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| The Grand Mosque. Only in the Emirati Capital. |
Coming off what was arguably my best New Year's Eve which was celebrated in the desert city of Dubai, we got a quick side tour on the Emirati capital of Abu Dhabi. Known to be one of the richest cities on earth, Abu Dhabi establishes itself with all things bling and extravagant. Dubai, its neighboring city by a 1-hour ride, may still be the showcase of tourism in the Emirates, but the capital looks to a more subtle method of attracting tourists and travelers alike, with exciting adventures awaiting those who seek a more wealthy atmosphere that makes you belong here.
No doubt, there is indeed a price to pay when visiting Abu Dhabi in order to experience the city in a day, or probably even in a week. But that doesn't mean you limit yourself to the impressive skyline of shape-shifting architecture in all direction while you are in here. Even on a budget, keep in mind that you can still get the best of the city's perfect spots while living like a billionaire in Abu Dhabi!
How to Get There
- By Plane. There are a number of commercial airlines that take you directly to Abu Dhabi (Philippine Airlines, Emirates from Manila). A visa may be required prior to your visit. Make sure to arrange it in your home country as early as possible.
- By Land. Access to Abu Dhabi is easy from all the other Emirates. Travel time from Dubai only takes at least an hour and a half. While on the road, make sure to watch the rise of tall buildings and the beautiful desert that stretches between the two cities.
What to Do
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
A visit in Abu Dhabi would be incomplete without stepping foot on the biggest mosque in the United Arab Emirates and the 8th biggest in the world. Be amazed with the beauty of such a place of worship that host up to 40,000 people during the Friday gatherings. Initiated by the late president Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, with the goal of uniting the Islamic world through all its diversity, the mosque has become a true source of inspiration for worshipers and tourists. Walk through the majestic mosque freely or sign up for a guided tour that leads you right inside the mosque, all the while appreciating the beautiful interiors and clean spaces.
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| Inside the Mosque. |
While the mosque is a place of worship for Muslims, tourists of all religions are always welcome to visit. Please be noted on the proper attire (shirts and pants for males, and females are to be covered in abaya or a veil which they borrow on site) as a sign of respect for the locals.
We have all heard of the 7-star spectacle that is the Burj Al Arab in Dubai. Not to be outdone, Abu Dhabi also has its own famous luxury hotel in the Emirates Palace. Known to be the 2nd most expensive hotel ever built (Marina Bay Sands in Singapore is the 1st), the Palace is home to an unbelievable display of suites that are furnished in gold and marble.
Though we were only up to the main entrance of the Palace - a prior appointment may be set to be permitted access inside - from the outside it may look just like any other hotel. As you step inside the Palace, according to our tour guide, it feels like a different world exclusive to billionaires and royalties from around the world. Talk about a superlative for national prestige!
Abu Dhabi is also home to a famous man-made island in the Emirates which they call Yas. The island may not take the shape of a Palm like in Dubai, this development was created with the goal of turning it into a leisure and shopping center, becoming a major beacon for tourists going into the Emirati capital. And as of this writing, the Island continues to grow and expand in future developments.
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| Yas Island's signature theme park. Ferrari World. |
While on Yas Island, make sure to take a peek, and if possible visit, the some of the finest hotels in Abu Dhabi (Yas Viceroy and Radisson Blu), the beautiful Yas Beach, shop at the newly-opened Yas Mall, get thrilled at Yas Waterworld, and go full speed at Ferrari World. The Island is also home to Yas Marina Circuit, earning Abu Dhabi a spot as host to Formula One races.
A lifelong Ferrari fan, when in Abu Dhabi, should not miss this place! A Ferrari-themed amusement park can take you off the edge of your seats with a number of roller coasters and amazing signature cars on display.
Ferrari World is home to the famous Formula Rossa, the world's fastest roller coaster. With a top speed of 240 km/h that can be achieved in the first 5 seconds of the ride, it's harder to imagine how fast that is while reading this sentence than actually experiencing it! With a 2.2 km long coaster track that only takes at least a minute to move around, this is a definite must-try for thrill-seekers.
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| How fast can you go with Formula Rossa? |
Prepare your eyes and necks. On this city tour around Abu Dhabi, be mesmerized by the wonderful architecture the capital city on display. With tall buildings coming in different shapes and sizes, it really takes pure architectural genius to pull off such buildings that fit in with one another. Even by bus, taxi or private vehicle, with wide highways and almost zero traffic in most days of the year, viewing Abu Dhabi's impressive skyline should be a delight for you.
Where to Go Next
- Dubai. The showcase of extravagant tourism and all things big and legendary is just a one hour land trip away. Make sure to check out the best of this 21st century desert city Here, Here, and Here.
Labels: Abu Dhabi, attractions, desert, destination, Emirates Palace, Ferrari World, Middle East, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, travel, traveler, United Arab Emirates, Yas Island