Dubai, just 140km from Abu Dhabi on the E11 highway, is the UAE's most visited destination and a spectacular contrast to Abu Dhabi's more restrained capital atmosphere. A day trip efficiently covers the iconic highlights — the Burj Khalifa observation deck (the world's tallest building), the Dubai Mall, the historic Al Fahidi neighbourhood (Bastakiya), the Dubai Creek traditional dhow crossing, and the Dubai Frame. Dubai's metro system makes city movement easy once you arrive.
| Travel time | Full day |
|---|---|
| Getting there | Car via E11 Abu Dhabi–Dubai highway (1.5 hours; RTA bus from Abu Dhabi bus station AED 25 return) |
Suggested itinerary
- 07:00 — Depart Abu Dhabi by car or bus
- 08:45 — Arrive Dubai — park at Dubai Mall or take metro
- 09:00 — Burj Khalifa observation deck (book online in advance — floors 124/148)
- 11:00 — Dubai Mall exploration — aquarium visit optional (AED 100)
- 12:30 — Lunch in Dubai Mall or Old Town cafes
- 14:00 — Drive or taxi to Al Fahidi Historic District
- 14:30 — Al Fahidi neighbourhood walk (free) + Dubai Museum (AED 3)
- 16:00 — Abra crossing of Dubai Creek (AED 1) to Deira
- 16:30 — Gold Souq and Spice Souq walk
- 17:30 — Return journey to Abu Dhabi
- 19:00 — Arrive Abu Dhabi
Highlights
- Burj Khalifa — 828m, world's tallest building (observation deck floors 124 and 148)
- Dubai Mall — one of the world's largest malls (with aquarium, ice rink, waterfall)
- Dubai Frame — picture-frame architecture with history museum and skyline views
- Al Fahidi Historic District (Bastakiya) — traditional windtower houses
- Dubai Creek — traditional abra (water taxi) crossing
- Gold Souq and Spice Souq in Deira
Tips for visiting
- Book Burj Khalifa tickets online at least 2 days in advance — sold out during peak season
- Dubai Metro connects from Union Square to Dubai Mall — useful if driving to a car park
- The RTA public bus (Abu Dhabi to Dubai Bus Station) is convenient and cheap — AED 25 return
- Dubai is significantly more expensive for dining than Abu Dhabi — budget accordingly