Abu Dhabi is still considered an insider tip when it comes to vacation planning, but the desert city is actually an absolute dream destination, and only a 4-6 hour flight from Europe. Year-round sunshine, breathtaking beaches, unique sights, and fantastic hotels aren't all it has to offer.
What many people don't know: Abu Dhabi is the safest city in the world! For the second year in a row, the capital of the Emirates has been named the safest city in the world by "Numbeo" out of 338 cities. Anyone can take a stroll on the beach or in the city even late at night. It is Aasolutely safe!
The government here places great emphasis on maintaining a clean and safe environment. You don't even have to worry about being ripped off when taking a taxi, which is typical for so many vacation destinations. All taxis in Abu Dhabi are registered and charge exactly the set and affordable fare.
The United Arab Emirates was only founded in December 1971, and the pace of change has been and remains rapid. In contrast to Dubai, however, the country is taking a somewhat slower and more deliberate approach.
Abu Dhabi itself is in various stages of development, all of which are well thought out. Several major projects on neighboring islands such as Al Reem, Al Maryah, Yas, and Saadiyat Island are currently taking shape, and Abu Dhabi's skyline is changing almost weekly.
**People and Lifestyle**:
Abu Dhabi visitors from all over the world are primarily attracted by its modern lifestyle, coupled with beautiful hotels, stunning beaches, countless activities, and typical Arabian hospitality.
For those who want to enjoy their vacation in one of People and Lifestyle:the most beautiful places on earth, without the raucous and drunken crowds of tourists, Abu Dhabi is certainly the perfect destination.
Although the official language is Arabic, English is spoken almost everywhere, making communication very easy.
Our Tirp to Abu Dhabi:
That’s why were looking forward to a few sunny days in Abu Dhabi and were not disappointed. The weather was summery warm, and we were extremely pleased with our chosen accommodations.
We received a warm welcome at the Shangri-La Hotel Qaryat Al Beri and startet to explore the city:
Our Trip to Abu Dhabi
That’s why were looking forward to a few sunny days in Abu Dhabi and were not disappointed. The weather was summery warm, and we were extremely pleased with our chosen accommodations. We received a warm welcome at the Shangri-La Hotel Qaryat Al Beri and startet to explore the city:
Sheikh Zayed Mosque
Even from our hotel we had a great view of one of the city's most beautiful sights: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
Visitors marvel at Abu Dhabi's symbiosis of ultramodern construction and traditional Arabic architecture at the Sheikh Zayed Mosque. Opened in 2007, it is one of the largest Islamic places of worship in the world. This superlative edifice, which cost $545 million to build, can accommodate 40,000 worshippers.
With 82 domes, over 1,000 columns, 24-carat gold chandeliers, and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet, it is the third largest mosque in the world and can accommodate 40,000 worshippers. An architectural work of art!
Non-Muslim visitors can also marvel at the Sheikh Zayed Mosque from the inside, provided they dress appropriately. An evening visit, with its atmospheric lighting, is particularly worthwhile.
Excursion to Al Ain
Visitors discover the emirate's rich cultural heritage in the southeast, bordering Oman. The "Garden City of the Arabian Gulf" was once an important oasis, passed through by traders on their way to Oman. In 2011, Al Ain's historic buildings were added to the UNESCO World Heritage List as testaments to Abu Dhabi's early settlement.
A sophisticated irrigation system ensures that Al Ain is lush and green. Among the most popular sights is Al-Jahili, a lavishly restored fortress with gardens inside. Spices and clothing are on offer in Al Ain's souks, which still traditionally take place outdoors, and visitors can watch traders haggling for the best price at the camel market.
Louvre and Dream Beach on Saadiyat Island
Due to a lack of space, artificial islands are repeatedly created off the emirate’s coast or, as in the case of Saadiyat, existing headlands are expanded by landfill. The government aimed to create a superlative cultural district on Saadiyat Island. The new Louvre Abu Dhabi art museum is located here, presenting works from antiquity to the 21st century. Thanks to a collaboration with the French original, the Louvre Abu Dhabi is already one of the most important art museums of our time.
The Performing Arts Center, with theaters, concert halls, and an opera, as well as the Zayed National Museum, are also located on Saadiyat Island. There, visitors can learn more about the settlement of the emirate over the past 200,000 years. The Manarat Al Saadiyat Gallery, which exhibits contemporary artists, serves as the island’s visitor center. For those who prefer a more relaxed approach, not far from the cultural highlights you will also find a kilometer-long dream beach and the chilled-out Saadiyat Beach Club.
The Dessert
The highlight of our trip to Abu Dhabi was definitely the detour into the surrounding desert.
We stayed at the award-winning Qasr Al Sarah Resort by Anantara, a beautiful hotel complex in the middle of the desert. Here, too, there are hardly any limits to luxury. A camel ride through the Rub' al Kali desert, a dinner under the desert sky, or relaxation with hammam rituals. (Almost) anything is possible here.
The rising and setting sun bathed the surrounding desert in the most beautiful hues. Our short vacation in the United Arab Emirates was drawing to a close, and we took the warmth of the sun home with us.