Abu Dhabi is Hot Right Now! Follow This Model Itinerary for a Grown-Up Girls’ Trip

The enchanting desert resort of Abu Dhabi. A cityscape lined with towering skyscrapers and emerald green beaches. In Abu Dhabi, where both urban life and nature can be enjoyed at once, it’s now gaining attention as a girls’ trip destination!
Let’s go on a photogenic and soul-satisfying journey to Abu Dhabi!

Depart from Narita in the Evening, Arrive in Abu Dhabi Late at Night and Head to the Hotel

00:05 Arrival at Abu Dhabi Airport

Depart from Narita Airport at 17:10. After approximately 12 hours of flight, you will arrive at Abu Dhabi Airport late at night.
It’s a good idea to exchange currency in your home country or at the airport. Many places still accept only cash, so be sure to prepare enough for your trip.
Take an airport taxi from the airport to your hotel. If you book a hotel close to the airport, you can save on transportation costs.

Nearby hotels in Abu Dhabi Airport

Start Your Sightseeing the Next Morning! First Stop: The Mosque

9:00 Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

One of the largest mosques in the world, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque captivates all who visit with its white exterior gleaming against the blue sky. The Quran is recited day and night, and its solemn atmosphere can only be experienced in person.
Although most mosques are off-limits to non-Muslims, you can visit the interior of the Grand Mosque as long as you avoid excessive exposure. Photography is allowed, so be sure to capture a photogenic shot.

The mosque features the world’s largest chandelier, coated in 24K gold and adorned with Swarovski crystals—truly a sight to behold. Beneath it lies a Persian carpet, handwoven by 1,300 artisans, also considered one of the world’s largest.
If you pre-register online, a QR code will be sent to your email, allowing you to enter seamlessly.

It’s also highly recommended to visit at sunset and enjoy the illuminated view. The reflection of the mosque on the water is nothing short of magical.

Shopping & Lunch at the Central Market

11:00 – The Souk (The Mall WTC)

A shopping area that recreates the former local market. It offers an array of Arabian-style goods such as traditional crafts, henna, spices, perfumes, fabrics, and accessories.

Also recommended is the Abu Dhabi Art Hub, located within the same complex. It is a facility that provides living, working, and exhibition spaces for artists from around the world. Here you can view works influenced by Abu Dhabi, created by up-and-coming artists.

Abu Dhabi is a city where people from all over the world gather. Lebanese cuisine, though not commonly known, is said to suit foreign tastes well.
The Mall WTC also features restaurants offering Vietnamese, African, Mexican, and many other international cuisines—so be sure to explore and find a favorite dish.

The Louvre in Abu Dhabi?! Artworks from Around the World

13:00 – Louvre Abu Dhabi

From The Mall WTC, it's about a 20-minute taxi ride to the Louvre Abu Dhabi. Traffic congestion is likely, so it’s best to allow extra time.
The Louvre Abu Dhabi was created as a new form of cultural institution under the concept of a "universal museum," a collaboration between the UAE and France. It is not a branch of the Louvre in Paris, but it has acquired the right to use the name "Louvre" for 30 years.
One highlight is the chronological arrangement of artworks from around the world, allowing visitors to explore a shared human story that transcends civilizations and cultures.

The dome-shaped architecture called the "Rain of Light," designed by French artist Jean Nouvel, creates a mesmerizing atmosphere.
Purchasing tickets in advance via the official website is recommended for a smoother experience.
Another special experience unique to the Louvre Abu Dhabi is the opportunity to paddle a canoe on the surrounding waters.

Afternoon Tea at a Famous Film Location

16:00 – Observation Deck at 300

The Observation Deck at 300 was a filming location for the 2015 movie Furious 7 (Sky Mission). It’s the hotel featured in the scene where a car crashes through a hotel window and into a neighboring tower.
Located on the 74th floor, this restaurant café offers a panoramic view of Abu Dhabi.
The entrance fee includes the cost of tea. If you wish to enjoy afternoon tea, please make a reservation at least one day in advance.
You can also spot the Emirates Palace, the hotel where Carrie and friends stayed in Sex and the City 2.

Projection Mapping Too! Tour the Presidential Palace

18:00 – Qasr Al Watan

Since March 2019, the Presidential Palace, Qasr Al Watan, has been open to the public. The guest reception area is now available for tours and is gaining attention as a place to learn about UAE culture and traditions. It’s recommended to purchase tickets in advance.
The interior, adorned with intricate geometric patterns throughout, is breathtaking, and visitors can view cultural heritage from across the Middle East. “Qasr Al Watan” means “Palace of the Nation.” Be sure not to miss the projection mapping show that takes place after sunset.

Q1: Is it safe for women to travel there?

Safety is a common concern for women traveling alone. It’s best to avoid going out at night or visiting deserted beaches. That said, Abu Dhabi was ranked the safest city in the world for three consecutive years since 2017, so you can enjoy sightseeing with peace of mind. Nevertheless, it’s still a foreign country, so always stay vigilant about your belongings and surroundings.

Q2: What should I wear?

Abu Dhabi is part of the UAE, a country that follows Islamic teachings. Although the temperature stays above 30°C year-round and you may want to wear lighter clothing, it’s best to carry a cover-up to wear at mosques or religious sites. As the saying goes, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do”—avoid revealing outfits at the beach or in public areas.

Q3: What transportation should I use?

If it’s your first time visiting Abu Dhabi, the double-decker sightseeing bus that takes you to main attractions like the Grand Mosque is a good option.
In Abu Dhabi’s hot weather, taxis are the main mode of transport for travelers. You can hail them from the street. Look for silver cars with yellow signs. Don’t worry—taxi movements are monitored by a central dispatch system. Since there’s no address system in Abu Dhabi, write down your destination’s name or phone number and show it to the driver.
You can also use the Uber app. If you're worried about cash payments, it’s a good idea to download Uber in advance.

Stay Two Nights or More in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is a unique destination where nature and the city coexist. There are many special experiences to try.
How about a camel trek in the desert? A BBQ around a bonfire, or sipping traditional Arabic coffee?

One major difference between Abu Dhabi and Dubai—even though they’re both in the UAE—is that Abu Dhabi has beaches. The emerald green waters of the Persian Gulf are as beautiful as the Caribbean. Relaxing under a parasol while soaking up the Abu Dhabi sun sounds wonderful, doesn’t it?

Summary

Japan has had a long-standing friendship with the UAE, and Japanese architects have contributed to the city’s design. Recently, Japanese sweet bread has even become a mini-trend!
There are direct flights from Narita and Chubu airports every day. Abu Dhabi is also just a two-hour drive from Dubai, making it easy to visit both cities even in one day. We recommend visiting both to feel the contrast between them.
If you’re growing tired of the usual beach resorts like Hawaii, Guam, or Southeast Asia, consider Abu Dhabi as your next travel destination—where you can enjoy art, nature, and the city all in one place.