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Opportunity Abu Dhabi - The Travel Trade’s Guide to an Expanding Destination
Abu Dhabi is one of the most diverse
destinations anywhere. Here you’ll 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. There are a number
of world-class attractions where visitors
can stay cool, these include: Yas
Waterworld – an expansive waterpark
with 43 rides and attractions, five of which
are one-of-a-kind; 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.
Abu Dhabi is one of the world’s safest
destinations 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.
Our Diverse Destination of Distinction
FRONT COVER: CAPITAL GATE TOWER AT ABU DHABI NATIONAL EXHIBITION CENTRE
CONTENTS OVERVIEWAbu Dhabi City Al Ain Al Gharbia Getting to Abu Dhabi Visas Transport from the Airport Hotels & Resorts
ATTRACTIONS AND TOURSAbu Dhabi Al Ain Al Gharbia
SPECIAL PRODUCTS
SHOPPING / DININGRetail Therapy Abu Dhabi Style Eating Out
LEISUREGolf in Abu Dhabi Spas in Abu Dhabi For an Eventful Stay
ITINERARIESAbu Dhabi Al Ain Al Gharbia
USEFUL INFORMATIONTraveller's Welcome Tips Tools to Assist You Partners
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THE CORNICHE
ABU DHABI CITYThe 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, the Yas Waterworld
waterpark 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 Abu Dhabi visitor attractions are the
awe-inspiring Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque,
which has complimentary daily guided
tours 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
sustainable and 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-the-
art, 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 to 6,000. 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
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 &
Golf Club, which boasts world-class equestrian facilities and an 18-hole, all-grass golf
AL AIN
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 Zoo, which again delivers incredible value-for-money and Wadi
Adventure, a man-made whitewater rafting, kayaking and surfing playground at the
base of Jebel Hafeet. (www.wadiadventure.ae).
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ARABIAN WILDLIFE PARK
Abu Dhabi’s western region - 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
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, mountain-biking, 4x4
guided tours of the Arabian Wildlife Park and horse riding.
AL GHARBIA
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 sunrise and
sunset desert views. Guests can join in numerous desert pursuits including early
morning camel treks before adjourning for a traditional hammam bath in the
luxurious spa.
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Munich Frankfurt
BrusselsManchesterDublin
LondonParisGeneva
Casablanca
Khartoum
Milan
ABU DHABI
Johannesburg
Dammam Bahrain
Riyadh
Jeddah
Muscat Doha
Kuwait
Tehran
ABU DHABI
B
KathmanduDhaka
Mumbai Karachi
Delhi Lahore
Almaty
Peshawar Islamabad
MoscowMinsk
AthensIstanbul
Astana
Larnaca
Baghdad
Cape Town
Hyderabad
Beirut
Amman
Bangalore
Alexandria
Middle East Network 10
GETTING TO ABU DHABIMost 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 Astana, Air Berlin, Air France, Alitalia, Air Seychelles, Biman, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Czech Airlines, Egypt Air, Etihad Airways, Garuda Indonesia, Gulf Air, Hainan Airlines, Jet Airways, KLM, Kuwait Airways, Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines, Turkish 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, Pakistan International Airlines, Qatar Airways, Royal Jordanian, Royal Falcon, Saudi Arabian Airlines and Turkish Airlines. 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 a fully-upgraded Terminal 1.
There are Arrivals Duty Free facilities and allowances are:
AED 3,000 (max.)
Some regional carriers 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 32 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 AIRPORTThere is an air-conditioned bus service running every 40 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport to the city’s downtown which costs less than
airport as do limousine and standard taxis. The average taxi fare into Abu Dhabi
Average fare to both Dubai and Al Ain is
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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 visitor expectations and to give the travel trade greater confidence in product recommendation. The emirate now has almost 140 hotels, resorts and hotel apartments. 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 über-luxurious 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 of its offices or by request from [email protected].
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ATTRACTIONS & TOURS ABU DHABIAbu Dhabi’s leisure offering is constantly expanding. In the capital the most popular attractions are:
Sheikh Zayed Grand MosqueOne 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.
www.szgmc.ae
The CornicheYou 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.
www.visitabudhabi.ae
The Heritage VillageBy the Corniche Breakwater this is a reconstruction of a desert village with a small traditional souk.
www.visitabudhabi.ae
City ToursThe Big Bus Company offers a hop-on, hop-off service around the city which takes in most of its landmarks.
www.bigbustours.com
Zayed Centre for Studies and ResearchIn 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.
www.visitabudhabi.ae
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Emirates PalaceAmong the world’s most opulent hotels. A popular pastime is taking High Tea in Le Café.
www.emiratespalace.com
The Observation Deck at 300On Level 74 of Tower 2 at Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, this highest vantage of Abu Dhabi’s cityscape is where guests can enjoy delicious refreshments against a
spectacular backdrop.
www.jumeirah.com
Camel RacesCheer 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.
www.visitabudhabi.ae
Falcon HospitalTour 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.
www.falconhospital.com
Fish Market
Visit this bustling market at the Mina
(Port) area – fantastic photo opportunities.
www.visitabudhabi.ae
Mina Carpet MarketAgain at the Mina area. Don’t forget to bargain.
www.visitabudhabi.ae
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Wadi AdventureThe Middle East’s first, man-made whitewater rafting, kayaking and surfing facility.
www.wadiadventure.ae
Yas WaterworldThis expansive waterpark has 43 rides, slides & attractions – five of which are one-of-a-kind. Visitors follow the story of a young Emirati girl on a quest to find a legendary pearl as they make their way around the attractions, which include a souk and pearl-diving exhibits.
www.yaswaterworld.com
Ferrari World Abu DhabiThe world’s largest indoor theme park with the world’s fastest roller-coaster the Formula Rossa. Sure to thrill.
www.ferrariworldabudhabi.com
ATTRACTIONS & TOURS AL AIN Al Ain OasisTake a stroll through this centuries old
preserved oasis and feel the pace of life slip
away.
www.visitabudhabi.ae
Sheikh Zayed Palace MuseumFind out more about Abu Dhabi’s ruling
family.
www.visitabudhabi.ae
Jebel HafeetDrive to the top of this, Abu Dhabi’s
highest peak, for spectacular views over
the Oasis City and desert.
www.visitabudhabi.ae
Al Ain ZooVisit this expansive park which is home to
over 4,000 animals including two White
Lions – amongst the rarest in the world.
www.awpr.ae
Al Ain MuseumA showcase of the UAE’s heritage. Displays
date back to the first millennium BC and
come right up to date.
www.aam.gov.ae
Camel SoukThe country’s last remaining –
remember to take the camera!
www.visitabudhabi.ae
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AL AIN ZOO
AL GHARBIA
ATTRACTIONS & TOURS AL GHARBIAMotor MuseumFor those with a passion for automobiles.
www.enam.ae
Contact a tour operator for trips into the stunning Liwa desert. Get out onto the water
with the Western Marine Sports Club’s boat and kayaking tours in Al Mirfa.
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Abu Dhabi Pearl JourneyReviving the emirate’s ancient pearling culture this is a unique cultural and tourism experience which enriches knowledge of the Arabian Gulf’s pearling history. The tour takes guests on a journey into the Arabian Gulf on a traditional dhow, allows them to open oysters and to keep any pearls they find. Traditional snacks are served onboard.
www.adpearljourney.com
Speedboat Coastline ToursYellow Boat trips are a thrilling way to see Abu Dhabi’s expansive coastline and its evolving skyline.
www.theyellowboats.com
Fishing, Diving, Cruising TripsTry SeaCruiser or Butinah Cruising and have a passionate Emirati guide who’ll bring you at one with the sea.
www.seacruiser.ae
Desert Safari and Dune BashingContact 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.
www.abet-uae.com
SPECIAL PRODUCTSCruise Abu Dhabi’s Corniche While DiningSee the Corniche at night from a converted dhow while enjoying an Arabian-style dinner.
www.aldhafra.net
Bird’s Eye ViewTake a sightseeing helicopter trip of the UAE capital and its coastline.
www.falconaviation.ae
Get into Top GearIn 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 two-seater 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.
www.yasmarinacircuit.com
DESERT SAFARI
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RETAIL THERAPY ABU DHABI STYLEIn 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.
Overnight in the DesertThe Arabian Nights Village harnesses the soul and essence of old Arabia.
It’s not a hotel, but by no means a rustic camp. There are three room types Beit Al Barr, traditional mud houses of the desert, Beit Al Bahr, the original houses of Emirati sea-dwellers which are made from palm fronds, and Beit Shaar, or woven tents. There’s also an idyllic swimming pool to cool down in after a spot of dune bashing, quad biking, sand surfing or falconry.
www.arabiannights.ae
Jet SkiingJet ski and boat charter are available from Empros.
www.empros.ae
Kayaking Through MangrovesTakes you through the lush mangrove reserves on the island city’s east coast. Noukhada Adventures.
www.noukhada.ae
Circuit ToursEscorted 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.
www.yasmarinacircuit.com
Al Ain RacewayA world-class go-karting circuit, where budding speed freaks can test out their skills.
www.alainraceway.com
Catamaran CruiseEvery 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
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EATING OUTDining 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 Atayeb in
the iconic Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi.
There are plenty of waterfront dining
experiences with trendy harbourside
MEZLAI
MPW STEAKHOUSE
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outlets at the InterContinental and superb
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
and Al Fanar 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 a
gourmet destination attracting top name
brands including Cipriani 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
FRANKIE’S
AL FANAR
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Crowne Plaza. Fine dining also awaits at
Oro at the Rocco Forte Abu Dhabi, Kennedy’s
at the Armed 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, Qaryat 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
GOLF IN ABU DHABIWith three championship-ready courses
within a 25 kilometre 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.
Each of Abu Dhabi’s three championship
courses 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 country course under the shadow
of the Jebel Hafeet heights of Al Ain.
Abu Dhabi Golf Club
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 Championship. 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 Player-designed
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 & 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.aesgc.ae
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 DHABISpas 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.
Treatments are highly diverse and satisfy a
demanding local clientele while providing
memorable visitor experiences.
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GOURMET ABU DHABI
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
January
Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship.
www.abudhabigolfchampionship.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/Aprill
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
Abu Dhabi Art.
www.abudhabiartfair.ae
December
National Day Celebrations.
www.alainaerobaticshow.com
FOR AN EVENTFUL STAY
ABU DHABI INTERNATIONAL TRIATHLON
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EMIRATES PALACE HOTEL
RECOMMENDED DAYS OUTABU DHABI CITYITINERARY 1A 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 41,000 worshippers. Take a one-hour, complimentary guided tour
from 10am every Saturday-Thursday.
www.visitabudhabi.ae
Afternoon
Visit the opulent Emirates Palace hotel from 4pm and partake in the ultimate luxury
tradition of afternoon tea 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.
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FISHMARKET, INTERCONTINENTAL HOTEL
ITINERARY 2Fishy 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
En route pour la pêche où vous n’aurez aucun mal à reconnaître votre prise. Faites une
excursion de pêche avec Sea Cruiser ou Butina Cruising et apprenez tout ce qu’il y à savoir
sur la faune et le patrimoine maritime d’Abou Dhabi tout en admirant son éblouissant
rivage.
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.
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ITINERARY 3 Islands in the sun..
Morning
Set sail with Noukhada Adventure Company
(www.noukhada.ae, tel: +971 50 721 8928)
for a bright and early eco-tour, kayaking
through Abu Dhabi’s 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.
143-berth Yas Marina which overlooks the
Yas Marina F1™ Circuit. 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 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.
The tour ends with a photo finish
opportunity on the Main Straight podium!
THE YAS HOTEL
YAS VICEROY ABU DHABI HOTEL
seacruiser.ae, tel: +971 50 800 9495) to
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
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.
30
Visit the permanent interactive display ‘The
Saadiyat Story’ at the island’s dedicated
exhibition centre Manarat Al Saadiyat
(www.saadiyat.ae or email
[email protected]) which brings
the history and cultural vision of Saadiyat
to life. Stop for coffee at the adjoining Fanr
restaurant, or take in a round at the
fabulous beachfront Saadiyat Beach Golf
Course.
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 Museum, Louvre Abu Dhabi and
Guggenheim Abu Dhabi.
SAADIYAT BEACH GOLF CLUBATAYEB
31
Evening
Finish your perfect island day with a visit to
the spectacular Monte Carlo Beach Club,
Saadiyat.
AL AIN OASIS
AL AINITINERARY 1Excite, 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 Zoo 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 2History & new horizon views.
Morning
Become immersed in Al Ain’s history by
visiting its many forts. First, head to the
impressive Al Jahili Fort 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 a
reconstruction 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 3Hot 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 travel to the other
side of Jebel Hafeet to experience the thrills
of Wadi Adventure.
33
Afternoon
Enjoy 18 holes of golf on Al Ain Equestrian,
Shooting & 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 GHARBIAGuests at the growing number of hotels in
Al Gharbia have a host of adventure
activities to keep them occupied:
ITINERARY 1Sunbathe, 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 (www.wmsc.ae).
www.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.
ITINERARY 2Desert driving, dune barbecues and moonlit
campfires.
Morning
Head towards the Liwa oasis at dawn and
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 takes 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 to camp, feast like a king,
then sit back and enjoy the company of
good friends and endless stars.
34
QASR AL SARAB DESERT RESORT BY ANANTARA
nightclubs and restaurants.
light jacket at night when it can feel a
little chilly.
the city or public places. Leave the
bikinis and shorts for the beach. Displays
of affection are best left to privacy.
Common sense is the guideline.
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.
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.
and there are no special immunisation
requirements to enter but good
insurance cover is recommended.
varying degrees.
which is freely convertible and AED 3.67
easily at exchange houses in malls and
ATMs are at petrol stations, malls and
supermarkets. Credit cards are widely
accepted.
now stay open right through until
around 10pm.
tourism fee.
month of the Islamic calendar year (Al
Hijri), in 2013 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 your clients are
well aware of restrictions – and the
advantages!
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).
but please do not photograph locals,
particularly the women, without their
permission. It is best not to photograph
government buildings or military
installations and their surroundings
TRAVELLERS WELCOME TIPS
36
TOOLS TO ASSIST YOUAbu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority has
a range of collateral, in a variety of
languages, which will help you better sell
this diverse destination of distinction. These
include:
This collateral is available at any Abu Dhabi
Tourism & Culture Authority office or by
request on [email protected] 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 [email protected] or view it
online at www.adtavisitabudhabi.ae
37
Organisation Tel No. EmailAbu Dhabi Travel Bureau + 971 2 622 1100 [email protected]
Advanced Travel & Tourism +971 2 634 7900 [email protected]
Al Badeyah Eyes Tourism + 971 2 559 6155 [email protected]
Al Masaood Holidays + 971 2 621 1797 [email protected]
Arabian Adventures +971 2 691 1711 [email protected]
Arabian Nights for Travel & Tourism +971 2 677 9988 [email protected]
Arabian Odyssey +971 2 621 0101 [email protected]
Cyclone Tours +971 2 627 6275 [email protected]
Darwish bin Ahmed Sons Travel & Tours +971 2 627 2999 [email protected]
Desert Adventures Tourism LLC +971 2 556 6155 [email protected]
Desert Rose Tourism +971 2 446 6346 [email protected]
Emirates Tours and Safari LLC +971 2 491 2929 [email protected]
Global Holidays +971 2 633 4700 [email protected]
Hala Abu Dhabi +971 2 617 7810 [email protected]
Kurban Tours +971 2 555 0566 [email protected]
Lama Tours +971 2 677 0877 [email protected]
Safer Travel & Tourism +971 2 418 0888 [email protected]
SNTTA +971 2 643 6525 [email protected]
Travco +971 2 643 2970 [email protected]
38
Product/ ServiceAssociation management, congresses and exhibition, meetings, events, incentives and performance
improvement programmes.
Airport meet and greet, visa processing, inbound operations, tours and excursions, events, incentives and
hotel reservations.
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.
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.
Inbound tours, visa processing, flight bookings and excursions.
Event management, hotel management, meet and greet services, transport logistics, visa processing,
entertainment.
Airport meet & greet, visa processing, transportation, inbound operations, hotel reservation.
Tourism services.
Inbound tours, incentive travel, conferences, hotel reservations, safaris, visas, special interest groups.
Air tickets, transfers, safaris, UAE visas, excursions, airport meet & greet, travel insurance, hotels, medical
packages, tailored fit holidays, car rental and limousine service.
Etihad Airways tailor made hotel, tours, flights and services operator.
Hotel bookings, transfers, excursions, city and beach packages, groups planning and MICE.
Inbound tours, incentive travel
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adventures and hotel reservations.
Full spectrum of travel related services, including business, leisure, MICE and travel insurance.
Inbound tours, airport meet and greet, incentive travel, accommodation.
39
Australia Level 13, 338 Pitt StreetSydney NSW 2000, AustraliaTel: +61 2 826 85533Fax: +61 2 926 [email protected]
RussiaProspekt Mira, 39 / 2 Olympic Plaza 2129110, Moscow, RussiaTel: +7 495 937 5950Fax: +7 495 937 5951 [email protected]
USATrump Tower, 22nd Floor725 Fifth AvenueNew York, NY 10022Tel: +1 212 338 [email protected]
Abu DhabiPO Box 94000 Abu Dhabi United Arab EmiratesTel: +971 2 444 0444 Fax: +9712 444 [email protected]
Al AinAli Bin Abi Taleb StreetPO Box 59333, Al Ain United Arab EmiratesTel: +971 3 764 2000Fax: +971 3 764 [email protected]
GermanyGoethestrasse 2760313 Frankfurt, GermanyTel: +49 69 299 253 920Fax: +49 69 299 253 [email protected]
France11 Bis, Rue Blanche 75009 Paris, FranceTel: +33 1 53 25 03 52Fax: +33 1 53 25 11 [email protected]
ItalyVia Pietrasanta 1420141 Milan, ItalyTel: +39 02 573 78315 Fax: +39 02 573 [email protected]
IndiaM-2, Mezzanine FloorKanchenjunga Building18, Barakhamba RoadNew Delhi - 110001, IndiaTel: +91 11 23737348Fax : +91 11 [email protected]
Saudi Arabia Boungainvillea Center-Malik Road,P.O Box 116117, Jeddah, 21391 KSA Tel: +966 56 767 [email protected]
ABU DHABI TOURISM & CULTURE AUTHORITY OFFICES
United Kingdom & Ireland1 KnightsbridgeLondon SW1X 7LY, UKTel: +44 207 201 6400Fax: +44 207 210 [email protected]
China Guohua Investment Building Level 1, Room 01, No. 3 Dongzhimen South Street Beijing, 100007, People’s Republic of ChinaTel: +86 21 6355 8033Fax: +86 21 6375 [email protected]
Abu Dhabi is the largest of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates, with
country’s capital city, Abu Dhabi
The United Arab Emirates is on the Arabian Peninsula
Feb
201
3
Contact Centre from inside U.A.E. 800 555 From outside U.A.E. +971 2 666 4442
www.visitabudhabi.ae
