Joanna James
The vision of Sheikh Zayed has transformed this capital city of the United Arab Emirates into what it is today. The natural beaches and the desert are now complemented by modern infrastructure, leisure parks and many other features enticing visitors. Read on for more facts about this exciting city.
The Masterplan of the present city of Abu Dhabi was done by the pioneering Japanese architect Late Katsuhiko Takahashi under the close guidance of the far-sighted late ruler Sheikh Zayed in 1967. The wide roads, eye-catching greenery and the beautiful Corniche were a part of this great plan which has laid the strong foundation for the city of grandeur it is today comprising many other features as well as an array of resorts in Abu Dhabi.
Having a deep connection with the Arabian Gulf the Emiratis had mastered the pearling industry which has contributed much to the economic growth of Abu Dhabi as well as the United Arab Emirates. Discover more about the history of pearl diving and its influence on Abu Dhabi by joining a Pearl Journey tour as frequently done by visitors at Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara.
The Capital Gate building is an iconic landmark in the capital city at 160 metres tall and leaning 18 degrees westward, which is 14 degrees more than the leaning tower of Pisa in Italy thus being called the leaning tower of Abu Dhabi. This mixed-use 35 storey marvel was commissioned in 2011 and is worth a visit to experience the enormous spaces and the architectural wizardry.
This is a theme park for sports car lovers and especially lovers of Ferrari cars and is world-famous. With nearly 40 rides and attractions, this is a theme park coupled with adventure. At each attraction is a banner depicting how Ferrari rose to fame, thus making it fun, educational and adventurous for first-timers. Formula Rossa their roller coaster ride is known as the fastest one in the world, covering 2.2kms and a dizzying maximum speed of 240kmph.
With nearly 200 varieties of date palms being harvested, Abu Dhabi is a major supplier of premium dates to the rest of the world. Nearly 76,000 tonnes of dates are produced annually. The leaves of the date palms are used to make many useful products such as baskets, mats and even fanners whilst the branches are used for creating parts for fishing boats. A multifaceted palm that lines the streets of Abu Dhabi.
This largest hand-woven carpet of 5,630 square metres was manufactured in Iran a country with a rich history of carpet weaving. It was woven as nine separate parts and assembled at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, today this massive carpet occupies a position of majesty and importance in the main prayer room of the Grand Mosque.
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