Less than 50 years ago, the emirate of Abu Dhabi was little more than an empty desert inhabited by nomadic Bedouin tribes. In the coastal areas, pearling, fishing and dhow trading were the main sources of income. Further inland, it was the nomadic breeding of camels, goats and sheep, as well as cultivation and date trading.
In 1939 the Sheikh gave permission to a British company to search for oil but it was not until 1958 that huge reserves were found offshore, by an Anglo-French consortium, promoting the island into one of the greatest economic powers of the region.
The differing landscapes of Abu Dhabi are remarkable. The Rub Al Khali (or Empty Quarter), is a vast arid desert famous for its spectacular sand dunes and a world apart from the Manhattan-like skyline of Abu Dhabi city. Then there is Al Ain, the garden city on the emirate’s border with Oman, the Liwa oasis set amidst towering red dunes.
Abu Dhabi is split into three areas; Abu Dhabi City (and the offshore islands), the Eastern Region (which includes the oasis of Al Ain) and the Western Region (which incorporates Liwa).
A busy metropolis of spectacular high rise office towers, shops, restaurants and superb hotels, the city is interspersed with residential districts and its layout reflects it origins as a fishing village. Many of the places of interest are located within a few blocks of the sea as are many of the international quality hotels.
Abu Dhabi combines old world charm and cosmopolitan sophistication. The distinct blend of east and west offers immense diversity and variety. Visitors will be spoiled for choice with experiences that appeal to travellers seeking adventure, culture or just simple relaxation.
Evening safaris are especially popular. After witnessing the dramatic desert sunset, visitors may experience camel riding, dressing up in traditional clothing and (ladies) having their hands adorned with henna before enjoying a sumptuous Arabian barbecue and belly dancing performance. Abu Dhabi has an impressive array of top-end accommodation, though cheaper options are available. The majority of places to stay are three to five star hotels. Accommodation in Abu Dhabi is mainly situated around the northern end of the island near the Corniche. There are several luxury beach-front properties as well as a range of superior properties in the heart of the city, where shopping is elevated to an art form. Abu Dhabi is undoubtedly a shoppers’ paradise with a wide range of products on offer at often unbeatable prices. Whether you head to the designer boutiques, malls or haggle in the local souks, shopping in the emirate should not be missed!
Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, offers the Cyprus public the opportunity to explore the wonderful world of Abu Dhabi through its direct flights from Larnaca, three times a week, at very competitive prices. Etihad’s flight EY093 flies on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, departing from Larnaca at 15:35 and arriving in Abu Dhabi at 20:05 local time. For more information visit www.etihadairways.com, or contact your travel agent.