For many reasons, the Middle East has seen vast growth in tourism in recent times, and leading the way is the United Arab Emirates. Its capital, Abu Dhabi, is situated just off the mainland on an island in the tranquil waters of the Persian Gulf.
See it all on Osiris’ Abu Dhabi Private Tours
The wealth of the country is evidenced by the city’s stunning skyline, with myriad super-modern, high-tech towers that punctuate the almost perpetual blue sky.
Abu Dhabi’s architectural wonders astound. The juxtaposition of old and new inspires in Abu Dhabi.
First, the old…
Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque
One of the world’s largest mosques, the Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque, has the capacity for 40,000 worshippers. With 82 domes, over 1,000 columns, reflective pools, 24-carat gold chandeliers, and the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet, it is a magnificent place to visit.
Al Jahali Fort
One of the UAE’s most picturesque buildings, the Al Jahili Fort, was built in 1891 to defend the city. Visitors are encouraged to experience the beautifully landscaped gardens and the permanent exhibition of the work of British adventurer Sir Wilfred Thesiger and his 1940s crossings of the Rub Al Khali (The Empty Quarter) desert.
Qasr al Hosn
Abu Dhabi’s symbolic birthplace, Qasr al Hosn, is the emirate’s first permanent structure. An excellent exhibition tells the story of Abu Dhabi and its people, and complete with fascinating oral testimonies and beautiful historical photographs, it gives the former watchtower an important role as a vibrant symbol of Emirati heritage, culture, and tradition.
And now the new…
Emirates Palace
An iconic landmark, this luxury hotel combines Arabian splendor with cutting-edge technology. In daylight, the hotel’s natural sandy color contrasts with its stunning gardens and impressive fountains beneath perma-blue skies. After dark, the hotel’s lighting changes to feature a beautiful rainbow above the main dome.
The vast complex spreads across 100 hectares, and with 114 domes and over 1000 chandeliers, the hotel is spectacular.
Vas Viceroy
Built half on land and half over water, the Vas Viceroy is the world’s only hotel to straddle an F1 race track. So, if Formula One is your passion, this is the hotel for you.
Etihad Towers
An architectural statement like no other, this multi-tower complex offers the chance to stay in luxury while you work, complete with world-class shopping and dining, all in one destination. The Observation Deck on the 74th floor affords unbeatable cityscape and island views.
Capital Gate
A modern-day challenger to the Leaning Tower of Pisa? Certified as the ‘World’s Furthest Leaning Man Made Tower’ by the Guinness World Records, Capital Gate is simply incredible. Leaning 18 degrees westwards, more than four times that of Pisa’s famous tower, the 525-foot structure is an icon of Abu Dhabi.
Aldar HQ
Arabia’s first circular building, the 350-foot-high Aldar IQ, is as unique as it is impressive and was named by Emporis as ‘One of the World’s Most Dazzling Corporate Offices.’
Qasr Al Muwaiji
Birthplace of President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the restored fort has been reopened to the public as a museum and permanent exhibition. The impressive structure has watched over the oasis for more than a century, and after a massive collaboration between archaeologists, architects, historians, and curators, the rejuvenation of the fort has created a place of learning, understanding, and appreciation.
An add-on to your Dubai luxury tour?
It’s not all about the city’s inspiring architecture. Abu Dhabi has countless activities for tourists, both indoors and out, and due to its close proximity to Dubai, just a short ride away, why not add this exciting city as part of our Dubai luxury tours?
With outstanding shopping, stunning desert adventures, such as horse and camel riding and dune buggy races, fantastic dining opportunities, and water sports in the calm, warm waters of the Persian Gulf, all these and many more experiences await you in magical Abu Dhabi, where you can have your very own Arabian adventure.
