Welcome to Abu Dhabi
The largest hand-loomed carpet, the fastest roller-coaster, the highest high tea, the tower with the greatest lean, the largest cluster of cultural buildings of the 21st century Abu Dhabi is not afraid to challenge world records. Welcome to an exciting city where nothing stands still...except, perhaps, a heron in the capital's protected mangroves.
Abu Dhabi cityscape ALLAN BAXTER/GETTY IMAGES
Abu DhabiTop Sights
One of Arabias most magnificent mosques and a symbol of welcome to the city, its open to non-Muslims.
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Abu Dhabi Top Sights
You know you are somewhere uniquely Gulf when the signature burger is made of camel, the coffee is scattered with gold leaf and ingots are dispensed from the ATM.
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Abu Dhabi Top Sights
Watch Emirati visitors enjoy the Bedouin part of the village and Abu Dhabi's heritage is quickly revealed. Dhows passing the towering skyline opposite highlight the city's rapid pace of change.
ANGELO FERRARIS/SHUTTERSTOCK
Abu Dhabi Top Sights
Reclaimed from the sea, planted with scented trees and made accessible through walking and cycle paths, the Corniche and its public beaches are the jewel in the crown of this green capital.
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Abu Dhabi Top Sights
Few modern cities can match the cultural ambitions of Abu Dhabi, which claims the only branch of the Louvre outside France. This exhibition explores the planned cultural district and the inspiration behind the award-winning architecture.
URBANMYTH/ALAMY
Abu Dhabi Top Sights
Home of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, set beside the spectacular Yas Viceroy Hotel and marina, the circuit offers year-round activities. The ride at nearby Ferrari World gives the Formula One cars a run for their money.
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Abu Dhabi Top Sights
Falcons occupy a special place in the heart of Emiratis, as witnessed in the waiting rooms of this specialist clinic. Tours help visitors understand the close bond between bird and owner.
FABIAN VON POSER/ROBERT HARDING
Abu Dhabi Top Sights
Shaggy-eared or smooth-tailed, fast-paced salukis have been the Bedouin's best friends for centuries. This breeding and training centre allows visitors to come nose to nose with the affectionate hounds and their puppies.
KARIM SAHIB/AFP/GETTY IMAGES
Abu Dhabi Top Sights
With some of the most exciting buildings in the newest part of town, this square is the focus of developments on Al Maryah Island. The Galleria adds glamour to the city's new business district.
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Abu Dhabi Top Sights
Built as an experimental project to explore environmentally sustainable urbanisation, Masdar City is powered by solar energy and encompasses a host of other green features. A self-guided tour leads around the key sights.
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Abu DhabiLocal Life
Insider tips to help you find the real Abu Dhabi
There's pleasure in rooting out the city's heritage, browsing old souqs and exploring mangrove forests. Overlook Abu Dhabi's modern core, however, and you'll miss the point. The city has embraced the 21st century and invites visitors to do the same.
City life
Cafes
In a city of 50C temperatures, life is often lived in air-conditioned interiors. Town planners, however, have provided many opportunities to stray outdoors. Grab a hat and see how residents connect with the earth in a city of concrete and steel.
Tradition
Shopping
The mania for malls in Abu Dhabi is regionally shared, and for good reason. Collecting items for trade, which are organised by kind, sheltered under one roof and accessible on foot, is an ancient practice. Browse Al Mina's markets and the mall's origin becomes apparent.