The modern gleaming skyline, the grandeur of the recently re-developed Corniche and in particular the statement that is the Emirates Palace. Abu Dhabi’s approach to the development of a tourism infrastructure, the aim of which is to rival any in the region, is both measured and considered. The initial focus is upon the city itself along with its immediate hinterland. With a vast interior, miles of untouched shoreline and over 200 off-shore islands ripe for development, the opportunity available to Abu Dhabi is immense. Already, well-known recognised international hotel chains are seeking to establish a presence in the area. Indeed, many of those already present here are planning to move up a notch or two, if they haven’t done so already, in order to be able to compete. Exciting times lie ahead for sure, but right now is still a pretty good time to visit. There are a number of sites and attractions within the city of Abu Dhabi itself which are worthy of a visit. Most of these are incorporated within a comprehensive city tour itinerary which can be arranged on demand. The main ones are highlighted here.
Particularly rewarding is a visit to Al-Hosn Palace, otherwise known as the White Fort. Located in the city centre the fort was constructed in the 19th century and was completely surrounded by desert up until a few decades ago. Although most of it has been lost to latter day development a section of the Old Souq still has much to offer. At the end of The Corniche, on a short peninsula adjacent to the Emirates Palace Hotel lies the Cultural Village. Examples of a traditional way of life are on display here within a fully functional, working environment.
Away from Abu Dhabi there are two principal attractions, the first being the Oasis town of Al-Ain on the Omani border. Al-Ain is an ideal place to visit to escape the heat and humidity often associated with the coast, the climate being much drier here. Al-Ain is known for its series of splendid date palm filled Oases which can be visited year round. A visit to the summit of the nearby 1200 metre high Jebel Hafit rock outcrop provides stunning views over the surrounding landscape. Further south, close to the Saudi Arabian border on the edge of the Empty Quarter, lies the fertile strip known as Liwa Oasis. The 400 metre high dunes here are simply stunning and provide the ultimate off-road experience. Although not featured here we have access to excellent accommodation in both Al-Ain and Liwa for those wishing to extend their stay.
DUBAI
In a little over a decade and a half, the tranquil port of Dubai, once populated by Persian traders and Bedouin fisherman, has transformed itself into the premier holiday destination in the Middle East and the fastest growing city in the world at one and the same time. The pace at which this transformation has taken place and the scale to which it has been realised and continues to develop, is nothing short of mind boggling. The rulers of Dubai, recognising early on that oil was not going to be the key to their future prosperity, invested heavily in promoting this small Emirate as the ‘next big thing’ on the tourism map. In almost every respect it has succeeded. One the of the world’s pre-eminent airlines, with a worldwide route network, has evolved out of nothing inside fifteen years. Many of the world’s premier luxury hotel chains have established a significant presence in Dubai and continue to proliferate. Dubai is now home to the best nightlife and dining options in the region and plays host to the richest sporting events in the world. Theme parks and unique interactive experiences abound.
More recently numerous apartment complexes and condominiums have sprouted from the desert floor in profusion. With coastal development space at a premium, man-made offshore islands have been created to house further hotel and private accommodation developments along with over 120 kilometres of new beachfront. It is estimated by some that over 25% of the world’s cranes are currently located in Dubai.
Much of the old port of Dubai can be explored on foot and evidence of it’s trading heritage is still clearly visible for all to see. The headwaters of the Khor Dubai, or Dubai Creek, which divides the city, is the best place to start.
Crossing the Creek is made easy by the ever-present Abras, or water taxis that travel back and forth between Deira on the right bank and Bur Dubai on the left bank. The principal site on the Bur Dubai side is the Dubai Museum, housed in the Al-Fahidi Fort and featuring numerous historical and interactive displays. The area known as Bastakia, overlooking the Creek, is home to several wind towers, originally constructed by Persian traders at the turn of the century. On the Deira side the most popular attraction is arguably the gold souk. Next door to the gold souk is the Deira souk, or spice souk, which is a very colourful and fragrant encounter.
Purpose built tourist attractions and organised touring opportunities within the Dubai region are many. Along with the more specialised options featured on the next two pages we are able to assist you in gaining access to all of them. The following are of particular interest: Magic Planet is a thrilling children’s centre with bowling alleys, electronic games and theme rides. Ski Dubai is the first in-door ski resort in the Middle East. Wild Wadi features 24 rides in a state-of-the-art water park adjacent to the Jumeirah Beach hotel. Dubai’s many Championship Golf courses would keep most professionals happy. A wide range of organised tours are available covering the City, the Creek, Desert Safaris and the neighbouring Emirates of Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al-Khaimah, Fujairah and the mountainous Omani peninsula territory of Mussandam in the far north.
GENERAL INFORMATION
THE U.A.E. - ABU DHABI AND DUBAI PASSPORTS AND VISAS
British passport holders are issued with a visitors visa on arrival which is valid for 60 days. Extensions are available locally for a further 30 days at a charge. At least 6-months validity is required on your passport. Other nationalities should contact the United Arab Emirates Embassy, 30 Prince’s Gate, London SW7 1PT - Tel: 0870 005 6984.
VACCINATIONS AND HEALTH
Yellow fever immunisation essential if arriving from an infected area. Please consult your GP for up to date information.
CURRENCY
U.A.E. dirham (DH) = 100 Fils. Major credit cards accepted. ATM facilities are widely available.
CLIMATE
Both Abu Dhabi and Dubai have a sub-tropical climate. From mid-October to April it is warm and sunny with sparse rainfall and the occasional sandstorm. Temperatures soar from mid-May to September and can exceed 40 degrees C. Rainfall is virtually non-existent.
TIPPING AND BARGAINING
A service charge is added in most establishments. Those wishing to tip should add approximately 10%. Bargaining in souqs and markets is acceptable but can be exhausting. It is also acceptable to ask for the ‘best price’ in western-style shopping centres.
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Rajasthan - A Land of Fairs and Festivals -- Rajasthan has many festivals and fairs which are organized all year round. From celebrating camels, elephants, to the deities of the people, it has all. There is always a reason to celebrate, to name the main few- Camel fair, Pushkar fair, elephant fair, Urs Ajmer Sharif.
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