Seven reasons to visit Abu Dhabi
1. DESERT TRIPS: The UAE’s most popular tours are desert safaris, some of which go overnight and pass through the sand dunes of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. These typically consist of an exciting four-wheel drive dune trip, camel rides and fireside dinners amid the dunes.
2. EMIRATES PALACE: This palatial waterfront hotel in Abu Dhabi, originally built to house visiting world leaders, is an attraction in its own right with 1.3km of private beachfront, gardens, pools and spa overlooking the inlet and the Persian Gulf. Non-guests are welcome to enjoy the high tea, shops, bars and restaurants.
3. FERRARI WORLD: With many Emiratis completely obsessed by slick cars, it’s no surprise there’s a Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi. Close to the Emirate’s Formula 1 Grand Prix track on Yas Island, the complex includes the world’s fastest roller-coaster and a mammoth selection of Ferraris.
4. WARNER BROS WORLD ABU DHABI: The indoor theme park on Yas Island opened in July. It has six immersive lands: DC’s Metropolis, Gotham City, Cartoon Junction, Bedrock, Dynamite Gulch and Warner Bros Plaza.
5. ABU DHABI CBD: Options include dhow cruises, walking along the park-lined foreshore and visiting Corniche Beach and traditional markets such as the carpet souk and fish souk. For shopping you can cross the bridge from the CBD to islandbased Marina Mall.
6. SIR BANIYAS ISLAND: West of Abu Dhabi city, this zoo-like island was the brainchild of Sheikh Zayed, the deceased former ruler of the UAE who established the Arabian Wildlife Park on the island to breed endangered native species. Here you can see Arabian oryx, gazelles, cheetahs and striped hyenas. The Desert Islands Resort & Spa offers the only accommodation.
7. EMPTY QUARTER: This immense area of Abu Dhabi is famous for its towering sand dunes. There are a few hotels, plus some tour companies offer camping trips. Amid the dunes, Bab Al Shams resort is one of the best in the UAE.