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Abu Dhabi, the capital, center, and largest city of the United Arab Emirates, has been described by CNN new network as “the richest city in the world” and with a population of just under 1.5 million, this diamond in the rough is sure to be a winner. Although it seems like this city would be in the middle of a desert, it’s actually located on a huge island and surrounded by blue tropical water. The city center is also a huge bustling metropolis where everyone is hard at work. With each citizen averaging a $17 million net worth it’s not hard to see how everyone affords such an upscale city. Pack your bags and set sail for the tropical paradise for your wild spring break. Visit www.studentuniverse.com for cheap student airfare to Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi Pictures

Things to do in Abu Dhabi

Although Abu Dhabi offers little in the way of historical or cultural sights, it does have some different, quirky things to see. The city’s flagpole, standing 123 meters tall, is among the world’s tallest flagpoles, with the massive UAE flag dangling from it. It’s on Marina Island across from the Marina Mall. Abu Dhabi also has great parks which include open green spaces, lovely fountains, lights, and even some sculptures. The Khalifa Park, an upscale park, was built as a cost of $50 million and has its own aquarium, museum, train, play spaces, and formal gardens. Also Abu Dhabi has a treat for your eyes with the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, the 6th largest Mosque in the world. Construction is mostly done, and entry in the Mosque for non-Muslims is restricted to Saturday-Thursday mornings. Most people in Abu Dhabi enjoy swimming during the week, and this city has tons of it. Hotels and private clubs in Abu Dhabi have swimming facilities, as well as private beaches which can usually be rented out for a day, week, or even year. For more of a touristy experience you could try the Desert Safari, where an experienced staff takes you around tall sand dunes on a Jeep and eventually includes a short camel ride and Arabic buffet with a belly dancer. Book trips early to get your spot confirmed.

Nightlife in Abu Dhabi

Only restaurants in hotels are allowed to serve alcohol, so all of the nightlife is associated with hotels, and the drinking age being 21. It is also fairly well known that most places don’t card, but be cautious and use your common sense. The best spots to hit up are Hemingway’s, at the Hilton Abu Dhabi, and the Captain’s Arms, at Le Meridien. At Hemingway’s you can find three different places inside, with the main restaurants having a good Tex-Mex menu, a wide selection of beer on tap and great live music, the Jazz Bar featuring a great act, and the Cinnabar, a lively nightclub that usually gets going after midnight. At the Captain’s Arms you can find a mostly traditional British pub in the hotel courtyard, but get there early as it fills up quickly with the after-work crowd.

Dining in Abu Dhabi

Meals are warm and inviting in Abu Dhabi, with Vegetarians having more options than usual with all the vegetable and bean-heavy native dishes. Be careful to check if you’re going to visit during the month of Ramadan, as Muslim’s are required to fast and restaurants are, by law, closed during the day. For some cheap, authentic food definitely try Arabian Palace and Anand Vegetarian Restaurant, both a great option. If you’re looking to spend a bit more on food, hit up Prego’s, Rodeo Grill, and Benihana, all located at the Beach Rotana Hotel.

Shopping in Abu Dhabi

Shopping in Abu Dhabi is a shopper’s heaven, with tons of malls featuring local and English, American, and Canadian chain stores. Many visitors will be surprised at the female fashion dichotomy – while local custom calls for women to be covered in public, most stores sell short skirts and halter tops alongside the more sedate floor-length skirts and high-necked shirts. The best malls are the Abu Dhabi Mall, Marina Mall, and Al Wahda Mall, all a great choice! There’s also tons of small, independent stores around the city. Be sure to bargain as it’s a big part of the shopping experience in Abu Dhabi. Grocery stores such as Spinney’s, Carrefours, and the Abu Dhabi Cooperative Society are inexpensive and usually stocked with Western goods. Prices in Abu Dhabi tend to be very competitive and there is no tax on goods.

Abu Dhabi Travel Tips

• There are usually lots of traffic jams in the downtown area.
• Convert money before to avoid fees.
• Buy tickets early at www.studentuniverse.com