self-guided itineraries are designed to help you get the best out of your stay – whether you have a day to soak up a wonderfully warm welcome, or the opportunity to experience our vibrant hotel, resort and restaurant scene.

Abu Dhabi is easy to explore – roads leading to the cultural and entertainment destinations of Saadiyat and Yas Islands are on the doorstep of the cruise terminal, with other key sites across the capital within a 30-45 minute journey. A tour to our UNESCO-inscribed heritage heartland of Al Ain, or the vast expanse of our Rub Al Khali (Empty Quarter) desert, can be achieved in a day. Why not consider an overnight desert experience if your itinerary allows?

These short, full day and overnight trip ideas can be combined to tailor a memorable port-of-call experience, whatever your interests may be. This collection is not exhaustive - further details of activities, events, dining, and attractions can be found at visitabudhabi.ae, from our dedicated information centre within the cruise terminal, and via our visitor information centres and information points across the city.

There’s now much more to see and do in Abu Dhabi that you will surely return with tales of your own extraordinary stories.

HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE

These suggestions and itineraries provide essential tips on not-to-be-missed attractions and experiences for disembarking cruise visitors. They show how easy it is to explore the emirate, and can be combined to create action-packed, full day itineraries. They indicate recommended visit duration and typical journey time by road from Zayed Portthe Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal.

SHEIK

H ZAYED

GR

AND

MO

SQU

E

AB

U D

HA

BI C

RU

ISE TERM

INA

L

A FULL DAY EXPLORATIONITINERARY 1 ABU DHABI – BLEND TRADITION WITH MODERNITY

Jump aboard a double-decker open top Big Bus for a choreographed tour of the capital’s top landmarks and attractions. With multi-language commentary, the 24-hour hop-on hop-off ticket is ideal for getting to see all the highlights of the city – and with a sales office and direct pick-up and drop-off at the cruise terminal, it couldn’t be easier!

Head to the expansive Marina Mall and walk to Abu Dhabi’s giant flag-pole, visit the free-to-enter Heritage Village by the Corniche Breakwater and explore a reconstruction of a desert village with a small traditional souk. Recommended duration 1-2hrs.

Situated on level 74 of Tower 2 at the nearby Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, the Observation Deck at 300 offers the highest viewpoint of Abu Dhabi’s cityscape. Here guests can unwind and enjoy delicious refreshments against a spectacular backdrop. Recommended visit time 1-2hrs.

From this 300-metre vantage point, the Emirates Palace - an iconic Abu Dhabi landmark - is a sight to behold and is among the world’s most opulent hotels. Resplendent with gold leaf chandeliers, fittings and 114 domes, it is the perfect place to enjoy a luxurious High Tea at the popular Le Café. Recommended visit time 1.5-2hrs.

Wrap up your day with a visit to the Qasr Al Hosn Exhibition, which tells the story of Abu Dhabi and its people through the city’s oldest building. You’ll be able to reflect on the ancient fort’s role in Abu Dhabi’s history and its transformation to a vibrant symbol of Emirati heritage, culture and tradition. Recommended visit time 1.5-2hrs.

Big Bus Tours: bigbustours.com Heritage Village: visitabudhabi.aeObservation Deck at 300: jumeirah.comEmirates Palace: emiratespalace.comQasr Al Hosn Exhibition: visitabudhabi.ae

ITINERARY 2 EXPLORE OUR HERITAGE HEARTLAND

The Oasis City of Al Ain, with its array of UNESCO World Heritage sites, offers insights to Abu Dhabi’s rich cultural past. This charming city is within the shadows of Jebel Hafeet, a towering rocky height, home to significant fossil discoveries and over 500 ancient burial tombs dating back 5,000 years. Famed for working examples of the falaj - the UAE’s traditional irrigation system - the Al Ain Oasis World Heritage site in the heart of the city, is filled with palm plantations, many of which are still working farms. The historic Qasr Al Muwaiji – birthplace of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE – now provides insight into the UNESCO sites across the city. Visit the Al Ain Palace Museum and see how the founder of the UAE lived, or view one of the UAE’s most historic landmarks, the picturesque Al Jahili Fort. Alternatively, visit the Al Qattara Arts Centre, the only arts centre in Al Ain, which is housed in a renovated fort in Al Ain’s Qattara Oasis, on a site that dates back to the Iron Age (1100 – 300BC).

The Big Bus Tour also offers an Al Ain Panoramic Day Tour, which includes an English-speaking guide and a free inter-city shuttle departing daily from Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

Journey time 90 minutes from/to Zayed Port.Al Ain Heritage sites: visitabudhabi.aeBig Bus Tours: bigbustours.com

AL A

IN O

ASIS UN

ESCO

, WO

RLD

HER

ITAGE SITE

ITINERARY 3 YAS - THAT'S ENTERTAINMENT

Experience the thrill of Yas Island – our entertainment destination. Here you’ll find the world-class motor sports racetrack, Yas Marina Circuit, which hosts the annual Formula 1® Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. You can also visit the stunning Yas Marina, with its superb Yacht Club or have a round at Yas Links Abu Dhabi Golf Course. You’ll also be able to relax and enjoy the sun, sea and sand at Yas beach along the Island’s tranquil southern shores. Use the complimentary round-island Yas Express shuttle service to reach all Yas Island attractions, including Yas Mall, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld and the seven licensed restaurants and lounges of Yas Marina. Back on terra firma, race like a champion at the Yas Racing School, which offers beginners and pros alike expert tuition from specialised instructors in a variety of cars. The less adventurous can embark on a behind-the-scenes tour of the Yas Marina Circuit and its F1 Grand Prix track, and complete their visit with lunch, afternoon tea, or sunset dinner at the iconic Yas Viceroy – the only hotel in the world straddling an F1® circuit.

Journey time just 20 minutes each way!Yas Island attractions: yasisland.ae

ITINERARY 4 PAR AND SPA

With three championship-ready courses within a 25 kilometre radius and six clubs within a 90-minute drive, Abu Dhabi has a wealth of golf offerings. Saadiyat Beach Golf Club is the region’s only ‘ocean’ course with several beautiful beachfront holes, and is just a chip-and-run from the cruise terminal. Just up the road, Yas Links is the region’s premier links course. Abu Dhabi Golf Club, the parkland course with its iconic falcon clubhouse, is home each January to the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship.

These are complemented by a city course, the Al Ghazal Golf Club - an eco-conscious, championship-level ‘sand’ course featuring smooth ‘browns’ and an archaeological site running alongside the fifth fairway. It's definitely a unique golfing experience to talk about when you’re back home. All these courses can be easily combined with a selection of luxury spa and wellness experiences for non-playing partners. Club hire is also available.

Journey time 10-45 minutes each way, dependent on course.Saadiyat Beach Golf Club sbgolfclub.aeYas Links Abu Dhabi yaslinks.comAbu Dhabi Golf Club adgolfclub.comAl Ghazal Golf Club alghazalgolf.ae

YAS LINK

S

YAS WATER

WO

RLD

AB

U D

HA

BI

ITINERARY 5 AT ONE WITH THE SEA

Enjoy the waters of the Arabian Gulf with an early morning Noukhada Kayaking Tour of the protected Mangrove National Park that meanders along the city’s coastline. Learn about the natural wildlife habitats from an experienced guide before enjoying a buffet breakfast brunch at the nearby Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa by Anantara.

Later, take a break from the busy city and join the Abu Dhabi Pearl Journey for a two-hour cruise to understand the enchanting history of the Arabian Gulf’s ancient pearling industry - you’re guaranteed to find a pearl to take home as a souvenir. Then, relax and admire the tranquillity of the Mangroves from the comfort of a self-skippered solar-powered eco-boat or explore the Arabian Gulf shoreline and islands onboard the Gulf’s largest catamaran with Belevari Marine’s three-hour odyssey departing from the exclusive Emirates Palace Marina.

Alternatively, a thrill-a-minute ride on a Yellow Boats Speedboat Tour of Abu Dhabi’s spectacular Corniche from the exclusive Emirates Palace Marina provides a nautical perspective of the city’s attractions - an experience you will simply never forget.

Journey time from 10 to 30 minutes from/to Zayed Port.Noukhada Kayaking Tours: noukhada.aeEastern Mangroves Hotel: abu-dhabi.anantara.comAbu Dhabi Pearl Journey: adpearljourney.comBelevari Marine: belevari.com Yellow Boats Speedboat Tours: theyellowboats.com

A NIGHT TO REMEMBEROVERNIGHT 1 EXPLORE THE TIMELESS ARABIAN NIGHTS VILLAGE

Nestled among stunning dunes, Arabian Nights Village harnesses the soul and essence of old Arabia and is conceived to let visitors experience the mythical and timeless beauty of the desert and aspects of traditional Emirati life. This village offers first–class facilities and accommodation in traditional Emirati dwellings and an experience of genuine Emirati heritage including activities like sand surfing, falconry, quad biking and desert safaris.

Journey time 90-120 minutes from/to Zayed Port.arabiannights.ae

OVERNIGHT 2 LUXURIATE AT THE MIRAGE PALACE

This five-star resort is the ultimate experiential getaway. Qasr Al Sarab (Mirage Palace) Resort & Spa by Anantara is a luxurious leisure retreat among the world’s highest sand dunes in Abu Dhabi’s vast Rub Al Khali (Empty Quarter). The resort is inspired by the indigenous desert culture, which is an integral part of the UAE’s unique heritage, and is surrounded by rich history dating back to 9,000-year-old New Stone Age settlements. With contemporary Arabian-style rooms, inviting swimming pools and a range of dining options, desert dune walking at dawn, and camel trekking, you’re bound to be impressed.

Journey time 120-180 minutes from/to Zayed Port.qasralsarab.anantara.com

QASR

AL SA

RA

B D

ESERT R

ESOR

T BY A

NA

NTA

RA

OVERNIGHT 3 AL DHAFRA DINNER CRUISE

While away the hours over dinner on a traditional dhow, where the cruise offers great Corniche views of the dramatic back-light of Abu Dhabi’s Manhattan-style skyline. Upper deck seating is presented traditional majlis style, with the lower deck seating around 50 people in air-conditioned comfort, serving traditional regional dishes and a great range of local sweets. With the trip starting just minutes from the cruise terminal, Al Dhafra is a convenient option for a relaxing evening out.

Journey time less than 10 minutes from/to Zayed Portaldhafra.net

DESERT ISLAND BEACH STOPOVER

Abu Dhabi boasts the Arabian Gulf’s only dedicated cruise beach stopover destination.

Sir Bani Yas Island is the ‘World’s Leading Sustainable Tourism Destination’ and a beach and nature-based location alive with wildlife and adventure activities, three 5-star boutique hotels and luxury villas, a dedicated watersports centre, purpose-built stables, and historic sites.

Disembarking passengers can simply enjoy a relaxing day on a desert island beach, or explore all that the island has to offer by visiting the dedicated Welcome Centre with excursion booking desks. The 1.2 kilometre stretch of cruise passenger beach features dedicated VIP, Family and Standard sections, 2,000 guest sunbeds and umbrellas. VIP Cabanas that accommodate up to four guests are also available and are serviced by their own exclusive bar/restaurant, a spa area with an Aqua Gym, floating mats, as well as 20 indoor and outdoor freshwater showers.

Catering facilities include three buffet areas and grill stations serviced by two bars and an additional four Tiki-themed bars.

More than half the island is made up of the Arabian Wildlife Park, one of region’s largest wildlife reserves, which is home to more than 10,000 free roaming animals including Arabian Oryx, gazelles, giraffes, hyenas, and cheetahs. Passengers can take a 4x4 nature & wildlife drive of the park in specially made vehicles accompanied by expert guides. Other activities include mountain biking the natural landscape, or joining in on one of the beach sports available from the Desert Islands Watersports Centre, such as snorkelling, kayaking and paddle boarding. There are also unique excursions available, like the traditional Al Serdal Pearl Diving experience, cultural heritage tours of the island, and riding on famed Arabian horses. The island is also home to UAE’s only discovered Christian Monastery.

Sir Bani Yas Island: sirbaniyasisland.com

MAN

GR

OVE N

ATION

AL PARK

SIR

BAN

I YAS ISLA

ND

ABU DHABI ESSENTIALS

ITINERARY 1 SHEIKH ZAYED GRAND MOSQUE & WAHAT AL KARAMA

Start with a tour of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, recommended by TripAdvisor as the world’s second most popular landmark attraction. There are daily complimentary ‘walk-in’ guided tours by trained UAE nationals who tell the story of this masterpiece of worship and give visitors insight into local heritage and traditions. Then make sure to visit the adjacent Wahat Al Karama, a sprawling plaza honouring the UAE’s fallen, with a visitor centre and Memorial Plaza for pause and reflection. Mosque tours last approximately 1.5-2 hrsRecommended Wahat Al Karama visit time: 1 hourJourney time: 20 minutes from/to Zayed PortSheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: szgmc.aeWahat Al Karama: wahatalkarama.ae

ITINERARY 2 THE ANCIENT ART OF FALCONRY

The state-of-the-art Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital is an award-winning attraction dedicated to the caring and protection of the national emblem of the UAE. Take a guided tour and learn why these noble birds of prey are so revered. Then try your hand at the ancient Arabian sport of falconry.

Recommended visit time 2.5-4hrs.Journey time 45 minutes from/to Zayed Portfalconhospital.com

ITINERARY 3 GET A GLIMPSE INTO OUR CULTURAL VISION

On Saadiyat Island’s Cultural District – soon to be home to a premier collection of world-class museums, you can visit the free-to-enter Manarat Al Saadiyat exhibition centre

and tour the interactive Saadiyat Story. It will tell you of the transformation of this natural island and you’ll be able to explore the future with models and explanations of Louvre Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum, and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi. Additional gallery spaces often feature individual art exhibitions. A stone's throw away from Zayed Port, you'll also find Warehouse 421, a creative space and platform for artistic expression, understanding, and further development of the UAE’s creative community.

Recommended visit time 2.5-4hrs including time to enjoy the on-site restaurant, Fanr.Journey time 10 minutes from/to Zayed PortSaadiyat Cultural District: saadiyat.aeWarehouse 421: warehouse421.ae

ITINERARY 4 THEME PARK FUN!

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is the world’s only Ferrari theme park with more than 20 exhilarating and educational rides and attractions - including the world’s fastest roller-coaster, the Formula Rossa, as well as Flying Aces, where you can defy gravity on the world's highest loop and steepest incline. Next door, the award-winning Arabian-themed Yas Waterworld water park features 43 rides, slides & attractions, including 5 that are one-of-a-kind. Named as World Travel Award’s ‘Middle East’s Leading Attraction’, this park is definitely not to be missed.

A combination ticket, the Yas Park Pass, which includes access to both Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and Yas Waterworld is available.

Journey time 15 minutes from/to Zayed PortFerrari World Abu Dhabi: ferrariworldabudhabi.com Yas Waterworld: yaswaterworld.com

LOU

VR

E AB

U D

HA

BI

ITINERARY 5 ABU DHABI’S SOOTHING SANDS

The coveted blue flag flies high over Abu Dhabi’s pristine white sandy beaches, most within very easy reach of the cruise terminal. Abu Dhabi’s eight-kilometre stretch of beachfront Corniche features beaches open to all, or those reserved for families or ladies only, with the additional sandy retreats of Saadiyat Public Beach and Al Bateen Wharf within very easy travelling time. Coupled with private beach access on Yas Island, at Saadiyat Beach Club, Saadiyat, and at many resort hotels, the capital has options galore to soak up some Arabian sunshine!

Journey time 10-30 minutes each way, dependent on beach.Al Bateen, Corniche and Saadiyat Public Beach:Yas Beach: facebook.com/yasbeach Saadiyat Beach Club: saadiyatbeachclub.ae

ITINERARY 6 SHOPPER'S PARADISE

Shopping in Abu Dhabi is so diverse: everything from ultra-modern malls with the latest brands, to small, souk-like outlets where you can buy traditional perfumes, handicrafts, spices and carpets. A prime destination for shopping, dining and entertainment, Yas Mall is the capital’s ultimate destination right in the heart of Yas Island. A contemporary revival of a historic district within the heart of the city, the old Central Market is now the World Trade Centre Mall and Souk, and offers a complimentary shuttle service from Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal. Explore The Galleria on Al Maryah Island – with 130 of the world’s most renowned brand outlets or head over to the Avenue at Etihad Towers, home to a range of luxury boutiques and shopping destinations.

Journey time 10-30 minutes each way, dependent on mall.visitabudhabi.ae

SAA

DIYAT B

EACH

CLU

B

THE G

ALLER

IA

ABU DHABI CRUISE TERMINAL

Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal is located close to the centre of the UAE capital in Zayed Port, with excellent transport links to a variety of cultural attractions and entertainment activities, as well as the emirate’s growing range of luxury hotels and resorts.

Accommodating two large cruise ships and one small vessel, the state-of-the-art terminal building offers an enhanced range of tailored passenger services in an attractive building combining Arabic style and modern design elements. Traditional Arabic ornaments, colours, and shapes combined with modern architectural elements define the new building’s distinctive style, which celebrates the UAE’s cultural heritage and pays tribute to its long maritime history.

Passengers can often enjoy traditional Arabic coffee, falconry demonstrations, and henna decorations on arrival. You'll also find a traditionally themed souk and heritage area, with activities for passengers and the general public, as well as a wide range of tourist friendly facilities that are always available.

A regional first, Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal includes Etihad Airways check-in counters allowing disembarking passengers to deposit luggage and prepare for their flight home before arriving at the airport.

Cruise terminal facilities and services also include:

• 24-hour customs and immigration office• Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority tourist information desk• Duty-free shopping • Foreign exchange and money machines• Complimentary WiFi, coffee shop and restaurant• Majlis • Souvenir shops • Taxi and bus stands• Free shopping shuttle service• Kids play area • Variety of tourism service and excursion options

Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal adports.ae

GETTING AROUND

Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal is in the heart of the city and is linked to all attractions, sights and experiences by a well-planned road system - so getting around Abu Dhabi is easy.

TaxisTaxis can be picked up at the terminal’s dedicated taxi rank, are reasonably priced, and most drivers have a good command of English. Across the city, taxis are plentiful and can be flagged down by the roadside or booked by phone through the TransAD hotline 600 535353.

Car HireFor a self-drive option, all tour operators will have access to major car rental companies – and can even have the car delivered to the cruise terminal to meet disembarking passengers.

CycleZayed Port is connected to Abu Dhabi city via a spectacular eight kilometre stretch of safe, dedicated cyclepath along the city’s stunning beachfront Corniche.

WHAT TO SEE & DO, WHERE TO EAT AND HOW TO GET THERE

Abu Dhabi has an extensive array of attractions, experiences and fine quality dining options, easily searched via visitabudhabi.ae – don’t forget a complimentary City Map to help you find your way.

FURTHER INFORMATION

For a wealth of information see our website, visitabudhabi.ae or one of our dedicated visitor information counters within the cruise terminal. We also have an extensive network of visitor information centres and electronic visitor information points across the emirate.

Check out what’s on in Abu Dhabi during your stay by logging onto abudhabievents.ae

v is i tabudhabi .ae