Abu Dhabi - A jewel in the desert !

 Abu Dhabi - A jewel in the desert ! 

When we first hear of Abu Dhabi, the foremost thing that comes to mind is Ferrari World ! And yes, Ferrari world is absolutely amazing and a must do. But Abu Dhabi offers much more than just theme parks…in fact situated on the coast line of UAE facing the Persian gulf, there are beautiful blue water beaches within a couple of hours drive from the city. A trip to Al Ain can offer you one of the most amazing zoos in the region. and of course given that you’re in the middle of the desert, desert safaris, dune bashing and camel rides, are certainly not ruled out. Lisa located to the south of Abu Dhabi and close to the Saudi border offers stunning Oasis and date groves. Having done Dubai earlier, we thought of trying the lesser frequented brother city of Dubai this time. 

Much more laid back, less crowded than the commercial capital / hub Dubai, it also has a generally slightly cooler and more pleasant temperature. Albeit do not forget you are in the middle of the desert , so expect temperatures soaring above 35 d Celsius by day time even during the winter months of Oct thru December.  Summer temperatures hit 50 degree C , we were told. 


YAS Island

Yas Island - Offers all three theme parks which are a stones throw from each other. Warner Bros, Ferrari world and Waterworld. However given the sheer size of the parks it might become difficult to do multiple parks in a go. Hence its recommended to keep one park per day. Note that Water World is an outdoor theme park while the other two are indoor. its also recommended to take a flexible ticket where you can visit any two parks / two days. This way you can decide upto the last minute as to what you’d like to do, budgeting weather, crowd, personal taste. 

For us , traveling with a kid meant Warner bros and water world were a good choice but the sheer heat meant water world looked tough and so settled for Ferrari world instead. Upon entering these parks, its a world in its own. 



Our day trip to Musandam , Oman

  • Musandam is a small mountainous peninsula jutting out into the strait of Hormuz and a 2 hours drive from Abu Dhabi . It is administered by the Government of Oman hence you are technically crossing an international border. The place is absolutely stunning. White limestone and granite mountains meet the blue waters of the Persian gulf. Its a sight unique to behold. The slight difference in language , the slight change in culture and clothing is another subtle thing to observe as you enter this small fishing port and enclave. Its like visiting a capsule from the past, traditional fisherman taking to their dhows , nomadic villagers still living in the mountains of Al Hajar, the silhouette of which form the backdrop of Musandam region. Very different from the likes of cities like Abu Dhabi or RAK.
  • Take a dhow cruise from Dibba Al Bahai which offers water sports, lunch and refreshments on board and sight seeing in a 5-6 hours trip across the day. Its absolutely worth it. If you are lucky you might also spot dolphins or catch some fish on the onboard fishing activity 
  • Carry sun block, swim wear, and your original passports when on a trip to Musandam. Start early if traveling from Abu Dhabi as one first needs to get to Dubai as most pick ups are from there. Buses start as early as 4:40 am between Abu Dhabi and Dubai and takes about 1.5 hrs. If you are ready to spend more, private taxis and transfers are available too.


Other Things to do at Abu Dhabi 

  • Grand Mosque - beautiful mosque constructed around 25 years ago by the current ruling family. Expect crowds but its quite well managed. Great place for clicking good pictures. The mosque is also connected to an underground mall cum rest area offering places to eat or shop. Wearing appropriate clothing is most important else entry could be denied. 
  • Emirates palace hotel - iconic 7 star property located near the Marina area. You can enter and see around the lobby and gardens area. 
  • Louvre Museum - a visit to the louvre museum is a must ! 
  • Al Mina dates market and the old souq - if you’re looking for souvenirs and regional goodies which include dates, dry fruit, coffee , spices than do visit the old souq and al mina area which is the wholesale market. The prices are way lower than the city , for the same products. The place is easily accessible from anywhere in the city . You need to get to Port Zayed and its a 5 mins walk from there. 



Tips to get around

  • Take a bus pass called Halifat to get around for cheap. Taxis can be expensive. Bus passes are available at most big super markets or at the main bus stand
  • To travel to Das island use the 102 bus, cheap and effective to get around. 


Economy mode / food 

  • Eat at restaurants in the Hamdan , Halidiya area. Food courts at Malls can be expensive. 
  • Restaurants run by Indians , Chinese , Lebanese and Pakistanis are generally cheaper and affordable. Food quality and portions are generally good. 


Shopping

  • Souqs like the Mina dates market, Iranian soul and Madina Zahiyat shopping arcade offer cheaper options to shop compared to malls. Quality may differ, but so do the prices. All these souqs are available near the Port Zayed area.

 -    There are many malls. Yas and Galleria Mall are more upscale. Mall of Abu Dhabi, Al Wadah etc offer more    

       affordable brands. 




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