Abu Dhabi, the oil rich neighbour of Dubai and capital of United Arab Emirates is a classy example of opulence and magnificence. A visit to Dubai will leave you awe struck by the dazzling structures and unlimited options to shop. The relatively calmer and home to beautifully manicured gardens, Abu Dhabi is no less in dropping an enchanting smile on your face.
Just to give an idea, United Arab Emirates consists of 8 cities namely Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and 5 others each of which in itself is called as an emirate.
How to reach Abu Dhabi?
1. If travelling by road from Dubai
2. By air: The richest emirate is a major halt for flights directing to Europe and Americas. It is home to Etihad Airways and is one of the busiest airport in the world.
Places to see
1. Grand Mosque:No entry fee
Envisioned by the first president of UAE, this is world's 3rd largest mosque and is open to people of all religions. There are multiple chandeliers inside made up of gold and Swarosky crystals. The hand made single piece carpet in the main prayer hall is again the world's largest carpet. It was prepared by craftsman in Iran in the span of 2 years.
Floral designs are made on the pillars and the walls using semi-precious stones. Pure white Greek marble has been used in the construction.
The place is handicapped friendly. Women need to wear burqa if tight clothing or any part of the body except face and palm are to be seen. Burqa are available free of cost at each of the gates at mosque entrance.
If possible visit it in the evening hours as well, the blue lights adds on to the beauty of this incredibly gorgeous place.
2. Heritage Village: No entry fee
The walled complex will give you a quick view of traditional Gulf life in pre-oil era. You can watch the craftsmen at the costume, pottery and glass-blowing workshop. The end products are up for sale.
Finally you have the breathtaking view of Abu Dhabi corniche here. Only thing to take care of is that this place closes at 3.30 PM
3. Ferrari World
Ferrari's first branded theme park hosting Formula Rossa, world's fastest roller coaster. You can find different Ferrari models parked here.
You can enter the premises free of cost and get the feel by roaming around. Capture the moment by getting clicked with a Ferrari.
Do not plan for paid entry to this amusement park and city tour on the same day. The place is huge and needs at least 1 full day to cover the rides. Also it's at the city outskirts so time is needed to cover other places of interest.
4. Emirates Palace Hotel
Another 5-star hotel in the sea of luxury that this country has to offer. What makes it stand out from others is that it incorporate traditional Arabian elements lime domes spread throughout the building. It has a kilometre long white sand private beach.
It has a gold dispensing ATM inside the premises
If you're in just for a day and have time just to have a good luck of the exteriors, politely ask the guard at the main entrance of the hotel. They'll let you in for few minutes.
Thanks to the above still, we all recognise this exemplary buildings. They are home to penthouses, apartments, designer boutiques, luxury-hotels, conference halls, multi-cuisine restaurants.
Even if you are not able to dine/stay/work/shop at this reflection of Abu Dhabi, still you can have a good look of it from Emirates Palace Hotel.
6.Dates market: No entry fee
If you're fond of dates, this place is for you. You get to taste them and then decide whether you want to buy them.Some are really good. Dates chocolate can be souvenirs for your friends and family. Do bargain.
Also you will pass via the headquarter of Aldar, the most prominent real estate development company of Abu Dhabi. It's another iconic building shaped like a coin.
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