Cruisers will make a grand entry at the state-of-the-art cruise terminal, port Zayed. The terminal efficiently links the cruisers to cultural attractions. The intriguing contemporary designs with an Arabic touch will be noticeable at the port. The terminal efficiently connects to a variety of cultural attractions. Shop to your heart's content at Marina Mall. Go topsy-turvy on the elaborate roller coaster at the Ferrari World. Be in awe of the Arabic architecture and culture at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Art connoisseurs must visit the newly set up Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum.
A cruise to Asia begins with a stop in Abu Dhabi. The capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Abu Dhabi, is a shining diamond of the Arabian Gulf, rooted in tradition and history. The dynamic city is a great place to get to know before your cruise trip from Abu Dhabi. Here are some of the highlights of Abu Dhabi.
Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan founded the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in 1968, with Abu Dhabi as its capital city. We know Abu Dhabi today because of Sheikh Zayed's contribution. Abu Dhabi has many mosques and religious sites due to the region's long Middle Eastern history and rich Islamic tradition. Oil booms in the mid-20th century helped Abu Dhabi rise to international prominence, propelling it into the spotlight as the metropolis it is today. Today, Abu Dhabi is an attractive place to visit, thanks to its impressive skyscrapers, museums, and cultural landmarks.
In Abu Dhabi's Ferrari World, Formula Rossa is the world's fastest rollercoaster, clocking in at almost 150mph. The ride is beautiful and designed like a Ferrari. It is an adrenaline junkie's dream. After the ride, you will be breathless.
In Abu Dhabi, shopping malls offer fashion stores, boutiques, jewelry stands, and trendy cafes. You could spend ages exploring Yas Mall and still not see everything. Al Maryah Island's Galleria Mall is the place to shop for luxury brands. You will find incredible goods in the World Trade Center Souk and the Carpet Souk, including gold, rugs, carpets, and fabric, all in the souks. There is an open-air market for fruits and vegetables if you're hungry. Unsurprisingly, Abu Dhabi's Medjool dates are practically a dessert, served in various delicious ways, such as dried or dipped in chocolate.
The cuisine of Abu Dhabi is delightfully diverse as it is home to numerous expatriate communities. Try Moroccan tagine, spiced meat cooked in an earthenware pot, or a Lebanese rack of lamb with Qatar crust. For high-end Chinese classics, like grilled Wagyu beef with soy sauce or Peking duck with caviar, head to Hakkasan.
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This cornerstone of the UAE balances modern opulence and traditionalism, honoring its history while paving the way for commerce and tourism in the future. Whether a cruise through Abu Dhabi or a tour through the desert, there's something to please every traveler.
You can spend a whole day relaxing at Yas Beach on Yas Island. Visitors to this beach can enjoy a range of amenities that will appeal to families seeking a relaxing day at the shore and groups of friends looking for a fun-filled day. A range of dining options are available at the resort: there is a cafeteria, a range of restaurants, and a food court; there is a large swimming pool with cabanas for rent; there are plenty of loungers and shades for sunbathing on the sand, and there are other areas for relaxing off the sand. Visitors to Yas Beach can rent kayaks and other water sports equipment from the beach's water sports offices, where lifeguards monitor the water throughout the day.
This observation deck is Abu Dhabi's version of the Burj Khalifa. At 300 meters above sea level, on the 74th floor of the Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers hotel, this observation deck gives the best panoramic views of the city. Hotel guests are free to enter the observation deck. Still, the ticket price can be redeemed for refreshments at the observation deck restaurant, serving light snacks, soft drinks, and high tea. There is no better way to enjoy the spectacular views up here than to take high tea, which sweeps over the city and coast with the arid desert plains.
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This island is one of the best sun-seeker destinations in Abu Dhabi, which has a long strip of white sand on the island's western shore for beachgoers. It has excellent facilities, on-duty lifeguards, a refreshment café, and plenty of shades and sunbeds. If you're an active sun-seeker, rent equipment such as kayaks and windsurfing on the beach. A rim of dunes protects the beach, from which hawksbill turtles nest. A wooden boardwalk leads to the beach to prevent this area from being disturbed. On Saadiyat Island, you can enjoy a more luxurious beach day by visiting Saadiyat Beach Club. Access to this exclusive beach strip is included in the day pass, along with access to the pool, restaurants, and lounges.
You will find this beautiful mud-brick fort on the western side of Abu Dhabi. A historically significant building built in the early 20th century, it has always been closely linked with the country's political life. The fort is the birthplace of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the current ruler of Abu Dhabi. Tourists and residents of Abu Dhabi can gain insight into the past and present lives of Abu Dhabi's present and former rulers at Qasr Al Muwaiji. Those who wish to learn about the history of the United Arab Emirates can attend workshops and events.
The Louvre is the most spectacular museum in the Middle East. It traces the history of humanity's artistic achievements from the Neolithic to the current day. The art's wealth and diversity are the primary reasons to visit this place. It has ancient Egyptian sculptures, famous Picasso paintings, and some mind-boggling things. The museum's contemporary architecture, with its galleries gathered under a vast silver dome, is breathtakingly awesome. Visitors can also enjoy the permanent collection in over 12 galleries and several major temporary exhibitions staged yearly. Moreover, it has set to become the cultural heartbeat of Abu Dhabi.
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi is a stunning architectural masterpiece and one of the largest mosques in the world. It features 82 domes, over 1,000 columns, 24-carat gold gilded chandeliers, and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet. The mosque's exterior is clad in white Greek and Macedonian marble, creating a breathtakingly serene and pristine appearance. Visitors can marvel at the reflective pools that amplify its beauty, especially at night when illuminated. The mosque can accommodate over 40,000 worshippers and is open to non-Muslim visitors, offering guided tours that provide insights into Islamic culture and the mosque's intricate design. It's a must-see landmark that showcases the artistic and cultural heritage of the United Arab Emirates.
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Abu Dhabi is at its best from November through March. As with other Emirates, Abu Dhabi also maintains hot weather throughout the year, but the temperature is more relaxed, requiring light clothing. Alternatively, suppose you're interested in the beach. In that case, you should visit in October, March, or April, so the weather will be hot but not unbearable.
Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, boasts several modern and well-equipped cruise ports that cater to a growing number of international cruise passengers. Here are the main cruise ports in Abu Dhabi:
Located at the heart of Abu Dhabi, Zayed Port's Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal is a state-of-the-art facility that handles many cruise passengers. It offers various services and amenities, including dining options, duty-free shopping, and dedicated passenger areas. This terminal is a key hub for international cruise liners docking in the region.
Sir Bani Yas Island, a natural reserve and leisure destination, features a dedicated cruise beach that serves as a unique port of call for cruise ships. Passengers disembark directly onto the island's pristine beach, where they can enjoy various recreational activities such as wildlife safaris, water sports, and cultural excursions.
As a multi-purpose port, Mina Zayed handles cargo and accommodates cruise ships. It is part of the larger Zayed Port complex and provides essential services to cruise vessels and passengers, ensuring a seamless transit experience.
Abu Dhabi's cruise ports offer convenience, luxury, and access to some of the UAE's most fascinating attractions, making them a favorite among international cruise travelers.
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MSC Cruises |
Costa Cruises |
Oceana Cruise |
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MSC Cruises offers extraordinary vacation experiences focusing on Mediterranean charm and luxury. Known for their innovative ships and exceptional service, MSC provides diverse itineraries from Abu Dhabi, including Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and Arabian Peninsula routes, ensuring an unforgettable journey for all passengers |
Costa Cruises is renowned for its all-inclusive holiday packages, full-board treatment, and unlimited drinks. Departing from Abu Dhabi, Costa Cruises explores the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Dubai, and the Emirates, providing a seamless and indulgent travel experience with various amenities and entertainment options. |
Oceania Cruises is celebrated for its luxury voyages, offering refined and intimate cruise experiences. From Abu Dhabi, Oceania Cruises feature exquisite dining, immersive itineraries, and personalized service, making it a top choice for travelers seeking a sophisticated and elegant journey through Asia and beyond. |
FIND MORE ABU DHABI CRUISE LINES
Dining and Cuisine: Abu Dhabi cruise ships offer various dining options, from gourmet restaurants serving international cuisines to casual eateries. Passengers can enjoy fine dining, buffet-style meals, and speciality dishes that cater to diverse tastes and dietary preferences.
Entertainment and Activities: Cruises feature various entertainment options, including live shows, musicals, comedy acts, and themed parties. Additionally, guests can participate in onboard activities like dance classes, cooking demonstrations, and trivia games.
Wellness and Fitness: Wellness amenities include luxurious spas offering a variety of treatments, saunas, steam rooms, and beauty salons. Fitness enthusiasts can use fully equipped gyms, yoga classes, and personal training sessions to maintain their routines while at sea.
Excursions and Shore Tours: Abu Dhabi cruises provide organized shore excursions to explore local attractions. Passengers can enjoy city tours, cultural experiences, and adventurous activities such as desert safaris, snorkelling, and dolphin spotting.
Luxury Accommodation: Cabins and suites on Abu Dhabi cruise ships are designed for comfort and elegance. They range from budget-friendly interiors to opulent suites with private balconies, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable stay for all guests.
Cultural Experiences: Cruises often include cultural programs and performances that showcase the UAE's rich heritage. Passengers can experience traditional music, dance, and art exhibitions, providing a deeper understanding of the local culture.
Preparing adequately is essential before embarking on a cruise to Abu Dhabi. Here's a list of essentials to consider:
Documentation and Visas: Ensure you have all necessary travel documents, including a valid passport and required visas. Verify entry requirements for the UAE and any other ports of call on your itinerary.
Weather and Packing: Abu Dhabi has a hot desert climate. Pack light, breathable clothing, sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Also, bring formal attire if your cruise includes elegant dinners or events.
Health and Safety: Check health advisories and ensure you're up-to-date on vaccinations. Bring any necessary medications and a basic first aid kit. Familiarize yourself with the ship's health and safety protocols.
Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious or cultural sites. Learning a few basic phrases in Arabic can be helpful and appreciated by locals.
Currency and Payments: The UAE Dirham (AED) is the local currency. Most places accept credit cards, but having some local currency for small purchases and tips is a good idea. Check if your cruise offers a cashless payment system onboard.
Excursions and Activities: Plan and book excursions in advance to secure your spots. Popular activities in Abu Dhabi include city tours, desert safaris, and visiting landmarks like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
Connectivity and Communication: Check your mobile plan for international roaming charges. Many cruise ships offer internet packages, but connectivity might be limited at sea. Consider downloading maps and travel guides for offline use.
Local Etiquette: Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service. Be mindful of local laws and customs, such as prohibitions on public displays of affection and alcohol consumption in public areas.
Dubai, UAE - A popular destination known for its modern architecture and vibrant nightlife.
Muscat, Oman - Offers a mix of historical sites and natural beauty.
Doha, Qatar - Famous for its cultural landmarks and rapidly growing skyline.
Khasab, Oman - Known for its dramatic fjords and dolphin-watching opportunities.
Bahrain - Offers a blend of modernity and tradition, including historical forts and the Bahrain International Circuit.
These cruises often explore the Arabian Gulf and provide a mix of city experiences, cultural heritage, and natural attractions.
