| If you are looking for a trip that can boast superior beaches,
history, culture and fewer tourists than usual destinations then you
may want to consider going to the lesser known tourist destination
of the city of Abu Dhabi. This modern sundrenched city is becoming
increasingly popular as a tourist attraction so there has never been
a better time to beat the crowds and to discover a very special
city. The island city of Abu Dhabi is to be found in the North
Eastern area of the Persian Gulf, a key city to the country it’s not
only the capital but it’s also the Federal Capital of the United
Arab Emirates. If you rewind to 50 years ago, all you would have
found in the area is a very small fishing village but its fortune
changed with the discovery of oil; the change has been dramatic.
Instead of seeing a quaint fishing location you see a city steeped
in historic oil wealth and a capital city which is incredibly
impressive, luxurious and prestigious.
Formerly the playground of the unbelievably wealthy oil tycoons,
Abu Dhabi now plays host to a wider range of visitors. Western
businesses are regular travelers to this Arab hotspot, visiting to
discuss oil to a large extent but also for the property industry.
As projections indicate that the oil in this area is due to run
dry in 2100 tourists are now being overtly targeted and welcomed to
the city; lavish hotels are being erected, restaurants established
and beaches allocated for the foreign visitors. With a potential oil
deficit in the future, the city of Abu Dhabi has the more
financially endowed tourist in mind. You may not be able to visit
Abu Dhabi on a shoe string but if you have got money then it’s a
superb place to check out.
There’s plenty to see and experience in Abu Dhabi so you can
pretty much find something to suit everyone. For first time visitors
to the United Arab Emirates an off road dessert driving adventure
over the superb sand dunes in a 4x4 is a white knuckle, hair raising
but totally rewarding experience. You can hop on a half day city
tour with a group or hire a driver and guide to show you around,
taking a trip on a boat or a yacht is another popular pastime for
visitors and if you have really deep pockets you can charter your
very own luxury yacht complete with captain, crew and chefs.
While the city is extremely welcoming to visitors and has been
voted the world’s safest holiday location twice, you do have to
remember you are in an Arab state and you have to be considerate to
their lifestyles and beliefs. You should dress conservatively in
public, especially the women but as a tourist you won’t be expected
to cover your head. Out in the city you’ll find that Ramadan is
observed closely but in the Western hotels, you should be fine for
eating and drinking whenever you like.
If you look at how busy the country’s closest rival city of Dubai
has become both with tourists and building works, it really is a
good time to visit Abu Dhabi. Hardly any traffic, few tourists and
spectacular scenery all make this jewel in the Emirate crown an
excellent choice. |