Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (Point of interest)

At Bateen Shipyard in Abu Dhabi's Dhow Wharf visitors can see the traditional Arabic ship-building process in full swing. Skilled craftsmen carve the trademark wooden dhows from huge planks of teak without new-age tools or fussy modern techniques.... Continue reading →

Abu Dhabi has several well maintained lush green areas, reflecting the commitment of the ruling family to beautify this desert city. Most, like Capital Gardens, see large groups picnicking, children's tea parties and couples holding hands under the... Continue reading →

Vast sums have been spent on keeping the Corniche beautiful, and it shows. Strolling along this showpiece is an Abu Dhabi institution and, with paved walkways and flower-filled gardens, there are few better places to idly watch the waves. Explore ... Continue reading →

Follow your nose for a fish frenzy at Abu Dhabi's Dhow Wharf and Fish Market. Boats unload their catches day and night and the air rings with the shouts of market traders, fishermen and customers shopping for their supper.... Continue reading →

The Emirates Palace Hotel, a no-expense-spared monument to prosperity, is one of Abu Dhabi's most popular landmarks. A programme of daily tours, led by eager-to-please historians with plenty of local knowledge, ranks among the city's must-do attrac... Continue reading →

Abu Dhabi's Grand Mosque is an impressive montage of precious stones, including more than one million Swarovski crystals. Its splendid (and expensive) architecture gained the mosque three places in the Guinness Book of World Records. The mosque ho... Continue reading →

Examples of traditional architecture at Abu Dhabi's Heritage Village include an authentic replica of a bedouin encampment, mud-brick houses and a recreated souk selling local handicrafts. Kids can ride on camels and there are graceful displays of E... Continue reading →

The tangled mangrove forests of Saadiyat Island, meaning island of happiness, attract a wide range of nesting birds and marine life. The island has plenty of hidden nooks and crannies for wildlife watching along with a rich cultural programme. Saa... Continue reading →