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About Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, capital of the United Arab Emirates, is the cultural, political and economic heart of the country. Built on an island, no part of the city is more than a few minutes from the beach or waterfront. Year-round sunshine, unrivalled hospitality, fine hotels and superb facilities for leisure and recreation - not to mention a touch of Arabian adventure - make Abu Dhabi an ideal Destination for the discerning traveler
A Brief History of Abu Dhabi
The origins of Abu Dhabi city can be traced to the mid-1700s. The name Abu Dhabi means ‘Father of the Gazelle’. The people of Abu Dhabi island always looked to the sea. Fishing, dhow trading, various traditional crafts and, above all, pearl diving were the main activities of the sparse population. Then, in the late 1950s, oil was discovered in the emirate and Abu Dhabi’s meteoric rise began. Thanks to the vision of the then Ruler, HH Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, this oil revenue has been wisely invested to provide Abu Dhabi and its citizens with the finest infrastructure, telecommunications, hospitals, schools and all the other facilities and services that make for an advanced country. This work continues under the present Ruler, HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
Abu Dhabi Today
The city accounts for a substantial percentage of Abu Dhabi emirate’s 1.7 million populations (out of the UAE total of 4.3 million). As the national capital and a major International economic powerhouse (with close to 10% of the world’s known oil reserves), Abu Dhabi exudes an ambience of quiet confidence. The pace of life is generally unhurried - there’s always time for courtesy and politeness.
The Corniche
The Corniche esplanade is one of the city’s showpiece features. Extending some eight kilometers along the north eastern waterfront of Abu Dhabi Island, its paved walkways, covered seating areas, fountains, garden and greenery provide an escape for recreation and relaxation close to the heart of the city. Visitors can join the many local residents who enjoy this beautiful area, strolling, jogging, cycling or rollerblading along the waterfront or taking their families to one of the many children’s play areas or grassy parks.
Emirates Palace
Dominating the western end of the cornice is the majestic Emirates Palace, an opulent, ultra- luxury hotel and convention centre that has already made its mark as an international tourism icon and as one of the architectural wonders of the world. This iconic architectural landmark, with its 100 decorative domes, offers the ultimate in luxury and style. Guests can enjoy a private beach that stretches for more than a kilometer, lovely landscaped grounds and two stunning pools. There are also 15 sumptuous eateries.
The Breakwater
Facing the Corniche and connected by a causeway adjacent to Emirates Palace is the Breakwater. This area of reclaimed land features the Marina Mall shopping and entertainment complex, as well as the Heritage Village, water sports clubs, restaurants and coffee shops.
The Breakwater is a great spot to visit in the evenings, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the dazzling cityscape to one side and views of the sea to the other. It has a number of popular Arabic restaurants and cafes where visitors can relax take in the scenery and indulge in a little people watching.
Heritage Village
The 1,600 square meter Heritage Village on the Breakwater is a large, pretty site that offers an intriguing glimpse into Abu Dhabi’s past. A visit will give you a chance to investigate the Emirate’s Bedouin history, from goat hair tents to traditional wind tower houses – made of dried palm leaves and designed capture any passing breeze to cool the occupants. It is also a chance to get close to a camel or Arabian horse. This is a idea spot to gauge the truly astonishing change that has overtaken Abu Dhabi in the last 50 years. You can watch local craftsmen and women practicing ancient traditional skills with the city’s Manhattan-like skyline in the background.
Central Business District
iInland from the eastern end of the Corniche is the main business district, Al Markaziyah, a compact area lying within five blocks of the waterfront. Modern high rise hotels, office towers, banks and residential apartments share this district with mosques, small parks and older mixed-use buildings housing small shops, restaurants and flats.
This is the busiest and most populous area of Abu Dhabi. Besides the native UAE National population, visitors will note that the city is home to a cosmopolitan mix of expatriate residents, all living and working together in remarkable harmony. While the Central Souk is temporarily closed for re-development (a project that promises to transform it into a major attraction), this is the main shopping district with its impressive array of international brand name outlets, malls and local stores. Many of the leading hotels are in, or on the fringes of, this district, including the Sheraton, Beach Rotana, Le Meridien, Le Royal Meridien and Millenium.
Gold Souk
Within the central business district, you will find Madinat Zayed Gold Market. Row upon row of jewellery outlets provide a sparkling assault on the senses and offer a chance to purchase European, Arabian or Asian designs in pure gold at the best prices. The per-gram cost of your gold, platinum or silver is set according to the day’s price on international markets, so the cost of workmanship provides the only scope for haggling. This is a popular tourist magnet, so traders are used to visitors trying out their negotiating skills. A starting offer of two-thirds the askin
g price is fairly standard. But to get the best deal, make sure you enjoy the process.
Al Meena District
Extending from the central business district on the north east tip of Abu Dhabi island lies the Al Meena district and Port Zayed. While focused more on commerce than tourism, this area has plenty to interest visitors seeking local colour, with several bustling markets, including the Fish Souk and Fruit and Vegetable Souk.
At the Carpet Souk you will see a spectacular array of intricate, traditional rug and carpet designs of the highest quality. Don’t be afraid to indulge in some serious haggling. The Iranian souk is supplied by regular dhow shipments across the Gulf and features a vast range of products from ornately-designed terracotta pots to bargain household goods. Here again, haggling is very much the order of the day.
The nearby dhow harbour is a working port from which these traditional vessels ply the trade routes of the Gulf and beyond, providing a fascinating glimpse of Abu Dhabi’s ancient seafaring tradition set against a backdrop of the city’s towering skyscrapers.
Qasr Al Hosn
On the western side of the central business district just inland from the Corniche is Qasr Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi’s oldest building. Dating back to 1793, this impressive square fort became the official residence of Abu Dhabi’s ruling Al Nahyan family after they moved from the Liwa oasis to settle on Abu Dhabi island.
Set at a striking angle to Abu Dhabi’s grid street pattern, the building has been beautifully maintained and benefited from a series of renovations. Staring at the high white battlements is to savour a moment of history. Entrance is free, so you can walk through the imposing gateway and stroll through the interior to feel for a moment how the Sheikhs once lived.
The Cultural Foundation
Adjacent to Qasr Al Hosn, the Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation is housed in a modern building of Islamic design with arching white colonnades, courtyards and gardens. Spread over 14 hectares, the Foundation demonstrates the emirate’s commitment to enhancing knowledge and preserving culture.
Home to the National Archives, the National Library and the Institution of Culture and Art, here you can find books detailing the history of the UAE, Middle East and wider Islamic world. The Foundation houses a collection of 4,000 old manuscripts and examples of ancient Arabic poetry. It hosts many cultural events throughout the year, with local and international speakers and artists visiting to perform or give lectures. There is an annual chess festival, film club and lessons available in local crafts, cookery and Arabic language. Facilities include a theatre, cinema, exhibition centre and coffee shop.
Other Places of Interest
At Ras Al Akhdar, located beyond Emirates Palace on the north western tip of Abu Dhabi island, can be found a superb tree-lined public beach just minutes from the city centre. This can become crowded at weekends but is almost deserted during the week. The beach is safe and sandy, but there are no particular facilities on site and it is best not to rely on a vacant passing taxi to get home to your hotel. Nearby is the Al Dana Ladies Beach, which provides privacy and a pleasant leafy retreat exclusively for women. Although frequented mainly by Muslims it is open to women of all nationalities.
Backing the western end of Corniche are parks, hotels, embassies, government offices, corporate headquarters and gracious residential districts. Al Bateen dhow building yard, close to the Intercontinental Hotel on the western waterfront of the island, is well worth visiting. Huge planks of teak are piled high ready to be shaped into the graceful wooden sailing dhows that have changed very little over the centuries. Most of the boats built or repaired here today are for racing rather than trading.
Moving inland (or south east) from the Corniche and central business district, the city opens out into spacious residential areas with many fine palaces, embassies and walled mansions. These are interspersed with commercial and shopping areas, especially along Airport Road. Decentralisation has resulted in the dispersal of some government departments and public sector organisations to all parts of the island.
Along the waterfront of the Eastern Ring Road is the Eastern Corniche, another fine recreational area close to the heart of the city. A particular attraction is the expanse of mangrove that lies across a narrow channel of water and provides a habitat for bird life including herons, cormorants and other wading birds.
Al Sarafat district is the location of the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, currently being redeveloped and expanded as the centre piece of a major new commercial and tourism hub.
Approaching the bridges that link the island to the mainland, there are a number of sports facilities and stadiums to be seen, as well as Abu Dhabi’s former airport (now limited to occasional helicopter and light aircraft traffic).
Dominating this district is the Grand Mosque of Sheikh Zayed. Due to be completed in 2007, it will be one of the largest mosques in the world, able to accommodate 32,000 worshippers. Among its features are 57 domes, the world largest carpet and the world’s largest chandelier.
Shopping
Abu Dhabi is a tax free shopper’s paradise and the range of products and prices are unbeatable. Visitors have a choice: whether to flex their plastic in designer boutiques and luxury malls or experience the fun and challenge of haggling in the local souks.
Gold is very competitively priced and there are many jewellery shops around town. As noted above, the biggest concentration of outlets is in the Madinat Zayed Gold Market. Other popular souvenir purchases include carpets, rugs and textiles from the region, including Iran, Pakistan, India and Afghanistan, Arabian coffee pots (the symbol of hospitality), prayer beads, shisha pipes, antique silver jewellery, khanjars (curved daggers), inlaid jewellery boxes miniature dhows, brass items and traditional wooden furniture.
Abu Dhabi’s malls are spacious, modern and imaginatively designed. Besides their fine array of shops and boutiques, including many famous international retail names, they have a good selection of food outlets and children’s play areas. The larger malls also house cinemas and offer plenty of free parking.
The two biggest shopping malls in the capital are Marina Mall on the Breakwater and Abu Dhabi Mall near the Beach Rotana Hotel. Other malls, mainly located in and around the central business district, include Madinat Zayed Shopping & Gold Centre, Liwa Centre, Al Hana Shopping Centre, Al Muhairy Centre, Fatouh Al Khair, Hamdan Centre, Khalifa Centre, Rotana Mall, Abu Dhabi Co-operative Society, Lulu Centre and Lamcy Plaza.
Virtually all the prominent international product brands, from fashion, watches and perfume to cars, are available in Abu Dhabi. Likewise, many familiar overseas retailers, such as Carrefour, IKEA and Marks & Spencer, have their own stores in the city.
Dining and Entertainment
Abu Dhabi offers a wide range of culinary experiences to satisfy any taste. All the major cuisines of the world are well represented, from French and Italian to Chinese and Indian… as well as others too numerous to mention. Likewise, options range from formal fine dining to relaxed fast food.
Many restaurants offer an authentic taste of Arabia and the Middle East with cuisine from throughout the region including North Africa, Lebanon, Egypt and Iran. Local specialities include slow cooked spiced lamb, served on a bed of rice, fish, chicken, stuffed vine leaves, salads, hummous and tabouleh all feature prominently - not forgetting the dates!
Abu Dhabi’s hotels offer an extensive range of lively bars, pubs and nightclubs, many of them themed and featuring live music. These include western-style clubs playing up-to-the-minute music or, for a more traditional experience, try one of the Arab venues featuring Middle Eastern bands and belly dancers, as well as shisha pipes.
Don’t hesitate to venture outside your hotels to sample the wide range of dining experiences the emirate offers. Most of the familiar international fast food chains are well represented and there are many small, good value restaurants and coffee shops catering to local residents. These include outlets selling shawarma, a popular snack of grilled slices of lamb or chicken mixed with salad and rolled inside a pocket of Arabic bread.
You could try the waterside cafes of the Breakwater. The food here is typically Middle Eastern and those not in the mood for a full meal can enjoy Arabian coffee and treats. Sweet pastries made with pistachios, almonds and honey are a local delicacy.
Visitors should also look out for concerts, plays and other cultural and entertainment events taking place during their stay. Abu Dhabi is becoming an increasingly popular venue for top name international entertainers on tour, including singers, dance groups, opera companies and stage troupes. Local cinemas cater to the cosmopolitan population with movies screened in many languages, including English.
Tours, Activities & Cruises
Sightseeing is a major aspect of most holidays and Abu Dhabi’s tour companies offer a full portfolio of organised tours, cruises and escorted excursions taking in the main sights and attractions of Abu Dhabi.
For visitors with limited time at their disposal, an organised city tour is probably the best way to get a taste of what Abu Dhabi offers and see the main highlights, such as the Corniche, Emirates Palace, Heritage Village etc. Bear in mind that the city is quite compact so a few hours is sufficient to cover most of the attractions.
Most holidaymakers will be keen to venture outside the urban area and experience the wonders of the desert. Taking a 4x4 safari organised by one of the emirate’s tour companies is a ‘must do’ experience. To get the best out of an excursion to Al Ain it’s best to set aside a full day and, for a visit to Liwa or other emirates at least a day or perhaps an overnight stay. Tour companies will be pleased to provide a customised service to suit individual client requirements - for example, focusing on shopping, culture and heritage, archaeology or camel racing.
Abu Dhabi’s golf courses are located within a short distance from the city centre and a full range of sporting activities from water sports and diving to ten-pin bowling are available.
Visitors to Abu Dhabi are not limited to enjoying themselves on dry land. Options include cruises aboard traditional Arab dhows or modern cabin cruisers or chartering boats for fishing or exploring Abu Dhabi’s coast and islands.
Cruises aboard traditional Arab dhows are popular. Those catering to the tourist market come equipped with modern amenities such as satellite navigation and bathrooms. Sailing days can be arranged through hotels and tour operators.
Essential visitor information
Abu Dhabi & the United Arab Emirates Abu Dhabi is the name of both the capital city of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the largest of the seven individual emirates that make up the country. The UAE was created as a federation and became a unified independent sovereign state in 1971. Besides Abu Dhabi, the largest constituent of the UAE in both area and population, the other emirates are Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Ummm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah. The Ruler of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, is also the President of the UAE. He succeeded his father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, as both Ruler and President when the latter passed away in 2004.
- Business Hours: Sunday-Thursday is the working week, with the weekend on Friday (the Islamic holy day) and Saturday. Most banking, embassy and other
official business is conducted in the morning/early afternoon. Shopping hours vary but many smaller outlets take a long lunchtime ‘siesta’, opening from around 09:30 to 13:00 then again from 16:30 to 21:30. The major shopping malls stay open throughout the day but don’t open until about 14:00 on Fridays.
- Climate: Abu Dhabi has a sub-tropical arid climate with year-round sunshine. Temperatures range from 10°C - 30°C in winter and can reach as high as 48°C in summer. Rainfall is infrequent, usually confined to a few winter showers.
- Customs Allowances: The duty free allowance for each visitor entering the country is 2,000 cigarettes or 400 cigars or 2kg of tobacco and a ‘reasonable amount’ of perfume. Non-Muslim adults may also bring in two litres of spirits and two litres of wine. Visitors are not charged customs duty on personal effects they bring into Abu Dhabi.
- Dress Code: Lightweight summer clothing is suitable most of the year, but some warmer garments may be needed for the winter evenings and strong air conditioning. The attitude to dress in Abu Dhabi is relaxed, but visitors (men as well as women) should show respect for local culture and customs in public places by avoiding excessively tight or revealing clothing. Context is important. Bikinis and beachwear are perfectly acceptable in the appropriate environment (but not in the city centre)
- Electricity: 220/240 volts AC 50Hz. Socket type is square three-pin 13 amp (as used in the UK). All hotels are able to supply suitable adaptors as required.
- Food & Drink: Every type of regional and international cuisine is available in Abu Dhabi, but pork products are prohibited by Islam. Alcohol is available in hotels and certain clubs, but not elsewhere. Tap water is safe and bottled water easily available.
- Getting There: Abu Dhabi International Airport is some 7 hours from Western Europe and 10 hours from the Far East. Currently undergoing a massive expansion project, it offers a full range of services including an award-winning Duty Free operation, VIP meet and assist service, car hire desks and efficient city transfers by taxi, shuttle bus or hotel limousine. Abu Dhabi is home base to Etihad Airways, one of the world’s fastest growing carriers. A total of some 50 airlines link the emirate to all quarters of the globe. Al Ain, the emirate’s second city, also has a modern
international airport, which mainly serves regional destinations.
- Getting Around: Apart from organised tours, most visitors rely on taxis in the urban areas. These are plentiful, inexpensive and can be flagged down at the roadside. Al Ghazal, NTC and Fast Cars run fleets of more upmarket vehicles that can be booked in advance. Bus services link Abu Dhabi with Al Ain and Dubai and there is a shuttle from the city centre to the airport. There are many reputable car hire companies (including well known international names) with offices around Abu Dhabi and Al Ain and/or at the airport. Car hire may also be arranged via the hotels.
- Health: No health certificate or special immunizations are required, unless you have visited a country infected by cholera or yellow fever within 14 days prior to arrival. The quality of healthcare in Abu Dhabi is high and most common medications and health products are available from local pharmacies, often without a prescription.
- Language: The official language is Arabic, but English is widely spoken and understood. A wide range of European languages are spoken within the hospitality industry.
- Money, Currency and Credit Cards: The UAE Dirham is linked to the US dollar at a rate of around US$1 to Dhs.3.67. There are no exchange restrictions and the currency is freely convertible. Abu Dhabi has an extensive network of local and international banks, as well as many specialist foreign exchange outlets which offer the most competitive rates. All major credit cards are accepted, though cash may secure better bargains in the smaller shops.
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Newspapers & TV
There are three daily English language newspapers: Gulf News, The Khaleej Times and Gulf Today. Some international newspapers and magazines are available in hotel bookshops and supermarkets. Most major hotels offer a range of satellite TV channels. Local channels also have English-language broadcasts.
Passport & Visa Requirements
Citizens of most developed countries, including Western Europe, North America, Australasia, Japan etc, are granted free visit visas on arrival. Holders of passports from other countries must secure visas through a UAE-based sponsor, such as a hotel or business contact, prior to travel. Passports must be valid for a minimum of 6 month from date of arrival.
Photography
Photography of military installations, government buildings, police facilities, airports and other sensitive locations is prohibited.
Photography of local women without their permission is not permitted.
Religion
The UAE is an Islamic country and Islam plays an integral role in the life of its citizens. Prayers take place five times per day. The dates of the Holy Month of Ramadan and other Islamic festivals depend on the lunar calendar and move back by about eleven days per year. During Ramadan, visitors should refrain from eating, drinking and smoking in public during daylight hours. Hotels cater to their non-Muslim guests by opening restaurants not exposed to public view. Other religions are respected and Abu Dhabi’s cosmopolitan population support many places of worship, including Christian churches.
Safety
Abu Dhabi benefits from one of the lowest crime rates in the world. It is a safe destination enjoying political stability. Normal precautions should be observed.
Telecommunications
Staying in touch is easy. Telecommunications provided by the state owned Etisalat are excellent. Mobile phone reception is generally good in the main population centers. Most major hotels offer in-room high speed internet connections in addition to well equipped business centers.
Time Difference
GMT + 4 hours.
Tipping
Hotel restaurants add a 16% service charge to the menu tariff which is incorporated into the customer’s bill. An additional small tip will be greatly appreciated, but is optional. Outside hotels10% is adequate. Taxi drivers do not expect a tip, but will be pleased to keep any change.
Women Visitors
Female visitors, whether travelling alone or in a group, experience no special restrictions of dress or behaviour in day-to-day life in Abu Dhabi. Women play a full and active part in the life of the country and foreign women visitors can be assured they will be readily accepted and welcomed.
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