With its vast shopping malls and grand hotel multiplexes, it is Dubai, the growing concrete metropolis that’s typically associated with the United Arab Emirates. Some 140km down the coastline however is Abu Dhabi, the stunning and completely understated capital of the UAE. Danielle Wilcock talks about her Arabian experience and highlights some of the amazing experiences to be had in this beautiful and majestic city.
History
The UAE consists of seven emirates and was established on December 2 1971 as a federation.
Six of the seven emirates (Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain and Fujairah) combined on that date with the seventh, Ras al Khaimah, joining the federation on 10th February 1972.
What is an emirate? Otherwise known as political territories, emirates are ruled by a dynastic Arabic or Islamic monarch-styled emir and ran similarly to a kingdom.
The UAE is governed by a Supreme Council of Rulers made up of the seven emirs, who all agree on the appointment of the prime minister and the cabinet.
Because of it vast oil resources, Abu Dhabi is one of the richest countries in the world, making the sights to be seen some of the grandest and most extravagant in the world.
Things to see
Whether you’re travelling alone, as a couple, in a group or with your family, Abu Dhabi truly is a destination for everyone to enjoy.
From the awe-inspiring Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the many stunning islands to the landmark Abu Dhabi Louvre and the world’s largest indoor theme park, there really is everything.
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
If it’s a culturally immersive experience you’re after then the Grand Mosque is an absolute must.
Simply driving up to the Mosque is enough to take your breath away.
Something hugely significant is the story behind the mosque’s design and build.
The mosque’s architects were British, Italian and Emirati, and design inspiration was borrowed parts of Turkey, Morocco, Pakistan, and Egypt among other Islamic countries.
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque stands out as one of the world’s largest mosques, and the only one that captures unique interactions between Islam and other world cultures. Its astonishing capacity of 40,000 worshippers and visitors only reinforces its size and granduer, something you truly feel when you take a step inside this monumental building.
Corniche Beach
The Corniche refers to the 8km road located right next to one of the most popular public beaches in the country.
It is recommended for its accessibility, crystal clear and clean waters as well as the vast array of beautifully kept gardens that line the public pathways.
What I found most interesting yet surprisingly welcoming was the different sections to the Corniche beach.
It is split up into three different areas; families, singles and a public beach making it a relaxing and enjoyable experience for all.
Yas Island
A developmental project that commenced building in 2006. Since then the island has grown drastically, offering substantial accommodation destinations and home to the world’s largest indoor roller coaster and theme park.
Because of the high profile annual F1 events the island attracts super yachts from as far away as Australia.
The Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, is an event to be experienced if you can.
In addition to the annual F1 Grand Prix, there are many other things to keep you occupied. Ferrari World, the world’s first Ferrari-branded theme park is based on the story of the motor brand and is home to more than 20 exhilarating rides and attractions, as well as amazing shopping and authentic Italian dining experiences.
The Yas Marina overlooks the stunning Yas Marina F1™ Circuit and is home to many high profile restaurants.
Marvel at the beautiful sights of the Arabian Sea or indulge in one of the world’s most spectacular water parks; Yas Waterworld.
It spans an area of about 15 football (soccer) pitches, with 43 invigorating rides, slides and attractions.
Visitors to this wonderfully futuristic waterpark will be able to try out the world’s first and largest hydromagnetic-powered, six-person tornado waterslide.
UAE Emirates Palace
Like many of the sights in Abu Dhabi, this has to be seen to be believed.
Before March this year the whitewashed walls of the presidential compound were all that could be seen, except for those views obtained from high rise towers and buildings.
Unable to go inside the last time I visited, I was only able to obtain a bird’s eye view from the hotel I was staying, but what a view that was.
Even from that distance it’s truly mesmerising, a palace fit for any Disney Fairytale.
Tours are now available of the building and will focus on the part of the palace called Qasr Al Watan (Palace of the Nation), where global leaders and visits by the official heads of state have been made.
The palace contains the offices of the president, vice president and crown prince of Abu Dhabi, and it’s the meeting place of the highest constitutional authority in the United Arab Emirates.
I can only presume that the outside reflects what is beheld inside, so this tour would surely be an experience not to be missed.
