Opportunity Abu Dhabi - Visit Abu Dhabi

Opportunity Abu Dhabi
- The Travel Trade’s Guide to a Great New Destination

Our Diverse Destination of Distinction
Abu Dhabi is one of the most diverse
destinations anywhere. Here you will find
the vibrancy of a cosmopolitan capital,
the serenity of an ancient UNESCO World
Heritage oasis settlement, the tranquility
of dramatic desertscapes, inviting warm
waters, secluded island getaways, a
myriad of attractions – ancient and new –
and an all-embracing traditional welcome
that permeates them all.
The emirate basks in virtual year-round
sunshine with little rainfall and superb
winter (October-May) temperatures which
average around 24°C (75°F) during the day
falling to 13°C (56°F) during the night.
Summer (June-September) daytime
temperatures can rise to 42°C (118°F) and
there is high humidity; however, there are
a number of world-class indoor attractions
to keep visitors cool, most notably Ferrari
World Abu Dhabi - the world’s largest
indoor theme park - and Wadi Adventure,
a man-made whitewater rafting, kayaking
and surfing facility at the base of Jebel
Hafeet, the city’s tallest heights.
The destination is one of the safest in the
world with an incredibly low crime rate
and visitors benefit from the availability of
a Tourism Police service trained to assist
travellers.
The destination is served by an increasing
number of international and regional
carriers, a first-class international airport,
expanding accommodation options which
are governed by a reliable and trustworthy
classification system, tour guides trained
to international standards and growing
and maturing ground handling and
attractions segments.
FRONT COVER: CAPITAL GATE TOWER AT ABU DHABI NATIONAL EXHIBITIONS CENTRE
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CONTENTS
OVERVIEW
Abu Dhabi City
Al Ain
Al Gharbia
Getting to Abu Dhabi
Visas
Transport from the Airport
Hotels & Resorts
ATTRACTIONS AND TOURS
Abu Dhabi
Al Ain
Al Gharbia
SPECIAL PRODUCTS
SHOPPING / DINING
Retail Therapy Abu Dhabi Style
Eating Out
LEISURE
Golf in Abu Dhabi
Spas in Abu Dhabi
For an Eventful Stay
ITINERARIES
Abu Dhabi
Al Ain
Al Gharbia
USEFUL INFORMATION
Traveller's Welcome Tips
Tools to Assist You
Partners
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THE CORNICHE
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ABU DHABI CITY
The capital of the United Arab Emirates
(UAE) is an intriguing mix of the past, the
present and an exciting future. The sweeping
Corniche, which is a community hub on this
island city, is the place for joggers, cyclists,
walkers, sun worshippers, bathers or for
those who wish to sip a fragrant coffee and
watch the world go by. The beauty of the
Corniche, home to the opulent Emirates
Palace hotel, particularly at sunset, has an
almost mystical ‘pull’. Visitors can take
advantage of a clean, well-managed, Blue
Flag public beach complete with lifeguards
which edges clear, safe waters.
Along the Corniche, architecturally inspiring
high-rise corporate headquarters create a
Manhattan-like backdrop to a public space
which is dotted with immaculately kept
gardens and fountains.
The city is linked to Abu Dhabi mainland by
four main bridges giving easy access to a
host of attractions and signature destinations
including Yas Island and Saadiyat Island. Yas
Island, home to the iconic Yas Viceroy, the
only hotel in the world straddling an F1
race track, hosts the annual F1 Etihad
Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on the
magnificent Yas Marina Circuit. It is also
home to the stunning Yas Links golf course
and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi - the world’s
largest indoor theme park.
Saadiyat Island is home to the stunning
Monte Carlo Beach Club, Saadiyat (www.
montecarlobeachclub.ae), the Manarat Al
Saadiyat arts and culture exhibition centre
and the Saadiyat Beach Golf Club with an
inspiring 18-hole championship-ready
‘ocean’ course designed by golfing legend
Gary Player. There are also two magnificent,
beachfront resorts - Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi
and The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort.
The UAE capital also boasts the Abu Dhabi
Golf Club which, each January, hosts the
PGA European Tour - backed Abu Dhabi
HSBC Golf Championship. An increasing
number of operators are offering golfing
holidays to the emirate.
Key visitor attractions in Abu Dhabi are the
awe-inspiring Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque,
which has complimentary daily ‘walk
guided tours every day as well as shopping
in the city’s ultramodern malls and
traditional souks.
There are popular city tours, excursions to
key attractions, water-bound tours around
Abu Dhabi’s coastline, fishing, sailing,
kayaking and diving trips and day and night
safaris into the desert for camel trekking,
dune driving, dune dinners and sand skiing.
Overnight desert stays are possible in
traditional-style camps.
Business Tourism is an Abu Dhabi forté and
largely centres around the expansive and
ultra-modern Abu Dhabi National
Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). State-of-theart,
fully air-conditioned exhibition halls
are backed by a full range of services,
restaurants and coffee shops, ample car
parking and the complex also includes ICC
Abu Dhabi - the international convention
centre, which can seat up to6,000. Adjacent
is the iconic Capital Gate Tower - the world’s
farthest leaning tower - which houses the
five-star Hyatt Capital Gate hotel. The
complex is also linked to the four-star Aloft
Abu Dhabi -the trendy brand’s only hotel in
the UAE. Visitors seeking active breaks are
well catered to by the Al Forsan
International Sports Resort - a huge
complex offering a variety of sporting
activities on the motor track, on water or on
horseback.
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AL JAHILI FORT
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AL AIN
This is Abu Dhabi’s heritage heartland where visitors can immediately connect with
the rich traditions of the emirate. The second largest city in the emirate, Al Ain, which
means ‘Spring’ in Arabic, is built around seven oases, where date farming is still
practised and which were cited in UNESCO’s denotation of Al Ain as a World Heritage
site. A stroll through the restored Al Ain Oasis is to be at one with nature.
Museums, ancient forts and archaeological deposits unearth an intriguing past. The
old souks (markets) and camel market – the last remaining of its kind in the United
Arab Emirates – make great photographic memories.
Al Ain is wrapped by a backdrop of dramatic rocky heights, which provide panoramic
views of the sweeping, multi-hued desert which leads up to the city and which visitors
can enjoy through organised safaris and 4x4 adventure trips.
This ‘Oasis City’ is a destination for those wanting a distinct ‘feel’ of Arabia in a
relaxing environment where hotels cater to discerning vacationers, business groups
and families. Modern-day entertainment is to be found in the hotels, at Al Ain
Raceway’s state-of-the-art go-karting facility and the Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting
and Golf Club, which boasts world-class equestrian facilities and an 18-hole, all-grass
golf course in a stunning setting in the shadow of Jebel Hafeet – the emirate’s highest
peak. The city’s malls are modern, expansive and have a mix of more traditional
stores and high-end brands.
Family entertainment highlights are provided by: Hili Fun City – the Gulf’s oldest
theme park which has now been renovated and offers the most cost-effective family
day out; the Al Ain Wildlife Park & Resort, which again delivers incredible value-formoney
and Wadi Adventure, a man-made whitewater rafting, kayaking and surfing
playground at the base of Jebel Hafeet. (www.tamouh.com).
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ARABIAN WILDLIFE PARK
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AL GHARBIA
This western region of Abu Dhabi - Al Gharbia - is the emirate’s most expansive and
is for the adventurous. It opened up to international tourism with the Desert Islands
Resort & Spa by Anantara on Sir Bani Yas Island - a former royal nature reserve which
is now home to the Arabian Wildlife Park and its herds of free roaming animals,
including one of the world’s largest herds of Arabian Oryx (gazelles). Guests can opt
for a range of adventure activities including kayaking through mangroves, snorkelling
in marine life-rich waters, hiking across ancient salt domes, archery, mountainbiking,
4x4 guided tours of the Arabian Wildlife Park and sun-set sailing.
The iconic Qasr al Sarab (Mirage Palace) Desert Resort by Anantara nestles in the
towering dunes of the Liwa Desert, which sits at the entry to the Rub Al Khali (Empty
Quarter) made famous by the expeditions of British explorer Wilfred Thesiger. This
superb resort is built in traditional style and gives guests memorable views of sunrises
and sunsets over the spectacular desert surroundings. Guests can take part in
numerous desert pursuits including early morning camel treks before adjourning for
a traditional hammam bath in the luxurious spa.
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Manchester
Dublin
London
Paris
Geneva
Casablanca
Brussels
Frankfurt
Munich
Milan
Alexandria
Minsk
Khartoum
Istanbul
Athens
Larnaca
Moscow
Peshawar
Islamabad
Astana
Almaty
Lahore
Delhi
Karachi
ABU DHABI Mumbai
Bangalore Hyderabad
B
Kathmandu
Dhaka
Johannesburg
Cape Town
Beirut
Amman
Dammam
Bahrain
Riyadh
Jeddah
Tehran
Baghdad
Kuwait
Doha
Muscat
ABU DHABI
Middle East Network

GETTING TO ABU DHABI
Most international visitors arrive at Abu
Dhabi International Airport – the Gateway
to Abu Dhabi. This award-winning facility
is half an hour’s drive from downtown Abu
Dhabi and only a 40-minute drive from
Dubai. An increasing number of national
and international carriers now fly to Abu
Dhabi International Airport. They include
- Air France, British Airways, Cathay
Pacific, Czech Airlines, KLM, Lufthansa,
Singapore Airlines, Turkish Airlines,
Ukraine International Airlines and V
Australia. Regional carriers serving Abu
Dhabi International Airport include:
Bahrain Air, Egypt Air, Gulf Air, Kuwait
Airways, Middle East Airlines, Oman Air,
Qatar Airways, Royal Jordanian, Royal
Falcon, Saudi Arabian Airlines, Syrian
Arab Airlines and Jazeera Airways. Etihad
Airways, the multi-award-winning
national airline of the UAE flies from more
than 60 destinations throughout the
Middle East, Europe, North America,
Africa, Asia and Australia to Abu Dhabi.
The airport has a new, state-of-the-art
Terminal 3 which is dedicated to Etihad,
and Terminal 1 has been upgraded to the
same standard.
There are Arrivals Duty Free facilities and
allowances are:
AED3,000 (max.)
Some regional carriers do operate into Al
Ain International Airport which is about
30 minutes outside the Oasis City and an
hour’s drive from Abu Dhabi city.
VISAS
Citizens of 33 countries are issued with a
free-of-charge VISIT VISA on entry to the
UAE - UK, France, Italy, Germany, the
Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg,
Switzerland, Austria, Sweden, Norway,
Denmark, Portugal, Ireland, Greece,
Finland, Malta, Spain, Monaco, Vatican,
Iceland, Andorra, San Marino,
Liechtenstein, United States, Australia,
New Zealand, Japan, Brunei, Singapore,
Malaysia and Hong Kong. Citizens of other
countries should apply to their nearest
UAE embassy.
Information concerning visa requirements
is subject to change and visitors should
always check with their travel agent or
nearest UAE embassy before travelling.
Eye scan is required for everyone except
GCC citizens and the 33 visa-exempt
nationalities.
TRANSPORT FROM
THE AIRPORT
There is an air-conditioned bus service
running every 40 minutes from AbuDhabi
International Airport to the city’s
Car rental firms operate at the airport as
do limousine and standard taxis. The
average taxi fare into Abu Dhabi city is US
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EMIRATES PALACE

OUR HOTELS -
NOW RANKING AMONG
THE WORLD’S BEST
Hotels, hotel apartments and resorts
throughout Abu Dhabi emirate are
classified according to a stringent system
operated by Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture
Authority. The system was introduced to
better meet our visitor expectations and to
give the travel trade greater confidence in
product recommendation. The emirate
now has more than 120 hotels, resorts and
hotel apartments – and more are about to
open or under construction. Hotels are
ranked from one-star to five-star with
hotel apartments being superior, deluxe or
standard. The choice of properties is
extensive, from family-centric hotel
apartments and alcohol-free city centre
resorts to super trendy properties with
popular night spots; from stunning
beachfront to stylish downtown business
hotels; from breathtaking desert retreats,
to mountain getaways; from island havens
to the überluxurious Emirates Palace. This
expanding accommodation stock is now
collaborating on the world’s first statutory
green hotel design and rating scheme in
an emirate-wide commitment to
environmental sustainability. Abu Dhabi
Tourism & Culture Authority can provide
full details through its ‘Where To Stay
Guide’ available from any Abu Dhabi
Tourism & Culture Authority office or by
request from partners@adta.ae.
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ATTRACTIONS & TOURS ABU DHABI
Abu Dhabi’s leisure offering is expanding all the time. In the capital the most popular
attractions are:
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
One of the world’s largest and a magnificent
architectural statement. There are daily
complimentary ´walk-in´ guided tours by
trained UAE nationals which tell the story
of the building of this masterpiece of
worship and give visitors an insight into
local heritage and traditions.
City Tours
The Big Bus Company offers a hop-on,
hop-off service around the city which
takes in most of its landmarks.
The Corniche
You can stroll it, roller-blade it, hire
bicycles, bask on the Blue Flag public
beach which has lifeguards and has a
free-to-enter wakeboard training park
and lots of coffee shops to people watch.
Zayed Centre
In the city’s Al Bateen District, this
centre provides a fascinating peek into
the life of the late Sheikh Zayed,
affectionately known as ´The Father of
The Nation´.
The Heritage Village
By the Corniche Breakwater this is a
reconstruction of a desert village with a
small traditional souk.
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Emirates Palace
Among the world’s most opulent hotels.
Take in the free-to-enter Saadiyat
Island Exhibition which charts the
plans for the destination’s Cultural
District with its fantastic museums.

Camel Races
Cheer on the camels as they thunder
round a purpose-built track. Races are
on weekends with an early morning
start and are held on the outskirts of
Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.
Mina Carpet Market
Again at the Mina area. Don’t forget to
bargain.
Falcon Hospital
Tour this state-of-the-art facility to
learn more about these noble birds of
prey and try your hand at the ancient
Arabian sport of falconry.
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
The world’s largest indoor theme park
with the world’s fastest roller-coaster
the Formula Rossa. Sure to thrill.
Fish Market
Visit this bustling market at the Mina
(Port) area – fantastic photo opportunities.
Wadi Adventure
The Middle East’s first, man-made
whitewater rafting, kayaking and
surfing facility.
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AL AIN WILDLIFE PARK
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ATTRACTIONS & TOURS AL AIN
Al Ain Oasis
Take a stroll through this centuries old preserved oasis and feel the pace of life slip away.
Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum
Find out more about Abu Dhabi’s ruling family.
Jebel Hafeet
Drive to the top of this, Abu Dhabi’s highest peak, for spectacular views over the Oasis City
and desert.
Al Ain Wildlife Park
Visit this expansive park which is home to over 4,000 animals including two White Lions
– amongst the rarest in the world.
Al Ain Museum
A showcase of the UAE’s heritage. Displays date back to the first millennium BC and come
right up to date.
Camel Souk
The country’s last remaining – remember to take the camera!
Wadi Adventure
The Middle East’s first, man-made whitewater rafting, kayaking and surfing facility.
ATTRACTIONS & TOURS AL GHARBIA
Motor Museum
For those with a passion for automobiles.
Contact a tour operator for trips into the stunning Liwa desert. Get out onto the water
with boat and kayaking tours in Al Mirfa with the Western Marine Sports Club.
AL GHARBIA
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DESERT SAFARI
SPECIAL PRODUCTS
Cruise Abu Dhabi’s Corniche While
Dining
See the Corniche at night from a converted
dhow while enjoying an Arabian-style dinner.
Bird’s Eye View
Take a sightseeing helicopter trip of the
UAE capital and its coastline.
www.falconaviation.ae
Get into Top Gear
In the home of the F1 Etihad Airways
Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the Yas Racing
School offers expert tuition, in a variety of
cars, such as Aston Martin GT4 racers,
from specialised instructors for those who
have never driven a racing car before.
Enthusiasts who would rather be in the
capable hands of a professional racing
driver can opt to be a passenger in a
powerful open-top Yas SuperSport SSX or
enjoy the ultimate thrill of a ride in a twoseater
Formula 1 car. Other programmes
include a one-day racing licence
assessment course in association with the
Automobile Touring Club of the UAE, the
official licensing body.
Speedboat Coastline Tours
The Yellow Boat trips are a thrilling way to
see Abu Dhabi’s expansive coastline and
its evolving skyline.
www.theyellowboats.com
Fishing, Diving, Cruising Trips
Try SeaCruiser or Butina Cruising and
have a passionate Emirati guide who’ll
bring you at one with the sea.
www.seacruiser.ae
Desert Safari and Dune Bashing
Contact a tour operator to spend a morning/
afternoon or evening in an intriguing
desert camp and try your hand at a range of
activities including sand skiing. You can
camp overnight in the silence of the desert
under amazing star-lit skies.
Jet Skiing
Jet ski and boat charter are available from
Empros.
www.empros.ae
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Kayaking Through Mangroves
Takes you through the lush mangrove
reserves on the island city’s east coast.
Noukhada Adventures.
www.noukhada.ae
Circuit Tours
Escorted tours of Yas Marina Circuit in an
air-conditioned coach with a trained tour
guide provide an inside view of the pits,
team garages and the working
environments of the F1 teams in the
Paddock Club’s team villas.
Al Ain Raceway
A world-class go-karting circuit, where
budding speed freaks can test out their
skills.
www.alainraceway.com
Catamaran Cruise
Every Friday & Saturday get onboard the
largest 74 foot catamaran in the UAE
capital. Discover the art of sailing, enjoy a
light lunch on a four-hour cruise departing
from the exclusive Emirates Palace Marina.
www.belevari.com
RETAIL THERAPY ABU
DHABI STYLE
In Abu Dhabi city and Al Ain there are
numerous ultra-modern malls which
house a range of stores selling everything
from the latest beauty products and
watches from the world’s top brands, to
locally-made souvenirs. In the Souk at
Qaryat Al Beri and the new Central Market,
you’ll find shops selling all the perfumes of
Arabia sitting happily side-by-side the
latest in beauty stores.
Down at the Mina area of Abu Dhabi you’ll
find the Carpet Souk (market) where you
can pick up a souvenir to last forever –
don’t forget to bargain!
Top buys in Abu Dhabi are gold and ethnic
jewellery, carpets, perfumes, a whole array
of date produce and intriguing souvenirs.
In Al Ain, visit Souq Al Zaafarana round
the corner from Al Jimi Mall. This is a jewel
of a find which reflects true Emirati culture
and tradition while being new. Whether
you’re looking for abayas (ladies outer
garment) or kandouras (men’s white
flowing garment), incense or spices, henna
or ouds, dallah (Arabian coffee pots) this is
the marketplace for you. This is the new
home of Al Ain’s old souk and features
Mubdia Village, a section exclusively for
women that is staffed by female
shopkeepers. The place to get traditional
souvenirs and watch the Emiratis bargain.
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MEZLAI
EATING OUT
Dining options in Abu Dhabi are nothing
short of breath-taking. Every possible
taste is seemingly catered to. Options
range from fine-dining emirati-style, to al
fresco dinner in exquisite shore-side
settings to pub grub.
For a taste of the local cuisine, head to
Mezlai at Emirates Palace - the
destination’s only five-star outlet given
over to Emirati fare and with an Emirati
chef at the helm.
For a wider Middle Eastern experience try
one of the Lebanese supper club
restaurants which come alive in the late
hours with entertainment, the authentic
Agadir Moroccan restaurant in the Westin
Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa or Agadir in
the iconic surroundings of the Yas Viceroy
Abu Dhabi.
There are plenty of waterfront dining
experiences with trendy harbourside
outlets at the InterContinental and superb
MPW STEAKHOUSE
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AL FANAR
sea views at the Beach House, Park Hyatt
Abu Dhabi. Seafood is a speciality and one
of the most popular restaurants to try it is
Finz at the Beach Rotana. There are two
revolving restaurants - one in Marina
Mall, the other in Le Royal Meridien which
offer superb views and great 360 degree
vistas also await diners at the Quest Level
63 signature Pan Asian restaurant of
Jumeirah At Etihad Towers.
The emirate is increasingly becoming
something of a gourmet destination
attracting top name brands including
Ciprianis at the Yacht Club at Yas Marina,
Frankie’s and the Marco Pierre White
Steakhouse at the Fairmont Bab Al Bahr,
Hakkasan in Emirates Palace and
Spaccanapoli in the Crowne Plaza. Fine
dining also awaits at Oro at the Rocco
Forte Abu Dhabi, Kennedy’s at the Armed
FRANKIE’S
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Forces Officers Club & Hotel or you can
join the chef’s table at 55&5th The Grill at
The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort. Take
a trip out to The Souk, Qary’at Al Beri for a
dazzling array of restaurant and bar
choices.Over on Saadiyat Island, there are
a myriad of choices including the elite
Monte Carlo Beach Club, For dining
options in detail, contact Abu Dhabi
Tourism & Culture Authority for its ‘Where
To Eat’ guide on partners@adta.ae.
GOLF IN ABU DHABI
With three championship- ready courses
within a 25 – kilometer radius and six
clubs within a 90- minute drive, Abu
Dhabi has a wealth of offerings – from
parkland to beach and links courses – for
all types of players. Seasoned veterans
and beginners can take their pick of sea,
dune, oasis or mountain backdrops and
are welcome at all clubs.
ABU DHABI GOLF CLUB
Diversity hallmarks Abu Dhabi’s golf
offering with three, championship-ready
courses within a 25 kilometre radius of
each other. Each offers a different
experience - one being parkland, another
the region’s only ‘ocean’ course and a third
a links course. These are complemented
by a city course, an intriguing sand course
and an 18-hole, all-grass countrry course
under the shadow of the Jebel Hafeet
heights of Al Ain. All combined to take the
International Association of Golf Tour
Operators: ‘Golf Destination Of The Year
Africa & Gulf States 2012’ award.
Ten minutes from Abu Dhabi International
Airport and 20 minutes from down-town
and most beach hotels, this is home to the
annual PGA European Tour - backed Abu
Dhabi HSBC Golf Tournament. This
magnificent course features 27 holes –
including 18 championship holes – that
weave through breathtaking terrain and
seven saltwater lakes. The par 72, 7,334-
yard course throws up a tough challenge
with lush fairways, 90 challenging bunkers
and generous greens. The 3,299 yard, par
36 nine holes are more forgiving.
www.adgolfclub.com
Saadiyat Beach Golf Club
The region’s first ocean course with several
beachfront holes, this Gary Playerdesigned
masterpiece harnesses the
natural beauty of Saadiyat Island. The
championship-ready par 72 beach course
has three lakes and 60 bunkers.
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The course starts at 5,290 yards and
extends to 7,784 yards. The club is 20
minutes from Abu Dhabi International
Airport and 15 minutes from downtown.
www.sbgolfclub.ae
Yas Links Abu Dhabi
The Middle East’s only links course, this is a
championship ready facility on the western
shores of Yas Island where every hole has a
coastline view. This 18 hole, par 72 course
spans 7,450 yards and is complemented by
a luxurious clubhouse, floodlit practice
ranges and a nine-hole, par 3 academy
course. It is a 15-minute drive from Abu
Dhabi International Airport and 20 minutes
from the city centre.
www.yaslinks.com
Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and
Golf Club
An 18-hole grass course and nine-hole
academy in the shadow of the Jebel Hafeet
heights. Certified PGA professionals
provide a variety of instruction
programmes and packages as well as
private day-time lessons and evening
sessions on the floodlit driving range.
www.palmsportsresort.com
Al Ghazal Golf Club
Providing a challenge few destinations
can offer on a championship, 18-hole, par
71 ‘sand’ course. The club has a 30-bay
driving range and state-of-the-art
teaching academy. Just minutes from Abu
Dhabi International Airport.
www.alghazalgolf.ae
Abu Dhabi City Golf Club
The city’s first nine-hole course features
newly-laid greens, a double-tiered driving
range, and affordable green fees. Golf
professionals are available for coaching.
Open to members and visitors.
www.adcitygolf.ae
SPAS IN ABU DHABI
Spas and beauty houses abound in Abu
Dhabi – many offering the traditional
Hammam experience which will leave you
squeaky clean. Spas range from the
überluxurious and brand-named usually
found in the five-star hotels, to individual,
offerings in independent villas and more
affordable spas in shopping malls. tments
are highly diverse and satisfy a demanding
local clientele while providing memorable
visitor experiences.
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GOURMET ABU DHABI
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FOR AN EVENTFUL STAY
Abu Dhabi makes for an eventful stay.
With a packed, year-round programme
of world-class sporting, gourmet,
cultural events and entertainment,
visitors can plan their trip to coincide
with a host of spectator opportunities.
Whatever your clients’ interests, the
chances are they’ll find something to
satisfy them in Abu Dhabi.
Here are some of our headline events,
many more are held throughout the
year and you can check them all out on
www.abudhabievents.ae
www.abudhabievents.ae
January
Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship.
www.abudhabihsbcgolfchampionship.com
February
Gourmet Abu Dhabi.
www.gourmetabudhabi.ae
March
Abu Dhabi International Triathlon
www.abudhabitriathlon.com
Gulf Incentive, Business Tourism and
Meetings Exhibition
www.gibtm.com
March/April
Abu Dhabi Festival
www.abudhabifestival.ae
Abu Dhabi International Book Fair
www,adbookfair.com
September:
Abu Dhabi Hunting & Equestrian
Exhibition
www.adihex.net
November
Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi
Grand Prix
www.formula1.com
Art Abu Dhabi
www.abudhabiartfair.ae
December
National Day Celebrations.
Al Ain Aerobatic Show.
www.alainaerobaticshow.com
ABU DHABI INTERNATIONAL TRIATHLON
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EMIRATES PALACE HOTEL
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RECOMMENDED DAYS OUT
ABU DHABI CITY
ITINERARY 1
A dose of culture and cruising through dinner
Morning
Learn all about Islam and some UAE traditions with a visit to one of the world’s most
impressive mosques – the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. This architectural marvel
features 80 domes, 1,000 columns, gold-plated chandeliers, the world’s largest hand-made
carpet and space for 40,000 worshippers. Take a one-hour, complimentary guided tour
from 10am every Saturday-Thursday.
Afternoon
Visit the Saadiyat Island Cultural District exhibition at the opulent Emirates Palace hotel
and get an insight into what will be the world’s largest single concentration of premier
cultural institutions, including the Sheikh Zayed National Museum, Louvre Abu Dhabi and
Guggenheim Abu Dhabi. It’s free-of-charge and open from 10am-10pm daily.
From 4pm partake in the ultimate luxury tradition of afternoon tea at Emirates Palace with
platters of dainty sandwiches, petit fours and fluffy scones and a pot of expertly brewed tea.
Catch a cab up to the Heritage Village on the Corniche Breakwater and step back in time to
a traditional desert lifestyle. Bargain with souvenir sellers and watch craftsmen at work
producing pottery, weaving and metal work.
Evening
Enjoy an Arabian feast whilst cruising along the Corniche on a traditional dhow (sailing
boat) converted into a restaurant. Be mesmerised by the glittering lights of Abu Dhabi’s
Manhattan-style skyline.
29

FISHMARKET, INTERCONTINENTAL HOTEL
30

ITINERARY 2
Fishy tales of Arabia.
Morning
Rise early to catch the action at the Fish Market in the Mina Area. Be astounded at the
astonishing array of fish, including shark, and be ready to snap up photographs. If you’re
self-catering, choose your favourite seafood and get it cleaned on site ready for a lunch or
evening barbecue. The hustle and bustle of the market brings you wide awake.
Afternoon
Head off for a day’s fishing and you should easily be able to recognise your catch. Take a
fishing tour with Sea Cruisers or Butina Cruising and get to know all about Abu Dhabi’s
rich maritime heritage whilst taking in its stunning coastline.
Evening
Head to one of the city’s fabulous seafood restaurants for a gourmet experience that you
will savour long after the meal is over.
31

ITINERARY 3
Islands in the sun
Morning
Set sail with the Noukhada Adventure
Company (www.noukhada.ae, tel: +971 50
721 8928) for a bright and early eco-tour,
kayaking through Abu Dhabi natural
eastern mangrove forests dotted around
the plethora of islands in view of the rising
city skyline. You’ll spend one and a half
hours with an experienced guide who can
share details on natural wildlife habitats
and point out some of the iconic buildings
transforming the horizon, stopping for
refreshments on one of the pristine islands.
Arrange for Sea Cruiser Boat Tours (www.
seacruiser.ae, tel: +971 50 800 9495) to
Experience one of the world’s most
technologically advanced motorsports
circuits by taking the official Yas
Marina Circuit Venue Tour (www.
yasmarinacircuit.ae, tel: +971 800 927).
Escorted track tours in an airconditioned
coach with a trained tour
guide provide an inside view of the pits,
team garages and the working
environments of the F1 teams in the
Paddock Club’s team villas. The tour
ends with a photo finish opportunity on
the Main Straight podium!
THE YAS HOTEL
THE YAS HOTEL
pick you up from an agreed destination on
the water, and transfer you to Abu Dhabi’s
signature entertainment destination, Yas
Island (www.yasisland.ae). You’ll arrive in
style, and air-conditioned comfort, to the
143-berth Yas Marina which overlooks the
Yas Marina F1 Circuit.
Lunch
Delight in the art of cuisine at one of the
fine restaurants at Yas Marina Yacht
Club or any of the Yas Island hotels.
32

Afternoon
Transfer from Yas Island along the
incredible Sheikh Khalifa Highway,
connecting to Saadiyat Island (www.
saadiyat.ae) which is undergoing a
remarkable transformation into a
world-class leisure, business and
cultural hub. Saadiyat Island will
eventually house the world’s largest
single concentration of premier cultural
assets, including the Zayed National
MuseumLouvre Abu Dhabi and
Guggenheim Abu Dhabi.
Saadiyat to life. Stop for coffee at the
adjoining Al Fanr restaurant, or take in
a round at the fabulous beachfront
Saadiyat Beach Golf Course.
Evening
Finish your perfect island day with a
visit to the spectacular Monte Carlo
Beach Club, Saadiyat.
ATAYEB
SAADIYAT BEACH GOLF CLUB
Visit the permanent interactive display
‘The Saadiyat Story’ at the island’s
dedicated exhibition centre Manarat Al
Saadiyat (www.saadiyat.ae or email
manaratalsaadiyat@tdic.ae) which
brings the history and cultural vision of
33

AL AIN OASIS
34

AL AIN
ITINERARY 1
Excite, relax and take a walk on the wild
side.
Morning
Wake up at around 5.30am to catch the
action at the Maqam camel racetrack
outside Al Ain. Catch the excitement as
owners follow their prize animals in 4x4s
from the safety of the inner enclosure. Feel
the pride as the trophies are awarded.
Head back for breakfast and pool at the
hotel.
Afternoon
Wander through the ancient Al Ain Oasis
and feel the cares of the world drain away.
Be cooled by the wafting palms and see
the traditional falaj irrigation system in
action. Let your imagination take you back
to the days when this was one of the most
welcome sights on the Silk Route.
Evening
Take a night-time guided tour through the
Al Ain Wildlife Park & Resort with its night
safari. Since many of its animals are
nocturnal you get to see species that are
hidden from you during the day.
ITINERARY 2
History & new horizon views.
Morning
Become immersed in Al Ain’s history by
visiting its many forts. First, head to the
impressive Al Jahili Fort – birthplace of the
late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan –
and see the permanent display of the work
of British explorer Wilfred Thesiger. Next
head to the landscaped gardens of Al Ain’s
oldest fort – Muraijib Fort, built in 1816.
The more adventurous may cross the
Omani border into Buraimi to explore Hili
Fort.
Afternoon
Al Ain National Museum is varied enough
to take up a full afternoon. Start your tour
with a look through the archaeology
section, which contains several artefacts
from the nearby forts that you will have
visited in the morning. Next head to the
museum’s gifts section to see a collection
of gifts given to the late Sheikh Zayed. End
with the ethnography section which has a
huge collection of Bedouin jewellery,
musical instruments, weapons and
areconstruction of a traditional majlis..
Round the day off with a visit to the
restored Al Qattara Fort - now home to a
brilliant arts centre and gallery. The centre
is open daily, except Fridays, from 9am-
1pm and 4-8pm.
Evening
Set out late afternoon and head towards
the towering Jebel Hafeet. If you time it
well, you can enjoy the sunset while
driving up one of the world’s most
incredible roads. Before you reach the top,
turn off for a break at the Mercure Hotel.
ITINERARY 3
Hot souvenirs, Wadi Adventure, cool golf
and a chilled out dinner.
Morning
Wake up early to catch traders at the
country’s last remaining camel market
near the base of Jebel Hafeet and get up
close to the desert way of life. Although
you won’t buy a camel, take your wallet to
buy some hand-made camel accessories
as they make great souvenir gifts. Later
35

travel to the other side of Jebel Hafeet to
experience the thrills of Wadi Adventure.
Afternoon
Enjoy 18 holes of golf on Al Ain Equestrian,
Shooting and Golf Club’s all-grass course.
Evening
The live entertainment and great food at
Min Zaman in Al Ain Rotana attracts a
large crowd, so reserve a table beforehand.
AL GHARBIA
Guests at the growing number of hotels in
AL Gharbia have a host of adventure
activities to keep them occupied:
ITINERARY 1
Sunbathe, swim and dine.
Morning
Head off to the public beach at the
picturesque harbour town of Mirfa. The
water is practically untouched, perfect for
a morning in the sun and for swimming.
Book in for some watersports with the
Western Marine Sports Club (ceo@wmsc.
ae).
Afternoon
Take in lunch at the renovated four-star
Mirfa Hotel before taking a leisurely drive
up to Jebel Dhanna.
Evening
Make a reservation at the Zaitoun
restaurant at the Danat Resort Jebel
Dhanna for a masterful menu of Middle
Eastern and North African dishes.
prepare for one of the most incredible
landscapes you’ll ever witness. Once you
reach the crescent-shaped Liwa oasis, take
some time to drive between the small
towns that populate this fertile area. This
will be your last stop for supplies before
heading into the massive dunes, so make
sure you are prepared, and that there is
more than one vehicle – never venture into
the desert alone. Once past the Liwa oasis,
you’ll quickly be blown away by the sheer
size of the dunes. Find yourselves an area
to camp and pitch your tents.
Afternoon
Fire up barbecues, cook yourselves a meal
and get ready to blast through the dunes.
If you’re camping with a guided tour, hold
on tight while the experienced driver take
you on a ride you’ll never forget. You
should also try your hand at sand
boarding, the desert equivalent of snow
boarding.
Evening
There’s nothing like sitting around a
campfire with good friends and great
food. Start preparing your evening feast,
heat up the barbecue and put some
wood in the fire pit. As you wait for the
coals to heat up, climb the highest sand
dune you can and watch what might be
the most majestic sunset of your life –
the long shadows cast by the dunes only
magnify their incredible size. Head back
ITINERARY 2
Desert driving, dune barbecues and
moonlit campfires.
Morning
Head towards the Liwa oasis at dawn and
36

QASR AL SARAB DESERT RESORT BY ANANTARA
37

TRAVELLERS WELCOME TIPS
to camp, feast like a king, then sit back
and enjoy the company of good friends
and endless stars.
Alcohol is sold and served in hotel
bars, nightclubs and restaurants.
In winter you may need a cardigan
or light jacket at night when it can
feel a little chilly.
Visitors should dress modestly when
in the city or public places. Leave
the bikinis and shorts for the beach.
Displays of affection are best left to
privacy. Commonsense is the
guideline.
Driving in Abu Dhabi is on the right.
To hire a car, visitors will need to
present their passports and an
domestic/international driving
licence. The roads are governed by
radar and fines are steep so stick to
the speed limits.
Electricity supply is 240 volts AC at
50 Hz. The standard socket type is a
square, three-pin plug and yes, you
can drink the water though most
opt for the bottled variety.
Healthcare in Abu Dhabi is excellent
and there are no special
immunisation requirements to enter
but good insurance cover is
recommended.
You’ll find English is widely spoken
to varying degrees.
The local currency is the UAE
Dirham which is freely convertible
can change money easily at
exchange houses in malls and ATMs
are at petrol stations, malls and
supermarkets. Credit cards are
widely accepted.
Shops open around 10am and many
now stay open right through until
around 10pm.
Hotel restaurants add a 10% service
charge to the bill and there’s a 6%
tourism fee.
ninth month of the Islamic calendar
year (Al Hijri), in 2012 it is likely to
be the month of July. This is when
visitors should, out of respect, not
drink, eat or smoke in public from
dawn to dusk. Special conditions
will apply throughout
accommodation options and it is
best to check first with your supplier
and ensure yourclients are well
aware of restrictions – and the
advantages!
Tipping is discretionary – usually
10%.
Abu Dhabi is GMT + 4 hours and
there is no daylight saving. When
it’s mid-day in Abu Dhabi, it is 3am
in New York, 8am in London; 10am
in Johannesburg; 1.30pm in New
Delhi and 6pm in Sydney (not
allowing for any summer time
saving in those destinations).
Normal tourist photography
is allowed but please do not
photograph locals, particularly the
38

women, without their permission. It
is best not to photograph
government buildings or military
installations and their surroundings.
TOOLS TO ASSIST YOU
Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority
has a range of collaterals, in a variety of
languages, which will help you better
sell this diverse destination of
distinction.
These include:
These collaterals are available to you at
any Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture
Authority office or by request on
partners@adta.ae The authority also
produces a quarterly trade magazine
Seyaha, which will update you on all
the destination’s latest developments.
To ensure you are on the mailing list
please contact partners@adta.ae or
view it online at www.adta.ae.
39

Organisation
Tel No.
Abu Dhabi Travel Bureau + 971 2 633 8700
Al Badeyah Eyes Tourism + 971 2 5596155
Al Masaood Holidays + 971 2 621 1797
Al Rais Travel Ltd LLC + 971 2645 4050
Al Reyami Travels + 971 2
Alpha Tours LLC +971 4 2949888
Arabian Adventures +971 2 691 1711
Arabian Nights for Travel & Tourism +9712 6779988
Arabian Odyssey +971 2 6210101
Atlas Holidays +971 26314700
BCD Travel +971 2 671 5197
Darwish bin Ahmed Sons Travel & Tours +971 2 6272999
Desert Adventures Tourism LLC +971 2 556 6155
Desert Rose Tourism +971 2 446 6346
Emirates Tours and Safari LLC +971 2 4912929
Global Holidays +971 2 6334700
Gulf Dunes +9714 2714506
40

Email
Product/ Service
atbtour@emirates.net.ae
info@abet-uae.com
svetlana@almasaoodtravel.com
rafique@alraisauh.ae
Justus.b@alreyamitravel.com
info@alphatoursdubai.com
Noshir.daruwalla@emirates.com
admin@arabiannights.ae
peterm@salemtravelagency.net
Tours@atlastravel.ae
Raymond.fernandes@bcdtravel.ae
lubbna.ali@dbasons.com
Association management, congresses and exhibition, meetings,
events, incentives and performance improvement programmes.
Desert safari, adventure tours, Abu Dhabi city tour, dhow cruise
dinner.
Travel management, air tickets, holiday packages, city tours,
desert safari, travel insurance , hotel reservations, car rentals,
international driving license, MICE events, exhibitions.
Travel services
Corporate travel, retail.
Airport meet & greet services, visa, ground transportation, tours &
safaris, hotel reservation and cruise ship handling.
Airport meet and greet, visa processing, inbound operations, tours
and excursions, events, incentives and hotel reservations.
Corporate travel solutions, flights & hotel bookings. Tour
packages, visa services, transportation.
Tour operator offering 22 fully inclusive holidays to Abu Dhabi.
Travel solutions, tours.
Tourism services.
Event management, hotel management, meet and greet services,
transport logistics, visa processing, entertainment.
abudhabi@desertadventures.ae
Airport meet & greet, visa processing, transportation, inbound
operations, hotel reservation.
uae@desertrosetourism.com
Tourism services.
info@eatours.ae
Inbound tours, incentive travel, conferences, hotel reservations,
safaris, visas, special interest groups.
info@holiday.ae
Zaki.badawi@gulfdunes.com
Air Tickets, transfers, safaris, UAE visas, excursions, airport meet
& greet, travel insurance, hotels, medical packages, tailored fit
holidays, car rental and limousine service.
Meetings, incentives, excursions, accommodation.
41

ADTA OFFICES CONTACTS
ABU DHABI
PO Box 94000 Abu Dhabi
United Arab Emirates
Tel: +971 2 444 0444
Fax: +9712 444 0400
info@adta.ae
AL AIN
Ali Bin Abi Taleb Street
PO Box 59333 Al Ain
United Arab Emirates
Tel: +971 3 764 2000
Fax: +971 3 764 456
info@adta.ae
UNITED KINGDOM & IRELAND
1 Knightsbridge
London SW1X 7LY, UK
Tel: +44 207 201 6400
Fax: +44 207 210 6426
uk@adta.ae
GERMANY
Goethestrasse 27
60313 Frankfurt, Germany
Tel: +49 69 299 253 920
Fax: +49 69 299 253 911
germany@adta.ae
FRANCE
11 Bis, Rue Blanche
75009 Paris, France
Tel: +33 1 53 25 03 52
Fax: +33 1 53 25 11 12
france@adta.ae
ITALY
Via Pietrasanta 14
20141 Milan, Italy
Tel: +39 02 573 78315
Fax: +39 02 573 78572
italy@adta.ae
CHINA
Guohua Investment Building
Level 1, Room 01
No. 3 Dongzhimen South Street
Beijing, 100007
People’s Republic of China
Tel: +86 21 6355 8033
Fax: +86 21 6375 6255
china@adta.ae
AUSTRALIA
Level 13, 338 Pitt Street
Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Tel: +61 2 826 85533
Fax: +61 2 926 80243
australia@adta.ae
RUSSIA
Prospekt Mira, 39 / 2 Olympic Plaza
– 2129110, Moscow, Russia
Tel: +7 495 937 5950
Fax: +7 495 937 5951
ashirgaliev@adta.ae
USA
Myriad Marketing / Abu Dhabi
Tourism Authority
501 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1101
New York, NY 10017
www.myriadmarketing.com
CONTACT CENTRE
From inside the UAE call: 800 555
From outside the UAE call:
+971 2 666 4442
www.visitabudhabi.ae
42

United Arab Emir
ates
43

www.visitabudhabi.ae
Contact Centre From Inside UAE 800 555
From Outside UAE +971 2 666 4442
44