Stunning architecture under brilliant blue skies, colourful foliage surrounded by encroaching desert sands and a diverse population of friendly welcoming people; this is Abu Dhabi.
When the Arab countries were united in 1971 by Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan Abu Dhabi was made its capital. It is remains the largest and wealthiest of the emirates. Abu Dhabi still has oil reserves and continues to support its residents with homes, cars, education, and health care in a tax free economy. Most of its population (75 – 80%) are from other countries.
We chose to do a ship excursion to see as much of the city as we could during our one day in port. Our first stop was the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, which is the 8th largest in the world, built between 1996 and 2007. Unfortunately Sheikh Zayed died before it was finished. As with any mosque in the Islamic countries, women are required to dress very modestly with arms and legs and head covered. Visitors are no exception. Those unlucky enough to have worn inappropriate clothing from the ship were required to purchase scarves or leg and arm covering shifts before entering. Luckily there is an underground mall in the visitors centre, complete with a Tim Horton’s.
Despite the challenges of the preparation the mosque is very much worth the bother. The structure is a blend of different Islamic architectures with a minaret that soars 351 feet into the air. Its gleaming white exterior only pales in comparison to its opulent interior with beautiful carpets and crystal chandeliers. It features 82 domes, more than 1,000 columns, 24-carat-gold gilded chandeliers and the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet.
From there we returned to our bus for a tour of the other parts of the city with photo stops at all the best sights. We drove down the main boulevard Corniche Street to the waterfront to gawk at the skyline. Both residential and commercial skyscrapers rose above the pristine landscape with some of the most awe inspiring modern architecture we have ever seen. Spend as much time looking up as you do around in order to take it all in.
Abu Dhabi is an archipelago with over 200 islands and each one has its own character. We explored Saadiyat Island which is the culture and art centre of the city. Boosting its own Louvre and Guggenheim Museums with many more under construction it is an art lovers destination. Nearby is Yas Island which offers all the recreation and leisure any tourist would desire including a beach, golf course, water world and Ferrari Land with the fastest roller coaster on the planet! You will also find live concerts and shows and five star hotels.
From a small village of nomadic Arab tribes to one of the most impressive modern cities, Abu Dhabi is a wonderful stop on any cruise itinerary. It would also be a great city for a lengthier stay as it is reasonably affordable and safe for even the novice traveler.