Abu Dhabi

A lush desert oasis known as the garden city of the Gulf, Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, is a fusion of traditional Arabian and bold contemporary architecture with an unmistakably cosmopolitan edge.

Fifty years ago, Abu Dhabi was little more than a fishing village made up of a fort, a few coral buildings and a scattering of Barasti Huts and while the city is now unrecognisable, the rest of the emirate remains very ‘Arabian Sands’. Attractive, glamorous and distinctly Arabian, the city is truly hitting its stride. Meander through the streets witnessing authentic mosques and charming souks, or embrace the modern multicultural draw of impressive resorts and desert, beach or urban experiences. Enjoy the thrill of the world’s fastest roller coaster, go golfing on spectacular courses, shopping in designer stores or partake in an unforgettable race day on the F1™ Grand Prix circuit. Traditional Arabic cuisine is widely available and a fragrant experience for the senses, while the influence of a wide range of other cultures has opened up the restaurant scene and the city has developed a strong reputation for its diverse gastronomy. The climate is consistently superb, activities are boundless and the hotels offer an extremely high standard of comfort and service.