What this Arabian Emirate is all about - The story of Abu Dhabi

The city of Abu Dhabi is today an attractive metropolis with many striking features. It has the status of being the United Arab Emirates' (UAE) capital, in addition to being the city with the second highest population in the UAE. The city also has the distinction of being the capital city of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, which is the biggest of the Emirates of the UAE. Abu Dhabi has a population of about 1.8 million residents.

This city has experienced swift urbanization and development, which together with the high median income of its residents, has resulted in its transformation into a sizable and highly developed metropolis. Visitors will see that today Abu Dhabi is a hub for industrial and political activities as well as a centre for commerce and culture. Abu Dhabi makes up as much as two-thirds of the UAE's economy, which totals about $400 billion.

The origin of Abu Dhabi's name is rather uncertain. In fact, its meaning in Arabic translates as 'Father of the Gazelle', probably a reference to the small number of gazelles who make their home in the area. Historical records indicate that the term 'Abu Dhabi' was initially used over three centuries ago. It is believed that the first noteworthy settlement in the area was made by the tribe of Bedouins known as the Bani Yas. This tribe was initially based at the Liwa oasis and consisted of more than twenty subsections. An important event occurred in 1793 when the subsection known as Al Bu Falah moved their residence to what is now known as Abu Dhabi island on the shores of the Persian Gulf. This migration occurred after water was discovered at this island. Amongst these migrants were the family of Al Nahyan, who make up Abu Dhabi's rulers today.

Beneath the modern city of Abu Dhabi with its impressive buildings, entertainment options and lovely parks lie its distinctive cultural heritage. The culture of Abu Dhabi is based on Arabia's Islamic principles, and accordingly, you will find an array of mosques within the city. People of many different cultures and nationalities reside in Abu Dhabi, and all are welcomed so long that they do not undermine the underlying Islamic culture.

Abu Dhabi has secured a reputation as the UAE's cultural hub and accordingly you will have the opportunity to observe many cultural events like presentations of Arabic poetry, music and dance as well as sporting occasions like dhow sailing and camel racing here. A choice of accommodation to consider from which you will be able to conveniently experience these cultural highlights would be Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villas, amongst the luxury options that are close to the many activities in Abu Dhabi.

You will see that many of the local residents of Abu Dhabi continue to dress in the traditional manner. Men often wear a long shirtlike robe with the traditional headdress, whilst the women attire themselves in the abaya, a black robe that is worn with a headscarf.