Abu Dhabi Landmarks You Need To Visit
It’s fast becoming one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, Abu Dhabi, which is part of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has transformed significantly in the last forty years, although less so that neighbouring Dubai.
Abu Dhabi remains a more traditional place to visit than Dubai, so if you’re looking to immerse yourself in the classic culture of the UAE, Abu Dhabi is the place to go.
It has several landmarks that are well worth taking a look at, and here we will be giving you all the information you need on the landmarks to check out.
The Louvre Abu Dhabi
Opened in 2017, the Louvre Abu Dhabi is an art and civilization museum which was approved by the French Parliament in 2007 as it is a satellite museum of France’s Louvre museum which is located in Paris.
The architecture of the building is phenomenal, with the Louvre Abu Dhabi having a “seemingly floating dome structure”. It was part of a major redevelopment which includes several other museums.
Definitely a must see attraction if you’re interested in art and civilization. The art on display at the museum is a mix of eastern and western art, with pieces by Claude Monet, Vincent Van Gogh and Leonardo Da Vinci all on display.
Emirates Palace Hotel
In what is Abu Dhabi’s most recognisable hotel, the Emirates Palace Hotel cost a staggering $6 billion to build. The hotel has gold and marble interiors and interestingly also has a gold vending machine. If you’re worried about having to pay for a room in order to see the wonders inside, fear not, as the hotel allows non-guests to take a look around free of charge.
The best place to head for is the hotel’s central domed half, as inside you will discover pieces of ancient sculpture which form part of the Barakat Collection.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
You may not be of Islamic faith, but this landmark building is not to be missed. With similar architecture to the Taj Mahal, this mosque features stunning marble domes and has Mamluk, Fatimid and Ottoman styles combined.
Construction began in 1996 and finished in 2007 and features German-made crystal chandeliers, one of which weighs an incredible 12 tonnes. There are also beautiful mosaics and the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet. The Mosque was opened in 2008 and is large enough to accommodate over 40,000 worshippers.
Your bank account has nothing to fear as it is free to visit the mosque, but you should be aware that there is a dress code. Everyone must have their shoulders and legs covered, while women also need to cover their hair. Visitors are provided with a robe free of charge.
If you’re looking for a casino, then you’ll be searching for a long time in Abu Dhabi. The state’s laws are created in line with Islamic law, which does not allow gambling. Even online gambling is banned in the state, so you’ll need to wait until you’re home before you log back in to your Paddy Power account.
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