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EXPLORE
ABU DHABI REGIONS
Captivating culture, breath-taking luxury, exhilarating adventure and the warmth of Arabian hospitality await you in Abu Dhabi.
Feel awed by one of the world's top landmarks – the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque - take on the planet's fastest roller coaster at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, zoom to the pace of a speedboat tour of the UAE capital's coastline, tune out to the sound of the wind while sand boarding in Al Dhafra, and enjoy the peace and tranquillity of a stroll through Al Ain's cooling oases.
Choose from a myriad of hotels and apartments, from the iconic Emirates Palace, Yas Viceroy and Hyatt Capital Gate to exciting island and beachfront resorts and desert retreats. Experience ultra-modern breaks in the city centre, family adventures on Yas Island or luxurious havens on Saadiyat Island.
Dine at an 18 degrees incline in the world's furthest leaning tower, savour a romantic BBQ at Emirates Palace, one of the world's most opulent hotels, enjoy 360 degree city views from revolving restaurants or taste the masterful cuisine of Michelin-starred chefs!
Abu Dhabi is an eventful capital with an action-packed calendar, including a Grand Prix, the World Cup of Sailing, a PGA golf championship, international art, music, sport, gourmet, heritage and cultural festivals, high profile business conferences and vibrant trade fairs.
Explore Abu Dhabi Regions
Marvel at Abu Dhabi's evolving skyline while discovering the emirate by land, air or sea, experience the genuine feel of authentic Arabia while watching the sun set behind red sand dunes, play golf on any of six distinctly diverse golf courses, or savour local and international cuisine sensations.
Boasting three main regions – the UAE capital and its surrounds, Al Ain or the Eastern Region and Al Dhafra, the emirate is a destination of geographic diversity, where visitors can explore natural islands, vast deserts, modern cityscapes, rocky heights, cooling oases and pristine beaches.
Hallmarked by a cultural diversity and an intriguing mix of old and new, we have UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ground-breaking architectural icons, headline adrenaline attractions, award winning golf courses, luxury resorts and some of the region's best shopping malls.
ABU DHABI
UAE CAPITAL & SURROUNDS
Meaning 'Land of the Gazelle' in Arabic, Abu Dhabi was founded when a young antelope led a wandering tribe to fresh water, on an island with no more than 300 palm ('barasti') huts, a few coral buildings and the Ruler's fort. This simple island settlement has since been transformed into the modern, cosmopolitan city of Abu Dhabi and the high-rise capital of the United Arab Emirates.
Find out more about Abu Dhabi's religion and traditions with a visit to one of the world's most impressive landmarks, the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. This architectural marvel, with a capacity for an astonishing 40,000 worshippers, features 80 domes, over 1,000 columns, gold plated chandeliers and the world's largest hand woven carpet.
AL AIN
A one and a half hour drive from Abu Dhabi city, Al Ain is one of the world's oldest permanently inhabited settlements, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The city abounds in picturesque forts. One of the UAE's most historic buildings, Al Jahili Fort was erected in 1891 to defend the city and protect precious palm groves and is home to a permanent exhibition of the work of British adventurer Sir Wilfred Thesiger and his 1940s crossings of the Rub Al Khali (The Empty Quarter) desert. The redeveloped Al Qattara Fort is now home to a brilliant arts centre and gallery, offering hundreds of modern exhibits within its walls and with spaces for a variety of workshops – from pottery and painting to music and calligraphy.
AL DHAFRA
For a real taste of the UAE's most adventurous off-road driving and some of its most incredible and dramatic scenery, including the biggest dunes this side of the Sahara, take a trip to Al Dhafra - the emirate's western region.
'Where the desert meets the sea', Al Dhafra makes up over two thirds of Abu Dhabi emirate. Along its hundreds of kilometres of coastline are stunning beaches and islands and its history is encompassed in the myriad of ancient forts, set against dramatic landscapes.