Abu Dhabi is a relative newcomer to the world, having only been created within the last fifty years. This small island nation is situated prettily in the Persian Gulf and is skirted by a series of smaller islands.
Things to See and Do
At the Petroleum Exhibition, visitors can learn about Abu Dhabi's fast evolution from Middle Eastern oasis to world-class metropolis in English, French and German. Using old photographs, video footage and interactive displays, this is definitely the best place to get a potted history of this tiny oil-rich state.
The nearby Heritage Village is a slice of pre-oil wealth Abu Dhabi history. The area was traditionally populated by the Bedouin people and this friendly, nomadic group's ways are highlighted here, including the ever-popular falconry, in which these winged predators are used to hunt, as well as camel-riding lessons.
Another step back in time in the Old Souk. This marketplace is a living piece of history, and a great chance to polish your haggling skills. Here is the chance to buy traditional-style tapestries, clothes and other artifacts, often handmade by local artisans. The Women's Craft Center (off Airport Road) is a chance to see how some of these artifacts are made, in a government-sponsored initiative to support women entrepreneurs in Abu Dhabi.
Corniche Boulevard
One of the prettiest ways to spend an afternoon in Abu Dhabi is to relax on the Corniche Boulevard near Breakwater Point. The breakwater protects Abu Dhabi from high seas, and the boulevard threads its way through parklands and gardens, leading visitors to some of the areas best entertainment venues, and the view of the city from the point is the best there is, especially at night.
One of the most notable pieces of architecture in Abu Dhabi is the Qasr Al Hosn (or White Fort). Built at the end of the eighteenth century as a royal residence, it is an exquisitely designed building, with intricate tile work in the courtyard and main entrance.
Off the Beaten Path
Getting off the beaten path in Abu Dhabi involves a visit to one of the outer islands. Futaisi Island covers around fifty square kilometers, with only a tiny fraction of this having been developed. Predominantly a nature reserve, it is the perfect place to see gazelles and ospreys in their natural habitats. There is a mud brick fortress on Futaisi, which is regularly used for banquets and other large events, and visitors are able to see the island from the back of pure-bred Arab horses, or even camel.
Liwa Oasis is about five hours from Abu Dhabi, and is a tranquil side trip. Home to the Bedu people, Liwa is a gentle combination of warm breezes, freshwater pools and date palms, ideal for those seeking a respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Hotels
Abu Dhabi is a small, yet exceedingly prosperous area, so budget accommodation is almost impossible to find. Average hotel rooms range from $170 per night to over $1000 per night in some of the more luxurious suites. A standard price is around $230 per night for a room shared by two people.
Use the Hotelsio Rate Finder on the left to find cheap hotels in Abu Dhabi.
(Photo:©iStockPhoto.com/Lingbeek)
