As we prepared for our journey from London to Colombo for a long-awaited family wedding, the skies over Heathrow were heavy with clouds, hinting at rain. My mom and I were flying with Etihad Airways, departing from London Heathrow Airport to Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Sri Lanka.
But instead of heading straight to our final destination, we had a 13-hour layover in Abu Dhabi, at what is now called Zayed International Airport (AUH).
Knowing we had more than half a day to spare in one of the world’s most captivating capitals, I decided not to waste a minute.
Before we even left London, I had already pre-booked a layover tour with VooTours, a name that kept coming up in travel forums and blogs for their excellent service and flexible private tours.
Rather than sitting around in the airport lounge, I wanted to make the most of our stopover—and VooTours made that decision easy.
Our Abu Dhabi Layover City Sightseeing Tour began seamlessly. Upon arrival, we checked into the Premier Inn Hotel at the airport, where our cheerful guide met us at the lobby with a warm smile and a personalized welcome.
From there, our short yet unforgettable city adventure began, filled with iconic landmarks, cultural gems, and the kind of hospitality only the UAE can offer.
Arrival at Abu Dhabi International Airport
As our flight gently descended through the golden morning haze, the arid landscape below gradually gave way to sleek architecture and wide, sun-kissed runways. The captain’s voice crackled over the intercom: “Welcome to Zayed International Airport, Abu Dhabi. The local time is 6:15 AM.”
My mother and I looked at each other with quiet excitement—it was our first time in Abu Dhabi, and we had 13 hours to explore.
The moment we stepped off the plane and into the terminal, we were greeted by the crisp chill of air conditioning and the quiet hum of one of the Middle East’s most modern travel hubs.
The airport’s Terminal A—shiny and new—stood out with its wide marble corridors, high ceilings, and natural light pouring in from geometric skylights. A subtle scent of oud drifted through the air, welcoming us like an old friend. Signs were clear in both Arabic and English, and friendly airport staff in well-pressed uniforms guided passengers with a calm professionalism. 
After clearing immigration (a breeze, thanks to our pre-booked visa), we were escorted to the Premier Inn Hotel adjacent to the terminal, where our guide from VooTours was already waiting. He greeted us with a warm smile and a paging board with our names on it—such a simple gesture, yet it instantly made us feel at ease. The adventure was about to begin.
Outside, the early morning light was just beginning to bounce off the glass skyscrapers in the distance.
Abu Dhabi was slowly waking up—and we were about to step into it, not as passengers in transit, but as curious travellers, ready to seize every moment.
Do You Need a Transit Visa to Leave the Airport?
Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport (AUH) is a modern and well-organized hub featuring three main terminals:
- Terminal A (New Midfield Terminal) – the latest addition, now the primary terminal for Etihad Airways and most international flights.
- Terminal 1 – serves a mix of regional and international carriers.
- Terminal 2 – mainly used for low-cost and regional airlines.
While the terminals are connected, walking between them can take 15–25 minutes, depending on your arrival point. For convenience, a complimentary shuttle bus runs every 20 minutes, transporting passengers between terminals.
Keep in mind that even if you’re just transferring within the airport, you’ll go through security checks again when moving between terminals. So, plan your time wisely.
If you plan to leave the airport during your layover, there are secure luggage storage facilities available for a fee—perfect for hands-free sightseeing.
Yes, you absolutely can—if you have the proper visa documentation.
Here’s what you need to know about immigration and visa requirements:
- Visa-Free or Visa on Arrival:
Citizens from over 80 countries (including the US, UK, EU, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and South Korea) are eligible for visa-free entry or visa on arrival. This allows you to exit the airport and explore Abu Dhabi during your stopover. - GCC Nationals:
If you’re from a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) country, no visa is needed to enter the UAE. - Indian Passport Holders with Valid US Visa:
If you’re an Indian passport holder with a valid US visa or green card, you’re eligible for a UAE visa on arrival, valid for up to 14 days. - Need a Visa in Advance?
If you’re not eligible for a visa on arrival, Etihad Airways is currently the only airline that can assist passengers in obtaining a transit or tourist visa in advance. Alternatively, select hotels in Abu Dhabi may also help facilitate visa applications for guests staying with them.
Travel Tip: Abu Dhabi traffic can be unpredictable—so leave plenty of buffer time for your return, immigration clearance, and boarding process.
Visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
As we stepped into the cool comfort of our private vehicle, our VooTours guide turned to us with a smile and said, “We’ll start with something truly special—Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.” Just the name carried a sense of reverence, but nothing could’ve prepared us for what awaited.
The drive from the airport to the mosque was short but filled with anticipation.
As we approached, the majestic white domes began to rise into view—almost as if they were floating above the city. My mom gasped softly, and I knew we were both seeing something extraordinary. 
When we arrived, we stood still for a moment at the entrance, just taking it in. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is not just a religious landmark; it is a masterpiece carved from marble, time, and intention. Gleaming under the morning sun, its white façade looked almost surreal, like something out of a dream. We slipped off our shoes and entered the serene world within.
Inside, we were completely dazzled.
The scale alone was humbling—82 domes, over 1,000 columns, and enough room for more than 40,000 worshippers. The white marble was inlaid with semi-precious stones in intricate floral patterns, while the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet stretched across the vast prayer hall. My mom gently touched the cool marble and whispered, “It’s like walking through a poem.”
Above us, seven enormous crystal chandeliers, crafted from Swarovski crystals and shimmering gold, sparkled like constellations frozen in time. The largest of them, hanging beneath the main dome, felt like a sun suspended indoors. Natural light filtered through carefully designed glasswork, casting a soft glow that seemed to make the whole space breathe.
But what struck me most was the silence. Despite the size and the number of visitors, the mosque seemed to radiate peace.
People spoke in hushed tones. Some prayed. Others simply sat, overwhelmed by the beauty and serenity. My mom and I found a quiet corner and just sat for a while, soaking it all in—the grandeur, the artistry, and the spirit of unity that the mosque so powerfully represents.
It was not just a visit. It was a moment of reflection. A sacred pause in our journey where time seemed to slow down and beauty—pure, unfiltered beauty—wrapped itself around us.
As we walked back to the car, neither of us spoke right away. We were still processing what we had seen. The mosque wasn’t just the highlight of our layover—it was one of the most breathtaking experiences of our lives.
Scenic Drive Along the Corniche
After the stillness and majesty of the Grand Mosque, our journey through Abu Dhabi continued with a peaceful drive along the Corniche. The contrast was striking—moving from spiritual grandeur into the vibrant rhythm of coastal city life.
The road curved gently beside the Arabian Gulf, offering a breathtaking view on one side: turquoise waters glistening under the sun, sailboats dotting the horizon, and families enjoying the long stretch of pristine beaches lined with palm trees.
On the other side, modern high-rises and glass-fronted towers framed the skyline like a futuristic painting. My mom rolled down the window slightly, letting in the salty sea breeze, her face lit up with contentment.
Photo Stop: Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
“This is the heart of Abu Dhabi,” our guide explained. “It’s where the city breathes.”
As we continued along this scenic boulevard, we soon arrived at a photo stop that felt straight out of a fairy tale—the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental.
Even from outside, the palace was mesmerizing. Its domes, arches, and golden detailing gleamed like a mirage in the desert sun. Set against manicured gardens and grand fountains, the building’s architecture was a perfect blend of regal Arabic design and modern opulence.
We stepped out for photos, and I couldn’t help but admire how every angle of the palace looked camera-ready. 
The ornate facade, the palm-lined driveway, the warm golden tones—it was luxury personified. My mom stood in front of the entrance, smiling, and I captured the moment. It looked like she belonged there, like royalty visiting her private palace.
“It’s not just a hotel,” our guide said with a grin, “it’s an experience reserved for kings, presidents, and now… you two.”
Back in the car, we took one last look at the Emirates Palace as it disappeared behind us—another gem added to our layover adventure, and yet the day was far from over.
Royal Splendor and Living History: Qasr Al Watan, Qasr Al Hosn & Etihad Towers
Our next stop brought us face to face with the architectural marvel that is Qasr Al Watan, Abu Dhabi’s Presidential Palace. As we approached, the white granite façade glowed beneath the mid-morning sun, casting reflections across its grand courtyards and intricate domes.
Stepping into the palace felt like entering a different realm—a place where craftsmanship, intellect, and governance unite. The interiors were nothing short of majestic: gilded chandeliers, towering ceilings adorned with Islamic patterns, and a library that seemed to whisper the history of the UAE in every corner.
My mom stood in awe before the massive dome of the Great Hall, its symmetry and grace leaving us both speechless.
“This isn’t just a working palace,” our guide shared softly, “It’s a tribute to the heritage and vision of the Emirates.”
As we exited, neither of us said much—we were still taking it all in.
Back in the car, we cruised through the heart of the city, passing by Qasr Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi’s oldest stone building. Surrounded by sleek glass towers and modern development, the whitewashed fort stood like a time capsule—guarding centuries of Emirati history within its coral and sea stone walls. 
Our guide pointed out, “That’s where it all began. Before the palaces and skyscrapers, Qasr Al Hosn was the seat of power and a home for the ruling family.”
A few minutes later, the skyline opened up to a shimmering cluster of iconic high-rises—Etihad Towers. Their curved, blue-glass forms soared skyward, reflecting the city around them like mirrors of modern ambition.
We didn’t stop here, just a drive-past, but it was enough to admire their commanding presence. The towers are not just office spaces or residences—they’re symbols of Abu Dhabi’s vision for the future, bold and unmistakable.
From ancient forts to contemporary palaces and sky-piercing towers, our layover was proving to be an unforgettable journey through time.
Dates Market and the Abrahamic Family House
Our senses were next treated to something truly special—the Abu Dhabi Dates Market, nestled within the Mina Zayed Port area. The moment we stepped out of the car, we were greeted by the rich aroma of fresh dates and exotic spices. 
The market was bustling, warm, and full of life—locals exchanging greetings, vendors proudly offering samples, and stalls overflowing with plump, glistening dates in every variety imaginable.
My mom couldn’t resist tasting a few—from the caramel-like Medjool to the nut-filled Ajwa, each bite was like a piece of Emirati heritage. Our guide explained the cultural importance of dates in the UAE, not just as a fruit but as a symbol of hospitality, tradition, and prosperity.
We ended up buying a small box of handpicked dates, beautifully packed—a sweet souvenir of our short journey through the capital.
As we drove on, the skyline shifted again, and our guide pointed to an elegant, modern complex in the distance. “That’s the Abrahamic Family House,” he said, as our vehicle passed slowly by. Though we didn’t stop, just glimpsing it was powerful enough.
The structure houses a mosque, a church, and a synagogue—all built side by side, equal in stature. Its purpose? To embody interfaith harmony and peaceful coexistence. In a region rooted in ancient tradition yet racing toward a visionary future, the Abrahamic Family House stood tall as a symbol of unity and shared humanity.
I looked at my mom, who simply nodded, “This was worth the detour.”
Returning to the Airport – One Last Glimpse Before Goodbye
As the golden hues of the late afternoon sun bathed the city in a warm glow, we found ourselves reluctantly making our way back to Zayed International Airport. The car ride was calm and reflective—my mom and I quietly replayed every moment of our whirlwind adventure in our minds.
From the awe-inspiring Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to the charming Heritage Village, and the sweet flavors of the Dates Market, it was hard to believe we’d experienced so much in just a few hours.
Our VooTours guide remained cheerful and informative till the very end, ensuring we arrived at the terminal well ahead of time. He even helped us with our bags and made sure we had our documents ready.
Walking back into the cool, modern terminal, the hum of airport announcements felt surreal after the vibrant journey we had just completed. But there was something deeply satisfying in knowing that we hadn’t spent our layover cooped up in an airport lounge—we had touched the heart of a city.
As we looked out one last time at the Abu Dhabi skyline before heading toward our gate, we knew this wasn’t goodbye—it was “until next time.”