Joanna James
A deliciously diverse cosmopolis brimming with sweeping nature-kissed and architectural marvels for those inspired by beauty and culture while keeping up the UAE's streak of avant-garde conveniences. Here's all you need to know when enjoying this traditionally modern cityscape.
Abu Dhabi is full of striking contrasts, being a vivacious city with a rich heritage, from desert safaris that give you warm glimpses into Bedouin life, the humbling gold-and-marble splendour of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, and the captivating Qasr Al Hosn exhibitions, to the stunningly bougie Ferrari Cavalcades and the Yas Marina Circuit, which is the site of exhilarating Formula 1 races. Despite its aura of unapologetic glamour and cutting-edge modernity, the Emirati world has a down-to-earth and conservative heartbeat, inviting guests to be courteously cognizant of their religious and cultural boundaries. For instance, while tourists aren't asked to wear traditional attire, except, perhaps when visiting the beautiful mosques, long and loose clothing in airy cotton or linen is the expected go-to. While skin-tight, low-cut, and short clothing is discouraged for both men and women, this doesn't mean you can't accessorise with style or wear the colours and designs that suit you best!
Aside from maxi summer dresses, beach cover-ups, and pretty scarves for venues that require extra coverage, the Abu Dhabi desert clime involves scorching days and chilly nights, so it's imperative to make maximum use of your suitcase packing cubes to cover all weather conditions. From sunscreen, microfiber face towels, and portable hand-held fans to a universal power adapter, a neck wallet for crucial documents, cards, and foreign currency, and a lipstick-sized portable charger for uninterrupted sightseeing, make sure you come equipped for the most comfortable and convenient travel experience. If you're looking for sophisticated serviced apartments in Abu Dhabi proffering prime access to the region's most coveted hubs, venture no further than Oaks Liwa Executive Suites.
Whether it's touring the twelve mind-boggling galleries of the spectacular Louvre Abu Dhabi, sunset kayaking through the dusky Eastern mangroves, or camping under the stars in the pure desert night after a day of sandboarding and camel riding across the majestic dunescape, make sure to grab every opportunity for enriching escapism. If you prefer some indulgent unwinding after all that roaming, visit Saadiyat Island for all you can get of ivory beaches, jewel-toned seascapes, inviting hammocks, and adrenaline-rich water sports.
While it's easy to get caught up in the surreal enticements of this innovative cityscape, home to epic water parks hosting hydromagnetic tornado raft rides and luxuriant high-tea settings 300m above sea level, it's vital to take their few regulations seriously to ensure a seamlessly enjoyable stay. For instance, boisterous behaviour, inappropriate language, and substance abuse are social taboos, as well as overt and excessive displays of affection and smoking outside of designated areas.
In a land where hospitality is honoured, it is considered deeply offensive and hurtful to refuse an invitation made by a local acquaintance for a meal or gathering, and it naturally follows that you follow up this gesture with a similar request of your own.
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