Joanna James
Up until 1950, Abu Dhabi was a sleepy pearl diving and fishing village. That is until the oil was discovered; today it is a modern metropolis of impressive skyscrapers and tourist attractions.
Although the Sheikh Zayed mosque cannot boast a historical past, the place is in the records for its stunning design and home to the world's largest carpet. Also impressive is the stunningly huge chandelier within which up to 7 people can walk. A must visit for a taste of Arabian grandeur, all parts of the mosque may not be accessible, although you are given plenty of opportunities to view the main attractions.
Considered a living museum the Heritage Village is where you will find skilled artisans at work. It is an A-listed attraction on any Persian Gulf tour and well worth a visit. Not only do you get to view the traditional arts and crafts being created you can purchase these treasured souvenirs while the icing on the cake is the Bedouin village set up complete with tents and an authentic ambience to the whole place. The best way to avoid the crowds here is to get there early in the morning or after 3.30pm when the tourist busloads have departed.
All you adrenaline junkies touring Abu Dhabi will find lots of thrills dune bashing. The 4X4 dune bashing tours organised by desert safari tour operators in Abu Dhabi offer you a chance to go buggy riding, sand boarding and rugged dune bashing in the Liwa Desert. Quite the experience this is one of the biggest thrills to experience in Abu Dhabi.
Another quick fact about Abu Dhabi is the thrill of staying a night at a typical Bedouin desert village camp. These tours too are organised by the same desert safari tour operators. The tours end the day at the campsites that are well set up for giving visitors a chance to relax and enjoy, the cool desert nights in style. Typical Bedouin cuisine and entertainment too are yours to relish on these memorable tours.
Sir Bani Yas Island is home to Abu Dhabi's desert animal wildlife sanctuary. The island sits in the middle of the Arabian Gulf and is a fabulous location to go snorkelling and diving. The biggest lure though is the desert safaris organised by Sir Bani Yas Island hotels. These take you into the beautiful rugged interiors of the island where sights of gazelle, Oryx and other creatures are sure to impress. You can hire a jeep safari or take on other activities such as mountain or trailer biking across the hills of the island. When touring the island there are plenty of dining options at island based hotels, one of which is the Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara while water sport activities too are provided by Sir Bani Yas Island accommodation providers.
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