With the oil predicted to run out sometime after 2100 AD, you’d forgive Abu Dhabi for wanting to just sit pretty and count the money. But this attractive, green and distinctly Arab city just appears to be hitting its stride. While not as cosmopolitan or as sophisticated as Dubai, Abu Dhabi also lacks traffic jams and the poseurs that plague its neighbour, making it a much more liveable city if you don’t crave clubbing. After closely watching Dubai's phenomenal growth, Abu Dhabi has chosen its development projects wisely, and while the laid-back feel might eventually change, the local Emirati flavour of the capital appears certain to remain.
The emirate of Abu Dhabi is huge by comparison to the other emirates, comprising almost 87% of the country’s total area. Just as 50 years ago Abu Dhabi was little more than a fishing village comprising a fort, a few coral buildings and a smattering ofbarasti huts, the rest of the emirate is very ‘Arabian Sands’ with its enigmatic empty desert, dotted with oases such as Al-Ain and Liwa. While the ruling Al-Nahyan family may have become rich from what lies beneath, you get the sense that their connection to the desert and the sea is something that remains more important than petrodollars.
If you are looking for luxury, shopping malls and streets crowded with tourists combined with culture and beautiful beaches, Abu Dhabi is your next destination. This is one of the most expensive cities in the world. Not more expensive than Dubai, however. But it does not mean that it is less of an attraction. There are so many interesting things in Abu Dhabi and a prove of its rising popularity is the growing number of tourists coming here. Hotels in Abu Dhabi are prestigious and usually offer a lot more than comfort. Prices range, but they are definitely lower compared to Dubai. Most of the hotels have exclusive private beaches.
Tourism in Abu Dhabi is not based on beaches only. The more you move around the more tourist spots you discover. Abu Dhabi can be a great place for you, no matter who are you travelling with. It provides a lot of fun for you and your friends, relaxation for you romantic getaway or quality time for your family. Prepare to be amazed by the numerous little wonders. Buildings that stretch all up to the sky and stunning statues. Fountains are simply marvelous with light shows and breathtaking synchronization of spouts.
Museums are worth a whole day visit and there you will find a wide range of artifacts and works of art. For the youngest, there are lots of playgrounds which guarantee hours of amusement while parents can relax in some of the green areas and enjoy the fresh air. Another thing that you should not miss are the Lulu Islands, a brilliant creation, made by man not nature. If you are feeling like splurging yourselves, you are at the best place possible. Abu Dhabi is a city the of high life standard, so at least for once in your life, afford to be part of 'the other half'. You will not regret it.
If you are flying to Abu Dhabi, you should know that Etihad Airways is the official UAE airlines. In 2011 they promoted a marketing campaign to attract even more tourists. In fact, what they are trying to do is to make Abu Dhabi a top tourist destination, a plan which seems to be working for now. Etihad travelers can use their boarding pass to get various discounts and special offers in the first seven days upon arrival. Abu Dhabi International Airport is the second largest airport in the region following Dubai.
Tipping is not usual in here, it can even be considered rude, so if you want to act friendly just remember to show how grateful you are and you might make a few new acquaintances. You should also avoid walking on foot. The temperatures can be extremely high in summer and even locals who are used to the heat choose to stay away from the scorching sun. Abu Dhabi is a trend among travelers today. If you want to keep up with the modern tourists, book your trip to Abu Dhabi now. See where black gold comes from and walk the streets that sheiks pave with precious gems. Feel the extravagance and magic of the Arabic world.
Abu Dhabi map
