Saudi Gazette The United Arab Emirates' capital, Abu Dhabi, is a city that blends elegance with heritage. Why not make the city your next destination for a short mid-year or winter getaway. Abu Dhabi has several islands, each suited to a different type of vacation. If you want to spend your vacation relaxing on beaches away from the crowds, staying on Yas or Saadiyat Islands is best. But if you want to experience culture, Abu Dhabi would be a better choice. Here's seven places you should visit next time you're in the capital. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Arguable Abu Dhabi's most iconic structure, the mosque is the third largest in world. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan initiated the mosque's construction, which took around nine years to complete and was opened in 2007. The beautiful white marble and other materials used around the mosque came from many countries, including Morocco and Pakistan. Inside, the mosque is filled with beautiful, simple geometric designs. One wall is inscribed with the names of God. There is a section for visitors and other sections for men and women to pray. Yas Mall Located on Yas Island next to the Ferrari World, this mall has a cinema and several international restaurants and cafes serving food such as Italian and Indian. There is also Alfanar restaurant, which serves a variety of local Emirati dishes and desserts. The mall hosts a number of events around the year – check the Mall's website to see what's coming up. Emirates National Auto Museum The museum is located on the E65 road to Liwa Oasis, and is home to the personal automobile collection of Sheikh Hamad Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan. It features over 200 vehicles, including a large number of cars and other vehicles. The museum's entry fee is around 50 AED. Cafes on Abu Dhabi's corniche Abu Dhabi's corniche is the perfect place for watching the sunset and taking a short walk in the winter. After a walk, visitors can enjoy at coffee at one of the corniche's many cafés. Special Café is one of the most well known along the cornice, and is open 24 hours. Fish and fruits souks Visiting the fish market is one of the things that you can do during your Abu Dhabi trip. Located at Mina Zayed near Abu Dhabi's main port area, the market is a chance to see a wide range of fish and seafood, but is also a chance to see the traditional way of selling fish in the UAE. It's best to go early in the morning. You can also visit other local markets, such as the Al Mina Fruit and Vegetable Souk market, which is located across the road from the Fish Souk. Beaches If you're a beach fan, it's best to head to Yas or Saadiyat Islands. Their beaches are great for singles and couples to enjoy a swim and relax. If you choose to stay in Abu Dhabi, many of the hotels have access to the beach along the cornice, but it's not as picturesque in comparison to the other islands' beaches. Desert A desert safari and camping overnight is part of Gulf culture, and something that any tourist should experience when in Abu Dhabi. There are many options online, or just ask your hotel to arrange a full-day safari trip for you in the dessert region around Abu Dhabi.
