Joanna James
At the easternmost tip of the Arabian Peninsula, Dubai may steal the spotlight, drawing much of UAE’s tourists, but Abu Dhabi is just as fantastic of a city, overshadowed and underrated. The juxtapositions are unreal, the ambience is paradisal and unequivocally an idyllic host to your holiday.
Outside the bustling metropolis and away from the towering skyscrapers galore, visitors to Abu Dhabi are invited to experience an unreal desert wonder. Fine, glistening golden sands extend as far as the eyes can see, with dunes reaching heights as high as 300 metres. These are, without a doubt, some of the tallest sand dunes in the world. From exhilarating sandboarding to adventurous quad biking and daredevil desert safaris, let your inner thrill-seeker unleash to savour the desert fun.
Abu Dhabi may not be the Maldives or the Caribbean, but the golden-hued beaches that border the city are certainly something worth looking forward to. The year-round sunshine perfectly complements the azure waters and pristine sands, making for a blissful beach fix for the longing sun lovers and beach bums to the exotic Gulf capital. Breathtaking seaside scenery isn’t only what's there to be enjoyed on the fantastic shores; those lucky few will also be treated to sightings of the extremely elusive Hawksbill turtles, who come to lay eggs on the shore.
The United Arab Emirates, known for its exotic appeal and world-class entertainment, exemplifies extravagance, and the capital, Abu Dhabi, is no exception. Vacationing tourists can expect fully-packed itineraries and would probably spend most of the time touring the city’s fascinating treasures — the score of fantastic tourist attractions that draw people in droves every single day. Excited Instagrammers in the Gulf city, brace yourself for a vibrant photo-snapping marathon.
The exotic United Arab Emirates is immediately suggestive of extravagance and world-class entertainment; the capital Abu Dhabi is hardly an exception. From swanky shopping megacentres to opulent theme parks and sprawling water parks, all — the young as well as the young at heart — are in for a world of fun. Savour a dose of lavish retail therapy at the Yas Mall, treat your eyes at the Warner Bros World or beat the city’s scorching heat at Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi — no matter your idea of fun, you are sure to find your slice of bliss.
Among all the fun, exciting and fascinating things to do in Abu Dhabi, the Middle Eastern nation’s mouth-watering authentic cuisine is undoubtedly unmissable. Embark on your exploration of local cuisine at a fine hotel or resort in the city, including the likes of Anantara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi, and let your inner foodie unleash.
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.
