Abu Dhabi: Grand Mosque, Saadiyat & Yas Island, 4 Nights

Abu Dhabi's Zayed International airport is about half an hour from the city hotels. Check-in is from about two in the afternoon. After the flight, the easiest outing is the Corniche at sunset: kilometres of promenade and public beach along the city's northern shore, with cycle paths, fountains and the skyline across the water. Indian restaurants are plentiful in the city, and most hotels serve vegetarian breakfasts as standard.

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque first, while the marble is cool: dozens of domes, a courtyard inlaid with floral mosaics and one of the largest hand-knotted carpets ever made. Shoulders and legs must be covered, and women cover their hair. Then Qasr Al Watan, the presidential palace, seen from outside, Emirates Palace, the Corniche and a stop at the dates market. The afternoon goes to the BAPS Hindu Mandir, opened in 2024, carved in pink sandstone and white marble.

The cultural district on Saadiyat Island, a short drive from the city. The Louvre Abu Dhabi sits under a lattice dome that lets light fall through like sun through palm fronds; its galleries run chronologically, with works from every continent side by side. Nearby, teamLab Phenomena is a building of interactive light and sound rooms that change as people move through them, which children love. Save an hour for the beach at Saadiyat, where turtles nest in season.

A day at Yas Island's theme parks, with entry to two from Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World and SeaWorld, all indoor and air-conditioned. Ferrari World holds Formula Rossa, one of the fastest roller coasters in the world, and gentler rides for younger children. Warner Bros. World is themed on cartoon and superhero worlds, and SeaWorld on marine life. Two parks can be managed in one long day, or split across the stay where the ticket allows.

Breakfast, and a last walk on the Corniche or a coffee at the hotel before check-out, which is usually at noon. The drive to the airport is about thirty-five minutes, and there are frequent direct flights to most Indian cities. Allow time for security; the terminal has plenty of places to eat once through. Dates from the market make an easy gift to carry home.