Abu Dhabi Shore Excursion: Private City Highlights Tour

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

When your cruise ship docks at Abu Dhabi, leave the waterfront and visit three highlights of the United Arab Emirates capital. Led by a private local guide, the 4.5-hour shore excursion includes a tour of Abu Dhabi’s grand mosque – Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al-Nahyan Mosque – as well as the Zayed Centre museum and Abu Dhabi Heritage Village. Hear tales of the late Sheikh Zayed, a man pivotal to Abu Dhabi’s development, and learn about life in the city before oil became its lifeblood.

Leave Mina Port Zayed at Abu Dhabi, then and make your own way into town to meet your private guide in the city center. Then, hop inside your air-conditioned minivan and set off to see the highlights of the city. Capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi is often called the Arabian Jewel – a name that testifies to the city’s lavish monuments and flashy modern architecture.

As you travel around town, listen to your guide’s stories about the city and, of course, its fascinating sights. Luckily, your first stop is at one of Abu Dhabi’s undisputed best: Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al-Nahyan Mosque, or the grand mosque, as it is more simply known. Head inside to learn about the monument and marvel at its sheer size and grandeur. The stunning building can accommodate some 40,000 worshipers inside its walls, making it one of the world’s largest mosques.

Hop back inside your minivan and travel the short distance to Zayed Centre, a museum dedicated to the late Sheikh Zayed – a leader affectionately known by his people as the ‘father of the nation.’ Step inside and browse an impressive collection of Zayed memorabilia, seeing photos, his cherished cars and, even, gifts of stuffed lions and cheetahs.

After learning about the man who is said to have shaped the United Arab Emirates, travel to your final stop of the tour: Abu Dhabi Heritage Village. The open-air museum showcases life in the city before the discovery of oil, so look out for recreated souqs (markets) as well a traditional Bedouin camp complete with goat-hair tents.

Finish your tour with a drive along the stunning Corniche with its famous white-sand beach, and then say your goodbyes to your guide back at the start point.

Worry-free Shore Excursion:
We will ensure your excursion ends with ample time for you to return to Mina Port Zayed in Abu Dhabi for your ship’s departure. In the extremely unlikely event your ship has departed, we will arrange for transportation to the next port-of-call. If your ship is delayed and you are unable to attend this activity, your money will be refunded. See our terms and conditions for full details.