After morning hotel pickup in Dubai, travel by air-conditioned vehicle to Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s capital. Pass the Jebel Ali Free Zone, one of the world’s biggest, and hear about Abu Dhabi’s growth after the discovery of oil in the 1950s. Hear how the city is now recasting itself as a tourist destination by building state-of-the-art leisure attractions. 
Take a tour of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, to admire the white marble courtyards and prayer rooms of this vast, modern masterpiece. Then, head for Yas Island, the city’s entertainment epicenter, to view the exteriors of the Yas Marina F1 Circuit, home to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, and Ferrari World theme park. See the avant-garde cultural buildings rising from Saadiyat Island, and the Al Hosn Palace, once home to the emirate’s ruling family, before enjoying free time for lunch (own expense) at the Mall. Drive by the palm-fringed Corniche and opulent Emirates Palace hotel, and visit the Heritage Village, a recreated oasis settlement. See the replica falaj irrigation system, souk, and Bedouin tents, and watch the handicraft and glass-making displays for a glimpse into bygone, pre-oil Abu Dhabi. Your tour concludes with an early evening hotel drop-off in Dubai.