Few places in the Gulf can set the bar on wonderment in the Gulf as Abu Dhabi can. Long assumed to be the capital city of the UAE with little to do and just the place where Ethihad, another great Gulf airline lands, Abu Dhabi can wow your imagination if one really sets out to explore.

Challenging records or changing perception Abu Dhabi has come a long way to stake its claim as the destination of choice for family entertainment or even a fascinating cultural experience.

Home to the fastest rollercoaster and longest hand-loomed carpet in the world, coupled with its some amazingly luxurious hotels and the mesmerising Sheih Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi is one city that deserves to be on every traveller’s bucket list.

Constantly innovating and proud at the forefront of innovation, Abu Dhabi is one of the leading cities in the world for culture being home to the much anticipated Louvre Abu Dhabi and soon to be Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and Zayed National Museum. This will surely take the city to a world crown for fascinating museums and cultural attractions.

Our trip to Abu Dhabi from Kuwait was an out of world experience right from flying in with a world class airline Ethihad. The airline oozes an unique comfort and service level that gives one an immediate sense of Arabian Gulf hospitality.

Our hosts the Rotana Group put us up to experience the Saadiyat Rotana, which is a one of a kind five-star property with modern Arabic architecture and a regal presence, this award winning resort is an experience in itself.  Nestled in the heart of Saadiyat Island, the resort’s location boasts a haven of abundant natural beachfront beauty and wildlife, whilst only a convenient 15-minute drive from the city.

Abu Dhabi is an eventful capital with an action-packed calendar, including a Grand Prix, the World Cup of Sailing, a PGA golf championship, international art, music, sport, gourmet, heritage and cultural festivals, high profile business conferences and vibrant trade fairs.

We feature some of the top spots on our visit to Abu Dhabi that left us seeking to come back for more. As Abu Dhabi boasts of some amazing shopping experiences and also out door fun. There is simply no bar to the age segment as it encompasses an unbelievable range of activites for every age group.

Sheikh Zayed Grand mosque still the star attraction

It’s Abu Dhabi’s star attraction, attracting millions each year, yet despite the footfall, there’s a wonderful air of calm that surrounds the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

The UAE’s largest and most ornate place of worship doesn’t disappoint and with visitors traveling from around the globe to bask in the opulence, it’s no surprise a staggering 3.4 million tourists came to experience it in 2017.

In the same year, it was ranked as the world’s second-favorite landmark according to TripAdvisor — surpassing other world stunners such as St Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City and the Taj Mahal in India — with Angkor Wat in Cambodia beating it to the top spot.

The spectacular monument was designed by Syrian architect Yousef Abdelky. Inspired by Persian, Mughal and Moorish architecture, it was a truly international collaboration of more than 3,000 artisans from 38 global construction companies.

Arguably the real opulence is in the tiny details, such as precious stones like amethyst and jasper embedded into the columns and the intricate floral patterns in mother-of-pearl radiating across the walls.

The mosque is always busy but as it’s so vast it never feels overcrowded. An insider tip would be to avoid the searing midday heat by heading there first thing in the morning or late afternoon.

No visit to Abu Dhabi is complete without a visit to the Louvre

The hyped up opening of the Louvre Abu Dhabi  eventually exceed expectations for want of a better word. Its exterior alone is worth a visit for sheer beauty that can leave one awestruck. The silver dome was designed by Pritzer Prize winning French architect Jean Nouvel and comprises almost 8,000 unique metal stars intrically placed to create a unique geometric pattern. Sharing a fresh light on the stories of humanity Abu Dhabi Louvre redefines the typical museum and also has much to offer for in terms of a relaxed tour on mankind.

Ferrari World that can take your breath away

For the adventurous the first Ferrari branded theme park in the world can simply take your breath away. Rides to thrill, its iconic structure houses numerous high-adrenaline rides featuring the world fastest rollercoaster, family friendly attractions, state of the art simulators and an inspiring treasure of racing memorabilia.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi offers a unique experience for visitors of every age ina refreshing, indoor, climate controlled environment. Located in the Yas Island, this top leisure and entertainment destination in the UAE is unlike any other one can experience for sheer adventure and entertainment.

Simply unforgettable and relieving the past with a blast

One of the world’s largest if not the largest Warner Bros, World Abu Dhabi can take your breath away. The Theme park is bound to fascinate and rekindle memories for the young and the old. The most loved characters of Bugs Bunny, Batman, and everyone’s favourite cartoon family, the Flinstones will transport visitors to a whole new world of action, adventure and wachiness and more. Fun rides, shows and hanging out in real like studio is an experience of a lifetime. The place will keep you engrossed for hours an is a treat to all the sense with some simply amazing atmosphere.

Pearl Rotana Capital Centre, Abu Dhabi

Located at the heart of Abu Dhabi’s business district, the Pearl Rotana Capital Centre is a modern deluxe hotel. The Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) is just steps from the property, while the city’s Downtown and Yas Island are a short drive away. Pearl Rotana is just 20 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport.

Pearl Rotana’s 315 rooms and suites have been designed to suit the needs of business, leisure travellers and families alike. Featuring one and two-bedroom suite options, Club Rotana rooms and suites offer added benefits including complimentary access to the Club Rotana lounge.

Pearl Rotana’s five unique dining options include Italian home cooking at Dino’s Bistro Italiano, breakfast at Saffron, sip tea and chat at Chai Lobby Lounge, tuck into small plates at The Warehouse wine & tapas bar or enjoy a refreshment at Aquarius Pool Bar. In-room dining is available too, while Club Rotana guests can dine in a dedicated lounge. In addition, the seven venues for meetings and events include the latest technology to cater to executive and social needs.

To keep fit, go for a dip or just take time out and relax at Bodylines Fitness & Wellness Club featuring a well-equipped gymnasium, rooftop pool, sauna, steam and massage rooms.

Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas

Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas, a one-of-a-kind, five-star property with modern Arabic architecture and a regal presence, located in the UAE capital. The award winning resort welcomes guests with effortless luxury across 327 rooms & suites, 13 Beach Villas, and diverse dining options, including the signature Turtle Bay Bar & Grill restaurant, Sim Sim, Sama Lobby Lounge with stunning sea views, Si Ristorante Italiano & Bar, Hamilton’s Gastropub, Nasma Beach Bar, and the refreshing Swim Up Pool Bar.

Nestled in the heart of Saadiyat Island, the resort’s location boasts a haven of abundant natural beachfront beauty and wildlife, whilst only a convenient 15-minute drive from the city. Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas presents leisure facilities including a large outdoor swimming pool, two tennis courts, Bodylines Fitness Club with a private entrance and a mini golf course. There are array of event and meeting space options, including an elegant ballroom and The Lawn, a spectacular outdoor event venue designed with memorable weddings and events in mind.

Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas features Zen the spa, offering 10 luxuriously appointed treatment rooms, traditional Turkish and Moroccan hammam, as well as the ultimate clubhouse for youngsters, Aladdin’s Cave; an active and engaging experience where kids and teens can enjoy various water features, a cinema zone and much more.

Haute Gandeur Global Excellence Awards 2018 – Best New Resort


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