Abu Dhabi Luxury Yachting Guide

Home to one of the most modern cities in the world, the Emirate of Abu Dhabi is the capital and government centre for the United Arab Emirates. Housing the headquarters for innumerable oil companies, sprawling shopping boulevards and featuring immense gardens and parks, this sophisticated destination is also one of the richest in the world.

With a bustling hub of affluent industry and a remarkable spread of indulgent pleasures, Abu Dhabi is a sumptuous destination of luxury and promise.

Due to recent governmental changes, Abu Dhabi has stepped out of Dubai’s shadow and surged onto the modern stage: offering land sales to foreigners, launching massive cultural projects and loosening restrictions on alcohol have all helped to propel Abu Dhabi into a massive boom. The core of Abu Dhabi is situated on an island connected to the mainland by two bridges, with a road known as the Corniche running along the coast.

Culture
In the way of historical or cultural sights, Abu Dhabi is decidedly lacking, although it does have a Cultural Centre that holds cultural events and workshops throughout the year, as well as a well-stocked library and children’s programs. In addition, there is a cultural zone known as Saadiyat Island being constructed with its centerpieces being the Guggenheim and Louvre Museums, both set to open in 2011.

Sights
Though the city has many green spaces with play areas, ornate fountains and occasional sculpture, Khalifa Park is the best space of all. With its aquarium, museum, train, play parks and lush formal gardens, this is a delicious bastion of nature in the centre of a commercial forest. The Sheikh Zayed Mosque is a lovely sight as well, being the 6th largest mosque in the world, though restricted access is given to non-Muslims.

Activities
For the pursuit of pleasure, none can top Abu Dhabi’s display. From the Ferrari theme park to the world-class motor sports track on the alpha-male den of Yas Island and on to the sprawling shopping malls, there is something here for everyone.

Shopping enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Marina Mall with its musical fountains and ceilings that thunder and rain, as well as the high-end shops of the Al Wahda Mall. For those with antiques, native jewelry, art or carpets on their mind, shopping at one of the many souk-like places around the city is the best idea.

Thrill-seeker need look no further than a 4x4 desert safari: starting in the late afternoon and ending in the late evening, these will include a mad drive over the dunes, camel ride and food, with the possibility of a belly dance if your party is big enough. For more sedate outdoor activities, head to the extensive swimming facilities and private beaches along the Abu Dhabi coast. Although nearly all of them are private, you can pay for access by the day.