Top 50 Things to Do in Abu Dhabi
Transcript of Top 50 Things to Do in Abu Dhabi
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1Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque AnArchitectural & Islamic MarvelThe construction of Sheikh Zayed Mosque (named after the late
Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan) is one of the largest in the
world and is a truly international architectural masterpiece. It is
home to the worlds largest hand-made carpet, designed by
Iranian artist Ali Khaliqi and woven by more than 200 workers
who spent 12 months completing the spectacular piece of ar t in
28 different colours. The Sheikh Zayed Mosque is a magnificent
addition to Islamic architectural splendour and is a landmark in
the United Arab Emirates and the whole region. The main prayer
hall, under three large domes, can accommodate over 6,000
worshippers and the whole mosque ca n accommodate 40,000
worshippers. Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority conducts guided tours
of the mosque. The tours are largely conducted by fully trained
UAE National guides and are an excellent platform for cultural
and religious understanding. The tour includes an overview of the
magnificent architecture with an explanation of the construction
and the religion it celebrates, and gives v isitors the opportunity to
ask questions of their guides. The tour is one of the most
worthwhile cultural experiences in Abu Dhabi and visitors gain a
unique insight into the Islamic religion and culture of the UAE.For further information, log on to www.visitabudhabi.ae and
check out What to Do/Art & Culture/ Mosques & Other Places of
Worship/Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque.
2Take The Abu Dhabi Urbanism TourA metropolis that blends modernity and traditional Arabian
culture, Abu Dhabi is constantly reinventing itself. Striking glass
and steel skylines intertwine with a city full of mosques, cultural
centres and luxury hotels. Wide roads lined with palm trees and
green boulevards pave the way through a sleek glass jungle,
overpassing roundabouts of concrete traditional Arabic artefact
replicas. The tour will also highlight the eight iconic architectura l
landmarks being built on Saadiyat Island, poised to become an
international cultural hub for the Middle East. So dont miss out
on the Cultural District Exhibition where there are models and
explanations of all the designs, such as the Guggenheim Abu
Dhabi Museum and Louvre Abu Dhabi to name a few, giving you
an insight into the c itys visionary future. For reservations, log on
to www.visitabudhabi.ae and check out the Practical Information
for Tour Operators section.
3Explore Abu Dhabi CityA city tour of Abu Dhabi is an excellent way of taking in the
capitals main attractions in air-conditioned comfort. During the
tour you will be fascinated by the citys unique blend of east and
west, ancient and modern. Highlights may include a dr ive along
the spectacular Corniche on to the tip of the Breakwater for a
superb view of the magnificent skyline. You could also visit the
Heritage Village to see the culture and crafts of the region and
experience the more traditional way of life, prior to the discovery
of oil. You can explore the city on your own, or for reservations
log on to www.visitabudhabi.ae and check out the Practical
Information for Tour Operators section.
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8Drop By The Arabian Saluki CentreThe saluki is considered one of the worlds oldest and purest dog
breeds. Otherwise known as the gazelle hound, salukis were used
for hunting and have always been highly prized by local Bedouins
for their exceptional stamina, intelligence and loyalty. In 2001, the
Saluki Centre was established to honour, maintain and develop
Arabian customs and traditions, while also serving as a guiding
beacon to saluki breeders across the world. Centre visitors learn
all about the breed and spend a lovely afternoon with hounds
known by the Bedouins as Wind Drinker, Daughter of the Tent,Son of the Desert and Desert Eye. For more information and
booking, log on to www.arabiansaluki.ae.
9Learn Emirati Customs With The LocalsThe UAE is a young and vibrant nation. The people of Abu Dhabi
are proud of their ancestors, who worked hard under the harsh
desert environment to cater for their families and community.
Emiratis take pride in the big strides made under the leadership of
the late UAE President and Ruler of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Zayed Bin
Sultan Al Nahyan. Emiratis are well educated, widely travelled
and well versed in English. Living up to old Arab traditions and
customs, Nationals are hospitable, friendly and like to share their
culture with visitors. For visitors interested in meeting andsocialising with locals and gaining first-hand knowledge of their
customs, nature, thoughts or way of life, this is a unique
opportunity. Embrace Arabia is a specialised company that
provides seminars and training programmes on communication in
diverse and multicultural communities.
For further information log on to www.visitabudhabi.ae and
check out What to Do/Meet the Locals, or contact Abu Dhabi
Tourism Authority and Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and
Heritage. See also www.adach.ae and www.embracearabia.com.
10Pamper Yourself With A LuxuriousSpa TreatmentExperience a world of pampering delights where you are spoiled
for choice. CHI The Spa, at Shangri-La, offers distinctive luxury
and indulgence with 12 spacious private treatment rooms offering
total comfort to stimulate the senses, relax the body and restore
balance to the spirit with authentic chi therapy methods. The
Anantara Spa at Emirates Palace blends Middle Eastern opulence
with Asian elegance and treats guests to an unsurpassed
experience of luxury, serenity and wellness. The spa features sevenstunning rooms and suites and an elaborate and exclusive
Moroccan-style hammam where luxury is paramount. The Beach
Rotana Hotel & Towers features the all-new Zen spa catering to a
unique, holistic philosophy that is a retreat for body, mind and
spirit. For further information and a full listing of spas and salons
in Abu Dhabi, log on to www.visitabudhabi.ae and check out What
to Do/Beauty & Wellness.
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11A Night Of Equestrian ExcitementHorses have always played a central role in traditional life in
Arabia, but contemporary horse racing, with local jockeys as well
as top jockeys from overseas, has taken off dramatically over the
past decade. Up to 16 race meetings are held from November to
April each year, including The Presidents Cup, National Cup Day
and Emirates Championship. Originally founded as a riding club
by the late UAE president and ruler of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed
Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, in 1976, the grass-surfaced racetrack was
laid down in 1980, with open racing beginning in 1991. The clubhas been completely modernised and includes a state-of-the-art
5,000 seat grandstand, which features corporate hospitality boxes
and VIP suites. If you are in the mood for electrifying horse races,
you will be escorted from your hotel in the late afternoon to the
exclusive Abu Dhabi Golf & Equestrian Club for an evening of
horse racing and a sumptuous barbecue dinner. For more
information log on to www.adec-web.com.
12Horse Riding In Abu DhabiAs you might expect from a country enamoured with all things
equine, recreational riding is well catered for in the UAE. Lessons
suitable for all abilities are available and desert rides are popular
for the more experienced. The riding club at Abu Dhabi Equestrian
Club has horses suitable for a wide range of abilities. Facilities
include extensive stables and an air-conditioned show jumping and
riding arena. For further information log on to www.adec-web.com.
13Journey Back In TimeA visit to Abu Dhabi is i ncomplete without dropping by the
charming Heritage Village, which overlooks the Corniche near
Abu Dhabis Breakwater. Featuring a reconstruction of the old
well and irrigation system, mud-brick houses, old fishing villages
and souks (bazaars), the Heritage Village has several workshops
that showcase old-fashioned metal work, pottery and weaving
(craftsmen occasionally let visitors try their hand on such skills).
A spice shop within the enclosure treats the visitors culinary
senses and a mini-museum featuring artefacts such as divingtools, jewellery, weapons and coffee pots, a mong others, rounds
up the Heritage Village experience. For further information, log on
to www.visitabudhabi.ae and check out What to Do/Landmarks &
Archaeological Sites.
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14Camp In The DesertA thrill-filled desert safari topped by a night in the desert is a
delight. Photo opportunities present themselves at every t wist
and turn; the first stop is at a ca mel farm, then its on into the
desert, with its endlessly changing views, before finally setting up
camp among the vast dunes. At dawn your wake-up call is
marked with a hearty breakfast before you head for the highest
dunes to try sand skiing. For reservations, log on to www.
visitabudhabi.ae and check out the Practical Information for Tour
Operators section.
15Exhilarating Desert SunsetTo experience the stark beauty of the desert and a kaleidoscope
of sunset colours, select an afternoon safari which includes dune
bashing in a 4x4 on the way to a traditional desert campsite. You
could go on a camel ride, try sand boarding or sand skiing and
then relax on carpets and cushions, savouring a delicious meal
while basking in the sunset glow before rounding off anenchanting evening under the stars with a shisha. For
reservations, log on to www.visitabudhabi.ae and check out the
Practical Information for Tour Operators section.
16Discover The World Of FalconryFalconry is one of Arabias ancient sports and it is an integral part of
a deeply rooted heritage dating back hundreds of years. This sport,
known locally as sniping, represents an important part of the
civilisation and heritage of Abu Dhabi, which is celebrated for its
conservationist efforts. Groups can tour the Abu Dhabi Falcon
Hospital, established in 1999, as the worlds first public institution
providing comprehensive veterinary healthcare services exclusively
for falcons. The world-renowned facility gives visitors an
unforgettable insight into the fascinating world of falcons andfalconry. For further information log on to www.falconhospital.com.
17Watch Camel Racing At Al WathbaRacetrackCamel racing is one of Abu Dhabis main tourist attractions (aside
from beaches, adventure islands, museums and more). Camel
racing can be considered one of the worlds more spectacular
sporting experiences. The races are a highlight for sportsenthusiasts during winter, and are usually held on Thursday and
Friday mornings. For further information, log on to www.
visitabudhabi.ae and see What to Do/Sports/Traditional Sports.
18Spend A Leisurely Afternoon On TheAbu Dhabi CornicheA long and graceful sweep of promenade backed by
architecturally-impressive, 21st century buildings, the Abu Dhabi
Corniche is an enviable address. A walk along the Corniche
through its attractive gardens a nd past its fountains is a favourite
activity for residents and visitors ali ke and the best way to absorb
the citys modern atmosphere. So whether you are in the mood for
a run, a bike ride, a picnic or just a simple stroll, this is the perfect
spot for a memorable afternoon of leisure. For furtherinformation, log on to w ww.visitabudhabi.ae and check out What
to Do/Unique Things To Do, or call F un Ride Sports on +971 2 673
4701 or +971 50 614 6484.
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19BirdwatchingAt the forefront of all conservationist efforts, Abu Dhabi is home to
more than 220 species of birds that depend on the wetlands across
the emirate either for resting, feeding or breeding. The Al Wathba
Wetland Reserve is a protected area managed by the Environment
Agency. This sanctuary is unique as it uses water from the nearby
Mafraq wastewater treatment plant to maintain a suitable habitat
for the wealth of wildlife that calls Al Wathba home. You can also
visit the interpretative raised mangrove walk at Al Sammaliah
Island for great birdwatching, while there is a chance to learnabout turtles at the islands turtle sanctuary. For fur ther
information log on to w ww.ead.ae.
20In The Lap Of Luxury At Emirates PalaceA truly palatial landmark, this luxury hotel exudes mystique and
majesty and is known for its excellent services as well. It is a
wonder to behold for all who venture through its magnificent
gates. Breathe the air of luxury that fills every corner of this
serene paradise and experience the ser vices and excellent
international cuisine of renowned chefs who will tempt your
palates with mouthwatering dishes. For further information log
on to www.emiratespalace.com.
21Blazing TraditionHeld under the patronage of HH Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Al
Nahyan, deputy prime minister and chairman of the Emirates
Falconers Club, the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and
Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) is a national event that showcases
camel and horse auctions, saluki beauty contests, art competitions
and traditional hunting activities. Visitors have the opportunity to
buy the latest camping, hunting, equestrian and weaponryequipment, as well as seeing a designated heritage area to acquaint
visitors with the deeply rooted traditions of Abu Dhabi and the
UAE. For further information log on to www.adihex2008.com.
22Visit The Abu Dhabi Cultural FoundationAnd Al Hosn FortJust beside Qasr al Hosn the old palace in the centre of the city
the foundation is housed in a delightful modern building of
Islamic design with arching white colonnades, cool courtyards
and restful gardens. The Cultural Foundation has an important
library, theatre, cinema, lecture rooms, meeting rooms, an
exhibition centre and coffee shop. The centre hosts numerous
cultural events, including concerts with international and local
artists, classic fil m festivals, art exhibitions and workshopsthroughout the year. Qasr al Hosn is the oldest historic building
in Abu Dhabi and reflects the history and accomplishments of the
Al Nahyan family, which has ru led Abu Dhabi without
interruption since the 18th century. Qasr al Hosn remains the
most important historic monument in Abu Dhabi. The palace is
currently undergoing an ambitious renovation programme that is
scheduled for completion in 2009, when the site will be fully
accessible as the nations prime memorial. For f urther
information, log on to w ww.visitabudhabi.ae and check out What
to Do/Landmarks & Archaeological Sites, or to www.adach.ae,
Abu Dhabi Authority of Cultu re & Heritages website.
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23Visit Al Jimi Oasis WatchtowersAl Jimi oasis, in Al Ain, has been far med for centuries and, in
addition to thousands of date palms, features large native trees,
such as the sidr (zizyphus spinachristi) and ghaf (prosopis
cineraria), and plants cultivated for medicinal properties. The
restoration of over a dozen buildings within the oasis provides an
insight into the agricultural and administrative importance of this
area from the early 18th century. A little to the south is Sheikh
Ahmad Bin Hilal Al Dhaheris watchtower. This 14-metre high
tower was built to defend several villages and frustrate attempts tocut off their water supply. The landscape of Al Jimi oasis has
changed very little and is made up of many working farms, where
workers still engage in traditional agricultural practices, including
the pollination of date palms. For further information log on to
www.adach.ae and explore the heritage section.
24On The Shooting RangeThe Caracal Shooting Club is one of the most modern facilities of
its kind with state-of-the-art technology, The club comprises a 10
metre shooting range with a two screen laser shooting virtual
system, where up to four people can engage one of numerous
scenarios or virtual ta rgets. The 10 metre range can be turned
into a normal firing range and used by up to six people. The
second range is adjustable from 10 up to 25 metres with six lanes.
The Caracal Shooting Club sets the standard for excellence,
immersing visitors in an unforgettable experience. For furtherinformation log on to www.caracal.ae.
25Mangrove MagicHire a kayak and paddle gently through Abu Dhabis natural
floating mangrove forests a world away from the hustle and
bustle of the city. Take a day trip with an environment expert to
increase your awareness and knowledge of the natural beauty of
Abu Dhabis beautiful, watery oasis. For further informationcontact Don Revis on +971 50 542 0820.
26Womens Handicraft CentreAt the Womens Handicraft Centre, women sit in groups and work
together displaying their skill and talent. Visitors get actual
glimpses of saddu, tex tile weaving, embroidering, basket weaving,
palm tree frond weaving and tailoring as well. Camel bags, ethnic
costumes and other traditional craft items can be bought. They
also exhibit essential Arabian oils, incense, local dress and
handmade crafts and treat female visitors to the famous
traditional art of henna body painting. For further information,
log on to www.visitabudhabi.ae and check out What to Do/Landmarks & Archaeological Sites.
27Al Mezyad FortAl Mezyad Fort dates back to the 19th century and is adjacent to a
palm plantation surrounded on three sides by palm tree groves.
The eastern flank provides a commanding view over a broad plain
that would have given the forts defenders early warning of any
threat from hostile tribes. It is one of the largest and most heavilyfortified buildings in the Al Ain region and guarded by high
watchtowers at each of its four corners. Gun openings punctuate
the walls at regular intervals. More than 40 rooms face inwards
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and provided accommodation and storerooms for a sizeable
military force, as well as serving as a safe haven for local people in
times of danger and as a centre for communal gatherings. The fort
is about 4km from the Customs Post on the Omani border
south-west of Mezyad village, approximately 25km south of Al Ain.
For further information log on to www.adach.ae and explore the
heritage section.
28Delma Museum & MosquesFor centuries, Delma Island was an important pearl trading centreand its shoreline was lined with markets. Lying approximately 30
kilometres off Abu Dhabis coast, it is surprisingly green, with
extensive vegetable fields and fruit orchards. Plentiful fresh water
supplies have encouraged human occupation of the island since
the Stone Age, approximately 7,000 years ago, and a profile of the
lifestyle of its early inhabitants has been pieced together from
archaeological excavations. Delma Island beca me an important
centre at the height of the pearl trade. It was also reputed to have
over 200 wells and actually supplied water to Abu Dhabi island
until the 1950s. The Al Muraykhi House Museum was formerly the
house of a pearl merchant, Muhammad Bin Jasim al Muraykhi. It
dates from 1931 and contains an exhibition of local finds,including an interesting collection of British and Indian currency
in use during the 19th and early 20th centuries when the pearl
industry was at its height. The three Delma mosques, Al Muraykhi,
Al Dawsari and Al Muhannadi, differ in size but share a number of
common features. They are similar in plan, layout, design and
decoration. Their pier-and-panel construction is pierced by a
number of windows and supplemented by a barjeel, or wind tower,
to provide as much ventilation as possible. Delma Island can be
reached by hydrofoil (foot passengers only) or car ferry, from the
Delma Jetty at Jebel Dhanna, near Ruwais. Delma Museum is open
from 08:00 to 16:00 every day except Friday. Car ferry times: Jebel
Dhanna to Delma Island 14:00 and 17:00 daily; Delma Island to
Jebel Dhanna 07:00 and 15:00 daily. For further information log
on to www.adach.ae and explore the heritage section.
29Fly Over Abu Dhabi InA Private HelicopterThis is an unparalleled experience that spans the Corniche, Lulu
Island, Meena Zayed Port, Al Bateen, Emirates Palace, Saadiyat
Island, Sir Bani Yas Island, Futaisi Island a nd Reem Island. Falcon
Aviation Services will fly you in the lap of luxury to an alternative
view of the emirate you wont forget. For more information and
booking, log on to www.falconaviation.ae.
30Al Murabba FortIn the centre of Al Ain, this fort takes its name from the large,
rectangular, three-storey tower that dominates its low-walled
courtyard. The late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan ordered its
construction in 1948 and its original use was as a watchtower and
headquarters for the royal guards. It once formed the focal point of
the community as a venue for weddings, religious festivals such as
Ramadan and formal appointments. At times it was used as a
prison and a police station. At the street entrance, the multi-foil
arch has a traditionally constructed ceiling of date palm trunksand woven palm-frond matting. The newly constructed arish, or
palm branch hut, which can be seen to one side of the main tower
is an excellent example of traditional Emirati vernacular
architecture. For further information log on to www.adach.ae and
explore the heritage section.
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31Al Ain Eastern FortAl Ain has a number of restored forts, one of the finest examples
being the Eastern, or Sultan, Fort, adjacent to Al Ain Museum. It
was built almost a hundred years ago, in 1910. The fort has towers
at three of its corners, enabling defenders to protect the fort with
flanking fire, as well as housing store rooms for wheat and dates.
The forts triangular merlons and gun holes afforded protection to
archers or riflemen. The spacious inner courtyard is lined with
mastabas, or stone benches, covered with straw mats for comfort
from three sides. The Eastern Fort is on the edge of Al Ain Oasis,next to Zayed Bin Sultan Street. Opening times are Saturdays to
Thursdays 08:30 to 19:30, and Fridays 15:00 to 19:30. For further
information log on to www.adach.ae and explore the heritage
section.
32Go To The Camel MarketThe Al Ain Camel Market is famous throughout the country and
attracts breeders and buyers from all over the UAE. It has recently
been transferred to a new site on the Mezyad Road. The camels are
kept in a series of fenced paddocks according to their intended
use. Young camels, reared for meat, are separated from older
animals kept for breeding and milk. The lively, bustling market
provides an opportunity to hear traders extolling the merits of
their prized animals, discussing prices and negotiating sales. The
close relationship developed over many centuries between Arabsand their camels has given these extraordinary animals a special
place in the culture and heritage of the UAE. The Al Ain Camel
Market is open daily. For further information log on to www.
visitabudhabi.ae.
33Experience Al Ain Wildlife Park & ResortThe zoo, which hosts over 600 animals, has expanded and
improved visitor facilities. The new features include an extended
viewing area of the Mixed African animals, with the addition of
five South African white rhinos. This threatened species will be
part of a breeding programme. For the first time in the Middle East
these animals can be seen together at night when they are most
active. A special feature of the programme is the Night Bird Show,
the first of its kind. For further information log on to www.
alainwildlifepark.ae.
34Visit The Fish MarketFollow your nose for a fish frenzy at Abu Dhabis Dhow Wharf and
Fish Market. Boats unload their catch day and night and the air
rings with the shouts of market traders, fishermen and customers
shopping for their supper. You can glimpse the real old Abu Dhabi
here. Visitors can buy fish straight from the dhow fishermen, get it
cleaned there and then on the spot, and even have it charcoalgrilled in ex tremely hot ovens.
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35Al Hili WatchtowersThe main watchtower Sheikh Zayed Murabbaa was built at the
command of the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan and was
used by the Rulers Representative, whose role was to resolve any
disputes that might arise between local families. He also taught
the local children to read and write and versed them in the tenets
of Islam. Seebat Khalifa Bin Nhaya is a round tower with 1.75
metre thick walls, rising to a height of more than seven metres.
Like the adjacent Al Murabbaa tower, it has a single internal
space and a wooden staircase leading to the roof. Although builtby different patrons, both towers served the same purpose: to
protect the entrance to Hili Village and its important water
supply. Indeed, the towers played their part during the 1950s
clash known as the Hili Attack. In both towers, stone was used in
the foundations while the rest of the struct ure is of mud brick
with palm trunks and fronds. The Hili Watchtowers are to the
north-east of Al Ain, near the Hili Archaeological Park. For
further information log on to w ww.adach.ae and explore the
heritage section.
36The Marvel Of Jebel HafeetAnd Its TombsJebel Hafeet dominates Al Ain and Buraimi oases and straddles
the border between the UAE and Oman. The height rises to over
1,200 metres above sea level and its exposed geology makes it a
feature of considerable interest. The height is more famous for its
ancient remains and archaeology. Approximately 5,000 years ago,
the areas early inhabitants chose Jebel Hafeets northern
escarpment and eastern slopes as burial grounds, and over 500
tombs have been found in these two areas. Hafeet graves, alsocalled Mezyad graves (after the village near the eastern group),
are well known to archaeologists. While the majority of tombs
remain unexcavated, a restored group shows the various stages of
building, culminating in the completed bee-hive cairn design
typical of the area. The south-eastern area can only be reached in
a 4x4 vehicle but a modern highway leads to the summit of Jebel
Hafeet. For furt her information log on to www.adach.ae and
explore the heritage section.
37Sir Bani Yas Island And The ArabianWildlife ParkImpressions of Sir Bani Yas Island depend upon your approach. A
boat crossing of the nar row stretch of water is dominated by sight
of the islands cone-shaped central salt domes, while an aerial
approach offers an entirely dif ferent view. Surrounded by a
glittering blue sea, the island stands out like a green emerald.
First impressions are of its serried ranks of trees covering almost
half its land, and, secondly, its obvious abundance of wildlife.
Specifically developed to preserve the Arabian oryx (gazelle), theisland, a former royal nature reserve, is now home to the Arabian
Wildlife Park, which houses a herd of more than 400 oryx one of
the worlds largest. Sir Bani Yas Island also houses to the boutique
five-star luxury Desert Islands Resort & Spa, which offers a range
of adventure activities including 4x4 tours of the A rabian Wildlife
Park, kayaking through mangroves, hiking and mountain biking,
and snorkelling in the marine-life rich, protected waters
surrounding the island. The resort offers a charter flight ser vice
from Abu Dhabi International Airport to a new airstrip and
terminal on Sir Ban i Yas Island. See www.visitabudhabi.ae or
www.desertislands.com.
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38Share The Excitement Of The First AbuDhabi Grand PrixThe first Formula 1
TM
Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will be
an unmissable event. It will also be the first race on Yas Marina
Circuit. The event will take place at the most beautiful, innovative
and luxurious motorsport circuit ever built. Yas Marina Circuit is
unique. It is the only circuit in the world where a 500 bedroom,
five-star hotel actually straddles the track. Yas Marina Hotel
guests will have access to the paddock via a purpose-built
footbridge and their own entrance to the circuit. For furtherinformation and reservation log on to www.yasmarinacircuit.ae or
www.formula1.com.
39Visit Al Ain National MuseumAl Ain National Museum, next to the Sultan or Eastern Fort, is the
UAEs oldest museum. It is divided into two main sections
Ethnographical and Archaeological and gives visitors an
overview of the countrys traditions and culture alongside themuch older story of the people who inhabited the area up to 8,000
years ago. Local and foreign archaeological teams, working in
collaboration with the former Department of Antiquities and
Tourism, now part of the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and
Heritage, constantly supply the museum with new information
that helps understand the nations ancestors and their way of life.
A separate exhibit explains the history and construction of the
falaj an ingenious system for managing water using
subterranean channels which was first introduced into the region
during the Iron Age. Opening times: Saturdays to Thursdays,
08:30 to 19:30; Fridays, 15:00 to 19:30. For further details log on
to www.adach.ae and explore the heritage section.
40Liwa Historic BuildingsNow accessible by an excellent road system, the area, andespecially Liwa, is of growing interest to visitors, attracted by itsdramatic landscapes and historic buildings. Most of these are
forts, built in the early 19th century by individual tribes to
maintain order and protect their territories. Settlements have
grown up around many of the structures but it is easy to imagine
how imposing their presence must have been at a time when no
other permanent buildings existed. Al Meel Fort is thought to have
been built during the reign of Sheikh Mohammad Bin Shakhboot
Bin Dhiab, who ruled between 1816 and 1818. The forts of Dhafeer,
Al Jabbanah, Maria Al Sharqiya and Muzeiraa were built besidewater sources and are now sur rounded by palm plantations.
Round watchtowers and high walls with gun holes at regular
intervals show that there was a real need for vigilance and strong
defences. By contrast, the unrestored Um Husn or Arrada Fort is
isolated and surrounded in all directions by sand dunes. Very little
is known of its history, although it is probably about 200 years old.
For further information log on to www.adach.ae and explore the
heritage section.
41Enjoy A Tour Through Al HiliArcheological GardensThe largest Bronze Age complex in the UAE, dating from the
3rd millennium BC, is at Hili in Al Ain. Parts of it have beenincorporated into Hili Archaeological Park, a landscaped
garden designed to highlight the archaeological remains and
make them accessible to the public. Other remains, i ncluding
settlements, tombs and an Iron Age falaj (an underground
system of water channels), are largely located in a protected
area outside the park. During the second half of the 3rd
millennium BC, the people of south-east Arabia lived in
houses of sun-dried mud brick and buried their dead in
collective graves built of stone. Examples of these structu res
are found at Hili and on the island of Umm an Nar. At Hili,
three tombs are inside the park and several others outside.
The Grand Tomb is over 4,000 years old and must originallyhave stood at least four metres above ground. It has four
interior chambers, each intended to house a number of
bodies. Evidence from other collective graves from the sa me
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Traditional sailing dhows
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period in the region indicates that hundreds of people were
buried here over a long period of time. Not far from the Grand
Tomb, another very much disturbed circular tomb was found.
Its original layout was reconstructed and found to comprise
six chambers. Opening times: daily from 10:00 to 13:00 (the
park is open only to famil ies from 16:00 to 23:00). For further
information log on to www.adach.ae and explore the heritage
section.
42Go On A Shopping Spree At The Malls InAbu DhabiShopping is one of the favourite pastimes in this part of the world
and the malls reflect this preoccupation. You are bound to find
something to buy, whether you are looking for the latest in luxury
goods or an inexpensive trinket to mark your visit to Abu Dhabi.
Most malls also have boutiques for local specialities such as
fragrances, national dress, dates and candies. For further
information log on to www.visitabudhabi.ae.
43Visit The Sheikh Zayed Palace MuseumConverted into a museum and opened to the public in 2001, the
Palace is an honest reflection of the countrys culture prior to its
dramatic development during the post-oil years. The original
structure comprised a private residence for the ruler and his family
within a complex of courtyards. The palace was Sheikh Zayeds
residence in Al Ain between 1937 and 1966. The simplicity of the
buildings combined with the cool, secluded gardens and the lush
green palm trees at the western edge of the Al Ain oasis, made a
deep impression upon all those who had journeyed through thesurrounding desert to reach it. The external courts each house a
different majlis or meeting room, where the sheikh could receive
local and foreign dignitaries. The areas set aside for local visitors
were furnished traditionally with floor cushions, while hospitality
was extended to foreigners in an area more in keeping with
western styles of f urniture. Separate womens quarters were
provided for the guests of the sheikhs wife. The practicality and
simplicity of the buildings, coupled with their colours and
textures, produce a pleasant and soothing effect. Opening times:
Saturdays to Thursdays, 08:30 to 19:30; Fridays, 15:00 to 19:30. For
further information log on to www.adach.ae and explore the
heritage section.
44Explore Qaryat Al Beri AtShangri-La Abu DhabiThe hotel, the first of its kind in this fast-evolving city, offers an
impressive variety of services and facilities, and exemplifies
luxurious hospitality in what is truly a destination within a
destination. Shangri-La Hotel, Abu Dhabi, is within the Qaryat Al
Beri complex that also includes CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La, the
Residences (161 serviced apartments) and The Villas. A second hotel
is planned within the project. Its souk (Arabian market) is built in a
modern setting with a variety of shops under one roof, which areconnected by a waterway featuring Arab gondolas, or abras, which
slowly meander through this unique architecture lush garden
scenery. For further information log on to www.shangri-la.com.
45Springs Of Green MubazzarahA string of new facilities has made Mubazzarah a prime recreation
centre, enabling tourists to spend an enjoyable time in the lush
green environment. New lodgings, shops and restaurants have
been set up at the park, which attracts visitors from all over the
UAE on weekends and holidays. Many visitors also come from
neighbouring Gulf countries. In the foothills of the towering Jebel
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Hafeet, Green Mubazzarah was one of the last projects monitored
personally by Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. For further
information log on to www.visitabudhabi.ae to get hotel listings in
Al Ain or Jebel Hafeet.
46Diving In The Amazing Gulf WatersThe waters of the UAE offer a range of diving and snorkelling to
suit all levels of experience. Dive the reefs and spectacular wrecks
along the Abu Dhabi coast where there is relatively little tidal
movement and currents are few in the shallow Gulf waters. Forfurther information log on to www.emiratesdiving.com. You can
also contact AB Divers, Le Meridien Beach Resort, Abu Dhabi;
Blue Dolphin Company, Hotel Intercontinental; Marina Divers, or
Scuba Sheraton, Sheraton Hotel.
47Go FishingThe Gulf waters are teeming with fish charter a boat and fish for
marlin, sailfish and barracuda, mackerel, tuna, jack and bonito.
September to April is the most productive period, although it is
possible to catch sailfish and kingfish in the hot summer months.
You can either bring your own gear or use equipment onboard.
Fishing charters can be tailored to your needs. Prices vary
considerably so it is wise to ring around. Beach or surf fishing is
also popular, especially along the Breakwater in Abu Dhabi. For
further information contact Blue Dolphin Company (+971 2
6669392, [email protected]) or Palms Resort at the Sheraton
Abu Dhabi (+971 2 6773333).
48Rev It Up In Al AinA brand new, state-of-the-art facility delivers high performance
karting at its very best. Voted one of the worlds top three go-karting circuits, Al Ain Raceways fully flood-lit track features three
distinctive configurations providing an exhilarating challenge for
drivers of all skill levels. Although a professional race track, Al Ain
Raceway is open to the general public for drivers to hone their
skills on top-of-the-line Intrepid rental karts. For more information
visit www.alainraceway.com or call +971 3 768 6662.
49Fun Afternoon SailingFor a truly wonderful experience you can watch traditional sailingdhows (graceful craft from an earlier age when great wooden
trading boats plied the Indian Ocean), or traditional longboats
powered by up to 100 oarsmen, race off the Abu Dhabi Corniche
and other venues throughout the Emirates. These events usually
coincide with one of the local festivals, especially National Day (2
December). For further information log on to www.adimsc.com.
50Get Your Teams In The Fast Lane WithThe Formula 1
TM
ChallengeAbu Dhabi is the most recent addition to the Formula 1
TM
calendar, with the season finale ta king place in November 2009.
Biz Events, the UAEs largest professional team building company,gives your group the opportunity to take part in your very own
Formula 1TM
Challenge, right here in Abu Dhabi. Teams ar e
provided with an unusual set of equipment including sheets of
cardboard, cardboard rolls, a wooden chassis, tape, tie-wraps,
cutting tools and the all-important blueprints.
Their challenge is to build a Formula 1TM
racing car that will
win the Grand Prix. This seemingly impossible challenge requires
commitment, resource allocation and quality control. A dynamic
and daring race concludes this unbelievable event.
The Formula 1TM
Challenge can be r un at many venues in Abu
Dhabi. For more information v isit www.biz-events.com/f1.php.
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