3 Days Luxury City Tour Dubai – Abu Dhabi – Safari

Planning a visit to the United Arab Emirates? This 3-day private tour offers a well-rounded taste of both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, seamlessly blending city highlights with desert adventure. While the price might seem high, the experience packs in top attractions, expert guiding, and flexibility for personalized requests.

What we love about this tour is its comprehensive itinerary, the opportunity to visit famous landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and Sheikh Zayed Mosque, and the chance to enjoy authentic Emirati desert activities. The inclusion of private transport and a knowledgeable guide ensures a smooth, curated experience.

One potential consideration? The schedule is packed, which means long days with minimal downtime. However, this is ideal for travelers eager to see as much as possible in a short timeframe. This tour suits those who want a luxurious, all-inclusive experience without the hassle of planning every detail.

Key Points

  • Comprehensive Itinerary: Combines top city sights with desert adventures.
  • Private & Flexible: Tailored to families and couples with customization options.
  • Value for Money: Access to major landmarks with guided insights.
  • Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, resourceful guides enhance the experience.
  • High-Quality Visits: Entry to Burj Khalifa, Louvre Abu Dhabi, and Sheikh Zayed Mosque.
  • Active Days: Includes thrilling dune bashing and quad biking.

Experience Overview and What You Can Expect

This 3-day tour, priced at $1,690 per person, is designed for travelers who want a luxurious and hassle-free exploration of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. It’s best suited for those who value expert-guided experiences, cultural insights, and a mix of city lights and desert thrills. Let’s break down what each day entails.

Day 1: Dubai’s Iconic Landmarks

The adventure kicks off with a visit to Burj Khalifa at the Top. Standing at 828 meters, the observation deck on Levels 124 and 125 offers stunning views of Dubai’s skyline, desert, and coast. We loved how this ticket included access, saving the hassle of pre-booking, and the spacious deck provides ample room for photos without feeling crowded.

Next, you’ll explore The Dubai Mall, home to over 1,200 shops and attractions. The highlight here is the Dubai Fountain, where choreographed water shows set against the backdrop of towering skyscrapers create a mesmerizing spectacle. With an hour allotted, you can browse some shops or simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

A drive to Palm Jumeirah reveals Dubai’s luxury side. This artificial island hosts world-renowned resorts like Atlantis The Palm and Atlantis The Royal. While you won’t go inside, the photo stop here lets you marvel at the scale and opulence of Dubai’s man-made marvels.

The Dubai Marina Walk offers a taste of the city’s modern lifestyle, with luxury yachts bobbing in the water, and a range of cafes and restaurants. It’s a great place to soak in the skyline, with a quick 30-minute stroll.

The day wraps up with a quick stop at the Burj Al Arab, often called the world’s only 7-star hotel. Although just a photo stop, the building’s sail shape and opulent exterior are worth seeing firsthand.

Finally, Souk Madinat Jumeirah provides a charming, traditional marketplace vibe nestled next to the modern attractions. You’ll love wandering through this beautifully designed complex, with its canals, shops, and outdoor cafes.

Day 2: Abu Dhabi’s Cultural and Royal Highlights

The second day takes us to Abu Dhabi, starting with the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. We found this to be a true highlight: its stunning white domes, intricate marble work, and massive chandeliers showcase the best of Islamic architecture. The two-hour visit gives plenty of time to admire the details and learn about Islamic arts.

Next, a photo stop at Qasr Al Watan, the Presidential Palace, allows you to capture the grandeur of Abu Dhabi’s seat of power. Although the interior isn’t included, the architecture itself is impressive and offers a glimpse of regal Emirati life.

The Louvre Abu Dhabi is a standout cultural stop. Its striking architecture and diverse collection, from ancient artifacts to contemporary art, make it a must-see. We appreciated how the guided tour highlights the museum’s goal of fostering cultural dialogue, making it more than just an art gallery.

For lunch or free time, the Abu Dhabi Mall provides a convenient spot for a break. Here, you can grab a quick meal or shop for souvenirs. The optionality means you can customize your experience based on energy levels.

The day concludes at the Emirates Heritage Village, which offers an authentic look at Emirati history and lifestyle in the 1960s. It’s a fascinating way to connect with local traditions outside the modern cityscape.

Day 3: Desert Adventures and Exciting Activities

The final day is all about adrenaline and adventure in the desert. The trip starts with a dune bashing session in Lahbab. We enjoyed the thrill of bouncing over sand dunes, with live entertainment providing a lively atmosphere. The sunset photos here are particularly memorable, capturing the vast, golden landscape.

After the dune experience, the tour continues with a desert safari that includes quad biking, sandboarding, and camel riding. The camp experience offers local Emirati coffee and traditional foods, while live shows like belly dancing, tanoura, and fire performances add entertainment.

The Barbecue buffet caters to various tastes, with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Henna painting and bar service round out the experience, making it a full, fun-filled afternoon.

Practical Details and What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The entire experience is conducted via air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort during transfers between attractions. The tour guides are known for their knowledge, adding insights into each site’s significance. Reviewers mention guides like Mahmoud, who’s praised for being attentive and informative, often sharing interesting facts and local tips.

The tour’s private nature means it’s tailored to your interests and pace. Whether you’re traveling as a family or a couple, the flexibility is a major plus.

Timing-wise, the schedule is tight but manageable, with most activities lasting between 30 minutes to two hours. The Desert Safari is a lengthy four-hour experience, including live entertainment, dinner, and activities, providing good value for the price.

The cost of $1,690 per person reflects a premium experience, but it includes many key attractions like Burj Khalifa, Louvre Abu Dhabi, and desert activities. Plus, the convenience of guided transport and entry tickets simplifies your planning.

What’s Included & What’s Not

Included are entrance tickets to major sites, a local guide, private transport, and dinner during the desert safari. If you opt for the meal packages, meals at the Dubai Mall and during the safari are covered, which saves time and stress.

Not included are personal expenses, like shopping or additional snacks outside the itinerary. It’s worth budgeting for extras, especially at the malls or souvenirs.

Final Thoughts

This luxury 3-day tour offers an immersive and comfortable way to experience Dubai and Abu Dhabi’s highlights. The combination of cultural, modern, and adventurous activities means you’ll leave with a well-rounded impression of the UAE.

While it’s a busy schedule, the inclusions and private setup make it perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time without worrying about logistics. The knowledgeable guides and stunning views, especially from Burj Khalifa and the desert, stand out as highlights.

If you’re seeking a hassle-free, high-end exploration with plenty of photo opportunities, cultural insights, and adventure, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for couples or families eager to see the best of Dubai and Abu Dhabi in comfort and style.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, the tour is private and can be customized, making it suitable for families and couples seeking a flexible experience.

Are meals included?
Meals are included at specified points, such as lunch at the Dubai Mall, and a barbecue dinner during the desert safari. Other personal meals are not included.

How long are the sightseeing stops?
Most stops last between 30 minutes to two hours, with the desert safari lasting about four hours.

Do I need to pre-book tickets?
Entry tickets to attractions like Burj Khalifa and Louvre Abu Dhabi are included, so you won’t need to pre-book separately.

Is transportation air-conditioned?
Yes, all transfers are in air-conditioned vehicles, ensuring comfort during the day.

Can I customize this tour?
Yes, the private nature allows you to request modifications based on your interests and needs.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for sightseeing, and modest attire is recommended for religious sites like Sheikh Zayed Mosque.

Is this tour suitable for non-English speakers?
The guide is typically fluent in English; it’s best to confirm if you need additional language support.

How do I cancel if my plans change?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before start are not refundable.

This tour offers a fine balance of major sights and immersive experiences, perfect for those who want a luxury, all-in-one UAE adventure with expert guidance and genuine culture.