Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, is the capital of the UAE (United Arab Emirates) and is the largest emirate. It is ruled by one of the wealthiest families in the world, the Al Nahyan family. Although it is not the most densely-populated of the emirates, it occupies 86.7% of the total area of the country. The emirate is primarily a vast desert area with about two dozen islands in the coastal waters, including the island where the city of Abu Dhabi is located, plus six sizeable islands further out in the Arabian Gulf. The population of the emirate is concentrated in three areas: the capital city, Abu Dhabi; Al Ain, an oasis city located near the Hajar Mountains; and the villages of the Liwa oases.

Traditionally, the population along the coast relied on fishing and pearling for their livelihood, whilst those in the hinterland relied on date plantations and camel herding. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, after whom Dubai's main road is named, developed Abu Dhabi into an influential, fully modernised state. Upon Sheikh Zayed's death in November 2004, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who pitched in financially to finish the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, today the tallest building in the world, became UAE President and Ruler of Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi is fast-becoming the Middle-East's capital of art, with various auctions taking place here, and a controversial branch of Paris' legendary Louvre Museum soon to open in 2013.

There isn't much to see in terms of landmarks apart from the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque close to the airport. Despite being a relatively new monument finished in 1990, it is worth stopping by to admire its 80 domes, 1000 columns and 40,000 worshippers at prayer. There is a very strict dress code to observe to enter.

Like Dubai, Abu Dhabi is somewhat of a shopping haven. Shopping malls, which remain open till 22:00 or 23:00, are a main attraction for many of Abu Dhabi residents and visitors, not only for the rich shopping experience but for the variety of outlets and services found in these malls, including food and beverage outlets.

Abu Dhabi is a lot greener than Dubai. It has a number of parks and zoos, including the Abu Dhabi Wildlife Centre, Al Ain Wild life Park, and the Arabian Wildlife Park. The largest parks include the Capital Gardens (open 24/7) and Khalifa Park.

The rest of the attractions aren't really worth stopping by. Most of the activity otherwise takes place in hotels.