A GOOD FRIEND OF MINE...

... a former UAE resident – is back in town. She’s been away quite some time, and, needless to say, things have changed. Some of her favourite stomping grounds have gone – including the Mad nightclub she was once politely asked to leave – replaced by brand new developments. Islands that were once uninhabited have been urbanised into exciting neighbourhoods, while new hotels have arrived faster than a Land Cruiser speeding down the E11.

If the landscape has changed dramatically, then the fun to be found within it has positively skyrocketed. Should my old mate want to (she won’t), she could spend a weekend scaling the world’s tallest climbing wall, on safari, or ziplining across a theme park. She could get a sweat on inside a boutique spin class (not a chance), enjoy a new cultural exhibition (still no), or eat her way around a new seaside neighbourhood (maybe, if there were doughnuts involved).

Some things haven’t changed, however. A world of adventure still awaits in the desert, from fat biking to the classic off-roading (her previous driving attempt saw her lose control of the buggy, sending her spiralling over a huge dune). The beach remains a go-to place for sun worshipers and thrill seekers with watersports galore although her alabaster skin’s not made for the UAE sun.

This month, we present our guide to all kinds of Abu Dhabi adventures, from fun to the downright thrill-seeking (best not, pal). And whether you’re a long-time UAE dweller, newbie, or even a returning hero, we’ve something for everyone... even my ol’ mate.

Enjoy the issue.