How to experience the best of Abu Dhabi as a first-time traveller – A cradle of the new and old

As the capital city of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi leaves no stone unturned in providing visitors from across the globe with a slew of authentic and exciting experiences to surround themselves in. With sweeping desert lands, stunning architectural symbols and a cluster of islets, the city is well worth your time and attention and for the first-timer out there, outlined below is how you may set about embracing the magic of a truly magnificent metropolis. 

Visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

As a city overflowing with Islamic traditions and values, none would quite mirror these aspects of the local culture as Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque does. Built as a tribute to Abu Dhabi’s ruler, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, this grand mosque is considered the largest of its kind in all of Abu Dhabi and a ‘must-visit when scheduling a trip to this part of the world. A guided tour will come across as your best bet to capture the very essence of the Mosque which also holds the world’s biggest carpet and the tomb of the great leader himself. Worthy of mention is the main prayer hall that contains a Qibla wall on which the name ‘Allah’ has been written 99 times. 

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Head off to Qasr Al Watan

Known for hosting official state visits and other important gatherings, Qasr Al Watan which translates to ‘Palace of the Nation’ is a work of art. For instance, move in the direction of the Grand Hall which is divided across multiple sections but not before spending time admiring the minute details that adorn the Central Dome. Learn of the UAE by pouring over the numerous books and manuscripts contained within the four walls of the Qasr Al Watan Library while the region labelled ‘Presidential Gifts’ is one such part of this edifice where presents offered by foreign nations are kept.

Take a walk through Louvre Abu Dhabi

Seen as a collaborative effort with its more famed counterpart in Paris, the Louvre Abu Dhabi is next on the list of places that you must spend time at. Located on Saadiyat Island, this museum is an engineering marvel and a thing of beauty so to speak given its dazzling exterior that complements the wonders within. Designed by Jean Nouvel, a visit to the museum is by far one of the most enjoyable things to do. Abu Dhabi has built a reputation for affording such journeys that are rich in allure and to the curious globetrotter, the Louvre Abu Dhabi with its stunning collections spanning many a culture and civilization will be quite the draw indeed. In fact, those considering coming over would do well to consider a stay at Anantara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi Hotel which is found a mere 20 minutes away.

Be entertained on Yas Island

An array of thrills, spills and fast-paced action can be availed of when on Yas Island. Begin at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi where the Formula Rossa rollercoaster can be ridden which will see to it that you reach 240 km an hour in just a matter of five seconds. From here, do a beeline for the Yas Marina Circuit which plays host to the season finale of the annual Formula One season. Go behind the scenes and delight in the ‘ins and outs’ of the facility and before you leave, be sure to strap yourself into an Aston Martin GT4 and have a whale of a time, duelling with like-minded race car enthusiasts keen on putting on one memorable spectacle.

Explore the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital

Serving as a centre of care and refuge for the national bird of the UAE, the falcon together with numerous other species of birds from neighbouring Gulf nations; the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital is an outstanding facility that cannot be excluded at any cost. Uncover the intricacies of the falcon species and be educated on the value that it holds in Emirati culture as part of a tour that will ensure that you have plenty to smile and ponder about during your vacation in Abu Dhabi.