Things you need to know before your Dubai to Abu Dhabi tour

• Book your day trip a month in advance if you’re planning to visit Abu Dhabi during peak tourist season. In the off-season, you can book your tickets 2 to 3 weeks in advance.
  
• Abu Dhabi is 140 km (87 miles) away from Dubai. Your journey can last anywhere between 1.5 to 2.5 hours. So, carry some tunes for the road and admire the views of skyscrapers rising amidst the desert landscape.
  
• A day trip from Dubai to Abu Dhabi can last for 8 to 11 hrs, and involves a lot of walking. So, wear your best walking shoes and carry plenty of water.
  
• Follow the dress code when visiting the Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque. Women are requested to wear a traditional abaya with a shayla. Ensure that your arms, legs, and hair are fully covered. Men are also requested to wear long trousers and sleeves.
  
• If your tour does not include a meal option, we recommend planning where to eat in advance. If possible, make reservations for your party, as most popular restaurants may not accept walk-ins, especially during peak season.
  
• For people making their own way to Abu Dhabi, and who might be traveling with pets, we recommend you check with local attractions and landmarks about their policy on pets and guide dogs.

Best time to take a Dubai to Abu Dhabi day trip

Abu Dhabi has something for everyone all year round. However, consider these factors before booking your day trip.

High season vs. shoulder season: Expect more crowds in the winter months of November to February. The weather is cooler, paving the way for a fun day of sightseeing. However, bear in mind that flights and accommodation prices might be higher. June to August, on the other hand, don’t attract too many crowds due to the weather. However, if you can brave triple-degree temperatures and are traveling on a budget, this might be the ideal time.

Climate considerations: Abu Dhabi summers are long and hot, lasting from mid-May to late September, with temperatures ranging from 31°C-39°C (88°F-103°F). We only recommend traveling during this time of the year if you’re used to the extreme heat. In the winter months of November to mid-March, temperatures range from 16°C-23°C (61°F-73°F). Most people prefer to travel during this time due to the pleasant weather.

Visitor tips to make the best of your day trip from Dubai to Abu Dhabi

• Respect local customs and rules, especially those of religious sites like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, where overt displays of affection aren’t allowed.
  
• Wear culturally appropriate clothing that covers your arms, legs, and hair when you step out to sightsee.
  
• Even in winter, the weather in Abu Dhabi can leave you feeling hot and uncomfortable. So wear breathable fabrics that can resist heat.
  
• Do not take pictures of women or the local people without permission.
  
• Travel with light luggage. Not only is it exhausting to carry bulky luggage, but you will also have a hard time finding space to store your bags.
  
• Even though English is widely spoken in most tourist-friendly spots, learn a few Arabic greetings and phrases that locals will appreciate more. Greet everyone with an “as salam alaykum”, the Arabic equivalent of “Hello”, which translates to “peace be upon you”. You can also say “shukran” instead of “thank you”.