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A trip to the UAE might conjure up images of skyscrapers, shopping malls and futuristic cityscapes. However, many Emirates offer very different experiences. For example, Ras Al Khaimah is known as the Natural Emirate because of its stunning scenery. In contrast, Abu Dhabi is becoming the cultural capital of the UAE with its art galleries and places of worship.
Abu Dhabi has a very different feel to Dubai, with far less developed architecture, but still has tranquil corners like Saadiyat Island where you feel like you’re getting away from it all and enjoying a luxurious holiday. Another key reason to visit Abu Dhabi is that hotel prices are generally lower than in Dubai, offering an abundance of luxury hotels to try, from city skyscrapers to desert camps and beach resorts. Five-star luxury hotels can start at less than $250 (£200) in the off-season.
You can fly direct to Abu Dhabi from many cities with Etihad Airways, making it just a short drive to Abu Dhabi or the islands.
There is so much to see in Abu Dhabi; you can take it as a city break and spend your time exploring, or head to one of the luxurious beach resorts and do very little. The city has a unique blend of modern architecture, traditional culture and many attractions, including white sandy beaches. From the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the world-famous Louvre Abu Dhabi to Ferrari World, there is something for everyone.
Abu Dhabi is home to some of the most iconic religious landmarks, such as the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. The building is the largest mosque in the UAE, and its intricate design and magnificent architecture make it a must-see for anyone interested in the culture of the region. The mosque is open to visitors and offers guided tours of its breathtaking halls, prayer rooms and courtyards. If you have never visited a mosque before, it is highly recommended that you try to witness its size and grandeur for yourself. However, you will need to wear appropriate long-sleeved trousers and trousers, or a skirt and headscarf for ladies. Statistics show the sheer size of the mosque. With its 82 domes, 24-carat gold chandeliers and 1,000 columns, the mosque’s main dome can hold more than 40,000 worshipers and is one of the largest mosque domes in the world.
Not far from the city center, Saadiyat Island is the cultural center of the city, home to several world-class museums and cultural institutions.
A must-see cultural attraction in Abu Dhabi is the Louvre Abu Dhabi. However, even if art isn’t your thing, the building itself is worth a visit thanks to Jean Nouvel’s grand design and waterfront location. By 2025, there should also be a Guggenheim Museum designed by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry. Additionally, Manarat Al Sadiyat is a cultural center that hosts a range of exhibitions, events and performances throughout the year, and offers art and pottery workshops.
If the adrenaline rush is more your thing, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi has plenty of options, including Formula Rossa, the fastest roller coaster in the world. There’s also a range of Ferrari-themed experiences, such as driving simulators and exhibits showcasing the brand’s history.
Another popular theme park in Abu Dhabi is Yas Waterworld, with more than 40 water rides and attractions. At 238 meters long, the world’s first and largest six-person tornado waterslide may test your resolve. Plus, Bubbe’s Barrel has three-metre-high waves, offering the world’s largest surfable deck for bodyboards and boogie boards. Less confident visitors can also enjoy a range of other water activities such as water slides, swimming pools and a lazy river.
Warner Bros Abu Dhabi has much more to offer young visitors, with six unique theme parks including Bedrock, Dynamite Gulch, Cartoon Junction, Gotham City and Metropolis featuring 29 rides, shows and attractions.
Although Dubai is known as a shopping mecca, Abu Dhabi is also home to many modern malls such as Yas Mall, which has more than 400 stores, including high-end fashion brands, restaurants and entertainment venues. For a more traditional outlet, you can try Souk Qaryat Al Beri. Here you can find traditional Arabian souvenirs such as perfumes, spices and textiles. If you want something less modern for the price, the Iranian Souk is right next to the dhow harbour. Souk Al Zafarana sells beautifully embroidered Arabian clothing, spices, perfumes and lamps with a more traditional and authentic Emirati feel. There is also a women-only area, Mubdia Village.
Deciding where to stay has more to do with the type of accommodation you prefer than the activities, as most attractions are within close proximity. If you like tranquility or love nature, Saadiyat Island will be a good choice. Unlike many islands in the UAE, it is a natural island and home to many wild animals. Dolphins and sea turtles can often be found off shore in the warm waters of the bay.
Saadiyat is not only a cultural center but also home to several luxury hotels. Saadiyat Resort’s Jumeirah is in the north of the island, where the beach has an almost Hamptons vibe, with white sand and sand dunes lining the coast. There are few buildings within sight of the hotel, giving it a remote feel despite being a short drive from the city. The design of the hotel is very modern and the Panorama Suite is one of the best room options, with a spacious terrace with a daybed overlooking the beach and pool. The area is known for its wildlife, with sea turtles and dolphins being frequent visitors to the shoreline.
The spa offers various facilities such as hydrotherapy pool, cold plunge pool, salt room and Rhassoul room. At the heart of the spa is the magnificent Moroccan hammam, where you can indulge in a variety of hammam treatments. If you don’t feel like venturing out, try one of the many on-site restaurants, ranging from Italian to Middle Eastern.
In the city, The Ritz-Carlton, Abu Dhabi is set in landscaped gardens and its private beach overlooks the Grand Canal. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is just 5 minutes’ walk away. All rooms open onto the garden with direct views of the pool, garden or Grand Canal. If you prefer more space, the villa features a terrace and a spacious living room with dining area.
Dining options are numerous, with eight restaurants offering everything from Middle Eastern and Mediterranean to Pan-Asian cuisine. In addition, the Espa features a steam room, Turkish bath, beauty and hair salon and 15 treatment rooms.
So if you think you know the UAE, when you visit Abu Dhabi, you might be surprised to find that it has more to offer than just beaches and brunch.
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