Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Abu Dhabi is one of the most modern destinations in the Middle East. While at the forefront of the modern Arab world, the capital and second largest city of the United Arab Emirates is steeped in history dating from the 3rd millennium BC. With a population estimated at just 500,000, Abu Dhabi makes for an ideal place to observe the cultural roots of the Emirates while benefiting from the slick modernism. Its a city which buzzes with culture and a vibrant cohesion of East and West.

Abu Dhabi sits at the head of an island in the Gulf, off the central west Emirates coast. When oil was discovered in the 1970s, traditional mud-brick and reed huts were soon replaced by gleaming high rises.

Visiting Abu Dhabi is best done during spring and autumn. Winters can be windy and summers are stiflingly hot sometimes upwards of 115F. However, the upside of travelling in the summer is the huge hotel discounts.

Travelling There and Around

Flight time from London is approximately 7 hours. Abu Dhabi International Airport is quite a distance from the city, but the round-the-clock bus connection will get you there efficiently. Within the city, the best way to get around is by taxi. Buses are cheap and run throughout Abu Dhabi, but they dont follow regular routes. If youre willing to pay a bit more, rent a car. Most top hotels have hire firms on their premises.

What To See

Abu Dhabi is a metropolis of modern buildings, but look closer and youll see some historic treasures that hint at its rich history. The Qasr al-Hosn (also known as the al-Hosn Palace, Old Fort and White Fort) is actually older than the emirate of Abu Dhabi. It's one of the few buildings in Abu Dhabi that's more than thirty years old. The inside of the fort is used by the Cultural Foundation as a research centre and is off-limits to the public, but the courtyard is open to visitors. Look out for the beautiful tile work over the northern gate.

The citys fish market at the eastern end of the Corniche is an unusual but interesting place to visit. It may not sound particularly enticing, but once there, youll have a great view of Abu Dhabi. The sea views are simply stunning, and theres a surprising amount of parkland for a desert location. You really get a feeling of how far Abu Dhabi has come in such a short length of time.

The Cultural Foundation is made up of the National Archives, National Library and the Institute of Culture and Art. The building is in modern Islamic style with intricate tile work and a decorated passageway. The annual Emirati film festival is held here, along with regular film screenings, theatrical shows and classical concerts. There are local heritage displays, crafts and Islamic calligraphy too.

Money

There are around 7 dirham to the pound. Up-to-date exchange rates can be found at this currency converter.