Visit Abu Dhabi
زيارة أبو ظبي
About Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi (meaning in Arabic “Father of the gazelle”) is the capital city and the largest of the seven Emirates making up the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Abu Dhabi is the seat of the Federal Government and is the country's political and industrial hub as well as being a major historical and cultural centre. It is a city of contrasts. You'll find the domes and minarets of traditional mosques nestled beside ultramodern skyscrapers, chic five-star hotels near vibrant traditional souks (markets) and futuristic tourist attractions neighbouring kilometres of rolling desert dunes. Economy Covering around 87 per cent of the UAE's total land area, Abu Dhabi possesses 94 per cent of the country's oil reserves and, as the world's fourth largest oil producer, contributes 10% of the world's oil. An initiative aimed at diversifying its economy has evolved Abu Dhabi into a magnet of foreign investment. It is now a cosmopolitan city boasting one of the highest per capita incomes and one of the lowest crime rates in the world. Population The UAE's population has grown to over 9 million, as strong economic growth has attracted a workforce from all over the world. The population of Emiratis is just over one million. According to the Abu Dhabi statistics center, Abu Dhabi's population is over 2.5 million, with around 20% being UAE Nationals. Religion Islam is the official religion of the UAE. However, other religions are respected and are diversely represented. Language The official language of the UAE is Arabic, but English is widely spoken and understood, with both languages being commonly used in business and commerce. Heritage and Tradition The city's progressive vision is tempered by a deep-seated respect for traditions and culture. The artifacts and tools of its early inhabitants, pearl divers, fishermen and dhow builders, are carefully preserved and displayed. The Bedouin way of life is especially honored. Climate Between November and March a moderate, warm climate prevails during the day at an average temperature of 26°C, with cooler evening temperatures averaging 15°C. Humidity levels rise significantly in the summer months, between June and August. UAE Currency The monetary unit is the 'dirham' (AED) which is divided into 100 fils. |
Tourist Attractions
الجذب السياحي
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the world's largest mosques, with a capacity for 40,000 worshippers. It features 82 domes, over 1,000 columns, 24-carat gold gilded chandeliers and the world's largest hand knitted carpet. This beautiful landmark is also the final resting place of the founding father of the nation, Sheikh Zayed. You can find glass work, mosaic tiling and carvings intricately woven together. Observation Deck at Etihad Towers The observation deck, situated at the 74th floor of Jumeirah Hotel in Etihad Towers is one of the most attractive places to visit in Abu Dhabi. Being one of the highest points of the city, it is the best location to view the city skyline, especially at night to admire the beautiful lighting. The Liwa Oasis Your trip to Abu Dhabi would be incomplete without a signature desert visit to the Liwa Oasis, located 150 kms southwest of the city. Having one of the world's largest sand dunes right outside the settlement, it is beautiful enough to take your breath away. Dune buggies, sand surfing and camel trekking are all famous activities at the resort. The Heritage Village An authentic replica of a typical bedouin village, the Heritage Village promises you an insight into the Emirati life before modernization. Located near a pleasant beach area, you can find many craftsmen demonstrate metalwork and weaving skills. This is a display of the local culture which dominated the economy prior to the discovery of oil and eventual global recognition. The Mangrove Kayaking Tours A different aspect of Abu Dhabi is exploring the last remnants of of the city's forests. This tour allows you to understand the essential ecology of mangroves along with the entertainment of gliding over clear blue waters in the moonlight. The Yas Island Water World Theme Park Water bodies, islands and the ocean itself have a significant role to play in making Abu Dhabi, the beauty that it is. Amidst your city tour, when the heat compels you to take some reast, head off to Yas Island, one of the most important places to visit in Abu Dhabi and find yourself in a huge theme park with an inner tube river ride. The Yas Waterworld hosts the world's first hydro-magnetic tornado water rafting ride and the world's largest surfable sheet wave along with the Jebel drop, which is a free fall speed water slide. If the adrenaline gets too much for you to handle, there are restaurants, cafes and shops to help you relax. The Yas Island Ferrari World Theme Park Abu Dhabi is home to one of the most exciting branded theme parks from around the world. The Ferrari World brings Formula One racing thrill for you and your family to spend an amazing time. Even children can try out their driving skills on the Junior GT track while the expert in you buckle up for riding the Flying Aces rollercoaster, clocking speeds upto 120 km/h on a 52 metre loop. For all the Ferrari fans, there is a gift shop having all vintage and modern car models for sale, a factory tour and for those old enough to drive, a 3 lap drive around the Ferrari test track IN AN ACTUAL FERRARI !!! |
Abu Dhabi, UAE