Travel + Leisure - India & South Asia
MELTING POT OF CULTURES
Travel content creator Ankita Kumar witnessed the cultural diversity of Abu Dhabi and soaked in its art and architecture. She speaks to CHIRAG MOHANTY SAMAL on how Abu Dhabi displays the association between its past and present.
You explored the culture and history of Abu Dhabi, what interesting discoveries did you make?
The most memorable was the gold coffee experience [at Emirates Palace], a luxury I had never tried before. The visit to the dates market was also informative and interesting as I didn’t know so many varieties of dates existed. But the highlight of the trip was the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (szgmc. gov.ae), one of the world’s largest mosques showcasing outstanding Islamic architecture. While the domes, columns, the 24-carat-gold gilded chandeliers, and the world’s largest handknotted carpet are the main draws, the structure itself built with natural multi-coloured marble is breathtakingly beautiful.
What was the best part of your experience?
I love adventure, so
Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi and Yas Marina
Circuit (yasmarinacircuit. com) were my favourites. I enjoyed go-karting on the Formula 1 track, and the Ferrari World Abu
Dhabi roller coaster rides. Besides these adrenalinepumping activities, I savoured every bit of my visit to Louvre Abu Dhabi (louvreabudhabi.ae)—be it the impressive architecture, intricate geometric dome, or the European and local masterpieces that the museum houses, there’s something for every art connoisseur there.
You are an avid traveller; how would you rate the art and culture scene in Abu Dhabi compared to other cities?
The city has a buzzing art and cultural scene. It is home to many galleries, museums, and major projects that have aided in the cultural evolution of the city and turned it into an artistic hub.
Abu Dhabi has a modern appeal but a traditional soul, what are your thoughts on this?
Abu Dhabi has an ultra-modern appeal, it houses many architectural marvels but at the same time, remains rooted in its past with its souks, falcon hospital, and the authentic culinary scene. There are legendary restaurants like Bu Tafish that continue to serve local cuisine unfazed by the presence of fancy global restaurants helmed by Michelin-starred chefs. The city is a cool mix of tradition and modernity and has something for everybody—adventure seekers, art lovers, gourmands, and more.