QUINTESSENTIALLY | Insider | City Guides

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In just 50 years, Abu Dhabi has been transformed from a small fishing village into one of the most important financial cities in the world.

The second most populous city of the United Arab Emirates is both the federal capital and the capital of the emirate; it is also one of the region’s financial powerhouses. While not as ostentatious or glitzy as Dubai, it oozes charm - look no further than those tranquil streets, golden beaches, luxurious hotels, fabulous shops and that special laid-back feeling. Abu Dhabi is the fourth largest producer of oil in the world and is becoming one of the richest and most quickly developing cities worldwide with an estimated population of 1.45 million. Known as the most cultural city in the UAE, it plays host to year-round art exhibitions and musical performances from all over the globe and is currently developing the construction of the first branch of the Louvre museum outside Paris and the world’s largest Guggenheim museum.


GO THERE FOR

Shopping –A sales tax haven, Abu Dhabi encourages spending and it has the shops to cater to high-end retail enthusiasts. A shopping expedition in this Persian paradise is a tour of the world’s most respected designers from Paris, London, Milan, New York and Tokyo. As well as having the finest products available, there are enough shops here to provide variety to provide for any taste.

Luxury – Anointed by Fortune Magazine as the richest city in the world, Abu Dhabi provides multiple locations to pamper oneself and enjoy the luxury provided by this opulent city. An array of spas, beauty salons, beach resorts and health clubs along with fine dining and top end shopping ensure that a visit to this city will be as lavish as one could imagine.

Beach Clubs – A gorgeous coastline in the Persian Gulf tied with the almost permanent sunny temperature means only one thing, beach clubs. Some of the world’s most luxurious beach clubs in the world call Abu Dhabi home. Lounging by the pool, surveying the Gulf or enjoying the many sporting and relaxing facilities that many of these clubs offer there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Theme Parks – Abu Dhabi’s impressive commitment to building, expansion and building a reputation as a tourist resort has led to the building of many unique theme parks. Ferrari World is the world’s largest indoor theme park and a must for any car enthusiast. The park opens October 28 2010 and features the world’s fastest roller coaster.


DON'T MISS

The Islands – Abu Dhabi has exceptionally beautiful islands off of its coast such as Futaisi Island, the most famous and known for its historical attractions and untouched nature; Lulu Island, popular with both tourists and residents who want to relax; Saadiyat Island, whose name means “Island of Happiness” and is soon to become home to The Louvre and Guggenheim museums, making it Abu Dhabi's cultural centre. Sir Bani Yas Island, the largest of the islands, well known for its modern attractions and coming Ferrari Theme Park, a Formula One circuit and a water park; and finally Al Reem Island, one of the main tourists attractions worldwide, housing amusement parks, an aquarium, museum and a diverse wildlife reserve.

The Emirates Palace Hotel – This enormous and impressive building is a seven-star hotel and one of Abu Dhabi’s most popular landmarks. Even if you are not a resident in the hotel you can enjoy its fantastic surroundings. The hotel has a huge conference centre, stunning gardens, palm trees and fountains as well as a lavish interior décor made of marble, gold and Swarovski crystal.

The Gold – In Madinat Zayed Gold Souk you can find very reasonable prices for jewellery, just don’t forget to haggle as the locals will expect you to bargain with them on the original price.

Dhow Cruising – The best way to enjoy the wonderful scenery of Abu Dhabi. Dhows are traditional wooden sailing boats used for centuries by traders and merchants. The modern Dhows, although they keep their traditional design, offer tourists more modern amenities such as satellite navigation and bathrooms.


THE BASICS

Quintessentially Abu Dhabi
Apt. 404, Safar Travel Building, 4th Floor, Liwa Street, Abu Dhabi
Telephone: +971 2 6224545
Email: qabudhabi@quintessentially.com

Country Code: +971
City Code: 2
Emergency: 999 - Police; Ambulance - 998/999
Directory Enquiries: 180/181
Electricity: 220 and 240 volts/50 Hz. The most frequently used plugs are the square three-pin type.
Language(s): Arabic, English
Currency: Dirham (AED)
Exchange Rate: 1GBP = 5.57 AED, 1 AED = .18 GBP (Subject to change)
Time: GMT +4
Abu Dhabi International Airport:
General Enquiries: +971 (2) 505 5555
http://www.abudhabiairport.ae/


GETTING AROUND

From the Airport
Abu Dhabi International Airport is about 30km from the centre. Golden Class offers transport to the city centre for AED 65.

Around Town
Taxi – Taxis in the city centre are metered; they usually don’t have seat belts and sometimes don’t have air conditioning. Fares are very reasonable however, so this is a cost effective way of travelling.
* Taxis are being replaced by new vehicles and managed by one company.

Bus – The buses are cheap but the routes aren’t useful for tourists as they are aimed more for locals going to hospitals, schools and workplaces.
* New buses were launched last year for tourists. They can reach different parts of the city.


WHEN TO GO

Abu Dhabi’s climate is subtropical and sunshine can be expected all year around. From April to September it is very hot and humid with temperatures above 40 degrees and there also sandstorms during these months. From November to March it is cooler with dense fog sometimes. The best months to travel to Abu Dhabi are from October to May when temperatures are mild.

Public Holidays:
1st January – New Years Day
1 Muhrram - Hijri New Year’s Day
12 Rabul Awal - Prophet Mohammed’s Birthday
27 Rajab - Israa & Miaraj Night
1 Shwwal - Eid Al Fitr
2/3 December – UAE National Day
9 Zulhajja - Arafat (Haj) Day
10 Zulhajja - Eid Al Adha


WHERE TO STAY

Desert Islands Resort & Spa (Quintessentially Members' Benefits)
Sir Bani Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Desert Islands Resort & Spa is the Emirates’ newest haven, housing one of the world’s most unique offshore wildlife sanctuaries. Unlike any other destination in the Arabian Gulf, Desert Resort & Spa offers travellers an unforgettable island escape. Located 8km off the western coastline of Abu Dhabi, not only is it known for its unique natural beauty but also for the wildlife that roams next to the island waters.
Some 250km drive from Abu Dhabi City, Desert Islands Resort & Spa is highly recommended.

Mercure Grand Jebel Hafeet Al Ain
Located on Jebel Hafeet
The Mercure Grand is a unique mountain oasis; the resort is located at 915m above sea level on Hafeet Mountain, just a two hour drive from Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Its refined authentic architecture reflects the magic atmosphere of the region and it has unparalleled views of the city.

Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel
Located on Corniche Road
35 km away from the airport, the Sheraton Abu Dhabi is located on Corniche Street. The atmosphere is superb with beautifully designed rooms and extremely friendly service. The hotel is beneficial for both business travellers and tourists as it contains many international restaurants and is well known for its banqueting. Sheraton Abu Dhabi is also within walking distance from the new developed Corniche Park.

Hilton Abu Dhabi Hotel
Located on Corniche Road
Located at the end of Corniche Street, the Hilton Abu Dhabi is only 30 minutes away from Abu Dhabi International Airport. The Hilton Abu Dhabi has a tremendous view, situated opposite the breakwater and marina shopping mall, with an envious setting on the beautiful Corniche overlooking the Arabian Gulf. The Hilton provides its guests with a variety of enjoyable activities thanks to the exceptional Hiltonia Sports and Beach Club, which is known to be one of the best in Abu Dhabi.

Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi Hotel
Located in the Tourist Club Area
Set in the heart of the business and shopping districts in Abu Dhabi, Beach Rotana provides an excellent base from which guests can explore Abu Dhabi city. All of the rooms have an amazing sea-view with private balconies. Beach Rotana’s accommodation is suitable for both business and leisure travellers as it is located approximately 45 minutes away from the Abu Dhabi International Airport.

Le Meridian Hotel Abu Dhabi
Located 2nd st Al Meena, Tourist Club Area
Located in the centre of Abu Dhabi; Le Meridian also has spectacular views looking out over the indigo waters of the Arabian Gulf. There are a grand total of 15 different lounges and restaurants for its guest to enjoy, as well as a lavish spa where you can relax and indulge yourself.

Emirates Palace Abu Dhabi
Located in Abu Dhabi City Centre
Feeling luxurious? Then the Emirates Palace is the place for you; you might even bump into a celebrity or two. The Hotel is currently managed by the Kempinski group; with a construction cost of over AED3 billion it has 302 rooms and 92 suites. Emirates Palace is known to be the most expensive hotel ever built! It is one of only two hotels in the world to be awarded the covetable 7 star status and that makes it an exceptional experience.

Shangri-La Hotel Abu Dhabi
Located Between the Bridges
If you are looking for the seclusion of a hotel located on a private beach then you have come to the right place. The Shangri-La Hotel Abu Dhabi has 214 fully equipped luxurious rooms and suites all with balconies overlooking the waterway that separates Abu Dhabi Island from the mainland. Shangri-La also has CHI, a spa that offers many relaxing and enjoyable treatments. There are also five outdoor pools, a health club, and a 1km private beach. If you are looking for a peaceful and luxurious retreat then Shangri- La is the hotel to choose.

Fairmont Bab Al Bahr
Located Between The Bridges in Abu Dhabi
Fairmont Bab Al Bahr boasts a prime location at the mainland gateway to the cosmopolitan city of Abu Dhabi. With its striking, contemporary design, this beachfront business hotel offers the highest level of comfort and elegance throughout its 369 guest rooms and suites.

Aloft Abu Dhabi
Located in Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre
Holiday in style at Aloft Abu Dhabi. With its loft-inspired design set in a modern Middle Eastern metropolis, you are just steps away from the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, diplomatic district and only minutes from the airport and other city sights.

One to One Hotels
Located just off Al Salam Street, in the heart Abu Dhabi
Ideally situated within the city’s business and shopping districts the One to One Hotel is just a 15 minute drive from the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) and 25 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport. This is a top choice for anyone looking for the perfect business boutique hotel.

Qasr Al Sarab
The Qasr Al Sarab hotel is located in the legendary Liwa Desert in the Empty Quarter, the largest uninterrupted sand desert in the world. Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort embraces the epic adventures of indigenous desert culture and combines them with sublime luxury. Unwind in the unsurpassed comfort of private, palatial-style villas, in a ‘Mirage Palace’ enveloped by thousands of years of intriguing traditions. Traverse towering dunes and sandy trails during enthralling desert escapades. Experience a retreat that blends cultural passion with desert tranquillity.

Park Rotana
Abu Dhabi
Conveniently located in the heart of Abu Dhabi, close to the business and banking districts and the main shopping malls. The Park Rotana is only 10 minutes away from the Abu Dhabi International Exhibitions Centre, 20 km away from the Abu Dhabi International airport and 160 km from the Dubai International Airport. To experience the height of luxurious comfort, look no further than Rotana.

The Yas Hotel
Located on Yas Island
Overlooking the marina and the Yas Marina Formula 1™ Circuit race track you will find the Yas Hotel. Only a few minutes walk from fantastic attractions such as the Sheikh Zayed Mosque and the first links golf course in the Middle East, as well as just 15 minutes from the Corniche and Abu Dhabi City Centre. The incredible gridshell exterior of the Yas Hotel can be seen for miles around, designed to resemble the throw of a local fishing net, the architecture embraces the environment perfectly. Design influences everything at this mesmerizing Abu Dhabi hotel, from the furniture in the 499 contemporary and modern rooms and suites to the striking interiors of the 14 restaurants and lounges.


WHERE TO EAT

The Meat Company (Quintessentially Members' Benefits)
Shangri-La Hotel Abu Dhabi
A popular South African steak restaurant at the Souk Qaryat Al Beri. It’s a perfect venue for a dinner with friends, business associates or family celebration. The Meat Co. is the new 'must visit' dining destination in Abu Dhabi.

El Sombrero Abu Dhabi
Sheraton Hotel
As one of the oldest restaurants in Abu Dhabi, El Sombrero delivers professional top of the line service. The Décor is fantastic; containing a Colombian house band and delicious food consisting primarily of cheese and refried beans. The food can be a bit heavy depending on your taste. El Sombrero is located in Sheraton Abu Dhabi.

Vasco’s Abu Dhabi
Hiltonia, Abu Dhabi
Perfect spot for a relaxed meal, Vasco’s is located in Hiltonia Abu Dhabi on the sea-view side which makes it a special restaurant. Food wise, Vasco’s has a multicultural menu relying on Italian, Indian and Southeast Asian food. The restaurant in known for its design and furniture, it’s a place you would defiantly visit on a frequent basis. International cuisine and a view over the Gulf from the waterfront terrace. Enjoy popular dishes from fresh tagliatelli to spicy tandoori.

Trader Vic’s Abu Dhabi
Beach Rotana Hotel
One of the capitals finest places to dine! Trader Vic’s is a great explanation of Abu Dhabi’s night life. Located in Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi, Trader Vic’s has been open since 1994. You’ll rarely find a table here due to its unique style and flavour which built its reputation. Trader Vic’s relies on the Polynesian style of both designs and food. The world famous French-Polynesian restaurant stakes its name on its exotic cocktails and unique cuisine

Wasabi
Al Diar Mina Hotel
Great Authentic Japanese food.

Mawal Restaurant
Hilton Hotel, Abu Dhabi
The best in Lebanese cuisine, traditional décor and lively atmosphere. Every evening there is a singer and a belly dancer.

Chamas
Intercontinental Hotel
The best Brazilian dining experience in Abu Dhabi.

Frankie’s Italian Restaurant & Bar
Fairmont Hotel, Abu Dhabi
A collaboration between famed horse jockey Frankie Dettori and Michelin star Chef Marco Pierre White, guests can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine in a bustling indoor venue or at the outdoor courtyard. Drawing on the popularity of its sister restaurant in Dubai, Frankie’s is best described as offering a casual yet engaging dining experience, highlighted by live piano entertainment in the evenings.
Dress Code: Smart casual

Marco Pierre White Steakhouse & Grill
Fairmont Hotel , Abu Dhabi
Award winning celebrity Chef Marco Pierre White brings his culinary expertise for the first time to Abu Dhabi. Set apart with its dramatic interior design, including a back lit ‘flame’ wall, guests will experience an eclectic combination of innovative grill cuisine and classic English fare, accompanied by an extensive wine selection.
Dress Code: Smart casual

Elements Restaurant
Fairmont Hotel Abu Dhabi
This casual, yet elegant venue is perfect for a leisurely repast or a business meal, serving an abundance of international buffet offerings from Europe, Asia and the Middle East. Throughout the day, Elements transforms into a live-cooking theatre, where culinary artistry is performed at a variety of cooking stations or “elements’ strategically placed for maximum interaction between chef and guest. The restaurant also offers a spacious outdoor terrace that overlooks the landscaped grounds. A true Fairmont institution, Elements launches the Friday brunch experience with a diversity of culinary offerings, lively ambience and French Champagne.
Dress Code: Smart casual


BARS, PUBS AND NIGHTLIFE

Etoiles Nightclub (Quintessentailly Members' Benefits)
Emirates Palace
Etoiles is an upscale Nightclub with high quality fine dining, fantastic music and luxurious settings and services. This is a place where you can enjoy your time in the cities night life whether you are dining with friends, enjoying a casual drink or relaxing in its incredible atmosphere. Its international DJ’s and artists will keep you coming back each week for more.

Zenith Nightclub
Sheraton Hotel
Zenith, the in-house nightclub of Sheraton Abu Dhabi Resort & Towers is an ideal place to enjoy the nightlife in Abu Dhabi. It stands as a jewel in the crown, being a high-spirited nightclub that offers its guests the perfect fusion of drinks and music.

Enigma Nightclub
Al Raha Beach Hotel
Opened in November 2007, Enigma occupies 5000²m of floor space with a double-height ceiling. Its own separate entrance makes it the second largest club in the UAE. The circular dance floor is surrounded by bar counters and bright seating arrangements. There is a viewing gallery, cigar counter, two separate bars where light bar snacks are also served and a VIP room. The DJ, in an elevated position, has all the latest audio and visual equipment to hand.

Sax Restaurant Club
Le Royal Meridian Hotel
Sax Restaurant Club is a trendy and modern dining with two bars and a lounge. Live entertainment is provided by the international band performing Jazz, R&B and the latest hits.

Al Hanah Pub & Bar
Shangri-La Hotel
A stylish lobby bar, perfect for a quiet drink.

Captain’s Arms Pub & Bar
Le Meridian Hotel
A typical low-ceilinged English pub. Pleasant enough serves great pub grub. A favourite pub in Abu Dhabi, partly because of the Captains’ outdoor seating.

Cheers Nightclub
Al Ain Palace Hotel
A dark American-themed bar with a regular rock band and DJ.

Chameleon
Fairmont Hotel, Abu Dhabi
This fashionable and chic venue is the place to see and to be seen! Featuring an impressive range of signature cocktails, vintage Champagnes, savvy mixologists and innovative cuisine this bar is a celebrated lounging experience in Abu Dhabi.

Teatro
Park Rotana Hotel, located on the outskirts of Abu Dhabi, by the Grand Mosque
Teatro offers a comprehensive à la carte menu that creatively blends dishes from Thai, Chinese, Japanese Sushi, Indian and Italian cuisines. The deep warm colours of the interior, beaded crystal features and an array of Venetian masks create a relaxed ambiance for informal dining. Guests can watch their food being cooked for them at the spectacular show kitchen or sushi bar. Wine connoisseurs will be delighted to find a bottle of their favourite vintage from the extensive wine cellar. The restaurant also features an outdoor terrace. The exclusive "Chef's Table" is available for private gatherings of up to 8 people.

Mirage Marine Cafe
Located behind the new villas & Marina Mall, Mirage serves great Lebanese and Italian cuisine as well as offering a great place to relax and indulge in an indoor or outdoor shisha.


WHERE TO SHOP

Abu Dhabi Mall
Abu Dhabi Mall has been around since 2001 and is the biggest mall in the Abu Dhabi Emirate with 500 stores catering for people of all ages. Located in the Tourist Club area, Abu Dhabi Mall encourages travellers to enjoy the shop till you drop experience. This 200 feet high mall has many stores well stocked with international goods; these make it a very popular place to go at any time of day or night. Whether on your family holiday or business trip, shopping in Abu Dhabi Mall is an exciting experience that will leave you totally amazed. With all the cutting edge of fashion on offer, Abu Dhabi Mall is a shopaholic’s paradise.

Marina Mall
Marina Mall is the second largest mall of the Abu Dhabi Emirate. Located next to the Corniche Hotel, this brilliantly designed mall is one of a kind. Its extraordinary shopping area has about 270 stores selling all that you could possibly think of. Shopping in Marina Mall is a unique experience; you will find all of the top luxury brands in just one place. Come visit and go on a shopping adventure.

Al Wahda Mall
This shopping mall opened in May of 2007 on Airport Rd near the Al Wahda Sports and Cultural Club. Run by EMKE group this mall has 150 shops as well as a Lulu Hypermarket. It is a great place to go with friends and family not only to shop but to try the variety of restaurants that are available.

Khalidiya Mall
Opened in 2007, Khalidiya Mall has 160 shops and a hypermarket. Run by EMKE group, it is also a great place to take the family and enjoy all that the Khalidiya Mall has to offer.

U Shop (Quintessentially Members' Benefits)
When looking for unique gifts or gift ideas for family, friends or loved ones think U Shop Gifts. Conveniently located in the One to One Hotel in Abu Dhabi, U Shop has lifestyle gadgets by Philippi and intriguing designer jewellery by Mac Design. You can also pick from the finest cigars, handcrafted soaps and home ornaments. It has inspiring ideas that are beyond the imagination, without going beyond your budget.

Antheia Flowers (Quintessentially Members' Benefits)
When looking for breath taking floral creations think of Antheia Flowers. Antheia has a wide selection of floral masterpieces which are known to be works of art. Located in One to One Hotel Abu Dhabi, Antheia Flowers is hard to miss. Their team of experts make sure that everything is perfectly placed.


HEALTH AND BEAUTY

Chi Spa (Quintessentially Members' Benefits)
Shangri La Hotel, Abu Dhabi
The Chi Spa Oasis gives you the luxury of a relaxed space in which you are free to indulge your senses, soothe your body and revitalize your spirit. Chi features luxurious private spa suites, complete with memorable bathing and herbal steam facilities. It has a wide selection of therapies available. Enjoy your experience in the privacy of a spacious spa of your choice. Its combination of eastern traditional bathing with the latest beauty treatments will keep you coming back for more.

Anatara Spa
Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi
Offers an extensive range of relaxing treatments, Anatara Spa’s calming atmosphere and therapies keep visitors coming back for more.

Abu Dhabi Health & Fitness Club- Powerhouse Gym
The Powerhouse Gymnasium houses the most extensive range of fitness equipment in the UAE. With two gyms, one mixed and one for ladies only, they each cover 300 square meters of spacious luxury for all of your work out requirements.

Zen Spa
Beach Rotana Hotel Abu Dhabi
Zen is "uncomplicated" and "uncluttered”. Comprising of ten treatment rooms, two tranquillity suites and relaxation areas, Zen will leave you with a unique well-being experience that you will seek out every time you are in Abu Dhabi.

Glow Beauty Salon (Quintessentially Members' Benefits)
One to One Hotels, Abu Dhabi
Looking for a change in your daily beauty regime, well look no further. Glow Beauty Salon located in the One to One Hotel Abu Dhabi brings out the best in you and expresses it through an elegantly modelled style of your own taste. Come experience extreme pampering from head to toe, from the hands of professionals.


WHAT TO SEE

There are many wonderful things to see in Abu Dhabi, so whether you want to experience the traditions of Arabic culture or witness the spectacular natural beauty of the landscape, there is something here for everyone.

Sheikh Zayed Mosque – Sheikh Zayed Mosque is the third largest mosque in the world and named after Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan who was the founder and the first president of the UAE. It’s the only mosque in the UAE where non-Muslims can enter. Its architecture is very beautiful and majestic with an equally impressive interior design with white marble, floral designs and walls with 24 carat gold-glass mosaic features. The main dome is the largest in the world and had traditional Moroccan design which later evolved to include many global features.

Heritage Village – A museum offering a glimpse of the old city where you can observe the lifestyle and traditions of the Bedouin people and other local cultures. The site is located in the centre of Abu Dhabi and features tents, courtyard houses, an ancient irrigation system and workshops where craftsmen ply their trades. Visitors can taste a traditional Bedouin meal and take a camel ride.

Camel Market – The Al Ain Camel market is a unique souk which attracts buyers and breeders from all over the United Arab Emirates. The market gives visitors the chance to hear traders discussing prices and negotiating sales. Camels are highly valued by their owners as they play a very important economic role in Arabian life. The market is open daily and is free of charge.

The Corniche – A stunningly picturesque road, almost 6km long and famous for its mountains, parks and modern buildings facing the sea. It’s located on the east side of Abu Dhabi and the best way to explore it is by taking a boat where you can admire its fabulous vistas.

Museums and Art Galleries – Abu Dhabi offers an insight into its rich cultural history at the Al Ain National Museum. With a Guggenheim Museum opening in 2011, which will be the biggest art museum in the world, and Louvre Abu Dhabi opening the following year Abu Dhabi is looking to establish itself as a leader in the world of art.