Abu-Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates, a cosmopolitan and dynamic city. Once a fishing village, it has grown into one of the richest cities of the world. Iconic skyline of splendid skyscrapers, best restaurants, magnificent mosques, mangrove forests, mountains, sand dunes and beautiful beaches make Abu-Dhabi one of the most attractive cities for travelers in the region.
Tourism
Marvel at the legendary Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the whole world. Visit the Quasr Al Hosn (“The Palace Fort”) watchtower built in the 18th century, one of the main symbols of the city. Take a walk along the beautiful Corniche waterfront promenade in the evening and enjoy the amazing marina views. Relax in the amazing Umm Al Emarat Park, designed by some of the most famous architectures and which feels like in an oasis. Rent a private jet and admire the iconic Abu-Dhabi skyline from an unusual point of view. Indulge in luxury shopping in the largest mall of the city – Yas Mall, that feels more like a luxurious hotel. Admire the legendary Abu-Dhabi skyline at Observation Deck at 300m on the 74th floor of Jumeirah At Etihad skyscraper. Visit one of the natural marvels of Abu-Dhabi – the Mangrove National Park. Treat yourself at the unique Anantara Spa, located in the desert. Learn about the history and iconic industrial design of Ferrari cars at Ferrari World Abu-Dhabi at Yas Island. Go kayaking, travel on a rowboat and explore the beautiful nature of Abu-Dhabi with Sea Hawl Water Sports & Adventures. Learn about the tradition of falconry at the Abu-Dhabi Falcon Hospital. Explore the modern UAE artists at the Warehouse421 cultural center and museum, Etihad Modern Art Gallery and Abu Dhabi Art Hub at the World Trade Center mall. Be amazed by the grandiose futuristic joint art project of UAE and France – the Louvre Abu-Dhabi, built by Jean Nouvel. Learn about the traditional lifestyle at the Abu-Dhabi Heritage Village. Explore the history of the nation at the Zayed Heritage Museum and Abu-Dhabi History Museum and Aquarium. Explore the beauty of dunes at the Liwa Oasis.
Abu-Dhabi has some of the most beautiful white sand beaches in the region:
Corniche beach is divided into 3 areas: for families, for singles and the general public. It’s very comfortable and well maintained. Yas beach offers great service and is equipped with an open air DJ booth and offers many sports activities. Saadiyat beach is located on the Saadiyat island and offers relaxing experience, turquoise waters and various water sports. “Family beach” is safe, beautiful and comfortable. It is in fact reserved for families only. Mirfa beach is rarely crowded and is perfect for people who enjoy calm and relaxing beach experience.
Food and drinks
Abu-Dhabi offers some of the best dining experiences for gourmets from all over the world. Do not forget to try the Emirati cuisine specialties: luquaimat deep fried donuts, baklava honey pastry with nuts, kabsa made of soicy chicken and rice and many more. Savor the rich taste of Emirati cuisine at the Al Fanar restaurant, styled as a Beduin settlement. Listen to live music and dancing artists at the Marakesh Moroccan cuisine restaurant. Try Lebanese cuisine at one of the best restaurants of the capital, Li Beirut. Feel the romantic Arabic fantasy at Al Maqam restaurant. Go for grilled steaks and seafood at Marco Pierre White Steakhouse & Grill. Have a seat with a view at the Quest restaurant, located in the Etihad Towers. Sip a cocktail and listen to live jazz music at the Jazz Bar & Dining. Play pool at the artsy Glow Club. Relax at the Hamilton’s classic pub. Party all night long at the Empire Yas nightclub.
Arabic culture has some of the most iconic legends and fairytales. One of the legends has it, that in the Medieval period powerful and magical creatures inhabited the Arabic world. The mysterious Shadhavar resembled a unicorn, and its horn was considered a precious gift worthy of a king. It could be used as a flute due to the many holes in it. The music it made had a great power over the emotions and could make people laugh and cry. The giant Roc bird is another legendary creature, that was hunting fishermen and sailors.
