HUB OF CULTURE
Home to the National eatre, historic forts, cultural institutions, and majestic mosques, Abu Dhabi is one of middle east’s most impressive cultural centres. Its grand heritage with rich history and majestic monuments have always drawn us to this emirate. Here’s a lowdown on the capital of the UAE from an edifying lens: An epitome of Abu Dhabi’s illustrious heritage, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is an instantly recognisable global icon that blends di erent Islamic architectural schools. During Ramadan 2019, the mosque welcomed more than 1.4 million worshippers according to the Gulf News. e mosque features 82 domes, more than 1,000 columns, 24k-gold gilded chandeliers, and the world’s largest handknotted carpet. Some of its other notable elements include domes clad in white marble, onion-shaped crowns and crescent-shaped nials decorated with gold-glass mosaic.
Another celebrated gem in our opinion is Al Ain Oasis, just two hours from the main city. Spreading across 3,000 acres, Al Ain is host to a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It houses Qasr Al Muwaiji, a century-old fortress; Al Jahili Fort showcasing permanent exhibitions of photographs taken by British adventurer Sir Wilfred
esiger during his 1940s crossings of the ‘Empty uarter’ desert; ‘falaj’ - UAE’s traditional irrigation system and Ali Ain’s Eco Centre that o ers curated storytelling through interactive installations.
Another place to venture deep into the history of Abu Dhabi is at
Qasr Al Hosn, which reopened in December 2018, following extensive renovations by the Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) Abu Dhabi. It is deemed to be an important inclusion to Abu Dhabi’s tourism landscape. e site comprises four interrelated components — the historic Qasr Al Hosn Fort; the Cultural Foundation that hosts a diverse visual and performing arts programme; the National Consultative Council Building; and the House of Artisans, promoting and preserving UAE’s intangible lineage. By a way of these, DCT Abu Dhabi aims to encourage visitors to explore authentic landmarks of the city.
Albeit the emirate plays a huge emphasis on the bygone days – a visit to the Paris landmark’s rst international outpost, the Louvre Abu Dhabi will make you see its modern contemporary side. You can either check out an exhibition or watch a live performance at this marvel.
Moreover, we recommend exploring the region’s culture and heritage via a plethora of local experiences – from cruising in a traditional boat to riding a horse and camel racing.
Located in the heart of the Corniche, The St. Regis Abu Dhabi is a 30-minute drive from Abu Dhabi International Airport. The interiors and architecture of the hotel tastefully blend the brand’s century-old legacy with rich Emirati culture. Its accommodation highlight is the Abu Dhabi suite considered to be the world’s highest suspended suite at 220m above ground level. Another striking feature is the Al Mudhaif Ballroom for large-scale events for over 700 guests (banquet-style). stregisabudhabi.com
For a grand wedding celebration, choose Jumeirah at Etihad Towers that offers two stunning venues — Mezzoon Ballroom and Under the Oculus. The hotel has 382 rooms and suites along with a host of business and leisure facilities. Guests looking to unwind can spend some time at the Observation Deck at 300, which gives you a 360-degree view of the UAE capital. We recommend enjoying this view with an afternoon coffee session. jumeirah.com
Choose from one of the 280 rooms and suites at Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche. The hotel’s extensive F&B includes all-day dining restaurant Corniche; Grills @ Chill’O restaurant by the pool serving the best of Arabic and Mediterranean cuisines; Le Café Lounge serving detectable French and middle eastern pastries and Parmigiana restaurant for Italian delights. sofitelabudhabicorniche.com
If you want more versatile dining options during your stay, pick
Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences Emirates Pearl. Options include Verso, an Italian deli-style cafe; a stylish sports bar Lexx serving cellar wines, vintage cigars and classic cocktails complemented by fine cheese and charcuterie and the Pearl Lounge, a mix of a lounge, a café, a shop, a creperie, and a bar, is perfect for a casual meet up. hyatt.com
Set against the backdrop of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal is one of the finest luxury hotels in Abu Dhabi. Apart from its opulent offerings, guests staying at the hotel must avail of wellness facilities, especially at their spa offering express treatments, and a traditional hammam. ritzcarlton.com
Speaking of wellness, Emirates Palace, now managed by Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, also offers a plethora of spa and wellness therapies available for all types of travellers. Emirates Palace’s Moroccan-inspired spa is one of the key features. The property is replete with luxury elements like 24k gold leaf finishing, Swarovski chandeliers, arabesque mosaic tiles and marble in shades of the desert sand. mandarinoriental.com