A unique and captivating destination, Abu Dhabi has long remained undiscovered by international visitors, but today more and more travellers are experiencing this unique Emirate. The city has grown with leaps and bounds over the last few years and has launched mega projects that are unrivalled anywhere in the world, placing it firmly on the international scene for business travel, leisure, conferences and International sporting events.
Shopping
Abu Dhabi has traditional souks (markets) and modern malls. These offer a wide variety of shopping options, from the comfort of air-conditioned malls to the bustle of the souks. The range of items available truly makes this destination a shopping paradise. The range of products and prices is unbeatable. Whether choosing to flex the plastic in designer boutiques or haggle in the local market, the emirate’s shopping experience is unbeatable with popular purchases including carpets, rugs, textiles, gold, antiques, jewellery and traditional wooden furniture. Many of the malls house a broad selection of famous international brand outlets, food centres, children play areas and cinemas. Promotional periods run through the year and raffle draws are also popular events with shoppers. The souks are traditional places where local handicrafts are sold along with household and food items. Bargaining is a time-honoured tradition and expected when haggling for souvenirs.
Desert Safaris
Safaris can be arranged through a number of local operators and are a great way to see the immense sand dunes. Rugged 4x4 vehicles are used on these trips with experienced drivers taking guests up and down the dunes. Excursions also include camel farm stopovers, barbecues and belly dancing demonstrations.
Abu Dhabi Islands
With over 200 islands around the capital visitors can hire boats to explore at will. From dolphin watching or wading through the mangroves to relaxing on pure white sandy beaches (certain kinds of wildlife can be seen at certain times of the year as the seasons change). Two-hundred kilometres southwest, guests can also visit Baniyas Island which is a dedicated nature reserve for animals of the region.
City Tour
An ideal way to explore the city from the Corniche to the Heritage Village, providing an excellent insight into modern life and how Abu Dhabi took shape following the discovery of oil.
Heritage Attractions
Qasr Al Hosn: Built in 1793 as the official residence of the rulers, now adjacent to the cultural foundations where visitors can enjoy exhibitions, concert, lectures and other events during the course of the year.
Heritage Village: A taste of the pre-oil era, with insight into Bedouin life, as well as courtyard houses, wind towers, and examples of ancient irrigation systems used in the regions oases.
Activities
There are a number of activities that guests can partake of during the year in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. Ranging from golfing, water sports, scuba diving, horse riding and more traditional pastimes such as viewing camel races in the cooler months. Abu Dhabi is also famous for its wonderful parks and beaches. There are almost 20 well-maintained parks around the capital. These lush pockets of greenery reflect the ruling family’s commitment to beautifying this desert city. Further afield, you will also find the historical towns of Al Ain and Liwa.
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Abu Dhabi International Airport - 41°F
