5 Reasons To Visit Abu Dhabi

A country of incredible contrasts; where towering skyscrapers stand beside centuries-old mosques, thrilling theme parks juxtapose laidback beaches, and both traditional Souks and modern malls delight the avid shopper. Abu Dhabi is a destination that travellers continue to visit time after time, and our Kenwood Travel Experts share their 5 reasons as to why you too should make the UAE’s capital your next holiday destination. 

1. Rich Culture

From arts to architecture, customs to ceremonies, Abu Dhabi boasts a rich culture both old and new. One of the country’s most important heritage sites is the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque; a marble-domed masterpiece adorned with jewel-encrusted columns, gold-plated Swarovski chandeliers and one of the largest mosaic courtyards in the world.

For those looking to feed the creative soul, the Louvre Abu Dhabi houses some of the most outstanding galleries and exhibitions in the world. It’s also a fantastic place for children too, with crafty workshop classes and interactive displays to keep all the family entertained.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

2. Incredible Hotels

Abu Dhabi’s skyscraper-studded skyline is the perfect showcase of its many incredible places to stay. From luxurious penthouses right in the heart of the city, to family-friendly resorts perched on the shores of Yas Island, the range of accommodation in Abu Dhabi is diverse, but the warm, Arabian hospitality is ever-present.

Kenwood Travel Tip: For something unique, our Abu Dhabi Expert, Stuart Armsby, recommends a stay at the Anantara Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort – “There’s truly no other experience like it. You can enjoy candlelit dinners surrounded by golden dunes, camp beneath the stars in a traditional Bedouin tent, and even spot local wildlife from the comfort of the infinity pool – it’s incredible!”

Hilton Abu Dhabi, Yas Island

3. Blissful Beaches

With year-round sunshine, Abu Dhabi makes for the perfect escape to get that well-deserved fix of vitamin D. There’s plenty of beautiful beaches to be found on this Emirate archipelago, but one of the most notable is Saadiyat Beach, a sweeping stretch renowned for its pale, white sands and glistening turquoise waters. If you’re extremely lucky, you may even get the chance to spot one of the endangered Hawksbill turtles that come to lay their eggs on the shore.

Saadiyat Beach

4. Desert Adventures

Outside the of city’s high-rises lies a world of desert wonder. Reaching impressive heights of over 300m, Abu Dhabi boasts some of the tallest sand dunes in the world; and with such extraordinary landscapes, comes extraordinary activities. Thrill-seekers will be in their element with the choice to sandboard or quad bike down the towering, golden slopes, and for those looking for soft adventure, camel rides and falconry demonstrations are excellent choices.

Camel Riding in the Liwa Desert

5. Exceptional Cuisine

It wouldn’t be a visit to Abu Dhabi without trying some of the delicious Emirati cuisine on offer. Traditionally, meals burst with platters of slow-cooked lamb and chicken, accompanied alongside a mezze of aromatic rice and fresh, seasoned vegetables. After dinner, it is customary to wash down your meal with one of the fine cups of Arabic coffee the UAE is famed for. You can sample authentic dishes at most restaurants throughout the city, though our Kenwood Travel Experts say some of the finest meals they’ve had lie in the streetside cafes and traditional dhow boats.

Traditional Emirati Cuisine

Now Is The Time To Visit Abu Dhabi

Convinced by our reasons to visit this Emirati gem? Talk to one of our Middle East Experts about planning your Abu Dhabi holiday by either enquiring online or calling our team on 020 7749 9276.