Dubai and Abu Dhabi skylines

UAE Multi-Destination Packages

Experience the contrast between Dubai's dazzling modernity and Abu Dhabi's cultural richness

The United Arab Emirates offers visitors two extraordinary cities that showcase different facets of this rapidly evolving nation. Dubai dazzles with its futuristic skyline, luxury shopping, and ambitious entertainment attractions, while Abu Dhabi presents a more measured blend of cultural richness and thoughtful development. Located just 90 minutes apart, these complementary destinations create the perfect UAE combo experience.

Why Combine Dubai and Abu Dhabi?

Dubai

  • Ambition and spectacle with record-breaking architecture
  • Extravagant entertainment options
  • Global melting pot atmosphere
  • Luxury shopping and dining

Abu Dhabi

  • Cultural landmarks and heritage sites
  • Stately architecture and design
  • More authentic Emirati experience
  • Balance of tradition with progress

Together, they provide a complete picture of the UAE's past, present, and future—all within an easily manageable travel distance.

How Long to Stay

For an ideal Dubai-Abu Dhabi combo, we recommend:

4-5

Days in Dubai

2-3

Days in Abu Dhabi

This allocation gives you enough time to experience Dubai's numerous attractions while still immersing yourself in Abu Dhabi's cultural and architectural highlights.

Dubai Highlights

Iconic Attractions

Burj Khalifa

The world's tallest building with observation decks on levels 124, 125, and 148

Palm Jumeirah

Man-made island with luxury resorts and Atlantis aquarium

Dubai Mall & Fountain Show

World-class shopping and spectacular choreographed water display

Dubai Marina

Stunning waterfront district with skyscrapers and yacht-filled harbor

Cultural Experiences

Al Fahidi Historical District

Traditional wind-tower architecture and Dubai's oldest buildings

Dubai Creek

Historic waterway with traditional abra boat rides

Jumeirah Mosque

One of few mosques open to non-Muslim visitors

Gold and Spice Souks

Traditional markets showcasing the city's trading heritage

Abu Dhabi Highlights

Cultural Landmarks

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Spectacular white marble mosque accommodating 40,000 worshippers

Louvre Abu Dhabi

Stunning art museum with a floating dome design

Qasr Al Watan

Magnificent presidential palace open to visitors

Qasr Al Hosn

The emirate's oldest stone building and cultural center

Entertainment Attractions

Yas Island

Home to Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, and Yas Waterworld

Formula 1 Yas Marina Circuit

World-class racing venue offering driving experiences

The Corniche

8km promenade with beaches, gardens, and cycling paths

Emirates Palace

Opulent hotel known for gold-flecked cappuccinos and palatial architecture

Traveling Between Dubai and Abu Dhabi

By Car

The most popular option:

  • Travel Time: 90-120 minutes depending on traffic
  • Distance: Approximately 140 kilometers
  • Route: Sheikh Zayed Road (E11) directly connects both cities
  • Options: Rental car, taxi, or ride-sharing services (Uber, Careem)

By Bus

Budget-friendly alternative:

  • Travel Time: 2 hours
  • Service: Intercity buses operated by RTA (Dubai) and DOT (Abu Dhabi)
  • Cost: Approximately 25 AED ($7 USD)
  • Frequency: Departures every 20-30 minutes throughout the day

By Organized Tour

Convenient option:

  • Travel Time: Full day, including sightseeing
  • Cost: 250-500 AED ($70-135 USD)
  • Advantage: Includes guided visits to major Abu Dhabi attractions
  • Limitation: Less flexibility in schedule and attractions

7-Day Dubai-Abu Dhabi Itinerary

1

Dubai Arrival

  • Arrive at Dubai International Airport
  • Check in at your Dubai hotel
  • Evening visit to Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa observation deck
  • Watch Dubai Fountain show after sunset
2

Dubai Modern Wonders

  • Morning: Visit Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis The Palm
  • Afternoon: Explore Dubai Marina and JBR Walk
  • Evening: Dinner cruise on a traditional dhow boat
3

Dubai Cultural Exploration

  • Morning: Al Fahidi Historical District and Dubai Museum
  • Afternoon: Abra ride across Dubai Creek to the spice and gold souks
  • Evening: Dinner at Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding
4

Dubai Desert Adventure

  • Morning: At leisure or optional Miracle Garden visit (seasonal)
  • Afternoon: Desert safari with dune bashing
  • Evening: Bedouin-style dinner camp with entertainment
5

Transit to Abu Dhabi

  • Morning checkout and drive to Abu Dhabi
  • Check in at your Abu Dhabi hotel
  • Afternoon: Visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
  • Evening: Stroll along the Corniche waterfront
6

Abu Dhabi Cultural Day

  • Morning: Louvre Abu Dhabi
  • Afternoon: Qasr Al Watan presidential palace
  • Evening: Dinner with views at Emirates Palace or Observation Deck at 300
7

Abu Dhabi Entertainment

  • Full day at Yas Island attractions
  • Choose from Ferrari World or Warner Bros. World
  • Optional F1 circuit experience
  • Evening: Final dinner and departure or extend your stay

Where to Stay

Dubai Recommended Areas

  • 1

    Downtown Dubai

    Near Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall

  • 2

    Dubai Marina

    Waterfront living with abundant dining

  • 3

    Palm Jumeirah

    Beachfront luxury resorts

  • 4

    Al Seef/Bur Dubai

    Closer to historic districts

Abu Dhabi Recommended Areas

  • 1

    Corniche

    Waterfront location with easy access to attractions

  • 2

    Saadiyat Island

    Near Louvre and beach resorts

  • 3

    Yas Island

    Ideal for theme park access

  • 4

    Downtown

    Central location near main shopping areas

Savings with Tripkaa Combo Booking

When booking your Dubai-Abu Dhabi combo through Tripkaa, you'll enjoy:

Streamlined Process

Book both hotels in one transaction, saving time and reducing hassle.

Exclusive Combo Discounts

Save up to 25% compared to booking separately through other platforms.

Coordinated Logistics

Both hotels receive your full itinerary, ensuring a smooth transition.

Flexible Dates

Customize how many nights you spend at each destination based on your preferences.

Seasonal Considerations

  • November to March

    Ideal weather with comfortable temperatures (75-85°F/24-29°C)

  • April, May, September, October

    Hot but manageable (85-100°F/29-38°C)

  • June to August

    Extremely hot (100-110°F/38-43°C), but excellent for indoor activities and hotel deals

  • Ramadan

    Dates vary yearly; unique cultural experience but altered opening hours

Cultural Tips

  • Dress modestly in malls, religious sites, and government buildings
  • During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours
  • Conservative public behavior is appreciated; avoid public displays of affection
  • Alcohol is only available in licensed hotel restaurants and bars
  • Ask permission before photographing locals, especially women
  • The UAE weekend is Friday-Saturday, with Friday being especially quiet until afternoon prayers conclude

Dubai vs. Abu Dhabi: Key Contrasts

Architecture & Development

  • Dubai: Flashy superlatives and rapid vertical growth
  • Abu Dhabi: Elegant grandeur with more measured and planned expansion

Culture & Pace

  • Dubai: Extremely cosmopolitan with constant activity
  • Abu Dhabi: Stronger Emirati traditions with a more relaxed atmosphere

Tourism Focus

  • Dubai: Entertainment, shopping, and record-breaking attractions
  • Abu Dhabi: Cultural institutions, heritage, and family-friendly destinations

Dining & Nightlife

  • Dubai: Extensive international options with vibrant nightlife
  • Abu Dhabi: More refined dining scene with a quieter evening atmosphere

What Our Travelers Say

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Discover the Best of the UAE

A Dubai to Abu Dhabi combo trip offers the perfect balance between futuristic ambition and cultural richness. By experiencing both emirates in one journey, you'll gain a more complete understanding of the UAE's remarkable development and traditional foundations.

From record-breaking skyscrapers to serene mosques, desert adventures to museum masterpieces, this classic Emirati pairing delivers an unforgettable and comprehensive travel experience.