Joanna James
Everyone knows Abu Dhabi is a top tourist destination offering a variety of entertainment and experiences which veer around modern marvels to traditional delights. While the food, culture, extravagance, and attractions are awesome, listed are some of Abu Dhabi's unique allures.
Did you know the Rub al Khali desert known as the Empty Quarter is the world's largest sand desert; home to the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, this place is where you experience true Bedouin culture coupled with Arabic extravagance and comforts. There you can look forward to an Abu Dhabi desert tour and head over to the Liwa located at the edge of the Empty Quarter to explore ruggedly stunning wadis (dry riverbeds) and scale the gargantuan sand dunes.
Al Ain or the 'Garden City' is a stunning green oasis of natural springs and beautiful palm tree groves. Sharing the border with Oman, the city is the birthplace of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan who was the UAE's first president. Located in Al Ain is Jebel Hafeet, Abu Dhabi's highest peak, you should also make plans to visit the exciting Al Ain Zoo.
The Grand Mosque is Abu Dhabi's iconic attraction; one of the world's largest shrines, the complex boasts 82 domes made of white marble, four minarets which are over 350 feet high and a prayer area able to hold over 40,000 devotees, not surprising then the mosque is also home to one of the world's largest hand-woven carpets.
A premier track amongst all Formula I circuits, the Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is located on the manmade Yas Island. Spread across 6,000 acres the 40,000 billion project will do more than entice you.
Yes, Abu Dhabi has an entire park dedicated to the iconic brand. Ferrari World which opened in 2010 is a theme park located under a giant roof designed in the shape of the Ferrari GT body. There you can enjoy an adrenaline rush; for starters, the park is tipped to be home to the world's fastest roller coaster while you get to enjoy the thrills of Formula I racing in some of the brands most famous models. Kids too are given a taste of the racing world with scaled-down models available for test drives.
If car spotting is a hobby you enjoy, Abu Dhabi will be quite the treat. The city streets are home to some of the world's most luxurious cars such as the Rolls Royce Phantom convertible, mind you these vehicles hit the streets of Abu Dhabi long before the cars are released worldwide. Some of the most popular car brands to spot in Abu Dhabi include Maserati, Ferrari, and Lamborghini.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
