Your Key To Authentic Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is a destination of blue skies, stunning white sand beaches and a modern cosmopolitan city. The combination of international influences and a strong commitment to the legacy has created an intriguing mix of new and old. Anyone who’s ever seen a photo of Abu Dhabi knows how quickly the city has turned desert into metropolis. And anyone who’s been here knows that photos don’t do justice to the massive scale of the city’s ambition.

I think that the best way to get an overview of the city is to arrange private tours in order to experience the rich diversity of historic monuments, architectural landmarks, evocative heritage areas and centuries-old forts which reflects an ancient culture. My personal favorite thing to do is to drive around and explore the vibrant energy.

Start your experience at Qasr Al Hosn which is the oldest and most significant building in Abu Dhabi, holding the city’s first permanent structure; the watchtower. Carry on the journey to the famous Corniche with its beautiful promenade. Continue to the Heritage Village and embrace a glimpse into the emirate’s past. Be sure to stop over at the Marina Mall which is an upscale mall.

Take a minute and step into the magical world of the Emirates Palace where you will enjoy the quintessence of luxury hospitality, outstanding beauty and authentic local experiences. Culinary highlights include Le Café where you may try the very famous Palace Cappuccino. Sprinkled in real 24 carat gold flakes, this is the epitome of indulgence at the Palace. You can also taste the rich flavours of the region with the Emirates Palace signature dish, the 24 carat gold ‘Emirates Palace Camel Burger’.

Qasr Al Watan is a new, incredible and unique landmark in the United Arab Emirates which has become one of my favourite places to visit. The Qasr Al Watan is more than just a palace, it is an enriching journey in a contemporary setting that reveals and reflects on governance, knowledge and craftsmanship. The Palace offers you a unique opportunity to marvel at majestic hallways that is sure to leave you with a meaningful experience, explore exhibitions that celebrate the region’s rich Arabic heritage and learn more about the rulers and governing institutions that shaped this great nation.

Make your way to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque which stands out as one of the world’s largest mosques, and the only one that captures unique interactions between Islam and world cultures.

Next, head to Yas Island and choose any of the major attractions like Yas Mall, Ferarri World, Yas Waterworld or Warner Bros World.

Carry on and explore the iconic Louvre Abu Dhabi which is the first universal museum in the Arab World that translates the spirit of openness of cultures. As one of the premier cultural institutions located in the heart of the Saadiyat Cultural District, the art-lovers dream displays the works of historical, cultural and sociological significance from ancient times to the contemporary era.

Then, make sure to visit Al Maryah Island, which is home to an exceptional selection of luxury boutiques, contemporary brands and a wide array of dining experiences. My favourite restaurants are COYA and La Petite Maison.

Whether you have just arrived in the city or have been here for ages, there is an area worth checking out which is the Mina Port Zayed. The fish market is one of the oldest in the country as well as one of the largest. While there is a seemingly endless array of fish and seafood, the options depend on the time of year and what’s available locally. Once you pick your fish you can get it cleaned on site and then choose from several different restaurants who will cook it right in front of you.

Abu Dhabi is a destination for travellers who seek an authentic experience and wish to immerse themselves in a resilient, and largely unchanged culture. It is indeed an intriguing city and one that you should definitely visit.