Joanna James
A layover in Abu Dhabi means the perfect opportunity to savour the best of what the world-renowned tourist destination has on offer. Get out and about; make the most of your layover in the exotic Gulf nation, where oodles of fun and excitement await to treat you to a delightful mini-vacation.
No matter the reason for your visit, no trip to the exotic Middle East would be complete without some exhilarating dune bashing under the belt, and Abu Dhabi in the UAE is no exception. Ditch the tarmac lined by the metropolis's swanky high-rises and make your way to the golden deserts for a stomach-churning roller coaster ride up and down sand dunes. A slew of white-clad Arabs awaits you with their mighty SUVs to show you what these sprawling sands have in store for you.
Abu Dhabi is renowned for its ritzy skyline, and it would be a pity not to lay your eyes on this magnificent sight. Head to the Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers and zoom up to the Observation Deck at 300 on the 74th floor. The incredible vantage point in the sleek tower affords panoramic views of the metropolis, sure to blow your mind away. It certainly is a fantastic experience to be had at any time of the day, but it is at its most breathtaking once the sun goes down and the glimmering night skyline comes to life.
If there was one tourist attraction that is absolutely unmissable during your time in Abu Dhabi, that would be the remarkable Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. With a capacity that could accommodate a whopping 40,000 people at once — an extent that is equal to the size of four soccer fields — it is the largest mosque in all of the Middle Eastern nation. It is not only the gigantic size of the mosque that is impressive, but also its architectural magnificence. The 82 white marble domes, 1,096 exterior columns, 24-carat gold Swarovski crystal chandeliers and the glimmering reflective pools — all join forces to put together a mind-blowing architectural masterpiece.
The 5-mile waterfront promenade of The Corniche is a true oasis of serenity in the heart of the bustling metropolis. As the sun goes down and the skies take a profusion of yellowish oranges, take a relaxing late-afternoon stroll along the esplanade while treating your eyes to the breathtaking views over the unruffled waters.
While there are a plethora of fun and exciting things to do in Abu Dhabi, it is a must to get a taste of the country's authentic local cuisine. Embark on your exploration of local cuisine at a fine hotel such as Anantara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi Hotel by indulging yourself in an assortment of mouth-watering traditional dishes.
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