Abu Dhabi
Sitting at the top of a T-shaped island jutting out into the Persian Gulf is the capital city of the United Arab Emirates, the marvellous Abu Dhabi. This modern metropolis owes much of its wealth to revenue from oil supplies, which were discovered back in the 1950’s. Today, it is the headquarters of the world’s richest oil operating companies.
Impressive tree-lined highways lead into the city, giving a taster of the beautiful layout and design of the city itself. Futuristic skyscrapers and ornate architecture abound with luxury hotels and top class transport systems ensuring the tourist’s every need is catered for.
This pulsating city is most famous however, for it’s fantastic duty-free shopping. Enticing shopping malls selling Western fashion labels include the Abu Dhabi Mall, Marina Mall and the newer Al Wahda Mall. The buzzing souks (markets) are also extremely popular and often feature jewellery shops and antique stores.
The beautiful seafront Corniche is one of the largest in the Middle East, lined with flourishing gardens and ornate fountains. Many of the city's top hotels and restaurants, line the downtown section of the Corniche, overlooking numerous sandy islets. The prestigious Emirates Palace Hotel, said to be the most expensive in the world, also shares the seafront promenade.
If the glitz and glam of the city gets a little to much, there are many places of interest close by in which to retreat or explore. The beautiful Corniche beach and Breakwater Island are popular spots. One can also escape to the desert for a Bedouin feast under the stars, or a camel ride through the dunes. Whatever your needs, Abu Dhabi will provide.
