Abu Dhabi

Introduction

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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.

Sights and Activities

• Corniche - The coastal road has been developed as a beautiful walkway and the Corniche of the 1990s has expanded to a grandiose level today but still remains one of the favourite spots for residents to unwind.
• Emirates Palace Hotel is a grandiose establishment that is a must-see for visitors, if only for its vanity.
• Futaisi Island - This island is owned by the ruling family of Abu Dhabi and visitors are allowed only by invitation. It is a lovely private island with accommodation facilities for visitors, great food, safari rides amongst the dunes and the orchards as well as with access to a pool merging with the sea. A great experience if one is lucky enough to be invited.
• Al Ain camel market is a great local place for catching a glimpse of the vanishing Bedouin culture.
• Abu Dhabi Ice rink is located at the Zayed Sports City and is one of the most popular hangout places for schoolgoers. A very interesting experience indeed to skate on ice in the middle of the desert.
• Hili Fun city - a kid's and the kid in the adult's wonderland with exciting rides and games.
• Iranian souk - While Dubai is the mall paradise of the United Arab Emirates and for those looking to spend big, Abu Dhabi's Iranian souk is the paradise for bargain hunter and the one interested in traditional souks.
• Ferrari World is a newly opened theme park on Yas Island. It is the world's largest indoor theme park and claims the world's fastest roller-coaster ride. Naturally enough the cars on this roller-coaster are Ferraris. General admission tickets are AED 225, which is equivalent to US$61.

Events and Festivals

Red Bull Air Race in February and the Abu Dhabi/Etihad Formula One race in November.

Weather

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 °C 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.

Getting There

By Plane

Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) is the gateway to the city and 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.
Etihad Airways provides bus coaches between Dubai and Abu Dhabi International Airport for Etihad customers. Taxis are available for transport into Abu Dhabi centre.
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 has opened in 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.

By Train

There are no trains within the United Arab Emirates.

By Car

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.

By Bus

Buses link Abu Dhabi with the main cities and emirates, including Al Ain and Dubai.

Getting Around

By Car

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.

By Public Transport

Cheap, but crowded and unreliable buses. Get a cab instead.

By Foot

The city is compact and pedestrian-friendly, but in the summermonths the heat and humidity will have you hailing an airconditioned cab within minutes.

By Bike

Not recommended unless well out of the city. Even then the erratic driving habits here will put you at risk.

Eat

Abu Dhabi is home to scrumptious Arabic food. One can find small cafes and Lebanese eateries all over the city, where you can try out delicious kebabs with freshly baked Arabic bread called khaboos. One can enjoy a tasty snack of shawarma (shredded chicken pieces with a melange of sauces in a khaboos roll) and a fresh juice for less than Dhs.10. For vegetarians there's an option of filafill sandwiches (deep fried chick pea cutlets). One can enjoy a variety of international fast foods at malls or at the various outlets all over the city.

Sleep

Mid-Range

• 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.

Keep Connected

Phone

See also International Telephone Calls

External Links

• Abu Dhabi Governmental Website