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ABU DHABI TOURISM : ABU DHABI Travel & Tourism GUIDE (UAE)

Overview

A predominantly modern city, Abu Dhabi nevertheless retains some of its ancient past. The Diwan Amiri (White Fort) was built in 1793 and still survives. There are many mosques, from the massive blue mosque on the corner of the Corniche to the tiny one in the centre of Khalifa Street Roundabout, surrounded by trees. There is also a museum. The oldest part of the town is the Batin area, served daily by the fishing dhows bringing their catch of Gulf prawns and other fish to the small harbours. The old building yards demonstrate craftspeople’s skills that have remained unchanged for centuries. The city has ancient burial mounds at Um al Nar.

Abu Dhabi City

Abu Dhabi's location on an island makes it compact and accessible. It iss easy to find your way around and the city is fascinating to explore on foot, by hire car or by hopping in a taxi.

A busy metropolis of spectacular high rise office towers, shopping malls, restaurants and superb hotels, interspersed with gracious residential districts, the layout of the city even today reflects its origins as a fishing village. Abu Dhabi not only looks outwards to the blue waters of the Gulf, but many of the places of interest to visitors and the main centre of commercial activity lie within five blocks of the sea. This is also the area where the majority of the leading hotels are located and, given their proximity to the water front, a beautiful sea view is almost guaranteed.

The Corniche & Breakwater

The recently renovated Corniche is the city's showpiece, with its beachfront location, paved walkways and lush greenery. You will find visitors and residents out and about enjoying this beautiful area at any time of day - strolling, jogging, cycling or rollerblading along the waterfront or taking their families to one of the many children's play areas or grassy parks.

At the western end of the Corniche is one of the newest jewels of Abu Dhabi's burgeoning tourism sector - the magnificent Emirates Palace Hotel. From there, a road leads to the Breakwater, an area of reclaimed land off the main Abu Dhabi island. Featuring a luxury shopping mall, water sports club and Heritage Village, this area has a number of Arabic cafes and restaurants along the waterfront and a new marina and housing development are currently under construction.

To explore these areas from a different perspective, visitors can cruise along the Corniche on a traditional wooden dhow or cabin cruiser, enjoying the changing vistas of the skyline, parks and fountains. Cruises generally last for an hour, and can be booked through a tour operator.

Heritage Attractions

Between Khalidiya Street and Airport Road, is the impressive heritage site of Qasr Al Hosn, built in 1793 as the official residence of the Rulers of Abu Dhabi. Adjacent is the Cultural Foundation, a modern complex designed in traditional architectural style, and home to the National Library, an auditorium, exhibition halls and a cinema. The Foundation is the hub of Abu Dhabi's cultural life, staging concerts, plays, lectures and a variety of other events.

Traditional arts and crafts, such as weaving and producing hand made souvenirs, are practised at The Women's Craft Centre on Al Maktoum Street. Visitors may purchase these artefacts at fixed prices.

The new Heritage Village on the Breakwater provides a taste of life before the oil era. Its displays offer an insight into Bedouin life, as well as courtyard houses, wind towers and an example of the ancient irrigation system used in the region's oases. In different workshops craftsmen and women demonstrate traditional skills and the museum has displays of garments, coins, Holy Qurans, diving equipment, jewellery and weaponry from a bygone era.

The Centre for Documentation and Research at the Presidential Court on Airport Road contains a collection of old photographs tracing Abu Dhabi's development from the 1930s. Other exhibits cover the emirate's natural history and old weaponry.

City Districts

In addition to the Corniche and Breakwater, Abu Dhabi has many other areas of interest to the visitor. Airport Road is lined with shops, cafes and restaurants, and forms the spine of the city. On the west side of the island is Al Bateen, with several large parks and the Bateen shipyard, which is well worth a visit to view the ancient skill of dhow building.

Al Markaziyah is a centrally located business and shopping area, while Al Safarat, at the southern end of the island, houses the General Exhibition Centre (GEC) - purpose built as a venue for major exhibitions. The port district of Al Meena, on the northern tip of the island, features several traditional markets (souks), as well as modern shopping malls. All of these areas can easily be reached by taxi or hire car.

Street Life

While Abu Dhabi today presents a predominantly modern face to the world, the past is still very much in evidence. Walking through the streets you will feel the unmistakable ambience of the city's heritage and history; its modern buildings, spectacular mosques and luxury cars are framed by traditional architecture and evidence of the simple lifestyle that existed not so long ago. Even the sounds and aromas you encounter evoke a taste of the past.

Whether or not you have shopping on your mind, the hustle and bustle of the downtown areas offers an experience of lively commercial life side by side with the stylish modern malls nearby. In the port area east of the Corniche are the Al Meena, Iranian and Afghan souks, as well as markets specialising in fish, meat and vegetables. The fish souk is especially interesting to visit.

The nearby dhow harbour, a working port from which these traditional vessels ply the trade routes of the Gulf and beyond, provides another fascinating taste of Abu Dhabi's living traditions set against a backdrop of the city's towering skyscrapers.

Parks and Beaches

Abu Dhabi has some 20 well maintained parks. These lush pockets of greenery reflect the commitment of the ruling family to the beautification of this desert city, and most contain water features and children's play areas.

Located on an island and surrounded by the warm and welcoming turquoise waters of the Gulf, Abu Dhabi is well endowed with a number of golden beaches. Some of these have been developed into beach parks, offering facilities such as changing rooms, adjacent gardens and food outlets.

City Tours

If time is limited, organised tours are the ideal way to see the attractions of Abu Dhabi and surrounding areas. City tours offer guided sightseeing around the capital, visiting the Women's Handicraft Centre, the Heritage Village, the Petroleum Exhibition and the famous Corniche. These can be arranged by your hotel or through one of the experienced local tour operators.

Abu Dhabi's Islands

The emirate's Gulf coastline is studded with more than 200 islands of various sizes, most of them flat, sandy and uninhabited. Island hopping is a popular activity, and visitors can hire a boat and explore at will. Directly opposite the Corniche is Lulu Island, a large manmade island protected from the sea by a breakwater..

Saadiyat Island, to the east of the Corniche, is popular for weekend breaks and daytrips. Its facilities include an entertainment hall, restaurant, water sports, a boat mooring facility and chalets for overnight stays. A massive planned development project will soon begin transforming the island into a major tourism hub..

Five kilometres south of the city is the privately owned Futaisi Island, whose ancient inhabitants used to supply sweet water and stone for building forts and Rulers' houses on the main Abu Dhabi island. There are still signs of their existence such as a historical mosque, graveyard and several old wells.

Sir Bani Yas Island lies 250 km to the west of Abu Dhabi, and has been transformed into a nature reserve. It is home to several indigenous and African species, and runs an active conservation and breeding programme. A visit to this island makes a fascinating excursion, but such trips currently have to be arranged through tour operators. A new hotel is under construction for completion soon.

Bahraini and Cut Islands are also popular getaways, situated 40 minutes and 25 minutes by boat from Abu Dhabi Island respectively.

Al Ain

Known as the Garden City, Al Ain was once a vital oasis on the caravan route to Oman. Situated just 148 km east of the capital, Al Ain boasts several historical forts and archaeological sites. Fascinating insights into its origins can be found at the Al Ain Museum and the Natural History Museum at the University of Al Ain, both of which feature displays on life before the discovery of oil in the region.

The Hili Archaeological Garden has remnants of a Bronze Age settlement dating back to 2500 - 2000 BC. This site is the source of some of the richest archaeological finds in the area, several of which are believed to be more than 4,000 years old. The Jahili Fort, once home to the late ruler Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, is notable for its impressive main turret, which has four levels.

Al Ain is the most fertile region in the country, and its oasis supports a host of palm plantations and working farms. The city's many parks are all beautifully kept and well worth a visit. Featuring play areas, benches under shady trees, meandering walkways and elaborate fountains, they offer tranquil hideaways for visitors and residents alike.

The Al Ain Zoo and Aquarium, spread over 400 hectares, is one of the largest in the Gulf region. It is home to a wide variety of species, both common and rare, and runs an ongoing breeding programme for endangered animals.

The city's camel market is well known throughout the country and is the last of its kind. It provides the opportunity to see and hear traders discussing prices and listing the merits of their prized camels. The nearby animal souk is a similar experience, although it specialises in the sale of sheep, goats and other livestock.

Al Ain's Old Prison affords the best views of the city and its surrounding oasis. It is a lone square turret in the centre of a gravel courtyard, surrounded by high walls. At night this historical building is illuminated, and offers a beautiful view when seen from the nearby camel market.

Overlooking the city is the majestic Jebel Hafeet, the highest mountain in the country. A road leads to the summit offering spectacular views in all directions. At its base are Ain Al Faydah natural spring and the Green Mubazzarah tourism resort

Liwa

Approximately three hours by car from Abu Dhabi city is the Liwa Oasis, one of the largest oases on the Arabian Peninsula and the entry point to the famous Empty Quarter. Featuring plenty of freshwater pools and date plantations, the oasis is home to the Bani Yas tribe, the Bedouin ancestors of Abu Dhabi's ruling family. The large tracts of the desert here, with high sand dunes devoid of all vegetation, have remained unspoiled and unchanged for centuries. Liwa is the base camp for the annual UAE Desert Challenge, which forms part of the international off-road rally world championships. Camel tours of Liwa's dunes and overnight camping trips are some of the options available through Abu Dhabi's many tour operators.

Key Attractions in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi Museums and heritage Villages

Abu Dhabi, which occupies over 86 per cent of the country’s total landmass, is the largest of the seven emirates comprising the UAE.

Abu Dhabi city, capital of the emirate and of the UAE, is situated on an island about five miles wide and nine miles long. This is connected to the mainland by two bridges, Al Maqta and Mussafah.

Sheikh Zayed, President of the UAE, has his home in Abu Dhabi. Federal government offices, parliament building and foreign embassies are also located in this compact modern city. Since Abu Dhabi emirate possesses more than 90 per cent of the UAE’s oil reserves and produces over 85 per cent of its oil, the main oil companies are located here, contributing to its status as a major business, manufacturing and trading centre.

Architecturally, Abu Dhabi is a fascinating place where the domes and minarets of traditional mosques sit comfortably in the shade of gleaming futuristic skyscrapers. Tree-lined boulevards, manicured roundabouts, dazzling fountains and extensive parks soften the modern cityscape. All the major shopping malls and souqs are within easy reach. A short distance from the city centre the wonderfully engineered Abu Dhabi Corniche runs for 8km along the island’s mangrove-fringed and white sandy shores. Many of the city’s top class hotels and restaurants are located along the downtown section of this scenic stretch.

Qasr al-Hosn

Located on Khalid bin Walid St, Abu Dhabi, the White Fort or Old Fort is the oldest building in Abu Dhabi. The original structure was constructed in 1793 as the official residence of Abu Dhabi’s rulers. Major renovations took place in 1983. Open 7.30 a.m. to 1.30 p.m., Thursday from 7.30 a.m. to 12.00 p.m. Closed on Fridays. Admission is free.

The Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation, Old Airport Rd (02 6215300 cultural@emirates.org.ae)

Situated beside Qasr al-Hosn, the foundation is housed in a delightful modern building of Islamic design with arching white colonnades, cool courtyards and restful gardens. The Cultural Foundation has an important library, theatre, cinema, lecture rooms, meeting rooms, an exhibition centre and coffee shop. The centre hosts numerous cultural events, including concerts with international and local artists, classic film festivals, art exhibitions and workshops throughout the year. Open 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Heritage Village/Bedouin Village

Located behind the Abu Dhabi International Exhibition Centre on Mussafah Rd, this heritage village has an authentic replica of a bedouin encampment before oil wealth impacted on social structures. You can also view a more elaborate mud-brick house and a traditional mosque, shop in a traditional souq, take a camel ride and watch a demonstration of the age-old sport of falconry. Open 8.30 a.m. to 5 p.m., admission free.

Heritage Village

Situated on a 1600 sq. metre site overlooking the Corniche, near the Breakwater in Abu Dhabi, this is a relatively new heritage village run by Emirates Heritage Club. Here you can journey to the past and experience traditional life in Abu Dhabi before oil revenues altered the landscape, economically and socially. In addition to bedouin tents, there are reconstructions of palm (‘arish) and other houses, old fishing villages and traditional souqs. Given its location along the seafront, maritime traditions are a special feature. There is also a shop for local crafts, a good photographic exhibition and a unique collection of the Holy Quran.

Petroleum Exhibition, near Volcano Fountain, Corniche Rd East (02 6269715)

Old photographs, aerial shots, film (in English, French and German) and interactive displays depict Abu Dhabi's rapid development from oasis life to modern and cosmopolitan city. Open 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily. Closed Thursdays and Fridays. Admission free.

Women’s Handicraft Centre

This is the place to visit if you are interested in locally made crafts. The centre is run by Abu Dhabi Women’s Association who have provided a forum for local women to display their wares from perfumed oils to local costume and pottery. Some of the items are for sale. A kitchen area serves typical Gulf cuisine. Opening hours are 8 a.m. to 12.30 p.m., closed on Thursdays and Fridays.

Women's Craft Centre

Located on Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum Street, the Women's Craft Centre is a government sponsored operation of the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs. Woven fabrics, artefacts and souvenirs are for sale, with the opportunity there to see working demonstrations.

Manhal Palace

Sheikh Zayed’s residence until 1974. Next to the post office on Airport Rd.

Dhow harbour

Near Port Zayed on the north-eastern tip of the island is an active Dhow harbour, starting point of regular dhow sailing races. Along the quay a small market with interesting odds and ends does thriving business. Follow the signs for Al Dhafra restaurant.

Bateen Shipyard

The dhow shipyard close to the Intercontinental Hotel on the west side of Abu Dhabi island is well worth visiting. Huge planks of teak are piled high ready to be shaped into the graceful wooden sailing dhows that have changed very little over the centuries (see section on boatbuilding). Most of the boats built or mended here are sleek racing rather than trading dhows – some with carbon fibre masts! Nevertheless it is still a wonderfully traditional place with piles of sawdust scattering in the warm breeze and hungry cats hunting for food. Feel free to take photographs, but do ask first if aiming your camera at the craftsman. The yard is open at all times but 5 p.m. is often a good time to visit. Boatbuilders do not work on Fridays.

Landmark Buildings

As you can imagine, most of Abu Dhabi oil companies’ headquarters are spectacular affairs built of concrete, steel and glass.

The Abu Dhabi Company for Onshore Oil Operations' (ADCO) impressive building is located on Abu Dhabi's corniche at the end of Khaleej Al Arabi Street (Thirtieth St).

The Abu Dhabi Marine Operating Company's (ADMA-OPCO) new headquarters are located on Abu Dhabi Corniche across the road from the Al Ain Palace hotel at the top end of Sixth Street. The Abu Dhabi Gas Liquefaction & Company, ADGAS is housed in the same building, but with a separate entrance. The headquarters of the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, ADNOC are located in Khalidiya, just beyond the Hilton Hotel.

All buildings belonging to Etisalat, the main telecommunications company in the UAE, are crowned with a giant white globe and the Abu Dhabi headquarters is not exception.

Baynunah Tower, the tallest building in Abu Dhabi, is located on the Corniche just west of the Clock Tower roundabout, you cannot miss it.

One of the best known landmarks in Abu Dhabi is the Clock Tower roundabout at the head of the Airport Road where it reaches the sea. It is from here that distances are measured in Abu Dhabi.

Another famous landmark is the ‘Volcano’ Fountain, as it is popularly known. This is really a giant incense burner. The Corniche and gardens around this floodlit fountain are an extremely pleasant place for an afternoon or evening stroll.

Other roundabouts, including giant coffee pots, are also imaginatively landscaped.

Mosques

You are not permitted to enter the numerous mosques in Abu Dhabi. These range from a tiny but perfectly formed mosque that nestles amid the towering skyscrapers of downtown Abu Dhabi to the largest, the Grand Mosque, a spectacular structure.

Around Abu Dhabi

Other places to see in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi are the lovely oasis city of Al Ain with its numerous archaeological sites and the spectacular dunes at Liwa in the south of the country. Abu Dhabi’s numerous offshore island are also worth a visit. See sections on Guided Tours and Activities and Trips to Take for detailed information on these and other locations in Abu Dhabi.

Excursions in Abu Dhabi

Al Ain, 100km (60 miles) from Abu Dhabi, is an oasis and former caravan stop, built on a huge fertile plain. There is spectacular scenery along the journey from Abu Dhabi. The resort includes a camel market, zoo and museum containing old and new artefacts and Mesopotamian pottery. There is also a water spring at Ain Faidha, 14km (9 miles) from Al Ain. There are important archaeological digs at Hili, 10km (6 miles) from Al Ain. The stone tombs, including the famous Great Sepulchre, date back 5000 years. South of Al Ain is the Hafit Mountain, containing ancient tombs, pottery and swords. There are more ancient sites worth visiting at Um Al Nar and Badi’i Bent Saud. A fun park is situated at Al-Hir and majestic sand seas are to be seen at Liwa. Other areas of great scenic beauty include Qarn Island, Belghilam Island (famous for its gazelle breeding), near to Sadiyat Island, and Abul-Abyadh Island.


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