Discover the ultimate full-day tour from Abu Dhabi Airport to Dubai and back. Explore Old Dubai, enjoy an Abra ride on the creek, visit the Gold and Spice Souks, savor a fine lunch, and see Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah, Atlantis, and Dubai Marina before returning comfortably to Abu Dhabi Airport.
The journey begins the moment you step out of Abu Dhabi International Airport. Your driver-guide will be waiting at the arrivals gate, holding a sign with your name. As you settle into a modern, air-conditioned vehicle, the adventure ahead unfolds a full-day escape from Abu Dhabi Airport to Dubai, crossing the shimmering desert highway that connects the two great cities of the United Arab Emirates.
The road between Abu Dhabi and Dubai is smooth and scenic, lined with elegant sand dunes that shift color with the morning sun. Along the way, your guide shares stories about how these two cities grew from humble fishing villages into glittering global destinations. Within just 90 minutes, the silhouette of Dubai’s skyline begins to rise in the distance, crowned by the soaring Burj Khalifa.
Your first destination is Old Dubai, where the city’s roots whisper through narrow alleys and traditional wind-tower houses. You arrive at Al Fahidi Historical District, the birthplace of Dubai’s trading culture. Here, time seems to pause. You wander through cobbled lanes, art galleries, and restored courtyard houses that reveal how merchants once lived along the creek.
From there, you step aboard a traditional Abra boat, gliding gently across the Dubai Creek—the same waterway that once carried ships laden with pearls, spices, and gold. The view of both banks captures Dubai’s transformation: wooden dhows anchored beside sleek modern buildings. The short yet soulful ride connects you to the heart of Dubai’s trading past.
Once you reach the Deira side, the air changes—filled with the fragrance of cardamom, cinnamon, and saffron. You stroll through the Spice Souk, a sensory wonder where every corner bursts with color and aroma. Just steps away, the Gold Souk glitters with hundreds of shop windows displaying necklaces and bangles of breathtaking craftsmanship. Your guide reveals local secrets—how to bargain politely, how purity is certified, and why Dubai’s gold market remains one of the most trusted in the world.
After the vibrant chaos of the souks, it’s time to pause and enjoy a refined lunch at a local fine restaurant. The table fills with traditional Emirati and Middle Eastern dishes—fluffy saffron rice, grilled meats, and cool yogurt dips. It’s a moment to relax, recharge, and reflect on the fascinating contrast between tradition and modernity that defines Dubai.
Post-lunch, your tour shifts toward the modern icons that have made Dubai world-famous. You drive through Jumeirah Beach Road, passing elegant villas and beach clubs until you reach the man-made wonder of Palm Jumeirah Island. Shaped like a giant palm tree, it stretches into the turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf.
At the tip of the island, a stop at Atlantis The Palm offers a perfect photo opportunity. Its grand archway and ocean-themed design symbolize the city’s ambition and creativity. As you stand there, you realize this engineering marvel exists where there was once only open sea—a true testament to Dubai’s vision.
our next stop is the Burj Al Arab Hotel, rising like a sail from its private island. Few landmarks express luxury as effortlessly as this architectural icon. From the nearby Jumeirah public beach, you can capture the perfect photograph with the hotel in the background, its white façade gleaming against the deep blue sky. The breeze carries the scent of salt and freedom—another reminder that Dubai’s identity is built around the sea.
As the afternoon light softens, you reach Downtown Dubai, home to the tallest building on Earth—the Burj Khalifa. Its needle-like spire pierces the clouds, commanding awe from every angle. You stop for photos near the Dubai Fountain and the shimmering Dubai Mall, where the reflection of the tower dances across the water. Your guide shares stories about how this district became the centerpiece of the city’s skyline and why it represents the ultimate fusion of art, ambition, and engineering.
Before the journey back to Abu Dhabi, the final highlight awaits: Dubai Marina. This elegant waterfront district is lined with skyscrapers that sparkle in the evening light. You stroll along the marina promenade, watching yachts glide past cafés and restaurants. It’s a fitting finale to your Dubai exploration—a glimpse of the city’s cosmopolitan spirit and modern charm.
As dusk approaches, you begin your comfortable drive back to Abu Dhabi Airport. The skyline fades in the rearview mirror, replaced once again by golden dunes and a tranquil desert horizon. The return journey feels calm and reflective—a quiet contrast to the vibrance of Dubai you’ve just experienced. You arrive at the airport with plenty of time before your next flight, carrying not only photographs but also the memory of two cities that embody the essence of the United Arab Emirates: heritage and innovation, desert and sea, simplicity and grandeur.
Important to Know:
Tour requires at least 14-16 hours stopover to be completed.
Tour operates daily from 0800 am. except Fridays from 0200 pm.
Stopover tour is provided only on private basis.
Abu Dhabi airport is about 37 KM from city`s downtown. Airport transfers are included within the quotation.
Burj Khalifa tickets are available for purchase from 47.00 USD. Visit ae
We accept Paypal transfers for the down payment along with bank transfer.
Credit cards holders are welcomed to visit our office and do payment. However it is not recommended for the stopover and shore excursions travelers due to their limited time.
We accept the following currencies: USD – EUR – GBP, AUD, and INR in addition to the local currency.
Children Policy:
Infants under 2 years are totally free of charge.
Children aged between 2 years to 10 Years are quoted only 50% of adult rate.
Children aged 10 years and above are considered as adults.
Cancellation Policy:
Cancellation until 48 hours before the tour date is 100% free of charge. Except any purchased tickets or reserved meals.
Cancellation within 48 hours deducts 50% of the any paid amount plus purchased tickets or reserved meals value.
In no show cases, there is refund for any paid amounts.
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Contact information
Abu Dhabi F7 Khalidya Tower, Zayed the first St. Abu Dhabi, UAE Call/whats App : +971 50 534 1633 Email : info@abudhabisightseeing.com