Abu Dhabi

Those in search of a fantastic holiday destination set in the dramatic desert landscapes of the Gulf region, could do much, much worse that Abu Dhabi.

The city is the largest of the seven emirates that make up the UAE and is also the seat of the emirate's government. Abu Dhabi is ruled by Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who is also the president of the UAE, and has a population of 900,000 - 80 per cent of whom ar expatriates.

Lying on a T-shaped island jutting out defiantly into the Persian Gulf, Abu Dhabi's has one of the most breath-taking skylines at night.

Views from Marina Hall are especially exquisite - massive sky-scraping developments reach upwards into the night-time sky, lit up by what seems like millions of tiny little lights.

Traditions and culture in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is quickly trying to position itself at the cultural epicentre of the UAE and is becoming successful in this endeavour.

The city is home to a significant number of cultural institutions including the National Theater and the Cultural Foundation, which is home to the UAE Public Library and Cultural Center. Various cultural societies such as the Abu Dhabi Classical Music Society are also popular among residents and tourists alike.

In terms of cuisine, all types can be found in Abu Dhabi. Given its high expatiate population, all types of palates are catered to. But traditionally speaking, Middle Eastern-style foods are typically the order of the day.

A dish in a typical restaurant in Abu Dhabi may consist of a mixed grill, which is a plate full of mixed Middle Eastern grilled meats such as kebabs, koftas and ribs.

The culture of Abu Dhabi is also wonderfully displayed in the city's architecture. All over the emirate, visitors can view stunning domes and minarets, which beautifully showcase Islamic artistic traditions.

Recommended in Abu Dhabi

Visitors should pay a visit to Qasr al-Hosn for an interesting cultural experience. Located on Khalid bin Walid St, the White Fort or Old Fort is the oldest building in Abu Dhabi. The original structure was constructed in 1793 as the official residence of Abu Dhabi’s rulers. Major renovations took place in 1983.

Also worth a visit is the Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation, which is housed in a modern building of Islamic design, with arching white colonnades, cool courtyards and restful gardens. The Cultural Foundation has much to see and do, including a library, theatre, cinema, lecture rooms, meeting rooms, an exhibition centre and a coffee shop.

Weather in Abu Dhabi

Because of its location, sunny climes can be expected throughout the year in Abu Dhabi. From April to September, the temperature is generally hot and humid and sandstorms can occasionally occur during this time.

The weather is cooler from November to March however but dense fog has been known to frequent city areas at this time.

Destination checklist for Abu Dhabi

The currency in use in Abu Dhabi is the UAE dirham and prices are reasonable - which is good because with its wide array of shops, the city is a compulsive shopper's dream.

Hotels in Abu Dhabi are also reasonable, being around half the price compared to Dubai. However, saying that, tourists are still looking at paying US$100 a night. It's worth it though, as high-end hotel facilities come as standard.