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Home , Al Nahyan family, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Paul (bakery), Sir Bani Yas, Zayed Port

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CTP suplement 2016.indd 1 10/6/2016 3:47:59 PM The 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.

Abu Dhabi Destination Guide 2016 is published by Baxter Travel Media as a supplement to Canadian Travel Press – October 10, 2016 FOUNDER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF PRESIDENT EXECUTIVE V.P. OPERATIONS W.H. Baxter, 1919-2004 Edith Baxter, [email protected] David McClung, [email protected] Wendy McClung, [email protected] Bob Mowat, Executive Editor [email protected] SALES & MARKETING: Florida - North: Gillian Harper [email protected] Michael Baginski, Editor/Publisher [email protected] Earl Lince, Director of International Marketing [email protected] Hawaii: Laurie Doerschlen [email protected] Greg D. Coates, Assistant Editor [email protected] Rodney Tugwell, Sales Manager [email protected] Central & South America: Lillian Martinez [email protected] Mike Dunbar, Quebec Editor [email protected] Mitchell McClung, Account Executive [email protected] Mexico: Paloma Martinez [email protected] Ted Davis, Western Editor [email protected] Ian Stalker, Staff Writer [email protected] REGIONAL SALES REPRESENTATIVES: PRODUCTION: Ann Ruppenstein, Staff Writer [email protected] Western : Terry Ohman [email protected] Johnny Koo, Art Director [email protected] Emily McClung, Audience/Product Development Manager Alberta: Greg Ohman [email protected] Wayne Labourn, Production Manager [email protected] [email protected] Quebec & Atlantic Canada: Rodney Tugwell [email protected] Sharron Taylor, Adv. Material Coordinator [email protected] Dee Ristic, Circulation [email protected] USA: Earl Lince [email protected] Dragana Lekovic-Lucic, Senior Design Manager Daniel McDonald, Classifieds [email protected] Florida - South: Dino Torres [email protected] Wayne McDonald, Michael Mouatt, Production Artists Head Office: 310 Dupont Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5R 1V9 (416) 968-7252 [email protected] www.travelpress.com Reproduction, copying or dissemination of this publication in whole or in part, without prior written consent of Baxter Travel Media is strictly prohibited. PRINTED IN CANADA ©2016

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ACA2016_new_masthead.indd 1 9/29/2016 3:07:05 PM ABU DHABI: THREE DESTINATIONS IN ONE

Story by MICHAEL BAGINSKI

T’S AN OVERUSED CLICHÉ, BUT THE EMIRATE OF Abu a number of new hotels including international brands such as Dhabi truly has something for everyone. From a cosmopoli- Four Seasons, Fairmont, Hyatt and Marriott.” tan urban centre to sand desert and lush oasis (not to men- Abu Dhabi received more than 36,000 visitors from Canada tion pristine beaches), Abu Dhabi has big diversity in 2015 – a 7% increase from 2014 – and has welcomed nearly in a relatively small area. 18,000 in the first half of 2016. They visited “an incredibly diverse I destination” – from the vibrant, cosmopolitan city of Abu Dhabi The largest of the seven emirates that comprise the United where visitors can take a guided tour of the Zayed Grand Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi is home to world-class business and Mosque – recently voted by Tripadvisor as the world’s second leisure facilities ranging from a state-of-the-art convention cen- most popular landmark attraction – as well as experience the tre to luxurious hotels, spas, designer golf courses, theatres and, sport of falconry at Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, stroll along the soon, some of the most iconic including the Guggen- waterfront Corniche, or check out the modern architecture. heim and . Visitors more interested in thrills can head to – “While Abu Dhabi may have previously been seen as a brief one of more than 200 islands that comprise the emirate – for a stopover, it is now a must-visit destination for savvy travellers driving experience at Yas Marina Circuit or ride on the world’s looking for new and unique experiences,” says Paul McDonagh, fastest roller coaster at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. Country Manager, North America, TCA Abu Dhabi. “Abu Dhabi For a better understanding of Emirati culture and history, has worked hard to develop an infrastructure that supports McDonagh recommends visiting the heritage heartland of and nurtures a sustainable tourism industry, which includes the – known as the Oasis City – which is the birthplace of the UAE’s creation of outstanding accommodation, restaurants, activities, ruling and features a wealth of museums, re- attractions, and much more. stored forts, UNESCO inscribed ancient settlements, and more. “Over the next few years,” he continues, “... There is also the desert – Al Gharbia region, where the desert is poised to host the globe’s largest concentration of premiere meets the sea. This includes part of the world’s largest sand cultural institutions including , Zayed National desert where visitors can try dune bashing and sand-boarding, and . In addition, we recently or enjoy an evening under the stars at the luxurious Qasr Al celebrated the opening of an increased capacity and new per- Sarab Desert Resort, which aptly means Mirage Palace, as it manent cruise terminal at , as well as the opening of rises like a mirage from the magnificent dunes that climb up to

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ALL EYES ARE ON ETIHAD

Story by MICHAEL BAGINSKI

IKE THE DESTINATION IT SERVES – ABU DHABI – total luxury before boarding their flight. An à la carte restaurant, Etihad Airways is ever-changing, introducing new routes, showcase bar, fitness room, cigar lounge, Six Senses Spa, Style Lservices, amenities and partnerships, all designed to ensure & Shave barbers, nail bar, TV room, secluded relaxation room, that the national airline of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) of- prayer room and children’s play room ensure that all guests re- fers the best experience possible for its passengers, not only in ceive a highly personalized experience and intuitive service. the skies, but on the ground as well. Still on the ground, business class customers can take advan- tage of Etihad’s complimentary chauffeur service when travelling Earlier this year, Etihad officially opened its new flagship within a 50 km radius of Toronto and also to 40 other destina- First Class Lounge & Spa at Abu Dhabi International Airport’s tions in the UAE, , Australia, US, and , for example. Terminal 3. The lounge features 16 unique zones designed to First Class and Business Class passengers are also eligible to ensure that guests can relax, re-energize and be entertained in receive complimentary limousine service to anywhere in the

ABU DHABI continued from pg. 3 300 metres high. But McDonagh is quick to add, “That being said, Abu Dhabi is Yet just an hour’s drive away, they can be on a nature-based not just for the rich and famous, and travellers on a budget can island – Sir Island – once a private nature reserve of the enjoy some of the most luxurious experiences in the world by ruling family, and now a conservation area and activity centre. taking advantage of extremely competitive pricing offered dur- The island is home to the Arabian Wildlife Park with 10,000 free- ing the low and shoulder seasons. The great thing about Abu roaming animals, and there are three luxury resorts and activities Dhabi is that regardless of the time of year you visit, you will including hiking through salt domes, mountain biking, kayaking get to experience the unrivalled traditional Arabian hospitality, through mangroves, horse riding, and pearl diving. which can be seen in everything from the traditional serving of Abu Dhabi also has a number of great annual events such as , to the dedication to the highest level of cus- the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Abu Dhabi tomer service.” Food Festival, Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship, Abu Dhabi Of course, safety is paramount in any destination and Art, and more. McDonagh vows: “Abu Dhabi is a safe, secure and peaceful “Abu Dhabi truly is a destination of distinction,” says leisure and business destination in the heart of the Arabian Gulf. McDonagh. We pride ourselves on being a virtually crime-free environment And luxury... A vibrant, high-end destination featuring world- with well-organized emergency services. This can be seen in our class hotels, exquisite culinary indulgences, prestigious sporting ranking in The Economist ‘The Safe Cities Index 2015.’ Abu Dhabi events, designer boutiques, acclaimed museums, picturesque is listed as the safest destination in the and Africa islands, and much more. region, and is the 25th safest city in the world.”

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abu dhabi CTP suplement 2016.indd 4 10/6/2016 3:48:17 PM evening for our trade partners to promote Abu Dhabi as a leisure destination.” And promotional events, like partnership in the Taste of Toronto Festival in June or New York’s Fashion Week this fall, and even the airline’s sponsorship of Manchester City soccer team in the British Premiership, are all designed to increase awareness of Abu Dhabi and opportunities to travel there via its national carrier. Etihad Airways began operations in 2003, and in 2015 carried 17.4 million passengers. From its Abu Dhabi base, Etihad Airways Flying Nannies flies to or has announced plans to serve 117 destinations around the globe with its fleet of 123 Airbus and Boeing aircraft (204 more are on order). Etihad Airways also holds equity investments in airberlin, Air Serbia, Air Seychelles, Alitalia, Jet Airways, Virgin Australia, and United Arab Emirates (UAE). Economy Class guests can utilize Swiss-based Darwin Airline, trading as Etihad Regional. Etihad, the services of Etihad’s complimentary luxury coach service be- along with airberlin, Air Serbia, Air Seychelles, Alitalia, Etihad tween Abu Dhabi international airport and Etihad offices in Regional, Jet Airways, and NIKI, also participate in Etihad Airways Al Ain. Partners, a brand that brings together partner airlines to offer Among the amenities up in the air, all flights to and from Toron- customers more choice through improved networks and sched- to feature the Flying Nannies service, which provides assistance ules and enhanced frequent-flyer benefits. For more information, to parents with children. The Flying Nannies are trained at the visit: www.etihad.com. world-renowned Norland College in the UK, enabling them to ap- preciate the perspective and needs of travelling families. Where possible, the Flying Nanny meets her children at the gate before their flight, co-ordinates the children’s meal times with families and provides more fun inflight with the introduction of special Etihad characters, like Jamool the Camel. “Canada is an important market for Etihad Airways which has carried over 916,000 passengers on the airline’s Toronto route since the service commenced,” says Etihad Canada country manager Fatma Al Mehairi, noting that the airline began offering flights to Toronto via Brussels on Oct. 31, 2005, but now offers non-stop flights to Abu Dhabi aboard one of its two-class Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, seating 380 passengers – 40 in Business Class and 340 in Economy. Al Mehairi points out that Etihad offers affordable stopover breaks for Canadians en route to other destinations through Hala Abu Dhabi, the destination management division of Etihad Airways. (www.etihad.com/en-ca/hala-abu-dhabi) She adds, “We definitely work closely with travel agents in terms of incentives, and we are currently preparing an Abu Dhabi

CANADIAN GATEWAYS AND FLIGHT SCHEDULE •• Etihad currently operates three non-stop flights per week from Toronto (YYZ) to Abu Dhabi (AUH) every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. •• The Toronto outbound flight (EY140) departs Lester B. Pearson Airport (Terminal 3) on scheduled days at 14:35 and arrives in Abu Dhabi the following day at 11:35. •• The return flight, EY141, departs from Abu Dhabi every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at 02:35 and arrives in Toronto at 08:50.

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ABU DHABI CITY

Fascinating Abu Dhabi is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city. However, modern and Western influences mix with a strong sense of local culture and heritage, including Islamic traditions, to create an intriguing mix of new and old.

• SAADIYAT ISLAND: Located just minutes from downtown • ABU DHABI FALCON HOSPITAL: The world’s largest, Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island is the country’s cultural hub and and most advanced, falcon hospital, featuring a falcon dis- will soon be home to the world’s large single concentration play museum as well as a facility with free-flying falcons. of premier cultural institutions. • EMIRATES PALACE: One of the world’s most opulent In addition to a wealth of cultural offerings, this multi fac- hotels and an Abu Dhabi landmark eted island provides visitors with a desirable beach getaway • FISH MARKET (MINA AREA): Rise early to catch the action – offering almost 9.6 km of pristine white-sand beaches – as at the Fish Market, featuring an astonishing array of fish, well as one of the Gulf’s first oceanfront golf courses at including shark. the Saadiyat Beach Golf Club. There are a variety of luxury • ABU DHABI CORNICHE: The Corniche spreads across 8 km hotels available, including the Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel of manicured waterfront that includes children’s play areas, Villas and St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, in addition to separate cycle and pedestrian pathways, cafés and restau- the anticipated opening of the Saadiyat Rotana Resort and rants, and the Corniche Beach – a lifeguarded beach park Jumeirah Saadiyat Island Resort. • CHECK OUT THE MODERN ARCHITECTURE: Capital • YAS ISLAND: Abu Dhabi’s “adrenalin” hotspot, Yas Island is Gate – modern day challenger to the Leaning Tower of Pisa; a mega entertainment destination and one of Abu Dhabi’s Aldar – the world’s only circular skyscraper; and Sheikh most exciting new developments. Yas Island is home to Zayed Grand Mosque Yas Marina Circuit – location of the Etihad Airways F1 Abu • BEACH: Activities range from swimming and sunbathing Dhabi Grand Prix, the Yas Racing School and an action- to scuba diving, kayaking, sport fishing, and more packed, year-round major motorsports event calendar – as • SHOPPING: Options include ultra-modern malls with the well as Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi, latest brands, as well as small, souk-like outlets where Yas Links Abu Dhabi, and much more. travellers can buy traditional perfumes, handicrafts, spices • SHEIKH ZAYED GRAND MOSQUE: One of the world’s and carpets. largest mosques, it features 82 domes, over a 1,000 columns, • DUBAI AT THE DOORSTEP: The world’s fourth most 24 carat gold gilded chandeliers and the world's largest hand visited city is only 125 km from Abu Dhabi, or a little over an knotted carpet. Reflective pools surround the mosque, add- hour by car. An easy day trip, the city is known for its luxury ing to the beauty. shopping, innovative architecture and a lively nightlife.

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DESERT (Al Gharbia)

The western region of the emirate makes up more than two-thirds of Abu Dhabi and is known as “where the desert meets the sea.”

• Home to Liwa, a historic oasis town that sits at the entry to the Empty Quarter, which is the world’s largest sand desert • The Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara – also known as the Mirage Palace – is found here and offers the most luxurious desert retreat in the emirate • Activities include: Off-road driving, camel trekking, Arabic barbeque, falconry, dune bashing (dunes can reach 300 m) safaris, sand-boarding, and more

OASIS (Al Ain)

• Offers a look into Abu Dhabi’s history through restored forts, tours of ancient burial grounds and museums • Al Ain was once the home of the late Sheikh Zayed and was a hub of the emirate’s political life • Sheikh Zayed’s first palace was converted to the Al Ain Palace Museum where visitors will see rare material such Al Ain is the emirate’s cultural heartland and is the as portraits of the royal family birthplace of the Al Nahyan royal family. Known • Named a UNESCO World Heritage site, as there are as the Oasis City because of its greenery and low settlements in the city known to be more than 4,000 temperature, Al Ain is where visitors experience a years old • A place to discover cultural pursuits such as the camel living museum of the Emirati culture. market, date farms and a traditional souk • Activities include: Al Ain Camel Market, Al Jahili Fort, , Hili Archaeological Garden, , Al Ain Palace Museum, and more

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APP HELPS PUT ABU DHABI ON THE MAP

BU DHABI TOURISM & CULTURE AUTHORITY HAS SOCIAL ENGAGEMENT launched a new, improved version of its Visit Abu Dhabi mobile application. A Visitors can stay in touch with the The latest app version, which allows users to gain instant access to all that’s new in the emirate via their mobile phones, latest information on Abu Dhabi at: which allows access to the content at the Authority’s destina- www.visitabudhabi.ae tion portal, VisitAbuDhabi.ae, is available for iPhone, Android & facebook.com/visitabudhabi Windows Phone, and features enhancements to make it a more twitter.com/visitabudhabi user-friendly experience. google.com/+visitabudhabi “A number of useful and intuitive new additions are also youtube.com/visitabudhabi present, including integration with The Centre for Regulation pinterest.com/visitabudhabi of Transport by Hire Cars, which will allow users to book a instagram.com/visitabudhabi taxi directly from within the app, and also integration with the Department of Transport to get live geo-located bus data, which will allow the user to discover the best route and schedule to get to any point of interest,” says Mouza Al Shamsi, Acting Executive Director of Marketing and Communications at TCA Abu Dhabi. points of interest to be identified via a smartphone’s camera; “The app has also been integrated with TripAdvisor, to allow a comprehensive, easy-to-navigate map, a full listing of hotels, access to reviews for all locations, hotels and restaurants. restaurants and spas with filters to find what’s best for you; and “In addition, the app boasts an elegant new design following an online booking feature for hotels, flights and car rental. the latest user experience trends and new user-friendly hotel and There are also inspiring video and photo galleries, travel restaurant filters, where you can find exactly what you need at information and tips available offline, quick answers to most the click of a button...” frequently asked questions and a currency converter, among The new features add to the already comprehensive services other things. offered by the app, which included extensive, up-to-date online Content and services in nine languages, including English and offline information on all there is to see and do in the emirate; and French. ‘Near Me’ functionality, showing a user everything within easy Download the free VisitAbuDhabi mobile apps at: bit.ly/ reach; an ‘Augmented Reality’ feature, which allows the closest VAD-mobile.

UPCOMING EVENTS

• ABU DHABI CLASSICS 2016-2017 - ON NOW, THROUGH more information, visit www.abudhabiart.ae. MAY 10, 2017: This season's diverse program of events will • FORMULA 1 ETIHAD AIRWAYS ABU DHABI GRAND be held at leading venues across the emirate and will in- PRIX – NOV. 25-27: Hailed as one of the biggest events in clude performances by a selection of artists and orchestras, the Middle East, the eighth annual Formula 1 will be held at talks, masterclasses and lectures from some of the leading the state-of-the-art Yas Marina Circuit and will offer visitors a contemporary musicians from across the world. Encom- weekend of races, award-winning entertainment, and passing both classical and traditional music, the program more. For more information on the event, visit www. incorporates Abu Dhabi Classics, the Emirati Music Series, yasmarinacircuit.com. Umsiyat and the Bait Al Oud Concert Series. Tickets for • QASR AL HOSN FESTIVAL – FEBRUARY, 2017: Held at the Abu Dhabi Classics performances, as well as season the historic Qasr al Hosn Fort – the symbolic birthplace of tickets, are available on www.ticketmaster.ae . For more Abu Dhabi – this annual festival offers visitors the opportu- information, visit http://abudhabiclassics.ae . nity to see the emirate’s history and culture through a variety • ABU DHABI ART – NOV. 16-19: Visitors to the eighth annual of interactive activities. Events include heritage workshops, Abu Dhabi Art will enjoy a variety of modern and contempo- traditional performances and educational exhibitions focused rary art on display from leading art galleries around the world, on the different geographic areas of Abu Dhabi. For more in addition to performances, panels, workshops, and more. For information, visit www.qasralhosnfestival.ae.

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RTS AND CULTURE ARE A PRIORITY IN ABU Dhabi – so much so that in 2012, the Abu Dhabi ATourism & Culture Authority was created by UAE CULTURE VULTURES AT president Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan with the mandate to conserve and promote the heritage and culture of Abu Dhabi emirate and leverage them in the development of a world- HOME IN ABU DHABI class, sustainable destination of distinction that enriches the lives of visitors and residents alike.

The authority manages the emirate’s tourism sector and markets the destination internationally through a wide range of activities aimed at attracting visitors and investment. Its policies, plans and programs relate to the preservation of heritage and culture, including protecting archeological and historical sites and to developing museums. The authority supports intellectual and artistic activities and cultural events to nurture a rich cultural environment and honour the emirate’s heritage. Some of the sites of interest are:

• Manarat Al Saadiyat – This visitor centre brings the vision COMING SOON: of the island to life through the Saadiyat Story. The venue, • Louvre Abu Dhabi – Designed by , Louvre Abu which opened in 2010, hosts international exhibitions Dhabi will be the first universal museum in the Arab world. from around the world and encompasses three major gal- • – A partnership with the British leries, a central events gallery, sales centre and 250-seat Museum and designed by Lord Foster, the Zayed National theatre. Museum will tell the story of the late Sheikh Zayed bin • Qasr Al Muwaiji – Birthplace of His Highness Sheikh Sultan Al Nahyan (1918–2004), his unification of the United Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE – has Arab Emirates, the long history of the region and its cultural been restored and reopened to the public in November 2015 connections across the world. as a museum and permanent exhibition. • Guggenheim Abu Dhabi – Designed by Frank Gehry, Gug- • Warehouse421 – A cultural destination and exhibition space genheim Abu Dhabi will be a pre-eminent platform for in Abu Dhabi’s port area of Mina Zayed, Warehouse421 is a global contemporary art and culture. series of warehouses that have been transformed to become • The Performing Arts Centre – Designed by , a platform for artistic expression, understanding and further The Centre will provide concert halls, theatres and experi- development of the UAE’s creative community. mental performance spaces for outstanding opera, dance, • Visitors should check out Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, drama and music performances from around the world. Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, Women’s Handicraft Centre, • Maritime Museum – The Maritime Museum will celebrate and more. Abu Dhabi’s maritime heritage and seafaring history.

LOUVRE ABU DHABI A STEP CLOSER the sea, with its series of white buildings inspired by the medina TO COMPLETION and low-lying Arab settlements. In total, there are approximately 55 individual buildings making up this museum city. Louvre Abu Dhabi has reached another two major milestones in The 180-meter-wide dome covers the majority of the ‘museum the construction of the museum: commencement of the removal city,’ and its complex pattern is the result of a highly studied of temporary sea protection walls and the illumination of the geometric design that is repeated at various sizes and angles in museum’s iconic dome. eight superimposed layers. The process of removing the sea walls and integration of the Each ray of light must penetrate the eight layers before sea with the museum will take place in three stages, and will appearing then disappearing, creating a cinematic effect result in Louvre Abu Dhabi transforming into Pritzker-prize winning – named the ‘rain of light’ – as the sun’s path progresses architect Jean Nouvel’s vision of a ‘museum city’ on the sea. throughout the day. In addition, 4,500 tube lights attached to the dome’s steel Louvre Abu Dhabi will be a universal museum in the Middle structure has been completed, illuminating Louvre Abu Dhabi East translating the spirit of openness and dialogue of cultures. at night. The museum will display works of historical, cultural and Louvre Abu Dhabi has been designed as a ‘museum city’ on sociological significance from the most ancient to the most

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VER-CHANGING ABU DHABI IS FILLED WITH EXCITING new developments, from attractions to new hotels and a new- Elook cruise port. And there’s plenty more in the pipeline or on EVER-CHANGING the drawing board:

CULTURE ABU DHABI Located just a few minutes from downtown Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island – “The Island of Happiness” – is poised to host the globe’s largest concentration of premier cultural institutions and will be home to three world-class museums: the Louvre Abu Dhabi, de- information centre for cruise staff and tourists will also be signed by Jean Nouvel; the Zayed National Museum, designed by developed. Additional beach, sports and water sports facili- Lord Norman Foster and in partnership with the British Museum; ties, including an aqua park, boat tours and wildlife excur- and the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, designed by Frank Gehry. sions, will also enhance visitor experience. The island, which will be the centrepiece of the city’s future Ships will berth offshore and tender passengers to a dedi- cultural offerings when completed, now hosts a large number cated jetty with direct beach access. of activities, exhibitions and sporting events, organized by Abu When completed, the facility will accommodate 2,000- Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority. 2,500 passengers on a day trip.

CRUISE HOTELS In December, 2015, Abu Dhabi celebrated the opening of a new, A number of hotels are opening in Abu Dhabi this year, including: increased capacity and permanent Cruise Terminal at Zayed • Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences Emirates Pearl Port. The terminal building offers tourist information services, • Four Seasons Abu Dhabi (opened in May) passport and customs counters, retail services, and more. There • Fairmont Marina Resort, Abu Dhabi are also check-in counters operated by Etihad Airways that al- • Edition Hotel lows passengers to check into flights from within the terminal. • A beach stopover port-of-call destination on ENTERTAINMENT Island is being developed. With uninterrupted stretches of Warner Bros. has officially announced a Warner Bros.-themed soft white sand and as one of the emirate’s largest natural destination is set to open in Abu Dhabi. Situated on Yas Island, islands, Sir Bani Yas will be the region’s first dedicated beach the development will include the only Warner Bros.-branded stopover destination. Once fully developed, the Sir Bani Yas hotel alongside the immersive theme park. Island cruise stopover will have wooden boardwalks around The first phase of the project, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, the island, barbecue facilities, hammocks, cabanas along the is set to open in 2018. Construction is underway and rides are in beach, dining and visitor facilities, and more. A dedicated production.

contemporary. Spanning millennia, artwork on display will originate from civilizations all over the world with universal themes and common influences highlighted to illustrate similarities and exchanges arising from shared human experience transcending geography, nationality and history. The originality of the museum narrative trail resides in presenting these civilizations in the same spaces, galleries, rooms or gallery cabinet. Beyond the gallery space, Louvre Abu Dhabi’s ‘museum city’ will offer late openings, an auditorium, restaurants, shops, promenades and gardens, to provide visitors with a new perspective of the holistic museum experience in the Arab World. For more information: http://louvreabudhabi.ae/.

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