Both capital city and largest of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi
lies on the central western coast of the Arabian Gulf. Like its neighbour
Dubai, the
Emirate has seen rapid growth in the past few years, though its history is
relatively short having developed from a small fishing village. Revenue earned from oil has allowed
Abu Dhabi to
transform itself into a destination of fine hotels, parks and gardens, shopping
opportunities and leisure facilities. Abu Dhabi is the financial powerhouse of the
UAE - witness its striking architecture and sheer energy and self-confidence.
Sightseeing and activities don’t match those of Dubai, so don’t go expecting a
wild time – but if sun, pool, beach and pampered luxury and service are
priorities, then Abu Dhabi beckons!
WHAT TO SEE
Al Husn Palace
A reminder of the historical past is this renovated
late-19th century palace – making it the oldest building (by far!) in
town. Known as The White Fort, it’s now used by the Cultural Foundation as a
document and research centre (open to the public).
The Corniche
Huge sums have been spent on keeping the city’s seafront Corniche
beautiful. Strolling along this picturesque showpiece, with its coastal views,
paved walkways, flower-filled gardens and several inviting beaches, is an
Abu Dhabi
institution. Many of the city's smartest hotels and restaurants lie along the
downtown section. You will then
have the difficult task of choosing a place to eat from a long list of excellent
restaurants, not to mention a venue for your evening’s
entertainment.
Fish Market and Dhow Wharf
At the eastern end of the Corniche, near the port, lies the fish
market and small dhow wharf. It's less lively than Dubai's waterfront, but
fun to see and has definite local colour - and fine city views. At the Dhow Yard
wooden dhows are still built in the traditional way, using simple
tools.
The Cultural Foundation
This comprises the National Archives, the National Library and the
Institute of
Culture and Art – all in a
modern Islamic-style building with elegant arches, lush courtyards and decorated
passageways. It offers exhibits on local history, Islamic and modern art,
international film screenings, theatre and concert
performances.
Old Souk
The Old Souk's maze of shady alleyways leads to handicrafts, fabric,
carpets, textiles and silver carvings. Leave time for the traditional ritual of
price negotiations.
The Grand Mosque
A major city landmark, the mosque is worth a visit to see its giant
triple-domed roof, particularly at sunset when the walls are floodlit.
Capital
Gardens
The city is beautified by some 20 superbly-maintained parks and
gardens, and the pick of these lush pockets of greenery are the Capital Gardens and Khalidia Children's Garden.
Heritage
Village
The small but attractive Heritage Village overlooking the Corniche
will show you Arabic architecture as it was before the advent of the high-rise
hotel, including a faithful representation of a Bedouin
camp.
Emirates Palace Hotel
An Abu
Dhabi sight to see if you are not staying there is this
glittering leviathan - a no-expenses-spared monument to prosperity. The Emirates
Palace Hotel is an enchanting landmark that’s a wonder to behold for all who
venture through its magnificent gates. Slip in for afternoon tea and to admire
the awesome opulence of the Arab-influenced design and gold-heavy interior.
Futaisi
Island
Tired of the city? Then take a boat over to nearby Futaisi Island, a pretty eco-tourist resort with
wildlife (gazelles, flamingos and eagles), biking, horse riding and touring the
lagoon, mangrove swamps and old fort.
WHAT TO DO
Sports
It’s
not difficult to find your favourite among Abu Dhabi’s wide range of watersports -
including waterskiing, windsurfing, laser-sailing, knee-boarding, pedalos,
canoes and island boat tours. Scuba-diving, snorkelling and sport-fishing are
all available locally, with the clear waters of the Gulf offering perfect
conditions. On dry land it’s golf that leads the way, with several excellent
courses in the city. If you are
feeling more energetic you can work out at well-equipped leisure centres or
participate in a game of tennis or squash. See
At a Glance section for more
information on scuba-diving and golf.
Excursions
A
day-trip through
rolling desert to the ancient oasis town of Al Ain gives you a chance to get to grips with
the fascinating local Bedouin traditions and culture, with a visit to the
2,000-year old Falaj irrigation system at the Mahda Oasis, where dates are still
grown. The historic UNESCO-recognised town of Sharjah and Dubai are both
within easy reach for a day’s outing from Abu Dhabi.
Adventure
Don’t miss the experience of being driven into the desert - perhaps
on an unforgettable day or overnight safari, or through the towering Arjan
Dunes, ending with a visit to Al Wathba Camel Race Track. For a magical evening
in the desert try a ‘Dune Dinner Safari’. You’ll gain an insight into the
traditional Bedouin lifestyle, watch the setting sun from the top of a dune –
and then, at nightfall, savour a sumptuous Arabian dinner under the stars at a
Bedu encampment. Another special Abu
Dhabi evening occasion is offered by a dhow cruise
(complete with barbecue) around the coastline.
Horse & Camel-Racing
If you’re visiting between November and April then try an evening at
the races at the exclusive Abu Dhabi Golf & Equestrian Club, perhaps with
drinks and a barbecue? Camel-racing – it’s fast and furious - is also taken very
seriously here and huge prizes are awarded, so the sport is incredibly
competitive. Pop over to Al Wathba Camel Track for a taste of the
excitement!
Shopping
Set aside quite a lot of time to do justice to Abu Dhabi’s main
shopping malls – including the huge Marina Mall (with outlets that include
Tiffany & Co, Bvlgari, Mont Blanc and other famous names), the 220-store Abu
Dhabu Mall (also with many designer names), the Madinat Zayed Shopping &
Gold Centre and relatively more intimate Liwa Centre! Al Nasr Street is
the place for souvenirs, including Bedouin jewellery. Madinat Zayed Gold Market
displays a dazzling range of jewellery and other glittery temptations.
Entertainment
The main resorts have bars and/or nightclubs and are the focal point
for after-dark entertainment. A favourite local name is The Colosseum at
Abu Dhabi's Marina, a Roman-themed nightclub with
stone-carved walls, a sunken, amphitheatre-style dance floor - and a different
musical style each night.