Abu Dhabi City Highlights Tour: Sheikh Zayed Mosque and Heritage Village

Meet your guide in the center of town and hop inside your air-conditioned minivan for your tour of the city. Capital of the UAE, 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 UAE, 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 Corniche with its famous white-sand beach, and then say goodbye to your guide back at the start point.