Abu Dhabi

The emirate of Abu Dhabi is located between the azure waters of the Gulf and the dramatic drifting dunes of the largest sand desert on the planet. While still in the shadow of its more ostentatious neighbour Dubai in terms of tourism, Abu Dhabi’s more relaxed atmosphere, combined with its stunning beaches, luxury hotels, fine desert scenery, and vibrant cultural and sporting scene, is increasingly making it a notable destination in its own right.

Foremost among Abu Dhabi’s attractions is the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Mosque – an architectural masterpiece. Nearby, on Abu Dhabi’s impressive skyscraper-lined corniche, is the iconic Capital Gate Tower which leans at a gravity-defying 18°. A photo-stop outside the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental – the second most expensive hotel ever built – is a must on any tour of Abu Dhabi, though to capture the best views, you will need to take the lift up to the Observation Deck at 300 within the landmark Etihad Towers.

A visit to Qasr Al Watan, the UAE’s ceremonial presidential palace, will reveal jaw-dropping Arabian interiors. Every evening the Palace in Motion light show at the Qasr Al Watan presidential palace presents a magical spectacle. History buffs visiting Abu Dhabi will want to include a visit to the city’s whitewashed Al Husn Fort and to the Founders Memorial, which is dedicated to the memory of Sheikh Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE’s founding father. Within easy striking distance of Abu Dhabi is Saadiyat Island with its superb beaches and golf course. The vision for the future of the island (which is being developed into a major cultural hub complete with the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Guggenheim museums) can be seen at the Manarat Al Saadiyat complex.

Across the causeway, Yas Island is a major entertainment zone complete with a Formula One racetrack, golf links, Ferrari World theme park, and Yas Island Waterpark. For a deeper insight into the traditional culture of Abu Dhabi a visit to the Falcon Hospital, Zayed Centre is recommended. Another possibility is to visit Al Ain with its camel market, forts, oases, and archaeological park. Inland, the Rub Al Khali (Empty Quarter) offers the finest desert scenery in the UAE and the prospect of a wide range of desert pursuits at the luxurious Arabian Nights style Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort & Spa in the Liwa Oasis. Further to the West, on pristine Sir Bani Yas Island, you’ll be able to take a walk on the wild side among thousands of free-roaming animals, including ostrich, giraffe, and oryx.