Dreamy Abu Dhabi

Arrive into the UAE capital and settle in. Abu Dhabi is greener, calmer and more spread out than its famous neighbour, so the evening plan is simple: the Corniche seafront for a walk and dinner - distances here favour a taxi or a car with a driver rather than wandering.

The two state showpieces in one day: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque - go late afternoon for the best light, dressed with shoulders, knees and hair covered - and Qasr Al Watan, the presidential palace opened to visitors. Both are vast; comfortable shoes matter more than the camera.

Saadiyat Island day: Louvre Abu Dhabi in the cool of the morning, dappled light falling through its dome, then the island's beach in the afternoon. Dinner works better back in the city centre, where Electra Street and Hamdan Street keep the Indian kitchens busy.

Yas Island, made for a full day: Ferrari World or Warner Bros World depending on who is deciding, with Yas Waterworld as the wet alternative. Pick two attractions maximum - three in a day is how good trips go bad here.

A last Corniche breakfast if time allows, then out via Abu Dhabi's own airport - no Dubai backtrack needed on this itinerary. Keep water handy for the transfer and leave the tightest connection unbooked; Gulf departures reward slack in the schedule.