Abu Dhabi Insider Tips | One of the Most Modern Cities in the World
Sophisticated high-rise buildings, luxury hotels and lavish shopping malls make for an indulgent holiday in Abu Dhabi. The richness of sights in the city are profuse, most of which are free.
The Sheikh Zayed Mosque:
The Sheikh Zayed Mosque is the largest mosque in the United Arab Emirates; it can accommodate 40,000 people and is one of the exceptional mosques open to non-Muslims. In a bid to promote religious and cultural understanding, tourists are eligible to go inside the mosque. Appreciate the magnificence of Middle-Eastern architecture, large floral motifs, marble tiles and specially woven Persian carpets. Tours are free but you will need to pre-book. You must dress modestly, covering arms and legs and non-Muslims are not permitted to touch the Koran. Shoes will need to be removed and women will be asked to cover their head, photography is allowed in some areas but it’s always best to ask before you start snapping away.
Desert safari:
Desert safaris in Abu Dhabi can be a great way to explore the deserts of Abu Dhabi. A traditional camel ride is a must in the desert but if you’re looking for something a little more exciting 4x4 dune bashing ventures is perfect, drive right to the top of the sandy hills to see amazing picturesque views of the desert. It’s advisable to wear plenty of sun cream, sunglasses and possibly a sunhat to protect yourself from the harsh UV rays. Remember to take a jumper or cardigan with you, when the sun goes down it can get very chilly.
A shopping paradise…
Shopping in the city is almost like a national hobby in Abu Dhabi. Buy anything from extravagant haute couture to local Arabian handicrafts.
Traditional markets and souks sell native Emirati leather goods, gold and silverware, if you’re good at bartering have some fun and you may get the price down.
How do I get around?
Abu Dhabi is made for the use of cars. The modern road systems make driving by far the easiest and most comfortable way to get around Abu Dhabi, taxis and car rentals are both reasonably priced.
Most taxis should charge a metre fare but if not, negotiate a price before you get in. Remember you must be in possession of a full international driving licence and possibly a major credit card to rent a vehicle.
Buses are fully air-conditioned, frequent and reliable. There are separate seating areas for men and women and if you are on a tight budget, public buses are probably your best option. It will cost you just 1 dirham for a single ride and 3 dirhams for a day pass.
It is advised you don’t hire a motorcycle in the Emirates as they’re very dangerous, it’s best to avoid stress or possible injury.
Money:
Described as one of the richest cities in the world, Abu Dhabi is well known for its luxurious lifestyle so make sure you have plenty of spending money.
The dirham is the official currency of Abu Dhabi. The dirham can be subdivided into 100 fils. Exchange your money at all internationally renowned banks that can be found in major cities of the UAE. You can also exchange your currency at countless money exchange houses but you can expect the rates may be higher.
Dress code:
Although the city is a contemporary fashion hub, Abu Dhabi is a conservative capital with locals dressing in an Islamic manner. Visitors should dress with modesty and cover arms and legs when visiting sacred places of worship.
Eating in Abu Dhabi:
Abu Dhabi is the best place to sample Arabic food. Grilled chicken, lamb and fresh sea food is popular in Abu Dhabi, traditional foods typically consist of rice dishes and grilled meats, great with stuffed courgettes and roasted aubergines.
Remember pork is not included in Arabic cuisine so it is unlikely you will find it on many menus.
Check your bill before you pay, most restaurants will add on a service charge so a large tip is not always necessary.
Ramadan:
Ramadan is a significant period of religious meaning for Muslims as it is regarded as the holiest month in the Islamic calendar. Muslims are required to abstain from food, drink and tobacco between sunrise and sunset.
Ramadan can be a challenging time for visitors, especially those with young children but, it can also be an interesting time to visit Abu Dhabi. The dress code is a lot more conservative and you will be expected to respect local traditions; do not eat, smoke or drink in public or in the presence of a Muslim during the hours of Ramadan. Ramadan 2010 starts on the 11th August and lasts till 9th September, dates do change each year so make sure you double check before you book if want to avoid the religious holiday.
Language…
The official language is Arabic but English is widely spoken and many locals will understand Basic English so there’s no need to learn the lingo.
Other useful tips:
- Homosexuality is illegal in the UAE and relationships outside the typical heterosexual relations are deemed criminal. Public displays of affection from the same sex can result in imprisonment, fines, deportation for travellers and even the death penalty. It is an offence to swear or make rude gestures and no matter what your sexual preference, it’s very offensive to show a public display of affection. It is advised you don’t act on any of the following offences mentioned above to avoid any legal worries.
- Medicines such as simple painkillers are not allowed in Abu Dhabi, so don’t take any with you unless you have a medical prescription.
- Tap water is generally safe to drink but hotels and restaurants are likely to provide you with bottled water.
- Only restaurants and bars situated inside hotels are permitted to serve alcohol. Do not carry alcohol in the street as you must have a valid alcohol licence.