2018-2019
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New Year in Emirates: The Best of Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Explore the best of the United Arab Emirates with a three day itinerary to Dubai and Abu Dhabi. On your first day, make the short trip to Abu Dhabi and marvel at its awe-inspiring architecture like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Emirates Palace. Spend your second day in Dubai and visit the city’s top attractions like the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and Jumeirah Beach. Finally, spend your third day taking a leisurely cruise along the Dubai Creek or enjoy the panoramic views from the Observation Deck of the Burj Khalifa.

Highlights

Dubai

If you're looking for a destination to welcome in the New Year, Dubai is a great option. There is a variety of activities and attractions to keep you busy for two days. Make sure to check out the Dubai Mall, which features luxury shopping, restaurants, and a giant aquarium. Take in the views from the Burj Khalifa or take a relaxing cruise along Dubai Creek. And don't forget to take in some traditional sights, like the Jumeirah Mosque or the Bastakia Quarter, which is known for its heritage buildings. With so much to see, Dubai is a perfect place to enjoy the start of a new year.

Abu Dhabi

The city offers an abundance of sights and experiences to take in. Start your day at the Abu Dhabi Corniche, a picturesque stretch of beach with scenic pathways and parks, or get a bird's eye view of the city at the Etihad Towers Observation Deck. Then, visit the Louvre Abu Dhabi, an art and civilization museum showcasing an impressive collection of art from around the world. Next, explore the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, an architectural marvel with stunning details that's one of the most visited attractions in the city.

Tricks and tips

Finding the way outside

These cities are not typically walkable so be prepared to wander for long distances in covered passages or search for the exit from a building.

Not enough time

It's important to note that there's never enough time to see everything. The cities are extra crowded during the celebration periods, especially in the center, and many attractions will have enormous lines to wait. To avoid frustration, make sure to account for extra time when buying tickets.

Places to see fireworks

Make sure to choose a permitted site to see the fireworks. Don't just pick a random spot on the street, as you could end up being kicked away from it. To avoid this, you can find official marked sites to see fireworks in the parks nearby, or you can buy a ticket in a restaurant or hotel with a view.

Itinerary

Day 1: Abu Dhabi | Arrival

You can either arrive in Abu Dhabi or Dubai airport, there is 2hr bus between them. In full day you can see some of the best Abu Dhabi attractions like Grand Mosque, Louvre or Ferrari Park, or just walk around the city.

Days 2-3: Dubai | Departure

Stay in Dubai for the two days of the new year eve. Spend the first day in city center to stay closer to fireworks and the fountain at night, next day you can go to other areas like Dubai Creek or Dubai Marina.

Bonus Destination: Muscat | Transfer

Take a chance to explore a bonus destination by making a day transfer in nearby cities on the way to your next adventure. Make sure to check visa entrance requirements in advance.

Final thoughts

Who is this itinerary for

Some routes to faraway destinations offer transfer in Emirates, why not take advantage of this and spend a few extra days there. This short holiday itinerary is a perfect introduction to a region on your way to another destination.

What would I've done differently

If I had more spare time, I would dedicate it to these cities and see even more places. Perhaps it might've been easier in low season, but this New Year Eve show was one of the best I've seen and totally worth it.

Overall impression

The place has enough to offer either for a day-tour or a full-scale adventure. It was amazing and somewhat nerve-racking at the same time, but I would love to return there again with more time available.