Abu Dhabi Offers A World of Surprises

  • June 26, 2014
Abu Dhabi Offers A World of Surprises
Home to a thriving arts scene and the hub of Arabian culture and heritage, Abu Dhabi is made up of more than 200 islands and has rapidly developed a reputation among cultural and travel aficionados interested in exploring the Middle East in a safe, yet authentic environment.

WORLD-CLASS EVENTS AND ATTRACTIONS

• Abu Dhabi is home to the world's only Ferrari World - the first Ferrari theme park, complete with museums, world's fastest roller coaster and other interactive activities.
• Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital - Guided tours of this award winning specialist hospital, the most advanced of its kind in the world, are available.
You can visit the luxurious wards where the birds are kept, explore the museum which gives an insight into the noble desert sport of falconry.
• Every November the destination hosts the Formula1™ Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at the Yas Marina Circuit the most technologically advanced motorsports race track in the world.

WHERE TO STAY

• Most major hotels have opened in Abu Dhabi including prominent brands such as Jumeirah, St. Regis, Park Hyatt, Ritz-Carlton, and many more. A number of openings are scheduled over the next few years including Four Seasons, Le Bristol, Grand Millennium, and Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Residences Emirates Pearl. With nearly 22,000 rooms, Abu Dhabi offers a range of accommodations to suit your client's needs.

REGIONAL DISCOVERIES

• Al Ain, the second largest city in Abu Dhabi was recently named a UNESCO World Heritage site, and is truly the cultural heartland of the region. Known as the "Oasis City," it is the historical home of the ruling family and is named for the natural springs originating in the rocky heights which surround it.

Al Ain hosts a year round program of art and cultural exhibitions at the Al Qattara Arts Centre, built on a site that dates back to the Iron Age (1100-300 BC) and where the adjacent ancient souk has now been renovated
The Al Ain camel souk is one of the world's last remaining camel markets, and is an excellent opportunity to see camels up close.

• "Where the desert meets the sea," the vast western district of Al Gharbia makes up over two thirds of Abu Dhabi. Along its hundreds of kilometers of coastline are stunning beaches and islands.

Al Gharbia is also also home to Liwa, a historic oasis town that sits at the entry to the Empty Quarter - the world's largest sand desert. Camel excursions, dune bashing, camel trekking and visits to the Arabian Wildlife Park are but a few reasons to visit the area.

The crown jewel is the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. The luxurious sand castle is an oasis amid the imposing desert landscape in the Empty Quarter and offers a 5-star experience while still showcasing Emirati experiences.

GETTING TO ABU DHABI

• Abu Dhabi is home to Etihad Airways, the national carrier. Now with Etihad Airways, your guests can reach nearly 100 destinations across the world in absolute comfort and luxury with non-stop flights from Toronto, New York, Chicago, Washington D.C., Los Angeles and with service from Dallas Fort Worth starting December 3rd, 2014.

Etihad Airways offers an unparalleled, world-class experience for guests with private suites and exclusive fine dining prepared by a personal In-Flight Chef in Diamond First Class. In our Pearl Business Class, guests benefit from fully lie-flat beds on all long-haul flights and a specially trained Food and Beverage Manager. And, in Coral Economy Class, they can unwind with on-demand entertainment and a choice of meals with vegetarian options as standard, and a selection of café-style hot beverages. Etihad also offers families across all three cabins the benefits of the airline's Flying Nanny service.

Visit website: Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority