Abu Dhabi is a new destination for most Scandinavian companies. Although it is only approximately 1 hour away from Dubai, most tourists still think mainly of Dubai when checking for destinations in Middle East. But Abu Dhabi is very rich and upcoming destinations, with a large amount of first-class hotels, outdoor activities and restaurants, as well as several landmarks like Sheikh Zayed Grand mosque, the long Corniche beach and the entertainment destination of Yas Island with theme parks, Formula 1 official circuit and great shopping. The destination also offers great value in the hotels, with usually lower prices than Dubai for many peak periods. For groups it can be really affordable to stay in Abu Dhabi compared to Dubai at some parts of the year. Abu Dhabi is also a great conference destination, with their own International airport close to the city centre, and several nice conference venues spread across the hotels and the congress centre/exhibition area.
See below some central areas in Abu Dhabi.
Corniche – the heart of Abu Dhabi. This 6 km long stretch of parks, beach and hotels is hugely poplular during the winter months. Crystal clear turquise waters, public beach, cafes, and often free events and festivals. Hotels Like St Regis Abu Dhabi, Emirates Palace, Hilton, Le Royal Meridien and Jumeirah Etihad towers are located along this stretch. Also close to Marina Mall and Heritage Village.
Khor Al Maqta- Qariyat Al Beri- means between the bridges in Arabic. The area between Maqta and Mussafah bridge, connecting the mainland to the semi-island which is Abu Dhabi city centre. Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Shangri -La and Ritz Carlton Hotel Grand Canal s are all located in this area. Also Souq Qariyat Al Beri with several nice restaurants and bar, as well as shopping (especially Arabic souvenirs & clothing).
Saadiyat Island- one of the natural islands outside Abu Dhabi city centre. Connected with the mainland through a highway since 2008. This is where Abu Dhabi Cultural District will have its location, incl the Louvre museum, Guggenheim, Sheikh Zayed Natural Museum, and the Performance Art Centre. Here is also the UAE art pavillion and the Manarat Al Saadiyat centre, with several exhibitions about the islands and different art & design galleries. Also home to the beautifully green and lush Saadiyat Golf Course and high end hotels like St Regis Resort and Park Hyatt.
Yas Island – the entertainment centre of Abu Dhabi! Located closest to Dubai, about 50 min drive from Dubai marina. Here you will find several good value hotels, incl. the iconic Yas Viceroy Hotel, the only hotel in the world located over a F1 race track .Yas Marina Circuit offers several motorrelated activities except the F1 race. Yas Marina is a nice area with several restaurants and bars. Ferrari World theme park and Yas Waterworld waterpark are also located here, as well as the 2014 opened large Yas Mall, offering great shopping and dining oppoturnities. Yas Links Golfcourse is also a prime destination on the island.
Reem Island – Newly developed smaller island close to the city centre. Boutiq mall offers some shopping and will soon be home to several luxury hotels.
Maryah Island – new development close to city centre, with Sowwah Square, the large Cleveland clinic and Rosewood Hotel, as well as the upcoming Four Seasons Abu Dhabi. Prime high end shopping and dining at The Galleria makes this a popular destination for residents and tourists.
See also activities in Abu Dhabi
