Roland Lefevre
Famed as a retail and luxury resort hub the UAE is also an adrenalin junkie's dream destination. From Formula 1 race tracks to dune bashing the most invigorating attractions in the UAE are as follows.
Tipped to be one of the most rewarding excursions in Abu Dhabi a tour of its lush mangrove forests is a must-have experience for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Spread out across 5 miles of Eastern Ring Road this natural space in Abu Dhabi is collectively known as the Eastern Mangroves Lagoon National Park. As the verdant breeding ground and habitat of more than 50 species of birds and 200 varieties of fish the intricate network of mangroves littering the park is explored on a kayaking tour. Paddling across lush mangroves kayakers can learn of local fauna and flora while taking in the sights and sounds of this intriguing landscape.
As one of the most captivating desert landscapes in all of Abu Dhabi the trekking experience across the Al Ain desert is not for the faint of heart. Exploring the arid terrain 100 miles from the heart of Abu Dhabi lining the city's border with Oman this challenging hike to the Hajar Mountains is a once in a lifetime trek for travellers. As the tallest mountainscape in all of the Eastern Arabian Peninsula the Al Hajar Mountains towers above the surrounding terrain at a height of 9,834 feet. Visitors can select hiking packages from day long trips to three hour hikes across Dibba Beach's Secret Staircase while those who opt for a longer hike can unwind with a dip in the hot springs at the foot of Jebel Hafeet Mountain.
Revered among safari fanatics as one of the top activities for adventure sports enthusiasts touring Abu Dhabi, nothing beats a dune bashing excursion in the Empty Quarter. Combining the thrill of a 4x4 safari with the excitement of smashing against and driving across towering sand dunes littering the desert, dune bashing is fast becoming Abu Dhabi's adventure sporting activity of choice. Spread out across 250000 square miles the Empty Quarter or the Rub' al Khali desert is the dune basher's playground with optional activities such as dune buggy tours, desert camping, camel rides and falconry also available through tour operators.
Available through riding schools and polo clubs such as the Emirates Equestrian Centre, Mushrif Equestrian and Polo Club and the Al Jiyad Stables visitors can also trek the desert on horseback on enjoy a evening riding excursion with family members.
Offering racing fanatics the rare opportunity to live out their Formula One dreams the Yas Marina Circuit Race Track is a one of kind attraction in Abu Dhabi. Strapping in to a Formula 1 vehicle visitors can experience the twists and turns of this world class circuit first hand and experience the Grand Prix from the seat of a speedy machine. Driving courses and instructors are also on hand while passenger experiences on a Chevy Camaro drag race are also available while go-karting fans can head down to the Yas KartZone to let lose among the racers. Ferrari World nearby is another attractions worthy of exploration as it contains the globe's fastest roller coaster Formula Rossa. Visitors based in Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort or other Abu Dhabi villas on the island will have easy access to the circuit.
