06 ABU DHABI
There’s lots to love about the UAE capital: pristine beaches, luxury hotels and lush islands. The dining scene continues to impress, and the wilderness of the Empty Quarter is only a short drive away.
Explore Sir Bani Yas Island
Fancy a safari but can’t afford the trip to Africa? Head to Sir Bani Yas Island, where protected animals such as giraffes, cheetahs and hyenas roam free. The resort offers guided tours by car, mountain bike and horseback riding.
Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara, Sir Bani Yas Island. Tel: (02) 6561399. desertislands.anantara.com
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
If you’ve yet to visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque then add it to your Abu Dhabi bucket list immediately. With its marble domes and mosaic floors, this stunning structure looks like something out of 1001 Arabian Nights, and can accommodate more than 40,000 worshippers. It’s open to visitors throughout the week, and guided tours are available. Admission is free.
Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street, 5th Street, Abu Dhabi, Sat to Thur 9am to 10pm, Fri 4.30pm to 10pm, free. Tel: (02) 4191919. Taxi: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. szgmc.ae
Manarat Al Saadiyat
The Manarat Al Saadiyat has long been a hub of arts and culture, but the most exciting development is that you can see a preview of the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi artworks from now until the end of July 2017. The Creative Act features 18 international artists and includes paintings and photography to sculpture and multimedia installations.
Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, daily 9am to 8pm, free. Tel: (02) 6575800. Taxi: Manarat Al Saadiyat. saadiyatculturaldistrict.ae
Butcher & Still
As you might have guessed from the name, Butcher & Still is a carnivore’s dream. Located in the Four Seasons, this new steakhouse gets top marks for its impeccably cooked, highquality meat, as well as the excellent service. There’s even a secret private dining room, to add to the speakeasy-style feel.
Four Seasons Abu Dhabi, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, daily 6pm to midnight. Tel: (02) 3332700. Taxi: Four Seasons. fourseasons.com
Coya
The What’s On Award-winning Dubai restaurant Coya has been leading the charge of Peruvian restaurants. Now residents in the capital will get a chance to experience the high-end cuisine, thanks to a new branch in The Galleria at Maryah Island. Splash out on the private dining room for a special occasion – it seats 12 and has its own special entrance and elevator.
The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, Mon to Sat 12.30pm to 11pm. Tel: (02) 3067000. Taxi: The Galleria. coyarestaurant.com