Travel Guide > Middle East > United Arab Emirates > Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi (أبو ظبي) is the capital of the United Arab Emirates but not the largest city, which is Dubai. Still the city has about 1 million inhabitants of which 80% are expats! Compared to the latter, it also moves at a relatively slower pace. The government seat is here and thus it is the political heart of the country. People have been living here since several thousands of years ago. Nowadays it is a lively city in the central northern part of the country, along the coast of the Persian Gulf. Many people visiting the United Arab Emirates overlook this city and favour to spend time in Dubai or other places which cater to package tourists.
Red Bull air race in February and the inaugural Abu Dhabi/Etihad Formula One race in November 2009.
Weather in Abu Dhabi generally is warm to hot and dry. The hottest months are between June and September when temperatures can rise up to 45 degrees Celsius or even more. Humidity can be high as well, although this mainly applies to the coastal areas. Still, the best times to visit are from October to April with warm and dry conditions, although some rainshowers are possible during the wintermonths.
Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) is the gateway to the city and also also the main base of the flag carrier, Etihad Airways. Etihad Airways has flights to many major cities in Europe, Asia and even further away to Sydney and New York.
Low-cost carrier AirAsia X connects Abu Dhabi with Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from November 2009.
The current Abu Dhabi airport was built in the 70's and although unique in a quaint sort of way, it's showing it's age.
The new terminal 3 is due to open in early 2009 and should provide a better experience. A midfield terminal is under construction and is slated to open around 2012 and will be a world class international facility with a 22 million passenger per year capacity.
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Excellent roads lead in all directions, which are northeast to Dubai, west towards the border with Saudi Arabia and south to several oasis in the desert.
Top notch intercity highways, but driving in the city is a nightmare. There are many cultures and driving styles and they all are aggressive. Picture Manhattan on steroids. Even if you get to your destination unscathed, parking is almost non-existent.
Cheap, but crowded and unreliable busses. Get a cab instead.
City is compact and foot-friendly, but in the summermonths the heat and humidity will have you hailing an airconditioned cab within minutes.
Not recommended unless well out of the city. Even then the erratic driving habits here will put you at risk.
Golden Tulip Dalma Suites, formerly Dalma Center, offers self-catering suites and is on a central location in Sheikh Hamdan street close to the Iranian souk.
This is version 12. Last edited at 11:41 on Aug 19, 09 by Hien (+130). 21 articles link to this page.

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