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What to See & Do

Dear Visitor, Whether you’re making your There is now much more than ever first trip to , or are on to see and do in Abu Dhabi at your a return visit, I hope you find in leisure. We have award-winning this guide a host of experiences to golf courses, luxury resorts in the engage and entertain you. , on the beach, in the and on island getaways – and many Abu Dhabi’s offering is have adventure activities to make intertwined with our rich culture your stay memorable. Of course and heritage and an increasingly we also have headline attractions flourishing local and regional – and more are on the way – and arts scene. It is an offering which an increasing number of tours and is constantly being refined and attractions. expanded with an underlying theme of delivering experiences This is a destination that will to enrich the lives of our residents intrigue, captivate and entice you and valued visitors alike. to return again and again. And, as the emirate’s event calendar is We in Abu Dhabi have been extensive and varied, you may well blessed with a geographic discover a major event is happening diversity that allows you to while you’re here or may have even explore natural islands, vast timed your trip with one of them. I , all the conveniences would advise you to register with and luxuries of a modern capital www.visitabudhabi.ae so that we can city, cooling oases and sweeping, keep you up-to-date with the many pristine beaches. happenings and developments in Here you will also find diversity this destination of distinction. in the cultural offering from UNESCO World Heritage Sites to award-winning and ground- Mubarak Al Muhairi breaking architectural icons. Director General Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority

OVERVIEW 1 Discover a Destination Apart 4 Ruling Family 5 Facts & Figures 8 Climate 9 Culture & Lifestyle 12 Getting Around 13 Useful Phrases 19 Money 20 Essential Info 21 Exploring Abu Dhabi 24 ABU DHABI 29 City Attractions 31 Experiences 39 Heritage 46 The Islands 51 Family 61 Sports & Recreation 63 Shopping 76 A Day Out 87

AL AIN 91 Attractions 93 Parks & Gardens 99

Heritage 100 Sports & Recreation 104 Shopping 108 A Day Out 109

AL GHARBIA 111 Attractions 113 Heritage 117 Sports & Recreation 117 A Day Out 119 ABU DHABI EVENTS 121 FOREIGN EMBASSIES IN UAE 131 INDEX 133 THE CORNICHE THE WHAT, WHERE & WHY OUR WAYFARER GUIDE OVERVIEW

A true destination of distinction, Abu Dhabi is developing at a significant rate while preserving, protecting and promoting its rich culture and its intriguing past. The emirate abounds with compelling heritage sites, engaging cultural and modern-day attractions and idyllic touches of luxury.

DISCOVER A DESTINATION APART

A relatively short time ago, Abu Dhabi emirate was little more than an empty, albeit beautiful, desert inhabited by nomadic tribes, with a sprinkling of around the more fertile oases. The economy was based around pearl diving, fishing and cultivation. Meaning ‘Father of the ’ in , Abu Dhabi was founded when a young led a wandering tribe to fresh water, on an island with no more than 300 palm (‘barasti’) huts, a few coral buildings and the Ruler’s fort. This simple island settlement has since been transformed into the modern, cosmopolitan city of Abu Dhabi and the high-rise capital of the United Arab . The discovery of oil in 1958 brought radical change to the emirate and its population, its revenue was wisely invested which led to a complete turnaround in Abu Dhabi’s fortunes. Thanks to this new found wealth and the strong leadership of the late UAE President and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, His Highness Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the emirate prospered and developed, with an infrastructure built virtually from scratch.

4 Growth While recognising the success of the Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi), oil sector, Abu Dhabi is working hard which operates a world-class hotel to reduce its reliance on hydrocarbons and hotel apartment classification and to broaden the emirate’s economy. system that ensures visitors’ Investment in infrastructure, tourism, accommodation expectations are transport, health and education is met. It also certifies and trains tourist ongoing and in line with the guides to deliver memorable and government’s 2030 plan. Tourism is informative guest experiences. Abu playing an integral role in this Dhabi also hosts many major economic transition, with the emirate international events, with a targeting 2.5 million hotel guests in significant number being initiated 2013. Major new attractions are being and organised by TCA Abu Dhabi. progressed along with luxury resorts, These include a PGA golf tournament, desert retreats and business hotels. a gourmet food festival, EidFests, a summer family carnival, heritage Tourism festivals and art exhibitions. With natural islands, more than 400 kilometres of pristine coastline, tranquil oases, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, modern cityscapes, RULING rocky, mountain-like heights, and awe-inspiring deserts, Abu Dhabi FAMILY offers a diversity of visitor experiences. The has ruled Abu It is also preserving and leveraging its Dhabi since 1793 and has transformed rich cultural heritage so that visitors the emirate into a modern society can share in a centuries-old history which maintains respect for its roots and its traditions, many of which and preserves its natural and cultural continue today. Visitors can tour heritage. The Ruler of Abu Dhabi is former palaces, forts, one of the His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin world’s largest mosques, renovated Zayed Al Nahyan, who is also the oases, desert camps and experience current UAE President. Sheikh Khalifa falconry, camel trekking and Arabia’s is ably supported by his brother, His famed hospitality. Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi’s attractions are equally Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme diverse. The emirate’s tourism Commander of the UAE Armed industry is managed, regulated and Forces. promoted by Abu Dhabi Tourism &

5 H.H. SHEIKH ZAYED BIN SULTAN AL NAHYAN ABU DHABI CITY FACTS & FIGURES With respect for its own culture and that of others underpinning Abu Dhabi´s character, the emirate is emerging as a global cultural hub.

Population Abu Dhabi is the largest and most populated of the seven emirates that make up the , with over 80% of its landmass. The emirate´s population, now over 1.6 million, is expected to reach 3 million by 2030. Across the UAE, Emirati citizens make up nearly 20% of the total population; the other 80% are expatriates from , Africa, , and North America.

Local Time The UAE is four hours ahead of UTC (Co-ordinated Universal Time -formerly known as GMT) and there is no daylight saving. Hence, when it is 12.00 midday in Abu Dhabi, it is 3am in New York, 8am in London, 10am in Johannesburg, 1.30pm in New Delhi, and 6pm in (not allowing for any summer time saving in those countries).

Social & Business Hours Generally, government departments, embassies and consulates work from 8am to 4pm. Embassies and consulates may designate specific times of the day for processing certain requests (such as passport applications) so always call before you visit. The Islamic holy day is Friday and most organisations operate a Friday / Saturday weekend. Shops and many visitor attractions are open on both days, though usually towards the end of the day or in the early evening on Fridays.

Ramadan Hours During the holy month of Ramadan shops often change their hours by closing during the day, re-opening an hour or two after sunset, and staying open later at night. Food outlets and restaurants generally remain closed or offer takeaway services only during the day and then open up for Iftar after sunset.

8 CLIMATE This is a destination with almost year Heading towards the mountains, flat- round sunshine, little rainfall and topped acacia trees and wild grasses near perfect winter temperatures. make the terrain feel more like savannah than desert. Indigenous Climate fauna includes the highly endangered Abu Dhabi has a sub-tropical, arid Arabian and the ibex, but climate. Sunny blue skies and high sightings of both are extremely rare. temperatures can be expected most of Realistically, the only large animals the year. Rainfall is sporadic, falling you will see are camels and goats mainly in winter (November to March) (often roaming close to the roads). and mostly averaging 12 cms per year. Other desert life includes the sand cat, Rain is more common in the ‘ sand fox and desert hare, as well as City’ of , the emirate’s second gerbils, hedgehogs and geckos. Recent largest city, due to its proximity to the studies have shown that the number of Hajar mountains. Temperatures range bird species is increasing, due in part from a low of around 13C (50F) on a to the emirate’s increasing lushness. winter’s night, to a high of around 42C This is most apparent in the parks in (118F) on a summer’s day. The cooler spring and autumn, as the emirate lies months, November to April, are the on the route for birds migrating most pleasant time to visit, when between Central Asia and East Africa. temperatures are around 24C (75F) Marine life is abundant with coastal during the day and 13C (56F) at night. waters being home to tropical fish, coral, dolphins, the (sea cow) Flora & Fauna and turtles. Eight species of whales and For an emirate with such an arid seven dolphin species have been climate and little rainfall, Abu Dhabi recorded in UAE waters. Four or five of has surprisingly diverse indigenous ’s seven turtle species are flora and fauna. The emirate is home to indigenous, including the hawksbill about 3,500 native plants despite its and leatherback. All are endangered, high soil salinity and harsh and successful conservation environment. The date palm is the most programmes have ensured they still widely cultivated of the indigenous nest on protected areas, particularly on flora, providing wonderful seas of . Throughout Abu green, especially in the oases. Lush Dhabi emirate, local municipalities forests can be found offshore have established extensive ‘greening’ Abu Dhabi city and many of the islands programmes. Roadsides are incredibly – mangrove protection schemes have lush, with grass, palm trees and flowers been particularly successful in lining main streets. Within Abu Dhabi maintaining this essential element of city, there are more than 20 manicured the emirate’s bio-diversity. public parks.

9 ABU DHABI CORNICHE ARABIAN COFFEE CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

The combination of international pronounce, but if you can throw in a influences and a strong commitment couple of Arabic words here and there to local heritage has created an they will be warmly received. intriguing mix of new and old. Religion Culture Islam is the official religion of the Abu Dhabi’s culture is firmly rooted in UAE, and is widely practised. The Arabia’s Islamic traditions. Islam is basis of Islam is the belief that there is more than a religion; it is a way of life only one God and that Prophet that governs everyday events from Mohammed (peace be upon him) is what to wear to what to eat and drink. his messenger. The Islamic holy day is The UAE’s culture and heritage is Friday and there are five pillars of inextricably linked to its religion, and Islam, which all Muslims must follow: it is a shining example of Islam’s true the Profession of Faith, Prayer, commitment to tolerance and Charity, Fasting, and the Pilgrimage hospitality. Foreigners are free to to Makkah. Additionally, a Muslim is practise their own religion and the required to pray (facing Makkah) five dress code is reasonably liberal. times a day. The times vary according Women are able to drive and walk to the position of the sun, when the around unescorted. Among the most modern day call to prayer is highly prized virtues are courtesy and transmitted through loudspeakers on hospitality, and visitors are sure to be mosque minarets. charmed by the genuine friendliness The UAE Constitution provides for of the people. Despite the speed of freedom of religion in accordance economic development over the last with established customs. Abu Dhabi 41 years, Abu Dhabi continues to is tolerant of other religions with promote traditional cultural and people being free to practice their sporting events, such as falconry, religious beliefs, so long as they do camel racing and dhow sailing. not interfere with Islam. Non- Muslims can get an insight into Islam Language through complimentary guided tours Arabic is the official language, of the spectacular Sheikh Zayed although English is widely spoken Grand Mosque - one of the world’s and most road and shop signs and largest. The tours run at different restaurant menus are in both times during the week. languages. The further out of www.szgmc.ae you go, the more Arabic you will find, [email protected] both written and spoken. Arabic isn´t the easiest language to pick up, or to

12 Ramadan Ramadan is the holy month in which length shirt-like garment, which is Muslims commemorate the revelation worn with a white or red checkered of the Holy Quran (Islam’s holy book). headdress, known as a ghutra. This is It’s a time of fasting and Muslims secured with a black cord (agal). abstain from all food, drink, smoking and important businessmen and unclean thoughts (or activities) may also wear a thin, gold-trimmed between dawn and dusk. At sunset, robe (bisht) over their kandura at the fast is broken with the Iftar feast, important events. In public, women the timings of which are published in wear a long, loose black robe (abaya) all daily newspapers and on our that covers their normal clothes - plus www.visitabudhabi.ae destination a headscarf (sheyla). The abaya is website. All over the city, festive often of very sheer, flowing fabric with Ramadan tents are filled to the brim intricate embroidery and beadwork each evening with people of all along the wrists and hemline. Sheylas nationalities and religions enjoying are also becoming more elaborate traditional Arabic mezze and sweets. and a statement of individuality, The dates of Ramadan change each particularly among the young. year following the Islamic lunar Headwear varies with some women calendar. Non-Muslims are wearing a thin black veil covering respectfully required to refrain from their face and others, generally older eating, drinking or smoking in public women, wearing a leather veil places during daylight hours. Failure (burka), which covers the nose, brow, to do so could upset people or lead to cheekbones and lips. an official complaint. During Ramadan, the sale of alcohol is restricted to after dusk, while shops and parks usually open and close GETTING later. In addition, no live music or dancing is allowed (so nightclubs AROUND tend to close for the entire month) Cheap taxis, a well-planned road and cinemas limit daytime screenings. system and plenty of sidewalk space Ramadan ends with a three-day make Abu Dhabi easy and pleasant celebration and holiday called Eid Al to navigate. Due to the relative ease Fitr, which is characterised by gifts of getting around, visitors may opt being given amongst families, friends, to rent a vehicle. People often rely neighbours and charities. on landmarks to give directions. National Dress Abu Dhabi city is linked to the mainland by four bridges Al Maqtaa, UAE nationals usually wear Sheikh Khalifa, Sheikh Zayed and traditional dress in public. For men, and it has a New York this is the kandura – a white, full style grid road system.

13 TRADITIONAL DRESS

Taxis Car Rental Taxis are reasonably priced and You will find all major car rental plentiful and can be flagged down at companies in Abu Dhabi, plus a few the roadside or booked by phone extra, and it’s worth remembering through the Centre For Regulation Of that the larger, more reputable firms Transport By Hire Cars (TransAd) by generally have more reliable vehicles calling 600 535353. Street taxis are and a greater capacity to help in an easily recognised by their silver livery emergency (an important factor when and yellow roof sign. Daytime (6am - handling the trying times following 10pm) metered fares in the city start at an accident). All services are provided AED 3.50 (US $1) for flagged cabs, inclusive of registration, AED 8 (US $2.2) for cabs booked by maintenance, replacement, 24-hour phone, and increase by an additional assistance and insurance AED 1.60 (50 cents) for every (comprehensive insurance with kilometre. Night fares are slightly personal accident cover is advisable). more, starting at AED 4.00 (US $1.69) For short term rental, many and increasing by AED 1.69 (55cents) companies offer daily rates - there are per kilometre. A tip is not expected but booths at the airport and most of the always welcome. major hotels, and there are numerous Many taxi drivers do not speak fluent shops dotted throughout the city, and English, and are not always familiar you can book via www.visitabudhabi.ae with street names, so it helps to know It’s worth ringing around for rates, exactly where you are going. It’s also although usually the most helpful to take the phone number of competitive rates can be found online. your destination with you in case you To hire any vehicle you will need a get lost. passport copy, credit card and a valid All taxi companies service the airport driving licence from your home in addition to specially registered country, or a valid international airport taxis. The journey into town driving licence. If you have a residence from the airport costs AED 70 - 80 visa, you will need to have a valid (approx US $30). UAE driving licence. Abu Dhabi taxis are going Mawaqif – Paid Parking System environmentally friendly. They’re In Abu Dhabi city paid parking is being fitted with a system which enforced round-the-clock, excluding allows them to use compressed natural Fridays and public holidays. Parking gas (CNG) which produces less meters set time limits for use of public emissions and pollutant than petrol. parking spaces, which helps organise parking and prevent illegal parking. At premium parking lots on main streets, vehicles can park for up to four hours at AED 3 (82 cents) per

16 hour. In standard spaces, the rate is AED 2 (55 cents) per hour for a maximum of 24 hours. Drivers who park outside the designated spaces; indicated by turquoise and white or blue and black markings, can be fined from AED 200 - AED 1,000 (US $54 - 273). Buses Abu Dhabi’s modern air-conditioned buses operate round-the-clock. The service is easy to use, with passengers hopping in and out of any bus by placing two dirhams in the collection box next to the driver. If you are planning to use the bus on a regular basis, day passes - AED 3 (82 cents) and weekly passes – AED 30 (US $8) are also available. Visitors who qualify need to apply online for their free pass and can collect it from Abu Dhabi’s Central Bus Station. For more information on bus services, fares and schedules, or to download bus routes, visit www.ojra.ae

CAR HIRE COMPANIES Abu Dhabi Al Ghazal Transport Co +971 2 634 2200 www.adnh.com Avis Rent A Car +971 2 621 5400 www.avisuae.ae Budget Rent A Car +971 2 443 8430 www.budget.com Diamond Lease +971 2 622 2028 www.diamondlease.com Dollar Rent A Car +971 2 641 9002 www.dollaruae.com Emco Rent A Car +971 2 633 8933 Europcar +971 2 626 1441 www.europcar-uae.com FAST Rent A Car +971 2 632 4000 www.fastuae.com Hertz Rent A Car +971 2 672 0060 www.hertzuae.com National Car Rental +971 2 800 3130 www.national-me.com Thrifty Car Rental +971 2 676 7649 www.thrifty.com Al Ain Avis Rent A Car (Al Ain) +971 3 766 7330 www.avisuae.ae FAST Rent A Car (Al Ain) +971 3 766 7330 www.fastuae.com

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USEFUL PHRASES Greetings Hi Salam Good morning Sabah el kheer Good evening Masaa el kheer Welcome! (to greet someone) Marhaba How are you? Kaifa alhal I’m fine, thanks Ana bekhair, shokran And you? Wa ant? Thank you (very much)! Shukran (jazeelan) You’re welcome! (for thank you) Afwan Good night Tosbeho ala khair Goodbye Maía salama Asking for Help and Directions I’m lost Adaítu tareeqi Can you help me? Momkin mosaíadati? Straight/left/ right Ala tool/yisar/yameen How much is this? B kam hatha? (th as in bath) Excuse me...! (to ask for something or to pass by) Law samaht

19 MONEY

Local Currency The UAE’s monetary unit is the dirham (AED), which is divided into 100 fils. Notes are in denominations of AED 1,000, 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5 . Coins are in denominations of AED 1, and 50, 25, 10 and 5 fils, although the 10 and 5 fils coins are rarely used. The Dirham is fixed to the US $1.00 = AED 3.67

Money Cash is still the UAE’s preferred payment method, although credit and debit cards are widely accepted. Foreign currencies and travellers’ cheques can be exchanged in licenced exchange offices, banks and hotels - a passport is required. Personal cheques can be a bit trickier and many places won’t accept them. If you’re shopping in the souks (markets) or in smaller shops, cash is the best, and often the only option.

Banks An expansive network of local and international banks, strictly controlled by the UAE Central Bank, offers a full range of commercial and personal services. Transfers can be made easily as there is no exchange control and the dirham is freely convertible. Banking hours are generally Saturday to Thursday, 8am - 1pm and 5pm until 9pm.

ATMs Most banks operate ATMs, which accept a range of cards. Most ATMs, although linked to a specific bank, are part of a central network so you can transact with a bank card for a nominal charge. Common systems accepted around Abu Dhabi include American Express, Cirrus, Global Access, MasterCard, Plus System and VISA. ATMs can be found in all shopping malls, major supermarkets, most petrol stations and the airport. For international cards, the exchange rates used in transactions are normally competitive and the process is faster and far less hassle than using traditional travellers’ cheques.

Money Exchanges Exchange Houses are all over Abu Dhabi and offer rates often better than the banks. You’ll find them in all major malls and popular shopping districts. They are usually open Saturday to Thursday, from 8am - 1pm and 4.30pm to 8.30pm, and on Friday evenings. Many hotels will also exchange money and travellers’ cheques at standard (non-competitive) rates.

20 ESSENTIAL INFO Abu Dhabi’s virtually crime free environment and well organised emergency services will bring you peace of mind and a relaxing stay.

In Emergency The emergency phone number for Abu Dhabi is 999. Whether you need police assistance, an ambulance or the fire department, this is the number to call. If you are involved in a traffic accident, it’s important to contact the police immediately. In case of a minor incident, move your car to the side of the road, as there are fines for obstructing traffic. You cannot file an insurance claim without a police report. For other enquiries, operates a dedicated Tourism Police section which will advise and guide you on a range of matters. You can contact them on +971 2 699 9999. As per UAE federal law and Abu Dhabi Government law, all visitors to the UAE must have medical insurance cover. In case of emergency, treatment to stabilise the case is free. Other treatment must be covered by a cash payment or insurance card for covered individuals. In a medical emergency, Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (+971 2 610 2000) and Al Noor Hospital (+971 2 626 5265) both have Accident and Emergency units. If you are injured in a traffic accident, you will automatically be taken to Sheikh Khalifa Medical City, as it has the best A&E treatment facilities.

Women Women should not face any problems while travelling in the UAE. The police are helpful and respectful; call them at any time if you face any unwanted attention. It is courteous to dress with a little modesty, particularly in outlying areas where people tend to be more conservative.

21 HANDICRAFT 23 Children Abu Dhabi is a safe and entertaining unwelcome attention. Malls, health place for children of all ages. There clubs and resort facilities are generally are plenty of parks, some great sandy more accepting of what’s fashionable, beaches, and kids´ zones and créche but when visiting government offices facilities in all major shopping malls. it is best to cover your shoulders and The majority of hotels cater well for legs. It is especially recommended children and offer everything from that you dress more conservatively babysitting services to child friendly during Ramadan. In the evenings, activities and children´s swimming restaurants and clubs usually have a pools. Restaurants vary; some mixture of styles - western, Arabic welcome children more than others. and Asian. Again, ladies are advised to take a pashmina or jacket because People With Disabilities of cold air conditioning. Most of Abu Dhabi’s five-star hotels, Photography malls and heritage attractions have wheelchair facilities. Wheelchair While normal tourist photography is ramps often have steep angles. When acceptable, it is polite to ask asking if a location has wheelchair permission before taking photos of access, make sure it really does as an people, particularly women. escalator is considered wheelchair Photographs of government access to some. Abu Dhabi buildings, military installations and International Airport is well equipped ports and airports should not be for physically challenged travellers. taken. Also, cameras may be banned There is a special check-in gate with in public areas designated for women direct access from the car park, as and children only. well as dedicated lifts, and a meet and assist service. EXPLORING What To Wear Lightweight summer clothing is ABU DHABI suitable for most of the year, but something slightly warmer may be From Abu Dhabi city’s famous needed for the winter months. Be sure Corniche to the Oasis City of Al Ain to take some sort of jacket or sweater and the massive Liwa Desert in when visiting hotels or the cinema, as Al Gharbia (Western Region), local the air conditioning can be fierce. tour operators will help you explore Although the attitude towards dress is and discover this intriguing emirate. fairly liberal throughout the emirate, Tour Operators a healthy amount of respect for local customs doesn’t go amiss, especially Almost all tour operators offer city when shopping or sightseeing. Short excursions and desert safaris, while or tight clothing can attract some specialise in more diverse 24 activities such as tours of the Sheikh explored through visits to the 175 year Zayed Grand Mosque, rounds of golf, old Al Nahyan family fort, the Al Ain fishing, sailing or diving expeditions, National Museum and a trip to the kayaking trips through mangrove prehistoric tombs at Hili Fort – known forests, helicopter tours and desert to be over 4,000 years old. Other driving courses or visits to the Abu attractions include the Al Ain oases, Al Dhabi Falcon Hospital or Saluki Ain Zoo, the camel market – one of the (desert hunting dogs) Centre. Check last few remaining, Adventure, a the list below for some ideas. man-made white water rafting, kayaking and surfing playground in Desert Safaris the shadow of , and the Starting with an exciting ride up and world’s most advanced go-karting down some of the desert’s biggest facilities, for a taste of the fast track. dunes, you can try sand skiing before For family fun, try the renovated Hili watching the sun set. After driving a Fun City, the Gulf’s oldest theme park, short distance further to a permanent which now offers one of the cheapest desert camp, you are treated to a days out, with entry no more than sumptuous barbecue, followed by AED 40 (US $11). shisha, camel rides, falconry displays and henna painting. You can choose Al Gharbia Tour to stay overnight or combine it with a A great reason to start exploring this trip into the mountains. Costs vary. vast region is the drive to Liwa – a historic oasis town at the entry to the Abu Dhabi Tour Rub Al Khali (Empty Quarter), the A tour of the UAE capital usually world’s largest uninterrupted sand takes in everything from the evolving mass. Liwa will blow you away with skyline to sandy shores and iconic massive expanses of awesome desert buildings. A stroll along the Corniche and the biggest dunes this side of the will give you a glimpse of everyday Sahara. Prepare for the UAE’s most Abu Dhabi life and the chance to adventurous off-road driving, and savour some picturesque scenes. A some of its most incredible scenery. half-day tour will include the Sheikh Al Gharbia’s history is encompassed Zayed Grand Mosque, the Abu Dhabi in the myriad of ancient forts which Corniche, and the Heritage . dot the landscape, and together present a snapshot of this region’s Al Ain Tour fascinating history – all set against Al Ain was once a vital oasis on the dramatic landscapes. To get a real caravan route from the UAE to . taste of Al Gharbia’s authentic The history of the ‘Oasis City,’ the heritage, visit one of the many emirate’s heritage heartland and one festivals throughout the year such as of the world’s oldest permanently January’s Tel Moreeb Festival, the inhabited settlements, can be pinnacle hill climb event for desert driving enthusiasts or the Al Dhafrah 25 Camel Festival held in December which includes the world’s only camel beauty contest, April’s Al Gharbia Watersports Festival, fast becoming a highlight on the international sporting calendar, or July’s Liwa Date Festival, a showcase for this valued desert fruit.

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ABU DHABI TOUR OPERATORS Abu Dhabi Travel Bureau +971 2 622 1100 Advanced Travel & Tourism +971 2 634 7900 Al Ain Travel Bureau +971 3 754 1159 Al Badeyah Eyes Tourism +971 2 556 6723 Al Etihad Travel & Tourism +971 2 765 5223 Al Masaood Travel +971 2 621 1797 Arabian Adventures +971 2 691 1711 Arabian Odyssey +971 2 621 0101 Cyclone Travel & Tours +971 2 627 6275 DBA & Sons Travel and Tours +971 2 627 2999 Desert Adventures Tourism +971 2 556 6155 Emirates Adventure +971 2 644 5117 Emirates Travel Express +971 2 765 0777 Hala Abu Dhabi +971 2 617 7810 Kurban Travel & Tourism +971 2 555 0566 Lama Tours +971 2 677 0877 Net Tours (Abu Dhabi) +971 2 679 4656 Net Tours (Al Ain) +971 3 768 7400 Omeir Travel Agency +971 2 612 3456 Orient Tours +971 2 667 5609 Safar Travel & Tourism +971 2 418 0888 Salem Travel Agency +971 2 621 8000 SNTTA Tours & Travel +971 2 444 6856 The Vision Tourism +971 2 294 2290 Travco +971 2 677 1484

28 EXPLORE, EXPERIENCE AND ENGAGE - ABU DHABI CITY

Experience Abu Dhabi’s diverse and enticing attractions: whether it’s touring one of the world’s most spectacular mosques, zooming to the pace of a speedboat tour of the city’s coastline, taking in the UAE capital’s signature Corniche on a bicycle, or hopping on an open topped Big Bus for a guided tour, you’re sure to find activities for every taste. SHEIKH ZAYED GRAND MOSQUE GRAND ZAYED SHEIKH

ABU DHABI ABU DHABI CITY ATTRACTIONS

Culture, history and adventure are when it ends. After 200 metres, you’ll encapsulated in Abu Dhabi’s wealth see the beach. of museums, heritage sites and Al Bateen Beach Road, Al Bateen natural wonders which are complemented by a wide variety of Capital Gate tours and attractions, all offering Drive down Khaleej Al Arabi Street exciting ways to see the capital - by and you will see a modern day air, land or sea. challenger to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Capital Gate, developed by Abu Abu Dhabi Corniche Dhabi National Exhibitions Company, Corniche Road spans an impressive has been certified as the ‘World’s eight kilometres of manicured Furthest Leaning Man Made Tower,’ waterfront that includes children’s by Guinness World Records. It leans play areas, separate cycle and 18 degrees westwards - more than pedestrian pathways, cafés, a wake four times that of Pisa’s famous boarding park and restaurants, and Leaning Tower. The 160 metre (524.9 the Corniche Beach - a lifeguarded, ft), 35 storey tower is fast becoming a blue-flagged beach park. Individual postcard image of Abu Dhabi and parks are themed and signposted makes a great holiday snap. Hyatt accordingly. The Family Park near Capital Gate Abu Dhabi, a premium King Khalid Bin Abdul Aziz Street 5-star business hotel, is in the iconic (26th Street) is noted for its creative building. climbing structures, The Urban Park near Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Corniche Beach Park Maktoum Street has beautiful This lengthy stretch of beach extends gardens. Lake Park near Muroor along Corniche Road from near the Street is known for its ‘lake’ while Hilton Hotel to beyond Al Khaleej Al Formal Park by Baniyas Street is Arabi Street, where you’ll find its main noted for its architecture and maze. entrance. During the week you can Off Corniche Road, usually find a beach umbrella, but Central Abu Dhabi during the weekend they may all go quickly. You can’t swim out very far; Al Bateen Beach floating fences keep you within 40 This beach is popular with locals and metres of the beach, and there are is used for fishing and swimming. It’s plenty of lifeguards around. Abu great for waterfront picnics, but if you Dhabi’s pristine Corniche beachfront venture into the water keep an eye has the coveted Blue Flag status - the out for jet skis. To get there, head west internationally renowned eco-label for on 19th Street (Saeed Bin Tahnoon beaches and marinas that guarantees St) and turn left onto 16th Street clean and safe bathing water. 31 THE ICONIC & RECORD-BREAKING CAPITAL GATE EMIRATES PALACE

Visitors flock to the Corniche every day, enjoying three separate sections for families, singles and the general public. There are more than 1,100 free parking spaces within a five minute walk of the beach, which charges AED 10 (US $2.7) entry to the family and singles sections. Entry to the public beach is free. Corniche Road West, Al Khubeirah Byky Bike Spend a day in the saddle with a selection of BYKY Bikes go-karts that include single-seater Ferrari licensed products, and a range of family-friendly products that can accommodate up to 4 passengers. Operating from four outlets in prime spots on Abu Dhabi Corniche, Sheikh Khalifa Park, and throughout Al Ain, sit back and explore in a pedal-friendly environment. Rates start at

33 AED 20 (US $5.50) per 30 minutes waterway and bordering and operate daily from October to one side of the park. April. Al , Al Muroor +971 50 844 0556 [email protected] Emirates Palace www.q8byky.com A real iconic Abu Dhabi landmark, this luxurious hotel blends Arabian Corniche Pedal Power splendour with the latest technology A fun and healthy way to tour the to create a magical and memorable Corniche is to hire a bicycle from experience. During daytime, the FunRideSports. With four accessible hotel’s golden-sandy colour contrasts rental stations along the Corniche with its fresh green gardens, silvery boardwalk and its main station water fountains and the blue sky. At outside The Hiltonia Beach Club, bike night, the hotel’s lighting changes hire starts at AED 20 (US $5) per hour subtly, featuring a majestic rainbow- for adults and AED 15 (US $4) for changing effect over the main dome. children. Voucher booklets for 15 The main Palace building stretches hours of cycling are AED 200 (US over a kilometre from wing to wing, $54). FunRideSports has a selection and its gardens and surroundings of bikes for hire - from mountain bikes spread across 100 hectares. The hotel for the more adventurous to city bikes features 114 domes, with the central which can fit two or three passengers dome at an imposing 72.6 metres on the back, and even specially above ground. Gold, mother of pearl designed bikes for ladies wearing and crystals dominate the interior. abayas. The Palace has 1,002 chandeliers, the www.funridesports.com largest weighing 2.5 tonnes. Other [email protected] memorable Palace features are its two +971 2 556 6113 handmade wall display carpets, portraying the Palace itself and each Eastern Corniche weighing a tonne, and an Not to be confused with the extraordinary ‘Gold to Go’ ATM Corniche on the extreme north of machine, which issues gold at market the island, the Eastern Corniche, or rates, stamped with Emirates Palace New Corniche as it is also known, – the perfect memento of your visit. has a pristine stretch of immaculate www.emiratespalace.com lawns, dotted with ornate shelters +971 2 690 9000 and large wooden tables, and comes alive as families gather for evening Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and weekend picnics. Well lit and It’s fast and furious fun for all ages at clean, it is especially busy on winter the world’s first Ferrari theme park and nights. This is a great place for bird the largest attraction of its kind. watching and fishing, with the Telling the Ferrari story with passion

34 and excitement through more than 20 1.3 metres will pay AED 295 (US $80). exhilarating and educational rides and Children under three-years-old enter attractions, interactive shopping and for free. Queue-jumping Premium authentic Italian dining experiences, entrance rates are available, costing this park is a power draw for fans and AED 315 (US $85) and AED 385 (US families. $105) for those under and over 1.1 Beneath its huge, iconic red roof, metres in height, respectively. attractions include Formula Rossa, the A combination ticket, the Yas Park world’s fastest roller coaster, reaching Pass, which includes access to both speeds of 240 kmph; Galleria Ferrari, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and Yas the world’s largest Ferrari gallery Waterworld costs AED 295 (US $80) outside Maranello with an interactive for children and AED 360 (US $98) display of cars from 1947 through to for adults. the present; and Speed of Magic, a www.ferrariworldabudhabi.com fantastic 4-D adventure through deep +971 2 496 8001 green jungles, icy caves and ravines and to the mouth of a fiery volcano. Get Boarding! Those wanting to start their experience Also on the Corniche is a permanent in top gear will get their adrenaline fix wakeboarding ‘Beginners Park,’ at G-Force blasting through the red developed by Abu Dhabi Municipality roof, before dropping from a hair- in conjunction with Flash raising height of 62 m. Entertainment. This state-of-the-art There’s a range of Ferrari inspired park is open to the public daily from restaurants and cafés serving 12pm to 6pm and is free to use. exclusive Italian dishes, including Wakeboarding experts are on hand to Mamma Rossella, a traditional family assist enthusiasts with taster lessons style trattoria and Cavallino, an and top tips for catching the waves. elegant dining à la carte restaurant. Shop in the world’s largest Ferrari Observation Deck at 300 store and a unique ‘past and present’ On the 74th floor of Tower 2 at the outlet, complete with a recreation of complex, the Enzo Ferrari’s first garage. Products Observation Deck at 300 offers range from custom made remote unbeatable views of Abu Dhabi’s control Ferrari cars to exotic gifts cityscape and surrounding islands. handcrafted by Italian artisans. What’s more, guests visiting the Guests can also enjoy the unique capital’s highest vantage point – the Ferrari boutique where they can ‘300’ stands for ‘metres in the air’ – create their personalised souvenirs at can take in the sights while enjoying innovative interactive zones. refreshments, light snacks or High Tea. Daily entrance for children over three Entrance is AED 75 (US $20) for and under 1.3 metres in height is visitors and AED 60 (US $16) for AED 195 (US $53), while those over guests of the five-star at 35 FERRARI WORLD ABU DHABI YAS WATERWORLD ABU DHABI Etihad Towers who can then redeem ’s newest landmark. the fee for the equivalent in F&B Nestled among the 24 rides – four of vouchers. The dress code is strictly which are truly unique – is the ‘Business Casual.’ thematic Hoyamal pearl diving www.jumeirah.com attraction which leverages age-old +971 2 811 5555 Emirati traditions and regularly packs its 100-seat ampitheatre. Visitors The Easy Way to See the Corniche interact with divers to select an oyster EZ Taxis is a taxi service using eco- of their choice to create their own friendly electric vehicles. Ideal for the pearl jewellery. elderly, handicapped, young children Everything in the waterpark revolves and the foot sore, the open air taxis around a locally-inspired theme: the can carry up to four adults and two story of ‘The Lost Pearl’, which follows children at any time and all for the the adventures of a young Emirati bargain price of AED 15 (US $4) per girl, Dana, in search of a legendary journey. Operating for three kilometres pearl which once brought prosperity along the Corniche, the service is to her village. available from 4pm until 11pm on weekdays, and from 4pm to midnight Yas Waterworld also features an on weekends. You can hail the taxi as interactive game experience where you see it or to request the service with visitors vie to become a ‘PearlMasters’ a driver, simply call +971 56 145 4242. undertaking a treasure hunt of seven special quests connecting rides, slides [email protected] and coasters. Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi Daily entrance for children over three For a true full day experience, Yas and under 1.1 metres in height is Waterworld Abu Dhabi is a futuristic AED 185 (US $49), while those over waterpark offering 43 thrill-a-minute 1.1 metres will pay AED 225 (US $60). rides, slides and attractions and a Children under three-years-old enter splash of genuine Arabian-themed for free. Queue-jumping Premium culture and adventure. entrance rates are available, costing AED 265 (US $71) and AED 325 (US Amongst its gigantic wave pool, $87) for those under and over 1.1 winding raft rivers, three-metre-high metres in height, respectively. Flowbarrel waves, suspended rollercoaster and looping, mazy A combination ticket, the Yas Park slides, the adrenaline-fuelled Pass which includes access to both Yas waterpark features a gigantic Waterworld and Ferrari World Abu spherical pearl sitting atop Jebel Dhabi costs from AED 295 (US $80) Dana, the towering core of the park’s for children and AED 360 (US $98) altitude-defying summit. Measuring for adults. eight metres in diameter, the pearl is www.yaswaterworld.com Tel +971 2 496 8236

38 ABU DHABI EXPERIENCES

Arabian Nights Village On a dedicated Al Khatem plot toward spot of bashing, quad biking, Al Ain, deep in Abu Dhabi’s heritage sand surfing or falconry. heartland, the Arabian Nights Village +971 2 676 9990 harnesses the soul and essence of old www.arabiannights.ae Arabia. Big Bus Tour Conceived to give visitors a chance to Famous for its traditional open top experience the timeless beauty of the double decker red buses, The Big Bus desert and traditional Emirati life, the Company has carefully designed village is not a hotel, but by no means tours which take visitors to all the a rustic camp. major Abu Dhabi landmarks - from Although internet is available for the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand emergencies, there are no televisions Mosque and the luxurious Emirates on-site, inviting the guests to enjoy an Palace hotel, to the Heritage Village authentic, serene experience. The and Saadiyat Island. Personal village – for all its traditional practises commentary comes in a choice of – utilises a mix of ancient and futuristic eight languages (Arabic, English, technologies to ensure everything French, German, Spanish, Italian, runs smoothly and, vitally, sustainably. Mandarin and Russian) and provides The village utilises the area’s natural a fascinating insight into Abu resources, with a specialist water Dhabi’s history and culture. Tickets treatment facility extracting and are valid for 24 hours and give access treating water on-site. Drinking water to all the Big Bus Tour routes, with comes from a 65 metre deep well. The 11 stops throughout the city village also uses treated waste water enabling guests to hop on and hop to irrigate trees and its landscaped off at their leisure. Tickets are gardens. available from individual hotels or The site is powered by four sound- the Big Bus sales desk at Marina Mall proofed generators and there are and can also be bought online. three types of room available, Bayt Al www.bigbustours.com Bar, traditional mud houses of the 800 BIG BUS (800 244 287) desert, Bayt Al Bahar, the original houses of Emirati sea-dwellers which Blue Dolphin Company are made from palm fronds, and Beit Sinbad is a traditional Arabian dhow Shaaer, or woven tents. that departs from the Breakwater at 5:30pm every evening and then every There is also an idyllic swimming pool hour, on the hour, for the rest of the – the ideal place to cool down after a evening. However, it is advisable to check sailing times as occasionally the 39 BIG BUS TOUR dhow is chartered for private parties. natural islands, including ‘Sunset The fare AED 10 (US $3) for adults and Cruises’, ‘Island Beach Tours’, and AED 5 (US $1.50) for children includes tailored ‘Romantic Cruises’ on locally tea, coffee and soft drinks. manufactured, sustainably operated [email protected] craft. Cruise options lasting a +971 50 685 8305 minimum of 1.5 hours, start at An evening spent sailing along Abu AED 250 (US $68) per person for a Dhabi Corniche, while enjoying fine minimum of four passengers and run cuisine, is a great dinner alternative. on request. Private charter ‘Romantic Dinner cruises are available through Cruise’ costs AED 2500 (US $680) Al Dhafra and Sunshine Tours including refreshments. www.aldhafra.net www.captaintonys.ae +971 2 444 9914 +971 2 650 7175 Capt. Tony’s Catamaran Tours Operating from Yas Marina on Yas Take a break from the busy city and Island, the company operates a range relax on board Abu Dhabi’s largest 74- of cruises around Abu Dhabi’s scenic foot, 11m wide luxury sailing

41 catamaran, while admiring the most Using the fully air-conditioned, remarkable landscapes of the Arabian forward-facing seated Eurocopter EC- Gulf shoreline. Belevari Marine 13, the FAS tours offer outstanding Catamaran Tours (afternoon tours panoramic views of urban and rural every Friday & Saturday) depart from Abu Dhabi, from the skyscraper dotted the exclusive Emirates Palace Marina. Corniche, to the arid tranquillity of the Tours cost AED 350 (US $95) for Empty Quarter – the world’s largest adults; AED 250 (US $68) for children, expanse of unbroken desert. and AED 1,100 (US $300) for family With departures to suit clients’ including unlimited refreshments and schedules, a maximum of six lunch. passengers can fit in the EC-130 – the Explore pristine beaches, swim and result being an intimate occasion that snorkel in crystal clear turquoise is perfect for small groups. waters, and keep a camera ready for The 20 or 30-minute tours depart your chance to take a snap of the Marina Mall daily and take in Lulu, playful dolphins. Reem, Saadiyat and Yas islands, the www.belevari.com Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Yas [email protected] Marina Circuit and Ferrari World Abu +971 2 643 1494 / Dhabi – the world’s largest indoor +971 50 908 7209 theme park. The 90 minute Desert Experience tour is Dhow Dinner Cruise Experience a one-way trip to the Qasr Al Sarab Enjoy a delicious seafood-based dinner Desert Resort deep in the vast splendour aboard a traditional wooden dhow as it of Liwa, at the entrance to the Empty plots a course through the breezy Quarter. With views of urban Abu Dhabi waters off Abu Dhabi city’s Corniche. and its outer suburbs, surrounding Departing at 9pm, the inert charm of farmland and the Liwa Desert and Oasis, this three-hour cruise lies in the unique guests stay at the five-star, award- Arabian entertainment – making this winning Qasr Al Sarab (Mirage Palace) dhow cruise dinner the perfect option for the evening before flying back to Abu for both first-time visitors and regulars Dhabi city the following morning. looking for a romantic setting or something a little different. Tours start from AED 850 (US $230) per person. [email protected] www.falconaviation.ae +971 2 6794658 +971 2 444 0007 Helicopter Tours Kayaking Tours Get a bird’s eye view of the capital’s Noukhada’s kayaking tours take you landmarks and heritage sites or through the natural mangrove forests experience the majestic Liwa Desert dotted around the plethora of islands with a Falcon Aviation Services (FAS) in view of the rising Abu Dhabi city helicopter sightseeing tour. skyline. Try either a Low or High Tide

42 2-hour kayaking tour to explore the pre-booked times 24 hours a day, mangroves, or for something special seven days a week. book the monthly Full Moon Tour – [email protected] all for only AED 200 (US $54) per +971 50 642 9777 person. Noukhada also offers half-day island exploring tours for AED 250 Sailing Charters (US $67) per person, where you can BuTinah Cruising Boats is a licensed opt for a beach BBQ AED 350 (US Sea Cruising company, whose name is $95) per person or an overnight inspired by Bu Tinah Island off the camping stay AED 500 (US $136) per coast of Abu Dhabi, a protected marine person. area where nature is respected and www.noukhada.ae allowed to flourish. Private sightseeing [email protected] cruising and fishing tours onboard the +971 2 650 3600 luxury Seavooplay or Sea Master boats which can accommodate 2-14 Pearl Boats passengers are available. Prices vary Whether you are looking for an island according to passenger numbers and drop-off, a sight-seeing cruise or inter- tour duration. island transportation, Lulu Boats has a [email protected] vessel for every occasion. www.butinahcruising.com There are 31ft Gulf Craft and 37ft Sea +971 2 681 5555 Masters that are perfect for a day of sport fishing. For something a little Sea Cruiser Boat Tours more opulent, customers can rent a A business venture from a young 40ft , or a brand new 60ft Sea Ray Emirati with a passion for sharing his – one of the most beautiful boats on love of the sea, Sea Cruiser operates the water – for luxury charters. For a two licensed Gulf Craft boats, each truly special occasion, Lulu also has a holding 18 passengers, two crew locally-made 80ft Al Boom Marine members, a professional pilot and yacht – similar in design to a traditional lifeguard. Each boat has covered Emirati sailing dhow - that is the ideal cabins with large glass windows for venue for large parties and functions. sightseeing and is specially designed With ten vessels offering tours of every to accommodate divers. Each boat variety, Lulu Boats can facilitate pretty also comes equipped with GPS much every request, from tailored navigation, tracking equipment and catering requirements to dedicated DSC VHF radios which automatically scuba-diving or water-sports trips. All transmit the boat’s position in an tours begin at Abu Dhabi International emergency. Individual life jackets and Marine Sports Club, next to Marina safety equipment are provided. Sea Mall, with trips and packages available Cruiser tours are aimed at providing – subject to weather conditions – at guests with the best Abu Dhabi has to offer; from a two hour tour of the capital city’s famous Corniche to

43 diving, snorkelling and fishing trips unique experience and the panoramic and all day cruises of Abu Dhabi’s views of the blazing red roof of Ferrari stunning natural islands and emerald World Abu Dhabi, Yas Marina Circuit, green ocean. All tours begin at the Emirates Palace, the Abu Dhabi Fish Market pier at the end of the Corniche, the beautiful steel and Corniche, just before Mina Zayed. marble façade of Yas Viceroy Abu They are available at pre-booked Dhabi hotel and the magnificent times from 8:30am to 8pm, seven Sheikh Zayed Grande Mosque are days a week. truly breathtaking. www.seacruiser.ae Departures from Yas Marina and [email protected] Emirates Palace are available on +971 50 800 9495 request, and the 30 minute flight costs AED 995 (US $270) per adult Abu Dhabi and AED 845 (US $230) per child. See the city from a whole new www.seawings.ae perspective – from a thousand feet +971 800 SEAWINGS above. Seawings, Abu Dhabi’s new aerial sightseeing experience, covers Speedboat Tours all of the city’s sights and wonders Nautical thrill-seekers looking for a from the air with their Abu Dhabi high-speed way to experience Abu Scenic and Yas Classique Dhabi’s stunning skyline vistas should tours. Each tour provides spectacular look no further than Yellow Boats. views of the capital city from a Cessna With various tours on offer, Yellow 208 amphibious aircraft. Boats’ top-of-the-line inflatable craft, The exhilarating take-off and landing powered by the latest generation of on water is an unforgettable and eco-friendly engines, take passengers

44 ABU DHABI FALCON HOSPITAL HERITAGE Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital on a thrill-per-minute ride around a Guided tours of this award-winning host of attractions along the emirate’s specialist hospital, the most advanced eye-catching Corniche. Corporate of its kind in the world, are available. packages are available and can be You can visit the luxurious wards tailored for a variety of occasions, where the birds are kept, explore the including client hospitality evenings, museum which gives an insight into team building exercises and product the noble desert sport of falconry, or launches. try your hand at the pursuit in the lush Running from 8am to 8pm, with gardens. Open Sunday to Thursday adults starting at AED 150 (US $41) from 8am to 4pm with tours starting and children or family tickets at from AED 170 (US $46) for adult, and AED 100 (US $27) and AED 450 (US AED 60 (US $16) for children. Advance $122), buckle up and hold on tight for booking is recommended. an experience that you simply won’t Near Abu Dhabi International ever forget! Airport www.theyellowboats.com www.falconhospital.com +971 800 8044 +971 2 575 515 Water Adventure Archaeological Site on Sir Island Whether it’s chartering boats, hiring a jet ski, embarking on a fishing or Open to the public, this is the UAE’s diving trip, Empros water sports has only discovered Christian monastery. the answer. The company also Believed to have been built around provides a range of family fun 600 AD, it was initially discovered on activities with banana boat and donut the island during excavations in rides, water skiing and wakeboarding 1992. Two decades since its discovery, instruction and diving courses. The and more than a thousand years since water sport activities are based along it was built, the public can visit the the Abu Dhabi Corniche Family site and experience another piece of Beach, with tickets available at Gate 2 the rich tapestry that makes up the (opposite Junction of Corniche Rd UAE’s fascinating history. A new Street 1 and Khalidiyah 32nd Street), phase of work is currently underway and the Al Sahil Singles Beach, tickets by archaeologists, and treasures are available at Gate 5 (opposite Audi still being unearthed, making the site showroom on Corniche Rd Street 1). a significant focal point for history Jet skis are available at Empros enthusiasts worldwide. InterContinental Hotel branch. www.desertislands.com www.empros.ae +971 2 406 1400 +971 2 628 9704

46 Heritage Village Run by the Emirates Heritage Club, groups of over 50 guests. The centre this reconstruction of a traditional features a rooftop café with panoramic oasis village provides an interesting views of Emirates Palace and the glimpse into the country’s past. Arabian Gulf and is open daily from Traditional aspects of the desert way 9am-7pm. Entrance is free. of life, including a campfire with www.mirajislamicartcentre.com coffee pots, a goats’ hair tent, and a +971 50 250 3950 falaj system, are attractively displayed in the open museum. There Saluki Centre are workshops where craftsmen This centre honours the desert demonstrate traditional skills, such as traditions of hunting, training and metal work and pottery, while women breeding Salukis - a distinctive breed sit weaving and spinning. The of dog found in desert regions. The craftsmen are happy to share their centre invites visitors to learn more skills, and may occasionally give you about the unique traits and care of the chance to try them out. The little this type of dog. Open Sunday to spice shop is a treat; you can get a Thursday 9am - 3pm. range of dried herbs, handmade soap www.arabiansaluki.com and plenty of chatter. Entrance is free. +971 2 575 5330 Near Marina Mall, Breakwater +971 2 681 4455 Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque This architectural work of art is one the Miraj Islamic Centre world’s largest mosques, with a This centre features museum-like capacity for an astonishing 41,000 displays of unique Islamic art pieces worshippers. The mosque’s first sourced from around the Muslim ceremony was the funeral of its world from places like , Syria, namesake, Sheikh Zayed, who is , , Iraq, Kashmir and Russia. buried at the site. It features 82 domes, Displays include meticulously hand approximately 1,000 columns, 24 woven pictorial and bejewelled carat gold plated chandeliers and the carpets, silk textiles, jewellery, marble world’s largest hand knotted carpet. pieces, Arabic calligraphy engraved Unlike other mosques in Abu Dhabi, vases, miniature paintings and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is open experienced staff are on hand to brief daily to all, except on Friday morning visitors on the history and origin of for worshippers only. Complimentary the pieces and the techniques used in one hour guided tours run (Sun-Thurs) making them. at 10am, 11am and 5pm. Fridays are 2pm, 5pm and 8pm and Saturdays Miraj offers visitors a complimentary 10am, 11am, 2pm, 5pm and 8pm. pick-up and drop-off service from their hotels as well as welcome Tip: Why not finish work, shopping or refreshments, Arabic Qahwah sight-seeing for the day and take the (cardamom coffee) and dates to 5pm ‘Sunset Tour’? Get to the mosque 47 SHEIKH ZAYED GRAND MOSQUE Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre Library around 4:30pm – a wonderful time to A veritable treasure trove for take photos – to wind down and chill literature-inclined bookworms, the out for 20 minutes in the lovely, specialised, state-of-the-art library at afternoon breeze before taking the tour. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre www.szgmc.ae promotes intercultural discourse and [email protected] interaction by showcasing the +971 2 441 6444 powerful continuity and traditions

49 inherent in books spanning multiple Open Sunday to Thursday 7am-3pm Arabic and Islamic eras. Women’s Association Complex, On the third floor of the mosque’s Karama St, , (near the Northern Minaret, with unobstructed Immigration Office and the Royal views in all directions, the library’s Stables) +971 2 447 6645 location is unprecedented in its history and design. Zayed Centre for Studies and Highlights include rare Arabic Research calligraphy collections and copies of For a fascinating sneak peek into the the Holy Qur’an printed in Europe life of the late Sheikh Zayed, between 1537-1857. There are also affectionately known as the ‘Father of more than 50,000 rare editions of the Nation,’ visit the Zayed Centre in manuscripts and imprints. Abu Dhabi’s Al Bateen district. This Open Sunday to Wednesday 9 am - museum, housed in an Emirati 8pm and Thursday 9 am - 4pm. heritage village replete with camels, is Saturday 9.30 am - 4.30pm. The an incredible homage to the man who library is closed on Friday and all shaped the nation. A photo gallery of religious and national holidays. Sheikh Zayed and many visiting Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque regional and international royalty North Minaret, Floor 4 and dignitaries lines the walls of the www.szgmc.ae museum, which is also full of personal memorabilia such as his favourite Women’s Handicraft Centre hunting rifles. Taking centre stage are This creative initiative is run by the the late President’s cherished vehicles Abu Dhabi Women’s Association as a - which he often drove through the showcase for local arts and crafts. The city without a bodyguard - and gifts small museum within is the chance to he received from all over the world examine and learn about local artists’ such as stuffed and . handiwork. There is also a shop on site. Zayed Centre is open Sundays to The round buildings near the museum Thursdays (closed over the weekend are workshops where female artists Friday/Saturday). Guided tours in display distinctive Arabian oils, English and Arabic are available, handmade souvenirs, incense, local however you need to book at least dress, silver thread work, and weaving. one week in advance. You should remove your shoes before +971 2 665 9555 entering each hut, and ask for photography permission. You can get a simple henna design painted on your hand, which will last about two weeks.

50 THE ISLANDS Exploring Abu Dhabi needn’t be the history and cultural vision behind confined to the capital’s streets. You the island, and until September 2013 can also take to the sea and view ‘Eco Future’ an educational, family- some of the islands that are scattered orientated exhibition gives visitors a in the waters around the main island. glimpse into an environmentally- The majority of the islands are flat, friendly future. It is open daily from sandy and uninhabited, but each has 10am until 8pm. Adult tickets cost its own character. Both Saadiyat and AED 30 (US $8) with AED 25 (US $7) Yas islands have a range of exciting for children under 15. facilities and attractions. The Moved piece by piece from , exquisite island offers a where it welcomed almost two million unique and holistic tourism visitors to the UAE’s national experience, covering wildlife, nature exhibition during the World Expo and adventure based activities, a 2010, the UAE Pavilion is a landmark 5-star boutique hotel and sites of exhibition and events venue. Hosting historical significance. the annual Abu Dhabi Art contemporary art fair, the striking Saadiyat Island dune-shaped structure was designed Just 500 metres off the coast of Abu by London’s acclaimed Foster + Dhabi city, the 27 square kilometre Partners. Saadiyat Island is undergoing Saadiyat Beach Golf Club is the remarkable transformation to become region’s first ocean course; the Gary a world class leisure, residential, Player-designed masterpiece business and cultural hub of global respectfully harnesses the natural proportions, housing the world’s beauty of Saadiyat Island’s largest single concentration of magnificent, white sand beaches for a premier cultural assets. These will truly unique playing experience. include the Abu Dhabi opening 2015, the Zayed National With two five star hotels - The St. Museum opening 2016 and, the Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu , opening Dhabi and Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi - 2017 - all designed by Pritzker prize and more in the pipeline, the island’s winners. The island’s purpose built leisure and hospitality standing is visitor centre - Manarat Al Saadiyat assured. The exclusive Monte Carlo (which translates from Arabic as ‘a Beach Club, Saadiyat celebrates the place of enlightenment’), brings the elegance of its renowned sister on the Saadiyat vision to life. Two galleries Riviera. Leisure services include an are open to the public: ‘The Saadiyat outdoor swimming pool, a workout Story’, on permanent display, gives room with fitness and wellness visitors an interactive narrative on programmes, spa facilities, sauna and

51 MANARAT AL SAADIYAT MONTE CARLO BEACH CLUB

steam rooms, kids’ pool and playing areas, and private cabanas and loungers set on the stunning, white beach. The original ‘guests’ of Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Island, the Hawksbill sea turtles, continue to nest on the destination’s sweeping beachfront. The nine kilometre Saadiyat Beach plays host to several Hawksbill turtle nests every year. The Hawksbill is listed as critically endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List, as its population has declined by more than 80 per cent worldwide over the last three generations due to habitat destruction and poaching. Since master developer Tourism Development & Investment Company began its Hawksbill Turtle Conservation Programme in early 2010, getting the buy-in of developers, contractors and now resort operators, some 650 eggs have hatched successfully on Saadiyat. Saadiyat is a relaxed waterfront home for residents, a cultural magnet for art lovers, the future home of dazzling architectural icons, a pristine beachfront destination and a focal point for compelling sporting experiences. Saadiyat Island is just seven minutes from downtown Abu Dhabi, 20 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport and 50 minutes from . www.saadiyat.ae

53 Manarat Al Saadiyat Monte Carlo Beach Club, Saadiyat This purpose built visitor centre – With its own unique style, Monte Manarat Al Saadiyat, brings the Carlo Beach Club celebrates the island’s vision to life. It currently has elegance of its renowned sister club two galleries open to the public. The on the Riviera. Leisure services state-of-the-art Saadiyat Island include outdoor swimming pool, exhibition, ‘The Saadiyat Story,’ is workout room with fitness and on permanent display and gives wellness programmes, spa facilities, visitors an interactive narrative on sauna and steam rooms, kids’ pool the history and cultural vision and playing areas, and private behind the island and the Zayed cabanas and loungers set on the National Museum model. stunning, white beach. There’s also Additionally, an educational, family- The Library Lounge, a shop, three orientated exhibition, Eco Future is lounges and restaurants. Visitors can running until September 2013 and take advantage of this members-only gives visitors a glimpse into an club with daily membership, allowing environmentally-friendly future. Four access to The Turtle Club as well as interactive, futuristic characters – Ali, the beach, pool and spa. Adult Moza, Yas and Sara – take visitors weekend rates start from AED 600 through six distinct zones: Drinking, (US $160) or AED 900 (US $240) per Eating, Enjoying, Moving, Building couple, with weekday rates from AED and Future City. Visitors can get 400 (US $107) and AED 550 (US hands-on with games, objects, $147) per couple. Reduced rates are artefacts and graphics to explore available for children. environmental and health issues www.montecarlobeachclub.ae affecting our lives and design solutions +971 2 656 3500 to them with these being collated on personalised Eco Tags which will Saadiyat Beach Golf Club ultimately reveal their own Future This magnificent 18 hole ‘ocean’ City. It is open daily from 10am until masterpiece was designed by golfing 8pm. Adult tickets cost AED 30 (US $8) legend Gary Player. It reinforces the with AED 25 (US $7) for children under emirate’s fast rising status as a world 15. Manarat also boasts the fully- class golfing destination of licenced Fanr restaurant for snacks, distinction. More information is in the lunch and dinner. golfing section. www.saadiyatculturaldistrict.ae and/ www.sbgolfclub.ae or www.artsabudhabi.ae +971 2 557 8000 +971 2 643 5781

54 UAE Pavilion Moved piece by piece from Shanghai, Danat Resort Jebel Dhanna can where it hosted the UAE’s national book a three hour tour. exhibition at the World Expo 2010, the Sir Bani Yas Island is also home to the pavilion now stands close to Manarat UAE’s only discovered Christian al Saadiyat adding to the island’s monastery, which is open to the cultural attractions. The pavilion’s public. Believed to have been built visually commanding seven dunes around 600 AD, it was initially represent the UAE’s seven emirates. Its discovered on the island during highest peak reaches 20 metres. The excavations in 1992. This historically- pavilion annually hosts the Abu Dhabi important archaeological site makes Art contemporary art fair. Sir Bani Yas one of the very few www.abudhabiartfair.ae destinations to offer a holistic tourism experience, covering wildlife, nature Sir Bani Yas Island and adventure based activities, a As one of the emirate’s largest natural 5-star boutique hotel, purpose-built islands, Sir Bani Yas Island is the core convention centre, dive school, stables component of the planned Desert of Arabian thoroughbreds and sites of Islands multi-experiential destination historical significance. 240 kilometres west of the UAE www.desertislands.ae capital. Yas Island The island is home to one of Arabia’s largest wildlife reserves – the Arabian Just off Abu Dhabi city, this emerging Wildlife Park – which has more than entertainment destination is within a 10,000 free roaming animals and takes 30 minute drive of the UAE capital and up more than half of the island. There 50 minutes from Dubai. Here you’ll are many , and find the fabulous Yas Marina Circuit - giraffes, along with hyenas and the world class motor sports race track cheetahs. Visitors can get up close and which hosts the annual Formula 1™ personal, at eye-level, with the island’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, giraffes from a purpose-built viewing the stunning Yas Marina with its platform made completely from superb Yacht Club, the Yas Links Abu recycled materials. The world’s first Dhabi Golf Course, Ferrari World Abu two zero-emission buses shepherd Dhabi, the exhilarating Arabian- guests around the island’s beautiful themed futuristic Yas Waterworld and landscapes and abundant wildlife seven hotels, including the hotspots. Guests at the boutique breathtaking signature Yas Viceroy Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Abu Dhabi – the only hotel in the Anantara can take 4x4 Nature & world straddling an F1™ race track. Wildlife Drives of the park in specially www.yasisland.ae made vehicles accompanied by expert island staff. Alternatively, guests of the

55 SIR BANI YAS ISLAND YAS MARINA Yas Beach Set on Yas Island’s tranquil southern shores, Yas Beach is the island’s only stretch of beach. Open daily from 10am – 7pm, it is a great spot to relax and enjoy sun, sea, sand, food and drinks, and there’s plenty of car parking available. Admission, which includes beach towel and sun lounger, is AED 50 (US $13.60) for adults and AED 25 (US $6.80) for children aged 12-16. Children under 12 enter free. Guests staying at Yas Plaza hotels have complimentary beach access on presentation of their room card or hotel voucher. www.facebook.com/yasbeach +971 56 242 0435

Yas Links Abu Dhabi On the west shores of Yas Island, the Yas Links Abu Dhabi golf course was designed by Kyle Phillips, one of the world’s leading golf course designers, in line with the traditional form of links golf commonly associated with the coastal of Scotland and Ireland. Yas Links was voted among the ‘Top 10 New International Golf Courses’ by the influential US publication Golf Magazine. Yas Links features a 7,450 yard par 72 course, utilising five teeing grounds per hole, with all 18 benefiting from ocean views. It has a clubhouse and world class, floodlit practice ranges. More information is in the golfing section. www.yaslinks.com +971 2 810 7710

Yas Marina and Yacht Club After attracting Super Yachts from as far away as Australia for the annual F1™ Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Yas Marina and Yacht Club are the jewels in the crown of Abu Dhabi’s ambitions of becoming a strong rival to traditional yachting grounds such as the Mediterranean and Caribbean. The marina, overlooking the F1™ circuit and neighbouring Yas Links Golf Course, has been designed specifically as a Super and MegaYacht venue. It also has a 400 metre long visitor and event pontoon. Cipriani Restaurant is set in the stunning Yas Marina & Yacht Club, and overlooking the stunning Yas Marina F1™ Circuit, featuring signature dishes from Harry’s Bar in Venice and classic Italian favourites. www.yasisland.ae [email protected]

58 Yas Marina Circuit This state-of-the-art circuit is home to the annual F1™ Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. At its centrepiece is the Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi, a five star, iconic hotel breathtakingly built half on land and half over the Yas Marina. It is 365 days of action at Yas Marina Circuit, as year round the track plays host to some of the world’s top motor racing series. A full calendar of motorsports and entertainment events include the future champions of Formula 1™ in the GP2 Asia Series and, Australia’s legendary motor racing series, the V8 Supercars. Top fuel dragsters made their Arabian Gulf debut at the International Drag Racing Festival and the world’s top sports car series, the FIA GT Championship. Opportunities at Yas Marina Circuit extend well beyond the Grand Prix, with the circuit being a mixed use venue that can be adapted to meet any event, exhibition or conference. www.yasmarinacircuit.com

‘Behind the scenes’ at Yas Marina Circuit Take a tour behind the scenes of one of the world’s most technologically advanced motorsports circuits. The Yas Venue Tour is a must for those who want to see firsthand how much effort goes into running this large, multifaceted facility. Adults: AED 120 (US $33), children AED 60 (US $17); the venue is open on Tuesday to Saturday 10am – 12pm and 2pm – 4pm www.yasmarinacircuit.com +971 2 659 9800 or 800 YAS (927)

Yas Express yas express is a complimentary shuttle service designed to best meet the transport needs of Yas Island’s visitors. Operating daily between 9am - 9pm, yas express connects guests to and from Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi, Yas Plaza hotels, Yas Central, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and Yas Waterworld. www.yasisland.ae +971 2 496 8110 59 YAS MARINA CIRCUIT KHALIFA PARK FAMILY Abu Dhabi Wildlife Centre This is a rehabilitation and breeding fountains and ample car parking. It’s centre for endangered species, a popular ‘ladies only’ facility so operating as a non-profit agency. The photography is not allowed. The centre is open for educational visits and garden is open from 3pm to 10pm can be contacted through its website. (3pm to 9.30pm on Fridays). On Call ahead for the exact location, as it public holidays it is open from 9am to can be a little tricky to find. Costs for a 12pm and 3pm to 10pm. The garden one hour guided tour are AED 65 (US is to the south of Old Airport Road, $18) for adults and AED 35 (US $9) for and its entrance is opposite the children 12 and under. National Theatre. Al Ain Road, Near Al Wathba Near Choueifat School, Al Mushrif www.abudhabiwildlifecentre.com +971 50 721 8169 Al Nahyan Garden This well maintained and compact Al Mushrif Children’s Garden park near the Sheraton Khalidiya This large park near Airport Road is a ensures your little ones can’t get up to wonderful place to take the kids and too much trouble. Simple play have a bit of fun. It has amusement equipment helps the kids let off steam. park rides (with varying fees), swings, Sh Zayed the 1st St, Al Khalidiyah 61 Capital Gardens Murjan Splash Park This refurbished park is a welcome This entertaining children’s patch of green in the city centre. Each destination in Khalifa Park has seven little garden cove has a small selection water-based attractions, all for kids of climbing frames, swings and slides. A up to the age of 12. Its main feature - large, central pond erupts periodically the ‘Water Play Structure’ - is a with bursts from the stunning shallow pool with four small fountains. Vending machines and an waterslides, a giant tipping bucket, a enclosed cafeteria provide refreshment. crawl tunnel, water guns, a water Opposite NBAD, Al Markaziyah umbrella, small tipping buckets, a water wheel, and water showers. Khalidiyah Garden Murjan also has a 257 metre long, 0.6 Taking up a whole block, this large metre deep ‘lazy river’ ready for kids park is popular with families. It has a to float on. The more adventurous variety of play areas, with equipment ones can try their hand at the ‘Water for toddlers and older children. Its Balloon Wars’. The Lili Pad Hop has lovely grassy areas are great for four trampolines with harnesses picnics, with a number of large trees where children can jump and flip on. providing shade. For kids of 11 years and under, the Al Khaleej Al Arabi St, Al Khalidiyah park offers the ‘Surf Wrangler’- where kids try their balancing skills by Khalifa Park riding a mechanical surfboard and Just off Salam Street, this is one of the the ‘Bumper Boat Lagoon’ - small city’s larger parks and a major steerable, battery-operated boats for landmark. Inspiration for the gardens kids to drive around and lightly has been drawn from Arabic and bump into each other. The park is Islamic architecture and from the open daily weekdays 3 - 7 pm world’s great gardens. The landscape (Tuesday is Ladies Day); Weekends boasts canals, fountains, lakes and (Friday & Saturday) 10am - 7 pm; waterfalls. You can tour by hopping Entry is AED 40 (US $11) for children on the miniature railway. With play above 75 centimetres; children below equipment for children, picnic 75 centimetres enter for free. facilities, a garden centre and café www.adm.gov.ae/murjan and an outdoor auditorium, it’s a [email protected] popular spot in the cooler evenings +971 50 878 1009 and during weekends. Emirates Park Zoo Khalifa Park is open from 3pm -10pm This is a petting zoo 35 kilometres daily. Park entry costs AED 1 (33 cents). outside the city on the road to Dubai. www.adm.gov.ae The zoo lets children get up close to their favourite animals and combines learning with touch. There are lots of

62 SPORTS & RECREATION

animals in this five acre farm, including From traditional dhow sailing to peacocks, ostriches, ibex, camels, playing on some of the region’s best horses, raccoons, ferrets, and exotic golf courses, Abu Dhabi is a fish and birds. There’s a play park for destination for the active. children aged ten and under with a small train and bouncy castles for a fee Marine Racing of less than AED 10 (US $3), and the Abu Dhabi International Marine good news is that the whole park is Sports Club supports a wide range of covered by a fog system for outdoor marine sports, including powerboats, cooling to keep the temperatures jet skis, sailing, kayaking, down. The park is open daily (timings wakeboarding and waterskiing. Abu vary); visit the website for details. Dhabi was the first Arabian Gulf city Al Bahya, 35km from Abu Dhabi to organise a UIM Formula One www.emiratesparkzoo.com Powerboat Race. Powerboat racing +971 2 563 3100 now attracts a large, appreciative audience. At this event, 20 to 24 Old Airport Garden boats representing 12 nations This is a quiet park and an ideal place compete at high speed along the if you want to relax after taking the narrow, twisting course off the kids ice-skating at the adjacent rink. Corniche. The Abu Dhabi One side of the park has swings and International Marine Sports Club small tidy gardens, while the other organises the annual President’s Cup side is more ornamental, with plenty F2000 Powerboat Championship, the of trees for shade. National Regatta, the National Jet Ski Near Sheikh Zayed Sport Centre Championship, and the UAE Wooden Al Madina Al Riyadiya Powerboat Championship, all of which are designed to encourage Play at the Malls young to remain close to Get out of the heat and enjoy indoor their marine heritage. Each season parks at Abu Dhabi’s malls. also sees two open regattas for Differently themed, these parks modern sailing boats (including usually have an array of computer catamarans, lasers and windsurfers), and video games, carousels and which are open to all ages and other funfair facilities. nationalities. Near Marina Mall www.adimsc.ae +971 2 681 5566

63

DIVING Many good dive sites are easily Freediving course; tailored to accessible from Abu Dhabi, including introducing newcomers, of those 18 wreck or deep water dives and reef years and older, to freediving and dives. It is possible to dive year round requiring no open water diving, and in the warm seas, and there is a rich three AIDA accredited courses for the abundance of marine life, including more advanced divers. Costs for one barracuda, spotted eagle rays, day introductory ‘Discover Freediving’ stingrays, and much more. The course is AED 800 (US $218), the two following companies offer guided day AIDA Foundation course is AED dives from Abu Dhabi: 1,850 (US $506) and the three day Intermediate and four day Advanced Freediving UAE courses are AED 2,881/3,344 Is the only company specialising in (US $790/916) respectively. freediving training and courses in the www.freedivinguae.com United Arab Emirates. Freediving [email protected] UAE currently runs a basic Discover

65 Sea Hawk Water Sports Operating out of Mina Zayed, Sea waters around the island offer a wide Hawk Water Sports, owned by an variety of marine life – much of which Emirati PADI Master Diver, offers the is unique to the region – allowing full spectrum of PADI certified remarkable snorkelling. courses, from Junior to Master, The centre also has lecture rooms, a tailored to suit visitor needs. Intensive practice pool, a restaurant & grill and courses can be arranged to complete a shop. certification in just four days, perfect www.desertislands.ae for overseas visitors. Utilising its + 971 2 801 5400 unique local knowledge, Sea Hawk also offers daily dive packages to five DIVING CENTRES locations off Abu Dhabi’s expansive coastline, from exploring mysterious Alex Boulting AIDA Master ship wrecks to getting up close to the Instructor emirate’s teeming microlife. [email protected] www.freedivinguae.com For visitors wanting to stay on top of the water, Sea Hawk also offers thrice- Abu Dhabi Sub Aqua Club daily, two hour kayaking trips through +971 2 673 1111 the vast mangrove forests which www.abudhabisubaqua.com characterise Abu Dhabi’s coastline. Prices start from AED 150 (US $41) for Al Jazira Dive Centre adults, and AED 100 (US $27) for kids +971 2 562 9100 (3-12yrs). www.goldentulipaljazira.com www.shw-sports.com Arabian Divers & Sportfishing +971 2 673 6688 Charters +971 50 614 6931 Sir Bani Yas Desert Islands www.fishabudhabi.com Watersports Centre Desert Islands Watersports Centre Sea Cruisers offers sailing lessons and sunset +971 50 800 9495 cruises, as well as diving expeditions www.seacruiser.ae and certification. Sea Tourism In addition to numerous kayaking +971 2 559 1661 routes through this major non-fishing www.seatourism.net zone that stretches 8kms from the shores of Sir Bani Yas Island, the

66 FISHING September to April is best for fishing in Abu Dhabi, although it is possible to catch certain species of fish throughout the summer. Commonly caught fish include dorado, kingfish, queenfish, sailfish and tuna. The more adventurous may prefer to try deep sea fishing or trawling.

Sea Adventures Cruising With a six seater open-deck Barracuda and a Gulf Craft vessel that seats seven, Sea Adventures Cruising provide a range of full day fishing trips off Abu Dhabi’s shoreline. The six hour full day experience costs AED 299 (US $81) per person or AED 1,499 (US $408) for a group of six. A pre-booked four hour half day experience for groups of six are also available at AED 999 (US $272), with trips running between 6am-10am or 1pm-5pm. www.sac.ae +971 56 733 7811 67 OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES Al Forsan International Sports Resort The following companies offer fishing This is a truly unique, world class excursions from Abu Dhabi. sports and leisure destination within 10 minutes of Abu Dhabi International Arabian Divers & Sport Fishing Airport. The resort, which has five Charters international restaurants and cafés, www.fishabudhabi.com caters to a wide range of sporting, +971 50 614 6931 leisure, and meeting activities. Guests Hotel & Towers can experience shooting, www.rotana.com wakeboarding and waterskiing, horse +971 2 697 9000 riding, motorsports, paintball and other leisure activities. The resort is for Empros Watersports people of all ages, for international www.empros.ae sporting events, special occasions and +971 2 6289704 family days out. A Lulu Boats www.alforsan.com www.luluboats.com +971 2 556 8555 +971 50 642 9777 CAMEL RACING Sea Cruiser A trip to the races can be one of the www.seacruiser.ae most memorable highlights of a visit +971 50 800 9495 to Abu Dhabi. Cheer on the camels as Sea Tourism they gallop around a specially made www.seatourism.net track, and marvel at how these +971 2 559 1661 seemingly ungainly creatures can reach such high speeds. Races Sheraton Resort Health Club normally take place on weekend www.sheraton.com/abudhabi mornings, with additional races on +971 2 677 3333 public holidays. For a taste of this sport, head to the Al Wathba Camel Western Marine Sports Club Race Track (about 45km east of Abu www.wmsc.ae Dhabi on the Al Ain Road), or to the +971 50 76 04 060 Al Maqam Track near Al Ain. Try to get to the racetracks as early as possible to soak up the atmosphere. Entrance is free. More information from The Camel Racing Federation at Al Wathba +971 2 583 9200 68 CRICKET GOLF The state-of-the-art Zayed Cricket With fabulous courses carved out of Stadium is arguably one of the world’s the desert and along spectacular finest cricket grounds. Home to Abu coastlines, diversity of experiences Dhabi Cricket Club, the stadium characterise Abu Dhabi’s great golf staged its first international match offering – you can play a different when Scotland played Kenya in the course for a totally different Intercontinental Cup of November experience every day for six days! 2004. With a 20,000 seating capacity, Whether it’s championship-ready the stadium also has numerous grass parkland, ocean or Links facilities, a banks and unseated areas that are gentle urban centre course, the sheer perfect for family picnics during day- uniqueness of a world-class ‘sand’ long Test or One Day International course, or an attempt at the emirate’s (ODI) matches. Over eight years, the longest-hole on a country facility in stadium has hosted a variety of our Oasis City heritage heartland – international and domestic games, we’ve got compelling choices for you. including a series of Tests, ODIs and Abu Dhabi’s Golf in Abu Dhabi Twenty20 matches between England initiative provides exclusive, highly and in January, 2012. attractive rates at three Abu Dhabi Cricket Council championship-ready courses - +971 50 827 1646 Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, Abu Dhabi Al Ain Cricket Association Golf Club (ADGC) and Yas Links Golf www.uaecricket.com Club, plus more. +971 3 703 6942 www.golfinabudhabi.com info@golfinabudhabi.com FOOTBALL The dome@rawdhat is a football Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf facility open seven days a week, with Championship two indoor (temperature controlled) With some of the giants of golf and outdoor FIFA Grade 1 artificial appearing every January, the Abu grass pitches for all-year-round play. Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship is They can also be used for cricket, the European PGA Tour curtain raiser rugby, American football, etc. The which is held at the Abu Dhabi Golf facility stretches over 24,000 square Club. Away from the action on the feet and has male and female greens, there’s children’s changing facilities, a prayer room, entertainment, competitions and an and a café. array of food and beverage outlets, all Airport Road, Near Carrefour of which make it a fantastic family www.thedome.ae day out. +971 2 449 8480 www.abudhabigolfchampionship.com

69 70 ABU DHABI GOLF CLUB

Those interested in playing golf, rather than watching it, can get in touch with any of the following clubs in Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi City Golf Club This nine-hole golf course offers a challenging game, with water coming into play at more than half of the holes, and only two par threes. Set within the circumference of both grass and sand horseracing tracks, this is an intriguing course that offers nightly flood lighting and different tee positions, creating an 18 hole, par 70, 6,395 yard little gem. Water challenges come into play on five of the holes, with testing dog legs left and right and an enormous par five, 630 yard eighth hole, where skilfully designed water hazards cross the fairway. With Night Golf and tee times as late as 8:30pm, and the UAE’s first 2 tiered driving range, featuring 36 individual bays, this golf club is open to members and visitors alike. www.adcitygolf.ae +971 2 445 9600 71 Abu Dhabi Golf Club Saadiyat Beach Golf Club This is home to the annual PGA This magnificent 18-hole European Tour backed Abu Dhabi masterpiece, designed by Gary HSBC Golf Championship and is Player, is the Arabian Gulf’s first and managed by Troon Golf, one of the only ‘ocean’ course with several sport’s most foremost luxury beach front holes on the iconic brands. The iconic clubhouse is Saadiyat Island. The amphitheatre built in the shape of a falcon style Par 72 course features overlooking sweeping fairways. Just spectacular views of the glittering, 30 minutes from the centre of Abu crystal blue Arabian Gulf, with over a Dhabi, the club’s excellent facilities third of the course having views of include two par 72 world class 18- the Saadiyat coastline where hole courses, a driving range, dolphins are regularly spotted. The putting and pitching greens, a golf imaginative golf course routing academy that holds lessons for provides a spectacular variety of golf juniors as well as state-of-the-art experiences, with every hole having lighting to provide optimum playing its own unique character. From the conditions without natural daylight. creation of an aquatic habitat, to the Umm Al Nar St, Umm Al Nar introduction of salt water lagoons www.adgolfclub.com and restoration of the beach and +971 2 558 8990 sand dunes, the course has been designed with strict environmental Al Ghazal Golf Club guidelines and sensitivity to the This purpose-built 18-hole Par 71, surrounding natural environment. 6,724 yards championship standard Operated by Troon Golf, the Saadiyat ‘sand’ golf course has a 30 bay driving Beach Golf Club - which has the range, teaching academy, function Player designed course at its heart - facilities and licensed clubhouse, and incorporates a distinguished practice is just two minutes from the capital’s range, as well as a Golf Academy, international airport. Famous for its which boasts a full service restaurant, friendly and hospitable ambience, Al locker rooms, a fully stocked golf Ghazal is home to the World Sand shop and diverse meeting facilities. Golf Championship. Anyone can play With features for all levels of golfers, here, including transit passengers the club offers a true ‘Member for the with a just a few hours to spare, Day’ experience for UAE residents, however, it’s recommended to call holiday-makers and guests from ahead and reserve. surrounding hotels on a pay-and- play basis. Near Abu Dhabi International Airport www.sbgolfclub.ae www.alghazalgolf.ae +971 2 557 8000 +971 2 575 8040

72 Yas Links Abu Dhabi Voted among the ‘Top 10 New International Golf Courses’ by the influential US publication Golf Magazine, Yas Links Abu Dhabi is the region’s first true links golf course on the west shores of Yas Island. Designed by Kyle Phillips, one of the world’s leading course architects, the Yas Links Abu Dhabi Golf Course is in line with the traditional form of links golf commonly associated with the coastal towns of Scotland and Ireland. The Andalucia style Yas Links Golf Club features glamorous open terraces with sea views, a sports lounge and the Barranca fine dining restaurant which has access to two outdoor terraces and a private dining room. The green lawned terraces can cater up to 300 people overlooking natural mangroves, with a pontoon that can accommodate 20 seater vessels and is ideal for corporate events. Hickory’s all day dining sports lounge also has a private function room with access to an outdoor terrace. Additional clubhouse features include a swimming pool, steam room with rain showers and a pro-shop. Yas Links is open to members and ‘pay & play’ guests. www.yaslinks.com +971 2 810 7710

HORSE RACING Horses are of great heritage significance in Abu Dhabi, which has a wealth of equestrian talent.

Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club This is the home of horse racing in the capital with around 16 race meetings a year, usually held in the afternoons or evenings throughout the cooler season, and admission is free. The race night atmosphere is hard to beat, with six races per evening, starting at 30 minute intervals. There is no betting, but the Tri Cast Competition invites race goers to pick the first three finishers in each race, with prizes for the winners. www.adec-web.com +971 2 445 5500

73 EQUESTRIANISM IS PART OF OUR CULTURE

74 MOTORSPORTS Warm up on the Yas Marina Circuit, adventure, rent a four wheel drive, which annually hosts the Formula 1™ find a group of eager drivers (you’ll Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix need at least three vehicles; never and learn how to conquer one of the drive alone in the desert) and set out most exciting tracks around. Expert for the sand. Be sure that your vehicle tuition is available in a variety of cars is insured for off-road use and that at the Yas Racing School, or bring your you have the proper equipment. If own car and drive the full Grand Prix you’ve never driven off road, you circuit on the Yas Track Day. should first learn the ropes with one In season, there is action almost of the several tour companies in weekly on the drag strip at the Yas Abu Dhabi. Drag Racing Centre, with spectator entry from AED 30 (US $11). TENNIS The Zayed Sports City International Yas Kartzone Tennis Complex, an ATP standard Experience the thrills and excitement facility with six training courts and a of karting at Yas Kartzone. The kart centre court with a spectator capacity fleet consists of Cadet Karts for of 5,000, hosts the annual Mubadala youngsters aged 8 to 12, and Senior World Tennis Championship. Each Karts for people aged 13 years and year, the world’s best line up to above. Yas Kartzone also offers an compete for the championship title, for array of karting options for groups of three days of thrilling action over the 15 or more. Open from Tuesday to new year. Saturday from 2pm to 10pm fees are Visitors can also play tennis in many AED 80 (US $22) for cadets and AED hotels and sports clubs throughout the 100 (US $27) for seniors. emirate. www.yasmarinacircuit.com Call 800 YAS (927), +971 2 659 9544 INDOOR ACTIVITIES or +971 2 446 0384 Zayed Sports City This huge sports complex has a very Off Road Driving affordable bowling alley and an ice Desert dunes are ideal for rallying, rink open to visitors. and many events are organised www.zsc.ae throughout the year with the most +971 2 403 4200 high profile being the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge. BOWLING www.uaedesertchallenge.com A number of malls have ten-pin The massive Liwa Desert dunes bowling facilities for family present an awesome driving entertainment. Bowling City challenge. If you’re in the emirate (bowling-city.com) has three alleys in during the cooler months and you like Abu Dhabi (, 75 SHOPPING and Al Mariah Mall), Shopping is something of a national and one in Al Ain (). Abu pastime in Abu Dhabi, perhaps Dhabi Country Club in Al Mushrif because it is so diverse and, of course, (+971 2 657 7777) has a four lane tax-free. There’s everything from facility. The biggest bowling alley in ultra-modern malls with the latest Abu Dhabi is Khalifa International brands, to small, souk like outlets Bowling Centre (02 403 4648), which where you can buy traditional has 40 lanes and is one of the world’s perfumes, handicrafts, spices and most modern alleys, there is also a carpets. You can spend thousands of bowling facility at the Armed Forces dollars on a bejewelled designer Officers Club & Hotel. watch, or pick up a basic timepiece in a supermarket. You can splash out on ICE SKATING an haute-couture designer outfit or Abu Dhabi Ice Rink, near Zayed Sports buy fabric and have a local tailor City, is an excellent way to escape the make up your very own creation for a heat for a few hours. Apart from the ice bargain price. You can buy a treasured rink, there is a video arcade, bumper Arabian antique, or a technology cars and a restaurant. Lessons are busting super modern home available. entertainment system. Prices are +971 2 403 4333 often excellent in comparison to those abroad, especially for carpets, Marina Mall’s Snow World has a textiles and gold. If you are a good smaller ‘fun’ rink for just a taste of the bargainer, you can get even better ice. deals. Shops open at around 10am to +971 2 681 0814 10pm or later on weekends. Although most malls work straight through, SQUASH some independent shops close for an Visitors can play squash in many extended lunch break, usually from hotels and sports clubs throughout 1pm to 4pm. Hours usually change the emirate. Squash courts are during Ramadan and Eid, with many available for hire at: shops closing for the afternoon and Abu Dhabi Golf Club (+971 2 558 reopening from 7pm until midnight 8990), Beach Rotana Hotel & Towers or later. (+971 2 697 9000), Le Meridien Abu Dhabi (+971 2 644 6666), Sheraton BEST BUYS Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort (+971 2 677 Shopping for souvenirs? Get into a 3333) and the Armed Forces Officers historical habit. Ornate wooden Club & Hotel (+971 2 441 4900) carvings, local art, gold jewellery and carpets reflect the beauty and intrigue of Abu Dhabi’s Arabian heritage.

76 From the smallest silver pillbox to a international artists, with new talent large hand-woven carpet, souvenirs regularly exhibiting. The gallery is come in all shapes and sizes, and near Khalidiyah Gardens. being tax free, can be bought in Abu Al Khaleej Al Arabi St, AlKhalidiyah Dhabi often at a fraction of the cost www.ghafgallery.com elsewhere. The trick is to avoid the +971 2 665 5332 tourist trap and know where to find authentic items that you will treasure Salwa Zeidan Gallery for a lifetime. This gallery serves as a contemporary art space for international and ART Arabian Gulf artists and emerging Abu Dhabi is home to several talent. Open Sunday through reputable galleries featuring Thursday from 9am to 7pm. interesting exhibitions of local art and www.salwazeidangallery.com traditional Arabian artefacts. +971 2 666 9656 The Folklore Gallery on Khalidiya Street is a great place to browse CARPETS displays of local pottery and art, and Buying a carpet can be a fascinating has an excellent framing service. experience; most carpets found in +971 2 666 0361 Abu Dhabi originate from Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Turkey, Gallery One, inside Qaryat Al Beri, and Central Asia, and come in an has a range of beautiful photographs exquisite array of designs and colours. and artwork that can be printed onto To ensure you are buying the genuine canvas and mounted, or rolled up article at a good price, it is advisable into a suitcase friendly tube. to learn a bit about carpets before +971 2 558 1822 making your final decision. Visit a number of shops to get a feel for price, Barakat Gallery quality and traditional designs. As a Barakat specialises in ancient art with very rough guide, the higher the genuine antiquities from China, number of knots per square inch, the Egypt, the Near East, Africa, Greece higher the price and the better the and Rome. Items vary widely and quality. Silk is more expensive than include statues, jewellery, coins, wool, and rugs from Iran are generally necklaces and pottery. more valuable than the equivalent Emirates Palace, Al Ras Al Akhdar from Turkey or Kashmir. Check also www.barakatgallery.com whether the carpet was made by +971 2 690 8950 machine or hand; handmade carpets are never quite perfect and the pile is Ghaf Art Gallery uneven, yet they are more valuable This funky gallery stages exhibitions than their machine made showcasing local and also sometimes counterparts. Carpet salesmen will

77 78 happily offer plenty of advice and can usually be trusted; just don’t feel pressured into buying simply because he has unrolled over 30 carpets for you. Most importantly, don’t forget to bargain - it’s all part of the game and is expected. A good starting point is the Carpet Souk at the port end of Mina Road. Most malls also have well-stocked carpet shops.

GOLD JEWELLERY Gold jewellery is in abundant supply, whatever your taste. Gold is priced according to the international daily gold rate, and is available in 18, 21, 22 or 24 carats. Shopping for gold is a fascinating activity, due to the wide range of styles available, from clean and classic western designs to opulent, ornate Arabian wedding jewellery. You can also buy gold ingots in varying sizes, either for investment or to have moulded into your own design. In addition to the weight price, a small charge is added for craftsmanship, which varies according to the intricacy of design. The Gold Souk on 4th Street in has many jewellers, including some of the Gulf’s largest. Apart from the souk, you’ll also find some big name jewellers in the shopping malls, such as Cartier, Chopard and Tiffany & Co. Regional jewellers to look out for include Damas, Pure Gold and Rivoli. Emirates Palace is home to ‘Gold to Go’, the world’s first ATM that dispenses gold.

79 SOUVENIRS Historically, Abu Dhabi’s desert distinctive white garment worn culture resulted in possessions that traditionally as headdresses by men had to be practical and transportable. in the Arabian Gulf, have become a Genuine traditional items, such as popular fashion accessory worldwide. wooden chests, can be very expensive You will find a huge range of ghutra and increasingly difficult to find, in Abu Dhabi’s souks and malls - although ‘antique’ copies are widely aside from the standard white, they available. Traditional wooden doors come in a multitude of different are also popular, and can be hung as colours and patterns such as works of art or transformed into chequered red and white, worn in the furniture, usually as tables with glass cooler months. tops. Many outlets selling these large items can arrange shipping back to MADE IN UAE your home country. Other items with Made in UAE Souvenirs was founded a local theme include the Arabian in 2007 in Abu Dhabi by the Emirati coffee pot and cups (a symbol of local artist Azza Al Qubaisi, and is the first hospitality), prayer beads in a local 100% non-profit project to multitude of colours, and develop and promote UAE handicrafts woodcarvings in the form of dhows, and artworks. It is also home to a falconry equipment and canes cultural exchange programme by (traditionally used in Emirati dancing showcasing handicrafts from different exhibitions). Ancient looking rifles, parts of the world. muzzle loading guns and the Discover beautiful creations of local functional yet decorative ‘khanjar’ (a artists and talents beside a wide short, curved dagger in an elaborately collection of UAE traditional and wrought sheath) are also popular silver souvenirs. buys. If you intend to buy these, Marina Mall and Women’s Union check first with your airline on Abu Dhabi procedures for transporting them. www.miuaes.com Traditional wedding jewellery made [email protected] of heavy silver or later on gold and +971 55 493 6308 crafted into necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings are coveted forms SOUGHA of historic art, and make beautiful Visitors looking for an authentic displays when mounted into glass souvenir from their visit to Abu Dhabi box frames. Once valued more highly can now visit the UAE capital’s than gold, the dried resin from the Central Market souk and pick up their frankincense tree of southern Oman own ‘Sougha’, which in Arabic means has been traded for centuries, and the gifts that a traveller brings back nowadays is often sold with a small from his journey. Created by Emirati wooden chest and charcoal burner as women using craft skills passed incense kits. Ghutra headscarves, the down through generations, and 80 Shops with the Arabian Experience designed to revive the Bedouin art of One of the great things about weaving among people living in Abu shopping in Abu Dhabi is that many Dhabi, a range of colourful, hand- of the shops offer so much more than woven collection of treasures are the goods they sell - they also offer a available to give to family or friends. unique Arabian experience. [email protected] Arjmst SOUVENIRS YOU CAN EAT This private atelier showcases the Edible souvenirs include delicious work of the first Emirati designer Azza Lebanese sweets (most often made Al Qubaisi. Her work combines the from pastry, honey, ground nuts and beauty of nature, deep rooted dates). Iranian caviar is widely tradition and the awareness of available and good value for money, present and future issues in her as it is sold without import duty or fabulous collections and sculptures. any added tax. Chocolate made from She also draws attention to many camels’ milk is a luxurious treat with subjects, from the history of pearl a smooth texture and a unique flavour diving (represented in Angel Tears that comes from blending camel milk collection), to present environmental with vanilla, honey and cocoa beans. issues represented in the It is sold in bars, pralines and as Sustainability Collection. Skilful camel shaped figurines, and is combinations of diamond, gold, silver available from many souvenir shops, and other materials give each piece of as well as supermarkets. Perhaps the art its identity and character. Find most classic edible souvenir is dates; both exclusive one-off pieces and this distinctive fruit holds an affordable souvenirs to remember important place in Arabian heritage your Abu Dhabi. as a vital source of nutrition. Today, www.arjmst.com dates are available in many modern +971 2 644 1575 varieties, with each having its own +971 55 471 0080 distinct colour and flavour. They are Yas Perfumes even available dipped in chocolate or Made from the resin of the agarwood stuffed with almonds or candied tree, oud was historically a valuable orange peel. Bateel, the renowned commodity and today is still a sought dates delicatessen, has an amazing after luxury item. Various types of oud selection of luxury dates and date have different aromas, but all have a produce, sparkling date juice, date strong, deep scent when burned. You jams and preserves and even balsamic can buy oud as blocks or chips, along vinegar from dates. with a special burner. Oud oil, however is the result of a complex

81 extraction process, and is popular with Emiratis who use it as a distinctive, long lasting perfume. Yas Perfumes, an Emirati company, specialises in oud, oud oils and dukhoons, all of which are traditional regional scents used as perfume and incense, with a selection of French blended perfumes as well. Once you have selected a fragrance, browse through the incredible selection of ornate perfume bottles to store it in. There are numerous branches of Yas Perfumes in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, including Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi Mall, Emirates Palace and another in Al Ain Mall. SHOPPING MALLS Spacious, modern and air conditioned, Abu Dhabi’s malls are a welcome escape from the summer heat and a world of choice when it comes to shopping. In Abu Dhabi, malls are a place to catch up with friends or for a family outing - and the fun can go on until late at night. With their imaginative designs and wide range of outlets, shopping malls are perennially popular. The bigger malls buzz with activity as people meet, eat, pose and parade. During festive occasions such as 82 MARINA MALL

Al Raha Mall Eid or Ramadan, malls are venues for houses a mixture of special events such as dance or entertainment, leisure and shopping cultural shows, often featuring (including fashion). Two cinemas show international acts. They also hold the latest movies and a number of numerous raffles, often with huge cafés, restaurants and a food court offer prizes such as luxury cars or cash. a choice of dining. There is also a kids´ entertainment area. Abu Dhabi Mall www.al-rahamall.com With over 200 shops and upwards of +971 2 556 2229 25,000 visitors a day, restaurants on every floor, a children’s play area and a Cineplex, this is more than just a This mall has an inviting, spacious sun shopping destination. Look out for roofed design and a myriad of side big name outlets like Paris Gallery passages to satisfy curious shoppers. It (perfumes, cosmetics, sunglasses, has a wide range of stores, large and handbags and jewellery), Jashanmal, small, local and international, as well Grand Stores and Salam Stores (all as a large supermarket and plenty of department stores). dining choices. www.abudhabi-mall.com www.alwahda-mall.com +971 2 645 4858 +971 2 443 7000 83 Avenue at Etihad Towers Marina Mall One of the world’s most expensive and Right on the Breakwater, this mall exclusive collection of boutique shops. features a 100 metre high viewing A myriad of luxury brands reside here platform, an ice rink, a bowling alley, a including Burberry, Canali, Cartier, Cineplex, musical fountains and Hermès, Herve Leger, Manolo Blahnik, hundreds of big name brands and Piaget, Salvatore Ferragamo, Van stores. A true Abu Dhabi landmark, Cleef & Arpels and Versace. In total 39 Marina Mall’s many restaurants and brands have signed up for the coffee shops make it possible to spend a destination including Tom Ford and full day here. Watch out for the huge Porsche Design. Many of the boutiques annual sale period from mid-January to have luxurious enclaves for VIPs to the end of February. shop in privacy. A new addition to the mall is CityStore www.avenueatetihadtowers.ae which is the region’s first stand-alone store of an English Premier League Fotouh Al Khair Centre team. The Manchester City FC store Several of the world’s favourite features a full range of Club brands are jammed into this spacious merchandise, including a shirt printing mall: Marks & Spencer, Adams, service to create personalised items. Monsoon, Nine West, and more. Also www.marinamall.ae worth visiting is Falcon Gallery - +971 2 681 8300 great for household decorations, candles, flower arranging materials and fancy goods. At the intersection An expansive, three-floor retail of Airport Road and Sheikh Zayed 1st megaplex with a mix of shopping, Street, it is also affectionately known dining, leisure and entertainment, as ‘Marks and Spencer’ Mall. Mushrif Mall is on Airport Road, close www.fotouhalkhair.com to Rocco Forte Hotel and just five a +971 2 681 1130 minute drive from Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, offers Khalidiyah Mall everything from luxury fashion to This mall on Al Nahyan Street features electronic goods and furniture and distinctive Islamic architecture and the Arabian Gulf’s biggest food court over 160 shops. Highlights include UK featuring the first Jimmy’s Killer department stores Debenhams and Prawns brand in Abu Dhabi. BHS, its many cafés and restaurants, www.mushrifmall.com and a large food court. There is also an +971 2 690 4422 amusement centre with arcade games, a brand new dedicated 3D cinema and a bowling alley. www.khalidiyahmall.com +971 2 635 4000

84 MARKETS/SOUKS Carpet Souk Traditional markets have evolved into Yemeni mattresses and machine bustling tourist attractions selling a made carpets dominate this souk, but fascinating collection of goods. Souk bargains can be found if you know is Arabic for ‘marketplace.’ what you are looking for. Some of the Historically, dhows from the Far East sellers will make up Arabic majlis and India would offload their cargo style cushions for a very reasonable and the goods would be haggled over price. You’ll find it on Mina Road, in the nearby souks. Over the years near the main port area. the goods on sale have diversified dramatically; today alongside the Souk Qaryat Al Beri spices, silks and perfumes you’ll find This contemporary adaptation of a electronic goods, souvenirs, clothing typical Arabian souk is home to local and household items. Abu Dhabi’s and international retail brands, coffee souks are worth a visit for their shops and a diverse range of bustling atmosphere, eclectic variety restaurants. Abras (water taxis) take of goods, and to observe the you around the souk via meandering traditional way of doing business. manmade canals, and the stunning waterside complex offers alfresco Fish Souk dining in beautiful architectural Every morning, fishermen load their surroundings. catch on to the quayside and prepare www.soukqaryatalberi.com for a day of haggling; it is a fascinating +971 2 558 1670 insight into the way traditional business is done. The fish souk is in The Souk at Central Market Mina . This replica of a traditional Arabian souk is a must for residents and tourists Al Mina Fruit & Vegetable Souk with the emphasis on displaying and Across the road from the Fish Souk, selling traditional and regional this fruit and vegetable market is products ranging from jewellery, bursting with colour as each seller carpets, antiques to traditional arranges his produce outside the tailoring, fashion and diverse shops. The choice is amazing, and you restaurants. can buy by the kilo or the box. Even if +971 2 499 8444 you are not buying, this area provides www.centralmarket.ae excellent photo opportunities.

85 CENTRES & BARGAIN OUTLETS Abu Dhabi Co-operative Society Complex This older shopping centre still buzzes, especially during weekends and evenings. Its main draws are now Splash (trendy, inexpensive fashion), Shoe Mart (huge range of shoes), Lifestyle (funky gifts and much more) and The Baby Shop. Other smaller shops include computer suppliers and ladies´ fashion outlets. +971 2 644 0808 www.adcoops.com

Hamdan Centre Something of an institution on Abu Dhabi´s shopping scene, this vibrant centre in the heart of the city is a good place to buy leather goods, shoes, sports equipment and touristy knick-knacks, all at bargain prices. It also has a pharmacy. +971 2 632 8555

Liwa Centre This is where to head on Sheikh Hamdan Street for designer jewellery, clothes, makeup, perfume, bookshops and more. Be sure to visit the vibrant food court on the second level or relax in the coffee shop, which is open until midnight.

Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre & Gold Centre This down-town centre has over 400 stores including a big textile market, a substantial market specialising in UAE traditional dress and an accessories and cosmetic market. It is home to Abu Dhabi’s gold souk with 85 stores selling a range of traditional and modern jewellery. www.madinatzayed-mall.com

86 A DAY OUT IN ABU DHABI CITY

ITINERARY ONE A Dose of Culture and Cruising through Dinner.

Morning Learn all about Islam and some UAE traditions with a visit to one of the world’s most impressive mosques, the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. This architectural marvel features 80 domes, 1,000 columns, gold plated chandeliers, the world’s largest hand knotted carpet with the most knots and space for 41,000 worshippers. Take a one hour, complimentary guided tour at 10am, 11am or 5pm every Sunday to Thursday; at 2pm, 5pm or 8pm on Fridays; or at 10am, 11am, 2pm, 5pm or 8pm on Saturdays. www.szgmc.ae Afternoon Experience magnificent city views from the 74th floor observation deck within Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, offering uninterrupted 360 degree views across Abu Dhabi’s cityscape and spectacular Corniche - at 300 metres, it is the capital’s highest vantage point. From 2pm, partake in the ultimate luxury tradition of high tea at le Café at the opulent Emirates Palace hotel, with platters of dainty sandwiches, petit fours and fluffy scones and a pot of expertly brewed tea or cappuccino dusted with 24-carat gold flakes. Catch a cab up to the Heritage Village on the Corniche Breakwater and step back in time to a traditional desert lifestyle. Bargain with souvenir sellers and watch craftsmen at work producing pottery, weaving and metal work.

Evening Enjoy an Arabian feast whilst cruising along the Corniche on a traditional dhow (sailing boat) converted into a restaurant. Be mesmerised by the glittering lights of Abu Dhabi´s Manhattan style skyline.

87 SHEIKH ZAYED GRAND MOSQUE ITINERARY TWO Fishy Tales of Arabia

Morning Rise early to catch the action at the hours with an experienced guide who Fish Market in the Mina Area. Be can share details on natural wildlife astounded at the astonishing array of habitats and point out some of the iconic fish, including shark, and be ready to buildings transforming the horizon, snap up photographs. If you´re self stopping for refreshments on one of the catering, choose your favourite pristine islands. seafood and get it cleaned on site ready for a lunch or evening barbecue. Arrange for Sea Cruiser Boat Tours The hustle and bustle of the market (www.seacruiser.ae, Tel: +971 50 800 brings you wide awake. 9495) to pick you up from an agreed destination on the water, and transfer you to Abu Dhabi’s signature Afternoon entertainment destination, Yas Island Head off for a day’s fishing and now (www.yasisland.ae). You’ll arrive in you should easily be able to recognise style, and air conditioned comfort, to your catch. Take a fishing tour with the 143 berth Yas Marina which Sea Adventures Crusing (www.sac.ae overlooks the Yas Marina F1™ Circuit. +971 56 733 7811) and get to know all Experience one of the world’s most about Abu Dhabi’s rich maritime technologically advanced motorsport heritage whilst taking in its stunning circuits by taking the official Yas Marina coastline. Circuit Venue Tour (www. Evening yasmarinacircuit.ae, Tel: 800 927). Escorted track tours in an air Head to one of the city´s fabulous conditioned coach with a trained tour seafood restaurants for a gourmet guide provide an inside view of the pits, experience that you will savour long team garages and the working after the meal is over. environments of the F1™ teams in the ITINERARY THREE Paddock Club’s team villas. The tour ends with a photo finish opportunity on Islands in the Sun the Main Straight podium.

Morning Lunch Set sail with the Noukhada Adventure Delight in the art of cuisine at one of Company (www.noukhada.ae, Tel: +971 the fine dining restaurants at the 50 721 8928) for a bright and early eco- extraordinary Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi tour, kayaking through Abu Dhabi’s (www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/ natural eastern mangrove forests dotted abudhabi Tel: +971 2 656 0600), the around the plethora of islands in view of only hotel in the world to straddle an the rising city skyline. You’ll spend 1.5 F1™ circuit. 89 Afternoon Transfer from Yas Island along the incredible Sheikh Khalifa Highway, connecting to the 27 square kilometres Saadiyat Island (www.saadiyat.ae) which is undergoing a remarkable transformation to become a world class leisure, business and cultural hub. Saadiyat Island will eventually house the , and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi. A permanent interactive display, ‘The Saadiyat Story’ at the island’s dedicated exhibition centre Manarat Al Saadiyat (www.saadiyat.ae or email [email protected]), brings the history and cultural vision of Saadiyat to life. Visit the Eco Future exhibition and take an afternoon break in the centre’s Fanr restaurant.

Evening Finish your perfect island day with a visit to Saadiyat Beach Golf Club (www. sbgolfclub.ae, Tel: +971 2 557 8000), a magnificent 18 hole ‘ocean’ masterpiece designed by golfing legend Gary Player. Squeeze in a game of golf or kick back and relax at the club’s signature Hawksbill Restaurant with its sweeping views overlooking the rolling cascades of the course.

SAADIYAT ISLAND

90 EXPLORE, EXPERIENCE, ENGAGE – AL AIN (EASTERN REGION)

Al Ain was once a vital oasis on the caravan route from the UAE to Oman, and is the birthplace of Abu Dhabi’s ruling Al Nahyan family. Meaning ‘The Spring’ in Arabic, Al Ain city is fed by natural springs originating in the rocky heights that surround it. Set among lush oases and towering palm plantations, Al Ain - the Oasis City - is the emirate’s heritage heartland, one of the world’s oldest continually inhabited settlements and is home to UNESCO World Heritage sites.

AL AIN AL AIN ATTRACTIONS Al Ain Camel Market This is the last souk of its kind in the different entrances, some of which UAE and is an excellent opportunity have arched gates, and entry is free. to see camels up close, and to see and Near Al Ain Museum hear the traders discussing the price +971 3 763 0155 and merits of their animals. There are some excellent photo opportunities, This is home to over 4,000 animals, but be careful where you point your and at least 30% of its 180 species are lens and always ask permission first. considered endangered. Conservation People will try to sell you a tour efforts have been strengthened by around the pens, but feel free to walk partnerships with San Diego Zoo, the around on your own. In the livestock Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden section, watch locals arrive in pickups in Miami, and the World Association laden with goats and sheep, ready to of Zoos & Aquariums. The park covers do some hard bargaining. 900 hectares near the base of Jebel East of Jebel Hafeet Hafeet. Visitors can see the large animal collection, including the In the heart of the city, this impressive majestic white lions of Sanbona, in oasis is filled with palm plantations, enclosures that resemble their many of which are still working farms. natural habitats as closely as possible. The cool, shady walkways transport Giraffes, zebras, rhinoceroses and you from the heat and noise of the hippos co-exist in the mixed African city to a tranquil haven; all you´ll hear exhibit, while wildlife typical of the is birdsong and the rustle of the palm local region, such as the indigenous fronds. You are welcome to wander Arabian Oryx and sand gazelle also through the plantations, but it´s best share a habitat. There are plenty of to stick to the paved areas, which will green public spaces ideal for picnics take you on a relaxing meander and also playgrounds, a cafeteria and through the trees. a train tour of the wildlife area. In Farms occasionally have signs summer, the park is also open nightly welcoming tourists to walk around. from 4pm to 10pm, with a special bird The farms have plenty of working show at 7:30pm. Adult entry is AED examples of the falaj, the UAE´s 15 (US $5) and AED 5 (US $1.50) for traditional irrigation system, which children. Under three’s are free. has been used for centuries to tap into Near Traffic Police, Jebel Hafeet underground wells. There are eight 800 555, +971 3 782 8188 www.awpr.ae

93 Al Badeyah Eyes Tourism This desert camp, nestled in the desert dunes of Al Khaznah, gives visitors a unique insight into UAE traditions and customs as the guest of a local family. Offering different desert safari services, Al Badeyah camp boasts five permanent tents with beds, an original majlis tent for evening activities, two permanent bathroom facilities, along with a children’s playground, trampoline and a petting zoo of goats and sheep. www.abet-uae.com

Al Jahili Fort The picturesque Al Jahili Fort– you’ll find its image on the back of an AED 50 note - is one of the UAE’s most historic forts. It was erected in 1891 to defend the city and protect precious palm groves. The former headquarters of the Oman Trucial Scouts, the force that protected the mountain passes and kept inter-tribal peace, it also served as a residence for the local governor. It is set in beautifully landscaped gardens, and visitors are encouraged to explore it. It has been carefully restored and now houses a permanent exhibition of the work of British adventurer Sir (whom the locals affectionately refer to as Mubarak Bin London) and his 1940s crossings of the Rub Al Khali (The Empty Quarter) desert. Ladies planning to visit are kindly asked to wear flat shoes to avoid damage to the fort’s floors. 94 GREEN MUBAZZARAH HOT SPRINGS Near Public Garden, close to the including a dry studio for a variety of centre of town. activities such as music classes and art +971 3 711 8311 crafting, a wet studio for drawing and www.visitabudhabi.ae painting, a fully-equipped pottery studio, a digital room suitable for Jahili Mosque photography and computer classes, a To the southwest of Jahili fort is a spacious calligraphy studio as well as small mosque which is probably an exhibition hall, cafe and library. contemporary with the inner fort built www.visitabudhabi.ae by Sheikh Zayed the First at the end of +971 3 761 8080 the nineteenth century. The historic fabric of the building survives intact Classic Cars Museum at Al Ain below a new layer of mud plaster Sportplex added during a conservation project This museum is an educational carried out by Abu Dhabi Tourism & facility that collects, preserves, Culture Authority. The mosque interprets and exhibits vehicles consists of a single room with an open related to the evolution of arcade on the east side and is entered transportation in the UAE. You can from an enclosed courtyard which find informative books with valuable would have been covered in summer information about old transportation to provide additional shade. Within in the UAE. the courtyard there is a low stepped Open Saturday to Thursday from 5pm platform from which the call to prayer –10pm and for pre-booked groups, of was made and a small room which at least 10 people, by arrangement on probably served originally for ritual Friday. ablutions. www.alainclassiccarsmuseum.com www.visitabudhabi.ae +971 50 623 1323 Al Qattara Arts Centre Green Mubazzarah Hot Springs On a site that dates to the Iron Age At the bottom of Jebel Hafeet, Abu (1,100 – 300BC), this historic renovated Dhabi’s highest peak, lies one of the fort now houses the Al Qattara Arts UAE’s most surprising sights. Green Centre – the only one in Al Ain – and Mubazzarah is a park of undulating carefully maintains a blend of the rocky terrain that has been landscaped, traditional architecture with state-of- giving the impression of rolling grassy the-art facilities. hillsides with streams, hot springs and The centre has an extensive arts and waterfalls. Accommodation is culture programme with strong available in chalets. Advance emphasis on local and Arab art, UAE reservations are taken. heritage and culture and advanced Near the base of Jebel Hafeet facilities for studying and improving art www.emiratesresidence.com skills. With excellent classrooms, +971 3 783 9555

96 Hili Archaeological Garden Just 10 kilometres outside Al Ain (on the road to Dubai) are the Hili Archaeological Gardens. Combining both a public garden and the archaeological site, this is a popular place for tourists and residents alike. The archaeological site has remnants of a settlement (2,500- 2,000 BC), which was excavated and restored in 1995. It is the source of some of the richest finds in the area, many of which are believed to be over 4,000 years old. There are other archaeological structures around the park, but it is chiefly a garden with plants, fountains, and a small children´s play area. Hili is near Fossil Valley, an area rich in a variety of fossils dating back many thousands of years to when it was covered by sea. Mohammed Bin Khalifa St www.visitabudhabi.ae Hili Fun City This flagship family entertainment destination has been a firm favourite since opening in 1985 when it became the Gulf’s first theme park. Now renovated, the expansive park boasts 28 attractions for all ages, a family show amphitheatre, picnic and play areas. The all-inclusive price of AED 45 / AED 35 Mondays and Tuesdays (US $12.50/9.50) for adults and children of 0.89m and above covers entry to the park and 25 rides. The park is open from 10am to 10pm on public holidays and from 12pm until 10pm on weekends. Weekday timings are 4pm to 10pm. Wednesdays are reserved for ladies only and the park is closed on Sundays. www.hilifuncity.ae +971 3 784 5542 Jebel Hafeet This towering rocky height, which stands guard over Al Ain and borders Oman, is forged out of craggy limestone that has been weathered over millions of years. Significant fossil discoveries have been made in the area, which are vital pieces in the jigsaw of the city’s ancient history. Over 500 ancient burial tombs

97 HILI FUN CITY dating back 5,000 years have also Bringing together water and been found in the foothills of Jebel adrenaline-filled activity, Wadi Hafeet. Rising 1,240 metres, Jebel Adventure makes a great day out for Hafeet is the UAE’s second highest water sports enthusiasts and families. peak. You can drive, or if you have the Lessons are provided by certified stamina, cycle to the top via a winding trainers for all levels of competency; highway, which edmunds.com (the guests can bring their own equipment, automotive information online source) rent or buy gear from the resort’s shop. described as among the world’s Standard adult entrance is AED 100 greatest driving roads. Once you reach (US $27) and AED 50 (US $13.50) for the top, you’ll be rewarded with children. A family pass is available at magnificent views over Al Ain, where AED 200 (US $54). Individual fees for you can take a break at the Mercure other activities are applicable. Jebel Hafeet hotel near the Jebel’s www.wadiadventure.ae peak. +971 3 781 8422

Wadi Adventure A man-made white-water rafting, kayaking and surfing playground in PARKS & the foothills of Jebel Hafeet. The park’s 3.3 metre man-made surf wave is the GARDENS world’s largest and its1.7 kilometre Al Ain Ladies Park kayaking channel network is the Commonly known as Basra Park, this world’s longest. quiet and attractive garden is for

99 women and children only (boys under the new garden showcases the beauty the age of 10). If you are looking for of plants. The Children’s Garden somewhere to sit and enjoy the peace, features a flower garden, rolling hill, there are plenty of benches under the mixed use play areas, picnic spots, a shady trees. Play areas with swings, native plant garden with species slides and climbing frames are sure to indigenous to the UAE, a recycling keep the kids busy. A dry wadi (dried garden and a vegetable, fruit and herb up river bed), crossed by wooden garden. With spectacular African bridges, runs through the middle of Baobab trees framing the area, the the park and there is also a small towering trunks offer a genuine snack bar to satisfy the day’s cravings. horticulture lesson in how specific plants can adapt to dry soil conditions. Al Ain Paradise Garden Entry is included within the fee to the This expansive park – the size of four Al Ain Zoo. football pitches – is home to www.awpr.ae approximately 10 million flowers, a 12 metre tall replica of the Eiffel Tower and it holds the Guinness World Record for the most hanging baskets, HERITAGE having 2,968 in total. Entrance is free. On Nahyan Al Awal Street at the Al Ain Heritage and Culture Zakher roundabout Village at Al Ain Sportplex +971 3 782 0788 At the expansive Al Ain Sportplex, the www.alainparadise.com Al Ain Heritage and is a destination in its own right. Bringing Al Ain Public Garden the richness of Emirati culture and The main park in Al Ain, is a tranquil diversity together in one place, the spot amid the hustle and bustle. heritage-style theme park invites you Walkways meander under shady to journey into the past and experience trees, fountains are attractively lit at traditional UAE life. The village night and areas for younger children includes an old café, a popular market, have a variety of play equipment. For and two theatres where you can enjoy the older kids, there is a small art shows and listen to poetry and amusement arcade tucked away near concerts. Entrance is free. Open the back entrance. Saturday to Thursday from 9:30am- Zayed Bin Sultan St, 1pm and 5pm –10pm and on Friday +971 3 708 4832 from 4pm -10:30pm www.alainsportplex.ae Children’s Garden +971 3 768 9779 Within Al Ain Zoo is the fun-filled, outdoor learning scheme ‘Children’s Garden’. Designed to inspire children of all ages with a love for biodiversity, 100 Al Ain Palace Museum On the edge of Al Ain Oasis, this This museum is the former home of museum showcases the city’s unique the late UAE founder, Sheikh Zayed heritage and history. It is housed in Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Palace was the same compound as the Sultan Bin once a political and social hub. Built Zayed Fort (also known as the Eastern in 1910, the building became a Fort), which was built in 1910 and is museum in 1998. very well preserved. Now creatively restored, the museum The presentations in its three main houses a large collection of material sections - archaeology, ethnography about the ruling family. Visitors can and gifts - illustrate various aspects of tour the private rooms and gardens UAE life and include an interesting once occupied by the ‘Father of the collection of Bedouin jewellery, Nation’. The museum is open from musical instruments, weapons, and a 8:30am to 7:30pm Tuesday to Sunday reconstruction of a traditional majlis. and between 3:30pm and 7:30pm on The archaeological displays are Friday. Entrance is free. extensive, and include many artefacts Al Ain St from the nearby Hili Gardens so it is +971 3 751 7755 helpful to visit the museum first. Some of the displays, such as the one Al Ain University Natural History from Garn Bint Saud (12 kilometres Museum north of Hili), date back to the first For those interested in the UAE’s flora millennium BC. The gifts section and fauna, this museum is a small but houses an unusual collection of gifts informative centre run by the UAE that Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al University in Al Ain. It includes a Nahyan received during his lifetime. herbarium and collections of various It includes golden swords, silver species of animals and birds. A daggers and a golden palm tree, collection of rocks, minerals and among others. The labelling on all fossils is also on display. The museum displays is in English and Arabic. is open Sunday to Thursday 8am – Hours of operation are generous, 2pm. Entrance is free. from 8am to 7:30pm every day except www.cos.uaeu.ac.ae Monday (closed) and Friday, when the hours are 3pm to 7:30pm. Al Reef Handicrafts Training Entrance is Adults AED 3 (US 75 Centre cents), Children AED 1 (US 35 cents) This educational centre at Al Ain Near Al Ain Oasis Sportplex gives you the chance to www.aam.gov.ae learn how to make traditional +971 3 764 1595 handicrafts of various types. The centre encourages residents and tourists to know more about the UAE heritage during the training sessions

101 AL AIN PALACE MUSEUM AL AIN RACEWAY Go-Karting held by specialised staff. The sessions The state-of-the-art Al Ain Raceway is are classified according to age group ranked as one of the world’s top three and gender and kids can attend if they go-karting tracks and is host to major are above 5 years old. You must international events such as the Rotax register before attending! Max Challenge Grand Finals, the biggest Open Sunday to Thursday from 5pm annual event on the global karting –10pm calendar. This fully floodlit circuit www.alreeftc.com features three distinctive configurations, +971 50 623 1323 providing an exhilarating challenge for drivers of all abilities. Open to the public, Muraijib Fort drivers can hone their skills on top-of- Built in 1816, Muraijib Fort is the the-range Intrepid brand rental karts. oldest in Al Ain. It is on Al Jimi Street The Al Ain Raceway also boasts a and its restored remains are within restaurant, shisha lounge and meeting beautifully landscaped gardens, rooms equipped with the latest which are reserved for women and technology and is an ideal venue for children. Entrance is free. team building and corporate events. Al Jimi St Exclusive use of the circuit needs to be www.visitabudhabi.ae booked in advance. Al Ain Sportplex , Kattam Al Shaklah St www.alainraceway.com SPORTS & +971 3 768 6662 GOLF RECREATION Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club Al Ain offers a wealth of indoor and In the foothills of the soaring Jebel outdoor active pursuits. Here’s a Hafeet heights, AESGC is our Oasis selection: City’s first 18-hole facility and a Al Ain Sportplex fantastic environment in which to Aside from motorsports, cricket, absorb the recuperative majesty of soccer, paintball and other the emirate’s second-largest city. attractions, the Al Ain Sportplex is To ensure a consistent challenge, the home to the 1.4 km Al Ain Raceway picturesque, tranquil, Par 71 is go-karting track - the largest of its compelling, visually scenic, yet a kind in the Arabian Gulf. relatively short challenge. With water Kattam Al Shaklah Street in play on 12 holes, this stern but www.alainsportplex.ae decidedly conquerable test also +971 3 768 8888 includes the Arabian Gulf’s longest Par 5 – the mammoth, 678-yard Hole 10. To complement the 18-hole

104 mainstay, there is also a floodlit, nine-hole, par three Academy Course – the ideal spot for a round of night golf. www.aesgc.ae +971 3 768 4888 Al Ain Golf Club Near the Danat Al Ain Resort, this club boasts an 18 hole sand course, a clubhouse and a floodlit driving range. Handicaps gained here are valid internationally. Visitors are welcome, but should phone ahead. Near Danat Al Ain Resort www.alainsandgolfclub.blogspot.com +971 3 768 6808

Hilton Al Ain Golf Club This par three course has an average distance of about 80 yards between each hole and, although short in length, it can play tough. The course has nearly 30 bunkers and very small quick greens. It is open to non-members, and lessons are available. Hilton Al Ain ,+971 3 768 6666 www.al-ain.hilton.com

HIKING The areas surrounding Al Ain are perfect for day hikes or long walks. The plantations scattered around the city provide gorgeous, shaded settings for long walks and quiet picnics. More experienced hikers shouldn´t miss the Hanging Gardens hike, which showcases some of the most unusual and unexpected rock formations and plant life in the country.

HORSE RIDING The Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club has excellent facilities for the equestrian. Whether it’s learning to ride, looking to take part in competitions or be a spectator at regular races, this is the resort for you. www.aesgc.ae +971 3 702 6405

105 106 107 SHOOTING Al Jimi Mall The Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Offers hundreds of shopping options in Golf Club has excellent facilities for over 70 shops, including Women`s beginners, corporate groups and Secret, Early Learning Centre, Nine experienced shooters. The club is also West, Areej and Body Shop. a good resource for information on www.aljimimall.com shooting tips, equipment advice, gun +971 3 763 8883 tips, and competition opportunities for registered members. Mall Open 2pm - 10pm and closed on The largest mall in Al Ain, Bawadi Sunday. Mall has over 400 shops, representing www.aesgc.ae both international and regional +971 3 702 5000 brands, and a range of high street and designer names, a food court and many casual dining outlets. Family SHOPPING entertainment includes a ski village, rollercoaster, an eight screen cinema SHOPPING MALLS and a bowling alley. Al Ain Mall The Heritage Village features This bright, modern mall has over beautiful Islamic architecture and 175 stores selling everything from shops selling classic souvenirs like greeting cards to gold jewellery. gold, carpets and handicrafts in a Entertainment facilities include traditional souk environment. There cinema multiplex, ice rink, family are also two outdoor markets, Bawadi amusement centre, bowling, and a and Al Qaws. spacious food court. www.bawadimall.com www.alainmall.ae +971 3 784 0000 +971 3 766 0333 Emirates Commercial Complex Al Foah Mall Nearly 50 shops line the pavements of This is Al Ain’s newest entertainment this mixed use complex that is and shopping centre. From fashion to particularly handy if you’re looking accessories, books to toys, home ware for souvenirs. One of the most popular to restaurants, and a kids’ outlets is Odel Style, where you can entertainment area everything is buy fabrics and readymade garments under one roof. There is also a 12 with a distinct Arabian feel. screen multiplex cinema. +971 3 751 2111 www.alfoahmall.com Safeer Mall +971 3 766 3 560 Revolving around the popular supermarket of the same name, Safeer Mall is on the way to Hili

108 Archaeological Park. There are plenty dallah (Arabian coffee pots) this is the of clothing and accessory shops. marketplace for you. +971 3 763 3215 This is the new home of Al Ain`s old souk and features Mubdia Village, a AL AIN SOUKS section exclusively for women that is Al Ain Souk staffed by female shopkeepers. Open Also known as the Central or Old 10am to 1pm and 8pm until midnight. Souk, this is a great place to explore, Around the corner from Al Jimi Mall savour the local atmosphere and +971 3 762 1868 practise your bargaining skills. The souk itself is a rather ramshackle affair but it is certainly different from many of the modern, air-conditioned A DAY OUT IN markets found elsewhere.

Muwajei Souk AL AIN This modern souk is a long strip of handy shops, including big guns like ITINERARY ONE Choithram, Shoe Mart and The Body Excite, Relax and Take a Walk on the Shop. There is also a bakery, a baby Wild Side. shop, a butchery and a toy shop; even more outlets can be found Morning across the road. Wake up at around 5:30am to catch the action at the Maqam camel Souk Al Bawadi & Souk Al Qaws racetrack outside Al Ain. Catch the Both of these outdoor markets are excitement as owners follow their attached to the huge Bawadi Mall. prize animals in 4x4s from the safety Souk Al Qaws features shops of a of the inner enclosure. Feel the pride practical nature set among unique as the trophies are awarded. Back for architecture, with over 40 service breakfast and pool at the hotel. outlets including banks, money Afternoon exchanges and travel agents. Souk Al Wander through the ancient Al Ain Bawadi has more of a heritage feel, Oasis and feel the cares of the world with over 50 shops selling traditional drain away. Be cooled by the wafting items and souvenirs. palms and see the traditional falaj irrigation system in action. Let your Souk Al Zafarana imagination take you back to the days This is a jewel of a find which reflects when this was one of the most true Emirati culture and tradition welcome sights on the Silk Route. while being new. Whether you´re looking for traditional garments, incense or spices, henna or oud, or

109 Evening Evening Take a night time guided tour through Set out late afternoon and head the Al Ain Zoo with its night safari. towards the towering Jebel Hafeet. If Since many of its animals are you time it well, you can enjoy the nocturnal you get to see species that sunset while driving up one of the are hidden from you during the day. world´s most incredible roads. Before you reach the top, turn off for a break ITINERARY TWO at the Mercure Hotel. History & New Horizons. ITINERARY THREE Morning Hot Souvenirs, Warm Springs, Cool Become immersed in Al Ain´s history Golf and a Chilled Out Dinner. by visiting its many forts. First, head to the impressive Al Jahili Fort - and Morning see the permanent display of the work Wake up early to catch traders at the of British explorer Wilfred Thesiger. country’s last remaining camel Next head to the landscaped gardens market near the base of Jebel Hafeet of Al Ain´s oldest fort - Muraijib Fort - and get up close to the desert way of built in 1816. The more adventurous life. Although you won’t buy a camel, may cross the Omani border into take your wallet to buy some Buraimi to explore Hili Fort. handmade camel accessories as they make great souvenir gifts. Later travel Afternoon to the other side of Jebel Hafeet to Al Ain National Museum is varied explore the surprising landscape of enough to take up a full afternoon. Green Mubazzarah and its hot Start your tour with a look through springs. the archaeology section, which contains several artefacts from the Afternoon nearby forts that you will have visited Enjoy 18 holes of golf on the all-grass in the morning. Next head to the course at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting museum´s gifts section to see a & Golf Club. collection of gifts given to the late Sheikh Zayed. Evening End with the ethnography section The live entertainment and great food which has a huge collection of at Min Zaman in Al Ain Rotana Hotel Bedouin jewellery, musical attracts a large crowd so reserve a instruments, weapons and a table before hand. reconstruction of a traditional majlis.

110

EXPLORE, EXPERIENCE, ENGAGE – AL GHARBIA

(WESTERN REGION) AL GHARBIA

‘Where the desert meets the sea,’ Al Gharbia makes up over two thirds of Abu Dhabi emirate. Along its hundreds of kilometres of coastline are stunning beaches and islands, which are gradually being developed for visitors. Al Gharbia is home to Liwa, a historic oasis town that sits at the entry to the Rub Al Khali (Empty Quarter) - the world’s largest sand desert. Prepare for the UAE’s most adventurous off-road driving and some of its most incredible scenery. AL GHARBIA ATTRACTIONS

Al Gharbia Watersports Festival Approximately 120 kilometres from Abu Dhabi, the picturesque harbour town of Al Mirfa boasts a stunning coastline and hosts the annual Al Gharbia Watersports Festival, which is focused on encouraging visitors to explore this pristine and undiscovered area. The festival gathers together champions from across the globe and enthusiasts keen to take part in adrenaline inducing competitions such as kiteboarding, wake boarding and surf-ski kayaking. The 10-day festival is a family event, where visitors are encouraged to kick back and relax. Camping facilities are provided for participants and visitors, with live evening entertainment, kids play areas and a magical ´Sunset Souk´, a traditional market that opens as the sun goes down every day. Professional trainers and instructors are on hand, offering free sessions for those wanting to learn more about watersport activities. www.algharbiafestivals.com

Al Mirfa Public Beach Home to the Al Gharbia Watersports Festival, this is Al Gharbia´s only developed beach. It´s almost never crowded and there is a small town nearby where you can buy supplies for a night of camping or a day of enjoying the turquoise waters. It´s one of the region´s best kept secrets. Al Mirfa, Public Beach, Al Gharbia

Arabian Wildlife Park On Sir Bani Yas Island - the core component of the planned Desert Islands multi-experiential destination 240 kilometres west of Abu Dhabi - the Arabian Wildlife Park, which is home to more than 10,000 free roaming animals, takes up more than

113 AL GHARBIA WATERSPORTS FESTIVAL LIWA DUNES Delma Island half of the island. Guests at the Inhabited for over 7,000 years, Delma boutique Desert Islands Resort & Spa Island was once one of the Gulf’s most by Anantara can take 4x4 Nature & important pearl diving centres, and it Wildlife Drives of the park in specially still maintains strong links to its made vehicles accompanied by expert maritime heritage. Just 30 kilometres island staff. Alternatively, guests of off the mainland, it can be visited by the Danat Resort Jebel Dhanna can ferries from Jebel Dhanna. With a book a three hour tour. There are good supply of fresh water, the island many Arabian Oryx, gazelles and is surprisingly fertile, with many giraffes, along with the newest farms and plantations growing a wide arrivals, hyenas and cheetahs. Flight variety of produce. transfers are available from Al Bateen Airport in Abu Dhabi and there’s a Dune Bashing ferry service from Jebel Dhanna. The vast expanse of desert that lies Sir Bani Yas Island, Jebel Dhanna outside the is perfect for www.desertislands.com adrenaline fuelled off-road driving. +971 2 801 5400 With 300 metre dunes and long sand valleys, you’ll never get bored of Archeological Site on Sir Bani Yas desert driving. Rent a four wheel drive Island from Abu Dhabi, get a good map and Open to the public, this is the UAE’s explore to your heart’s content – but only discovered Christian monastery. go in convoy – never go into the Believed to have been built around desert alone. 600 AD, it was initially discovered on the island during excavations in Emirates National Auto Museum 1992. Two decades since its discovery, Some 45 kilometres south of Abu and more than a thousand years since Dhabi city, this impressive pyramid it was built, the public can visit the houses an assortment of cars from site and experience another piece of one dedicated collector: Sheikh the rich tapestry that makes up the Hamad Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan. The UAE´s fascinating history. A new museum is home to almost 200 cars, phase of work is currently underway including a vast collection of off-road by archaeologists, and treasures are vehicles and classic American cars, still being unearthed, making the site the Sheikh’s rainbow collection of a significant focal point for history Mercedes and the world’s largest enthusiasts worldwide. truck. Some of this impressive Sir Bani Yas Island, Jebel Dhanna collection was featured in the BBC www.desertislands.com television programme Top Gear. Even +971 2 406 1400 if you’re not particularly interested in cars, this is a fascinating collection and a great place to stop on the way

116 to or from Liwa. Opening times are compete in this massive camel beauty 9am to 6pm seven days a week, but pageant that celebrates local culture. are subject to change. Entry is AED 50 The event takes place on a huge, (US $13.50) and children under 10 barren plain that transforms into a are free. lively city of tents, four wheel drives, South of Abu Dhabi handicraft shops and, of course, Hamim Road, Off E11 camels. www.enam.ae Madinat +971 50 810 2211 www.algharbiafestivals.ae +971 2 621 5300 Tel Moreeb Considered as one of the world’s Liwa Date Festival tallest sand dunes, Tel Moreeb is over Held each year in July, the Liwa Date 300 metres high and the 50 degree Festival promotes and celebrates the incline to the top makes it a prime symbolic and historic role that the destination for motor sports date palm plays in Emirati culture. enthusiasts. Each year, the region’s The festival revolves around the date most powerful four wheel drives, competition, in which Emirati farms quad bikes and dirt bikes compete in vie for the title of best date grower. the Moreeb Hill Climb event, arranged Non-locals can attend and it’s an by the Abu Dhabi Motors Club, which incredible way to experience Emirati is part of the Liwa International culture up close. Prizes are given for Festival in February. It’s well worth the top dates in each category and the trip if you think you can handle there is a live date auction where the constant humming of super some dates sell for over AED 6,000 modified engines and loud Arabic (US $1,650) per kilo. music. The large flat area at the base Liwa of the dune acts as the base camp for www.algharbiafestivals.ae competitors and spectators of the annual Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge cross country rally. www.admc.ae SPORTS & RECREATION HERITAGE Off-Road Driving Al Dhafra Camel Festival The massive Empty Quarter dunes Featuring nearly 24,000 camels and present an awesome driving attracting several thousand challenge. If you’re in the emirate spectators every December, this is during the cooler months and you like one of the world´s largest desert adventure, rent a four wheel drive, heritage events. Camel breeders come find a group of eager drivers (you’ll from throughout the region to need at least three vehicles; never

117 LIWA DATE FESTIVAL drive alone in the desert) and set out for the sand. Be sure that your vehicle is insured for off-road use and that you have the proper equipment. If you’ve never driven off road, you should first learn the ropes with one of the several tour companies in Abu Dhabi.

Camping A trip to the desert isn’t complete without a night under the stars. You can arrange camping adventures with a tour company or rent a four wheel drive and buy the equipment yourself. Camping supplies are surprisingly cheap in the emirate and there is no need to buy high quality equipment. Please take your litter home with you - the desert is a sensitive eco-environment. Please respect and protect it. 118 A DAY OUT IN AL GHARBIA Guests at the growing number of there is more than one vehicle in your hotels in Al Gharbia have a host of party; never venture into the desert adventure activities to keep them alone. Once past the Liwa oasis, you’ll occupied: quickly be blown away by the sheer size of the dunes. Find yourselves an ITINERARY ONE area to camp and pitch your tents. Sunbathe, Swim and Dine. Afternoon Morning Fire up barbecues, cook yourselves a Head off to the public beach at the meal and get ready to blast through picturesque harbour town of Mirfa. the dunes. If you´re camping with a The water is practically untouched, guided tour, hold on tight while the perfect for a morning in the sun and experienced drivers take you on a for swimming or activities with the drive you´ll never forget. You should Western Marine Sports Club. also try your hand at sand boarding, the desert equivalent of snow Evening boarding. Make a reservation at the Zaitoun restaurant at the Danat Resort Jebel Evening Dhanna for a masterful menu of There´s nothing like sitting around a Arabian Gulf and North African dishes. campfire with good friends and great food. Start preparing your evening ITINERARY TWO feast, heat up the barbecue and put Desert Driving, Dune Barbecues and some wood in the fire pit. As you wait Moonlit Campfires. for the coals to heat up, climb the highest sand dune you can and watch Morning what might be the most majestic Head towards the Liwa oasis at dawn sunset of your life; the long shadows and prepare for one of the most cast by the dunes only magnify their incredible landscapes you’ll ever incredible size. Head back to camp, witness. Once you reach the crescent feast like a king, then sit back and shaped Liwa oasis, take some time to enjoy the company of good friends drive between the small towns that and endless stars. populate this fertile area. This will be your last stop for supplies before heading into the massive dunes, so make sure you are prepared, and that

119

UAE NATIONAL DAY - 2 DECEMBER ABU DHABI EVENTS ABU DHABI EVENTS

The emirate’s packed events calendar means visitors can join in a host of world-class experiences. To find out what is on during your stay, event information can be found at www.visitabudhabi.ae and www.abudhabievents.ae International Emirates Photography Competition Exhibition December/February Running under the broad theme of ‘Cultural Reflections’, this highly acclaimed annual international competition showcases professional and amateur photography vying for a share of the prize purse of over US $135,000. Up to 300 entries, selected by a jury of international experts, will go on public display. Entrance is free. The winning photos are also published in a book. www.ephotoc.net Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship January The Return of the Giants characterises this annual PGA Tour curtain raiser. Held at Abu Dhabi Golf Club, the championship has an engaging spectator village and after-play entertainment to make it a great day out. www.abudhabigolfchampionship.com

Gourmet Abu Dhabi February This is a ‘lifestyle gastronomic extravaganza’ featuring a star-studded cast of Michelin-star chefs and special guests, master classes, industry insights from hospitality experts, and Chateau and gourmet dinners hosted by a range of the UAE capital’s top hotels. www.gourmetabudhabi.ae

123 GOURMET ABU DHABI

Abu Dhabi International Triathlon March This annual event attracts the world’s best triathletes and international amateurs. The race is contested across three distances. The 223kms main ‘long course’ boasts a gruelling 3km swim, a 200km cycle and 20km closing run. The ‘short’ course, at half the length, has a 1.5km swim, a 100km cycle and a 10 km run, while the sprint course - which can be run as a team relay - has a 750m swim, a 50km bike and 5km run. www.abudhabitriathlon.com

124 Abu Dhabi Festival March/April This highly successful international festival advances classical music and fine arts among Abu Dhabi residents and visitors. A culturally-rich and diverse event, it features world-class performances from Placido Domingo, the majestic Spanish tenor, and Mariinsky Ballet, the revered Russian ballet company. www.abudhabifestival.ae Abu Dhabi International Book Fair April Held annually at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, this is the Arabian Gulf’s fastest-growing book fair with in excess of 600,000 titles on display. www.adbookfair.com

Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge March/April This is one of the world’s most prestigious international cross country rallies an runs annually. This five-day motor sport spectacle is organised by the Automobile and Touring Club of the UAE and is the season-opening round of both the FIA Cross Country Rally World Cup and the FIM Cross Country Rallies World Championship. www.abudhabidesertchallenge.com Al Gharbia Watersports Festival April An all-watersports extravaganza on the beach in the charming fishing town of Mirfa in Al Gharbia – Abu Dhabi’s Western Region. The festival is filled with wonder, water and world-class athletes. From kiteboards and surf ski kayaks in the waves to chilled-out camping and concerts on shore, the UAE’s wettest, wildest week. www.algharbia.ae Liwa Date Festival July This annual event explores the intricacies of date production and the varied products this desert fruit is now lending itself to. A fascinating insight into many desert traditions, the festival includes a date beauty contest, a date auction and educational sessions on how to care for palm trees. www.liwadatesfestival.ae

125 SummerFest Abu Dhabi June/July A mega summer promotion with spectacular flight, attraction and hotel deals, this is a month-long blockbuster, family-centric event packed full of fun, entertainment, action-packed activities and shows. www.summerinabudhabi.ae

EidFest Abu Dhabi August Our Eid. Your Eid - A concept which brings a collection of celebratory activities to Abu Dhabi’s visitors and residents, this third edition of the bi-annual festival, centres on the Islamic festivities of Eid Al Fitr and brings to life, once again, the spirit of sharing. www.eidfestabudhabi.ae

Abu Dhabi Hunting & Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) September This is the Arabian Gulf’s most renowned hunting and equestrian exhibition where visitors can enjoy camel auctions, saluki and falcon beauty contests, art and coffee-making competitions and a variety of traditional hunting and equestrian activities. www.adihex.com

126 Eco Future Formula 1™ Etihad Airways Abu Running until September 26, Dhabi Grand Prix 2013 November This educational, family-orientated The highlight of Abu Dhabi’s annual exhibition is at Saadiyat Island’s motorsport calendar, the Grand Prix is Manarat Al Saadiyat. Four interactive, held at the state-of-the-art Yas Marina futuristic characters - Ali, Moza, Yas Circuit, although the entire city catches and Sara - take visitors through six race fever. A fan zone on the Corniche distinct zones: Drinking, Eating, takes the event beyond the racetrack, Enjoying, Moving, Building and while nightly circuit concerts by Future City. ECO FUTURE is raising international stars bring added value awareness of depleting global for race goers. resources, climate change, over- www.yasmarinacircuit.ae consumption, sedentary lifestyles and sustainability options. Open daily Abu Dhabi Art from 10am until 8pm. Entry: Adults November AED 30 (US $8.2) with AED 25 (US A popular art fair and a modern and $6.8) for children under 15. contemporary art platform with www.saadiyatculturaldistrict.ae public programmes, Abu Dhabi Art Yasalam - Pulse of the capital brings together leading art galleries from across the world. Showcasing a October/November variety of works, from museum- Ten days of fun-filled activities and quality pieces to those by emerging shows surrounding the Abu Dhabi artists, the event is at the UAE Grand Prix. An interactive F1 fan Pavilion and Manarat Al Saadiyat on zone, free concerts during Beats on Saadiyat Island. Entry is free. the Beach weekend, film screenings Participants have to register and by the sea and a chance to break a some areas have age restrictions. Guinness World Record for sand- Workshops are charged. castle building. www.abudhabiartfair.ae www.yasalam.ae Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Global EidFest Abu Dhabi Arabian Flat Racing Festival October November Our Eid. Your Eid - A concept which Suit up in your Sunday best and head brings a collection of celebratory to Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club for the activities to Abu Dhabi’s visitors and finale of the Sheikh Mansour bin residents, this third edition of the bi- Zayed Global Arabian Flat Racing annual festival, centres on the Islamic Festival – a globetrotting 10-race festivities of Eid Al Fitr and brings to life, series. Launched to increase the once again, the spirit of sharing. global diversity of purebred Arabian www.eidfestabudhabi.ae horse racing, this year’s event also 127 ABU DHABI ART includes the finale of the inaugural Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Ladies World Championship - the first international purebred Arabian series specifically-created for female jockeys. Entrance is free. www.sheikhmansoorfestival.com Coutts Polo at the Palace November Coutts Polo at the Palace takes place at the Emirates Palace hotel with a ‘Palace Rules’ concept, designed by the world’s best players to enhance the spectator experience. www.citypoloseries.com

128 2013 Al Ain Aerobatic Show November/December Start the UAE National Day celebrations in the Oasis City with the 10th Al Ain Aerobatic Show. This family event pays tribute to the country’s rich culture and heritage with a series of UAE themed aerial displays and on-ground attractions, performances and activities. www.alainaerobaticshow.com UAE National Day - 2 December This annual two day festival on Abu Dhabi’s Corniche features live concerts and entertainment as the city literally comes alive with joyful and exuberant celebration. Buildings are decorated with thousands of lights, which illuminate the city with brilliant colour.

Al Dhafrah Camel Festival December Held in Madinat Zayed in Abu Dhabi’s Al Gharbia (Western) region, this annual festival celebrates the importance of the ship of the desert in Emirati society. An intriguing insight into the relationship of this crucial desert animal and man, the festival is a visitor experience with a difference and includes the world’s only camel beauty contest. www.algharbia.ae www.algharbiafestivals.com

129 Mubadala World Tennis Championship – Abu Dhabi December Six of the world’s top tennis players compete for the ‘winner takes all’ US $250,000 prize. Staged yearly at Abu Dhabi International Tennis Complex, Zayed Sports City, and presented by Flash Entertainment, this is one of the Arabian Gulf’s fastest-growing and most popular sporting events. www.mubadalawtc.com www.thinkflash.ae ADNEC Exhibitions & Shows All year round Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) is the region’s largest and most modern facility of its kind. Throughout the year it hosts a variety of exhibitions and entertainment shows. The ADNEC complex includes luxury hotels, restaurants and a marina. www.adnec.ae Yas Island Shows All year round A wide range of entertainment shows and concerts take place in Yas Island’s Du Arena and Du Forum organised by Flash Entertainment. www.thinkflash.ae

NATIONAL DAY CELEBRATIONS

130 Foreign Embassies in UAE

Country Telephone number

Afghanistan 02 - 6655560 Algeria 02 - 4448949 Angola 02 - 4477042 Argentina 02 - 4436838 Armenia 02 - 4444196 Australia 02 - 6346100 Austria 02 - 6944999 Azerbaijan 02 - 6662848 02 - 6657500 02 - 4465100 Belarus 02 - 4453399 Belgium 02 - 6319449 Belize 02 - 4437477 Benin 02 - 6394665 Bosnia and Herzegovina 02 - 6444164 Brazil 02 - 6320606 Brunei Darussalam 02 - 4486999 Canada 02 - 6940300 China 02 - 4434276 Czech Republic 02 - 6782800 Egypt 02 - 4446491 Eritrea 02 - 6331838 Finland 02 - 6328927 France 02 - 4435100 Germany 02 - 6446693 Greece 02 - 4492550 Guinea 02 - 6653166 Hungary 02 - 6766190

131 India 02 - 4492700 02 - 4493300 02 - 4454448 Romania 02 - 4459919 Iran 02 - 4447618 Russia 02 - 6721797 Iraq 02 - 6655152 02 - 4445700 Ireland 02 - 4958200 Senegal 02 - 6336929 Italy 02 - 4435622 Slovakia 02 - 6321674 Japan 02 - 4435696 Somalia 02 - 6669700 Jordan 02 - 4447100 South Africa 02 - 4473446 Kazakhstan 02 - 4476623 South Korea 02 - 6439122 Kenya 02 - 6666300 Spain 02 - 6269544 02 - 4477146 Sri Lanka 02 - 6316444 02 - 4492100 02 - 4446699 Libya 02 - 4450030 Sweden 02 - 6210162 Malaysia 02 - 4482775 Switzerland 02 - 6274636 Mauritania 02 - 4462724 Syria 02 - 4448768 Morocco 02 - 4433973/74 Tanzania 02 - 6313088 Nepal 02 - 6344767 Thailand 02 - 5576551 Netherlands 02 - 6958000 Tunisia 02 - 6811331 Nigeria 02 - 6166219 Turkey 02 - 4460941 Norway 02 - 6211221 Ukraine 02 - 6327586 Oman 02 - 4463333 02 - 6101100 Pakistan 02 - 4447800 USA 02 - 4142200 Palestine 02 - 4471440 Yemen 02 - 4448457 Philippines 02 - 6390006 Poland 02 - 4465200

132 Index A A Day Out In Abu Dhabi Wildlife Centre 61 ...Abu Dhabi 87 Al Ain ...Al Ain 109 ...Attractions 93 ...Al Gharbia 119 ...Golf 104 Abu Dhabi ...Heritage 100 ...Attractions 31 ...Hiking 105 ...Bowling 76 ...Itineraries 109 ...Camel Racing 68 ...Malls 108 ...Corniche 31,34,35 ...Markets & Souks 109 ...Cricket 68 ...Tour 25 ...Diving 66 2013 Al Ain Aerobatic Show 129 ...Events 121 Al Ain Camel Market 93 ...Family 61 Al Ain Equestrian Shooting & ...Fishing 67 Golf Club 104 ...Football 69 Al Ain Golf Club 105 ...Getting Around 13 Al Ain Heritage and ...Golf 69 Culture Village 100 ...Heritage 46 Al Ain Ladies Park 99 ...Horse Racing 73 Al Ain Mall 108 ...Ice Skating 76 Al Ain National Museum 101 ...Indoor Activities 75 Al Ain Oasis 93 ...Itineraries 87 Al Ain Palace Museum 101 ...Malls 82 Al Ain Paradise Garden 100 ...Markets & Souks 85 Al Ain Public Garden 100 ...Motorsports 75 Al Ain Souk 109 ...Outdoor Activities 68 Al Ain Sportplex 104 ...Sailing 43 Al Ain University ...Shopping 76 Natural History Museum 101 ...Squash 76 Al Ain Zoo 93 ...Tennis 75 Al Badeyah Eyes Tourism 94 ...Tour 25 Al Bateen Beach 31 ...Tour Operators 28 Al Dhafra Camel Festival 117 ...Watersports 63 Al Forsan International Abu Dhabi Co-Operative Sports Resort 68 Al Foah Mall 108 Society Complex 86 Abu Dhabi Events 121 Al Gharbia Abu Dhabi Experiences 38 ...Attractions 113 Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club 73 ...Heritage 117 ...Itineraries 119 Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital 46 ...Sports & Recreation 117 Abu Dhabi City Golf Club 71 ...Tour 25 Abu Dhabi Golf Club 72 Al Gharbia Watersports Festival 113 Abu Dhabi Sub Aqua Club 66 Al Ghazal Golf Club 72 Abu Dhabi Mall 83 Al Jahili Fort & Park 94

133 Al Jazira Dive Centre 66 Carpet Souk 85 Al Jimi Mall 108 Carpets 77 Al Mina Fruit & Vegetable Souk 85 Catamaran Tours 41

Al Mirfa Public Beach 113 Children 21 INDEX Al Mushrif Children’s Garden 61 Children’s Garden 100 Al Nahyan Garden 61 Climate 9 Al Qattara Arts Centre 96 Corniche Beach Park 31 Al Raha Mall 83 Corniche Pedal Power 34 Al Reef Handicrafts Training Centre 101 Cricket 69 Al Wahda Mall 83 Culture & Lifestyle 12 Arabian Wildlife Park 113 Classic Cars Museum 96 Archeological Site on Sir Bani Yas Island 46,116 D Arabian Divers & Sport Fishing Delma Island 116 Charters 66 Desert Safaris 25 Arabian Nights Village 39 Dinner Cruises 42 Art 77 Diving 65 Arjmst 81 Dune Bashing 116 ATMs 20 Attractions E ...Abu Dhabi 31 Eastern Corniche 34 ...Al Ain 93 Eco Future 123 ...Al Gharbia 113 Empros Watersports 67 Avenue at Etihad Towers 84 Emirates Commercial Complex 108 Emirates Park Zoo 62 B Emirates National Auto Museum 116 Banks 20 Emirates Palace 34 Barakat Gallery 77 Essential Info 21 Bateel Dates 81 Events 121 Bawadi Mall 108 Beach Rotana Hotel & Towers 67 Best Buys 76 F Big Bus Tour 39 Facts & Figures 8 Blue Dolphin Company 39 Ferrari World Abu Dhabi 35 Bowling 75 Fish Souk 85 Buses 17 Fishing 67 Byky Bike 33 Flora & Fauna 9 C Football 69 Camel Racing 68 Formula 1™ Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 123 Camping 118 Fotouh Al Khair Centre 84 Capital Gardens 62 Capital Gate 31 Freediving 65 Captain Tony’s 41 Car Hire Companies 17 G Car Rental 16 Gallery One 78 Getting Around 13 134 L Get Boarding 35 Language 12 Ghaf Art Gallery 77 Liwa Centre 86 Gold Jewellery 79 Liwa Date Festival 117 Go-Karting 104 Local Currency 20 Golf 69 Local Time 8 ...Abu Dhabi 69 M ...Al Ain 104 Madinat Zayed 86 Green Mubazzarah Park 96 Shopping Centre & Gold Centre Growth 5 Marina Mall 84 Marine Racing 63 H Markets & Souks 85 Hamdan Centre 86 ...Abu Dhabi 85 Helicopter Tours 42 ...Al Ain 109 Heritage 46 Made in UAE 80 ...Abu Dhabi 46 Manarat Al Saadiyat 54 ...Al Ain 100 Malls ...Al Gharbia 117 ...Abu Dhabi 82 Heritage Village 47 ...Al Ain 108 Hiking 105 Mawaqif – Paid Parking System 16 Hili Archaeological Garden 97 Money 20 Hili Fun City 97 Money Exchanges 20 Hilton Al Ain Golf Club 105 Motorsports 75 Horse Racing 73 Monte Carlo Beach Club, Saadiyat 54 Horse Riding 105 Miraj Islamic Centre 47 Muraijib Fort 104 I Murjan Splash Park 62 Ice Skating 76 Mushrif Mall 84 In Emergency 21 Muwajei Souk 109 Indoor Activities 75 Itineraries N ...Abu Dhabi 87 National Dress 13 ...Al Ain 109 ...Al Gharbia 119 O The Islands 51 Observation Deck at 300 35 Off-Road Driving 75,117 J Old Airport Garden 63 Jebel Hafeet 97 Outdoor Activities 68 Jahili Mosque 96 P K People With Disabilities 24 Kayaking Tours 42 Pearl Boats 43 Khalidiyah Garden 62 Photography 24 Khalidiyah Mall 84 Play at the Malls 63 Khalifa Park 62 Polo at the Palace 124 Population 8

135 R T Ramadan 8, 13 Taxis 16 Religion 12 Tel Moreeb 117 Ruling Family 5 Tennis 75 S Tour Operators 24,28 Saadiyat Island 51 Tourism 5 Saadiyat Beach Golf Club 54,72 The Souk at Central Market 86 Safeer Mall 108 The Easy Way to See the Corniche 38 Sailing 43 The Eastern Corniche 35 Sailing Charters 43 U Saluki Centre 47 UAE National Day 130 Salwa Zeidan Gallery 77 UAE Pavilion 55 Sea Adventures Crusing 67 Useful Phrases 19 Sea Cruiser 67 Sea Cruiser Boat Tours 43 W Sea Hawk Water Sports 66 Water Adventure 46 Sea Tourism 67 Watersports 63,67 Seawings 44 What To Wear 24 Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque 47 Women 21 Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Women’s Handicraft Centre 50 Centre Library 49 World’s Furthest Leaning Sheraton Resort Health Club 67 Man Made Tower 31 Shooting 108 Wadi Adventure 99 Shopping 76 Shopping Malls 82 Y ...Abu Dhabi 82 Yas Beach 58 ...Al Ain 108 Yas Express 59 Shops With The Arabian Experience 81 Yas Island 55 Sir Bani Yas Desert Islands Yas Kartzone 75 Watersports Centre 66 Yas Links Abu Dhabi 58,73 Sir Bani Yas Island 55 Yas Marina Circuit 59 Social & Business Hours 8 Yas Marina and Yacht Club 58 Sougha 80 Yas Perfumes 81 Souk Al Bawadi & Souk Al Qaws 109 Yas Waterworld 38 Souk Al Zafarana 109 Z Souk Qaryat Al Beri 85 Zayed Centre for Studies and Souks 85 Research 50 Souvenirs 80 Zayed Sports City 75 Souvenirs You Can Eat 81 Speedboat Tours 44 Sports & Recreation 63 ...Abu Dhabi 63 ...Al Ain 104 ...Al Gharbia 117 Squash 76

136 ABU DHABI TOURISM & CULTURE AUTHORITY OFFICES

Abu Dhabi France Russia PO Box 94000 Abu Dhabi 11 Bis, Rue Blanche Prospekt Mira, 39 / 2 United Arab Emirates 75009 Paris, France Olympic Plaza 2129110, Tel: +971 2 444 0444 Tel: +33 1 53 25 03 52 , Russia Fax: +9712 444 0400 Fax: +33 1 53 25 11 12 Tel: +7 495 937 5950 [email protected] [email protected] Fax: +7 495 937 5951 [email protected]

Al Ain Germany Saudi Arabia Ali Bin Abi Taleb Street Goethestrasse 27 Boungainvillea PO Box 59333, Al Ain 60313 Frankfurt, Germany Center-Malik Road, United Arab Emirates Tel: +49 69 299 253 920 P.O Box 116117, Tel: +971 3 764 2000 Fax: +49 69 299 253 911 Jeddah, 21391 KSA Fax: +971 3 764 4456 [email protected] Tel: +966 56 767 9941 [email protected] ksa-offi[email protected]

Australia India United Kingdom & Ireland Level 13, 338 Pitt Street M-2, Mezzanine Floor 1 Knightsbridge Sydney NSW 2000, Kanchenjunga Building London SW1X 7LY, UK Australia 18, Barakhamba Road Tel: +44 207 201 6400 Tel: +61 2 826 85533 New Delhi - 110001, India Fax: +44 207 210 6426 Fax: +61 2 926 80243 Tel: +91 11 23737348 [email protected] [email protected] Fax : +91 11 2335027 [email protected]

China Italy USA Guohua Investment Via Pietrasanta 14 Trump Tower, 22nd Floor Building 20141 Milan, Italy 725 Fifth Avenue Level 1, Room 01, No. 3 Tel: +39 02 573 78315 New York, NY 10022 Dongzhimen South Street Fax: +39 02 573 78572 Tel: +1 212 338 0101 Beijing, 100007, People’s [email protected] [email protected] Republic of China Tel: +86 21 6355 8033 Fax: +86 21 6375 6255 [email protected] The United Arab Emirates is on the

Abu Dhabi is the largest of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates, with over 80% of its land mass. It is also home to the country’s capital city, Abu Dhabi Apr 2013 Contact Centre from inside U.A.E. 800 555 From outside U.A.E. +971 2 666 4442 www.visitabudhabi.ae