Wonders of Abu Dhabi
The capital of United Arab Emirates has a unique blend of adrenaline-pumping adventures and cultural activities, writes Hanna Hussein
THE capital of United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi, has become increasingly synonymous with Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the newly opened Louvre Abu Dhabi. But Abu Dhabi is so much more. The city has a unique blend of adrenalinepumping adventures and cultural activities, making it an attractive destination for those who dare to be different. Whether you are planning a solo trip or a family/romantic getaway, Abu Dhabi has something to offer.
Psstt. present your Abu Dhabi pass and enjoy special discounts for many of the activities. Complete the true Emirati hospitality experience by flying with Etihad Airways.
1. ADVENTURE ISLAND
Whether you are an adrenaline junkie or just want to have a good time, Sir Bani Yas Island is the place to be. For those looking for a leisurely adventure, kayak the mangroves or explore the surrounding sea on a paddle board.
Race your friends at land sailing or jump on a mountain bike to reach hilltops that also promise striking views.
For nature lovers, Arabian Wildlife Park offers a tailored 4x4 adventure experience of the park that is home to 13,000 freeroaming animals.
2. LARGEST DESERT
Also known as Liwa Desert or Empty Quarter, Rub’ Al Khali is the largest sand desert in the world. More importantly, it is Jakku, the home planet of Rey in Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
Besides being the perfect backdrop for the “gram”, you can have an unforgettable experience dune-bashing or taking a camel trek.
Want to get an Arabian Nights experience? Why not camp overnight and experience the Bedouin lifestyle that is oh so alluring. Or if camping is not your thing, check into the luxurious Qasr Al Sarab desert resort which is also where the Star Wars production crew chose to stay.
3. SPEED JUNKIE
Home to Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Yas Marina Circuit also gives you the opportunity to drive on the very same tracks as your favourite superstar racers and finally proclaim yourself as the better driver.
If that is not exhilarating enough, hop on Formula Rossa at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and hold on tight. This beast can go to the
top speed of 250kmph in five seconds, making it the fastest roller coaster in the world! For those who prefer a different kind of thrill and excitement, Yas Mall is a onestop destination with over 400 shops and a 20-screen cinema. The highly anticipated Warner Bros World is now open!
4. BARGAIN HUNTING
Shopping is considered an extreme sport to some and souks (markets) in Abu Dhabi are every bargain hunter’s dream.
Souk Al Zafarana, situated in the emirate’s second city of Al Ain, is where modern and traditional meld into one. It is the perfect place to buy everything from modern clothing to traditional Emirati handicrafts.
A special feature of Souk Al Zafarana is Mubdia Village, a section exclusively for women that is staffed by female shopkeepers.
If bargain hunting as a team with your girl gang is your thing, there is no better way to do it while supporting Emirati women in business at the same time.
5. VENETIAN VILLAGE
This stunning waterfront leisure destination is nestled within Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi - Grand Canal.
Heaven for Instagram models, the Venetian Village has Renaissance-inspired architecture, winding cobblestone streets and a view overlooking Khor Al Maqta. Head there approaching dusk to catch the last light before treating yourself to a delicious meal.
Al-Fanar comes highly recommended for serving up traditional Emirati fare. It is also a 1960s-Dubai themed restaurant, complete with barasti outdoor booths, mud brick rooms and a mini souk.
6. EMIRATE PALACE
An iconic building in Abu Dhabi, this is a hotel fit for a king. Despite its grand design and its name, Emirate Palace is only 13 years old.
The palace’s exterior is a sight to behold with its interiors covered in gold, mother of pearl and crystals. Inside, the hotel is home to more than 1,000 chandeliers!
The hotel is not exclusive to guests, so visitors can wander through the halls and corridors, living out a fantasy of riches and luxury.
Other than a great spot for Instagram, the palace offers an indulgent afternoon tea (be sure to try its famous 24-carat chocolate cake!) and the award-winning Emirates Palace spa that features a traditional Moroccan hammam.
7. TEA HEAVEN
A hidden gem in Abu Dhabi, Shay Madhboot means”’perfect tea” in Arabic. You guessed it, this little cafe made it onto the list because of its Karak (milk tea).
We know your obsession with milk teas — Thai milk tea, Taiwanese bubble tea, Japanese Morning tea ( you know the one) — perhaps you too might fall in love with Karak Chai.
Shay Madhboot doesn’t tell you what goes into its “perfect tea”, but some claim it has perfected the recipe.
Other than the legendary Karak, it also serves brunch that is a feast for your eyes and tastebuds!
8. LOUVRE OF ABU DHABI
Located 500m off the coast of Abu Dhabi is Saadiyat island. Easily accessible by car or bus, it’s the place where culture lovers come out to play. You may already know that this is the home of Louvre Abu Dhabi, sister of the Musée du Louvre in Paris.
A museum-city in the sea, Louvre Abu Dhabi was designed by Pritzker Prize-winning French architect Jean Nouvel, and has 23 galleries telling a story about humanity in 12 inspiring chapters. If you’re feeling inspired and creative, head on down to take part in a class/workshop held by the Art Studio.
For those who prefer to chill out, Saadiyat public beach is the perfect place to enjoy the white sand and turquoise waters. If you’re lucky to visit during nesting season, you may even catch sight of a Hawksbill sea turtle, the island’s first inhabitants!
9. ALL ABOUT FALCONS
If you think owl cafes are cute, Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital is going to blow your mind. Dubbed the world’s largest and most advanced falcon hospital, it serves as a museum as well as a facility with free-flying falcons.
Take a guided tour around the hospital, watch a falcon get “maintenance”, learn about the history of falconry as a sport or even up close and personal with these welltrained birds of prey.
10. GRAND MOSQUE
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is undoubtedly one of the biggest draws for Abu Dhabi. The entirety of the mosque is so grand that words and pictures do not do it justice.
The mosque is home to the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet, and one of the world’s largest chandeliers (which by the way, weighs 12 tonnes and is 10 x 15 metres!).
Visit either at sunset or just before, when the sun reflects off the white Macedonian marble, making for a stunning picture. A sight to behold, this landmark is the one you don’t want to miss.
However, do note that this is a place of worship, and visitors are advised to follow the dress code. Abayas, which come in various sizes and colours, are available for women.