Better Homes and Gardens (Australia)
Abu Dhabi – top 7 hot spots
Your go-to guide for a luxury getaway in this glamorous city
no need to choose between city lights, desert beauty and waterfront wow – Abu Dhabi has it all! The capital of the United Arab Emirates, it’s a region rich in history and big on luxury. The modern metropolis is on an island in the Arabian Gulf, so the views are as amazing as the architecture. Cosmopolitan and sophisticated, you’ll shop, dine, sightsee and pamper yourself. What a holiday!
1 QASR AL WATAN
Why go there? Built on a grand scale, soaring is the best word to describe the architecture of the stunning Presidential Palace. Your head will be on a swivel trying to take in all the exquisite detail and incredible craftsmanship – look out for the eight-pointed star, a symbol in Islamic art you’ll see on the floors, walls and even in garden beds! Must-see The palace is a gateway into the heritage, culture and future of Abu Dhabi and the UAE, with a library and collection of amazing artefacts, including ancient holy works such as a 13th century Bible. Find out more qasralwatan.ae
2 the SHEIKH ZAYED GRAND MOSQUE
Why go there? One of the largest mosques in the world, it will quite
simply take your breath away. Designed by British, Italian and Emirati architects, it has sweeping colonnades, impressive onion domes and expansive reflective pools. A place of serenity and beauty, the mosque is open to visitors from all over the world and can hold 40,000 worshippers.
Must-see The vast Prayer Hall has the world’s largest handwoven carpet and handmade chandelier. Wow! Find out more visitabudhabi.ae/en
3 louvre, abu dhabi
Why go there? It’s just an amazing museum! The result of a collaboration between the UAE and France, the aim is to shine a fresh light on humanity. To this end, the galleries are in chronological order, so exhibits aren’t by region or culture, instead you see artefacts from around the world alongside each other. Must-see All of it! From Egyptian sarcophagi to the busts of Roman emperors, medieval wall tapestries and Chinese dynasty ceramics. Find out more louvreabudhabi.ae
4 the desert
Why go there? Falcons! Camels! The sunrises and sunsets! Staying at a resort in the desert is an experience like no other. You’ll unwind in an opulent oasis among the rolling dunes, enjoying good food, fine wine and unforgettable scenery.
Must-do Take in a falcon display, these awe-inspiring birds have a long history in the region and can dive at speeds of over 320km/h. Now that’s something to see!
Where to stay The Jumeirah Al Wathba Desert Resort & Spa, a boutique property in tune with the heritage and culture of the area. Rejuvenate at Talise Spa, a wellness retreat that goes beyond pampering. Try the cryo experience, it’s as cold as it sounds but the benefits include pain relief, weight loss and mental clarity – that’s worth the chill! Or go for a traditional Turkish hammam.
Find out more jumeirah.com/en
5 the beach
Why go there? For all the usual reasons – sun, sand and fun! The city has Corniche Beach, or you can head out to Yas Island or Saadiyat Island.
Must-do If you love nature with a side of culture, eco-friendly Saadiyat is for you. Spot Hawksbill sea turtles on the pristine beaches one night and visit the Louvre the next day. Swim in resort pools or the Arabian Gulf, try watersports, then sip a cocktail at the end of a gorgeous day. There’s a Beach Golf Club, too. What bliss is this?
Where to stay The stunning Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort
Find out more visitabudhabi.ae/en
6 emirates palace
Why go there? This is where pop stars and tennis greats stay, and there is a floor just for heads of state. It’s a luxe place with gorgeous rooms, a beach and private marina, but it’s also worth a visit if you’re not a guest, to gawp at the glamour and glitz of it all, including the amazing automobiles you’ll see out the front. Must-do Try the Palace cappuccino! It’s almost too pretty to drink – with minarets in the foam and the 23 karat gold flakes – so take a photo before you indulge in this divine bevvie. Find out more kempinski.com/en/ abudhabi/emirates-palace
Why go there? The five towers – designed by Aussie architects –are an iconic part of the skyline. Located in Al Ras Al Akhdar district, go there to dine, shop and enjoy unbeatable views of the city and Gulf of Arabia.
Must-do The Friday brunch at Nahaam restaurant. Popular with expats and tourists, the champagne flows as the music plays and you go from food station to food station, each more delicious than the last. Duck pancakes, anyone?
Dish to try Anything at the Tori No Su Japanese restaurant – everything on the menu is more-ish! Perfect after a day of sightseeing or shopping.
Where to stay The luxurious and elegant Jumeirah at Etihad Towers.
Find out more etihadtowers.ae