ENJOY THE FUTURE

Abu Dhabi's popularity among Azerbaijani travellers has been rapidly increasing recently, and there are compelling reasons for this trend. Firstly, in July 2023, a visa-free regime between the United Arab Emirates and Azerbaijan came into effect. This allows individuals to travel to the UAE for tourism without the need for visas and stay in the country for up to 90 days. Moreover, tourists can even rent a car without requiring an international driving license.

Secondly, the budget airline Wizz Air Abu Dhabi has been offering direct flights from the UAE capital to Baku for over two years. This provides travellers with the opportunity to reduce travel costs to Abu Dhabi and also explore other Emirates such as Dubai and Sharjah if desired. At times, the price of a round-trip ticket (including hand luggage) can drop to 70-80 euros, which is particularly appealing to budget-conscious travellers. Additionally, the recently revamped Abu Dhabi International Airport caters to more than 50 airlines, offering regular flights to 102 destinations in 56 countries. This accessibility enables travellers to purchase affordable tickets to various Asian countries, drawing many visitors to the region.

Touristic Wonders

Abu Dhabi has recognized the significance of tourism development within the emirate and has made substantial progress in this field over the past decade. Today, Abu Dhabi is renowned not only for its striking skyscrapers, opulent hotels, and expansive shopping centres but also for its appeal to investors worldwide. The diversity of attractions caters to a wide range of interests; from the tranquil beaches of Saadiyat Island to the exhilarating rides at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi theme park. Yas Island boasts the world's largest indoor theme park, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, while Yas Mall offers a haven for enthusiastic shoppers. Nature enthusiasts can explore the Mangrove Reserve, witness the untouched beauty of Sir Bani Yas Island, and marvel at the grandeur of the Rub Al Khali Desert. The state-of-the-art Etihad Arena hosts numerous performances and concerts, while the iconic Yas Marina Circuit hosts the thrilling final races of the Formula 1 championship.

Notably, Abu Dhabi is the largest and most densely populated of the seven emirates comprising the UAE, with a population of nearly 3 million people. Approximately 20% of this population consists of Emiratis, while the remaining 80% comprises expatriates from Asia, Africa, Australia, Europe, and North America. Emirate authorities affirm that Abu Dhabi is one of the safest cities globally, boasting a low crime rate and excellent emergency services that ensure peace of mind and a stress-free environment.

Similar to Dubai, the optimal time to visit the UAE capital is from October to April when temperatures are moderate and ideal for swimming, except in January. Abu Dhabi offers over 70 comfortable hotels, including 23 five-star, 20 four-star, and around 30 three-star accommodations. Additionally, there are numerous budget-friendly hostels and apartments available. Compared to Dubai, known for its high cost of living, Abu Dhabi presents a more economical option with housing prices averaging 15% lower than in Dubai. Furthermore, hotel rates in Abu Dhabi can be up to 50% cheaper in certain instances.

However, excursion prices in Abu Dhabi are notably higher compared to Dubai and are often deemed extravagant. For instance, while sightseeing tours on red double-decker Big Bus tourist buses in Europe typically cost 20-24 euros, similar tours in Abu Dhabi can amount to around $90. Similarly, a city tour in Dubai may cost $25-30, whereas in Abu Dhabi it could range from $100-110. Additionally, a one-day excursion from Abu Dhabi to Dubai can cost approximately $35. It is essential to note that many hotels in the capital lack excursion desks, making it challenging to find travel agencies on-site. When available, these agencies primarily focus on organizing private excursions at average prices ranging from $300-400 per day.

Popular But Free

Many excursions in the capital of the Emirates can be costly, but Abu Dhabi also boasts a variety of no-cost attractions. The city offers numerous museums, parks, nature reserves, and other iconic sites that visitors can enjoy without reaching for their wallets.

One prominent free attraction is The Heritage Village, which provides insights into what the United Arab Emirates' capital was like half a century ago, before its transformation into a modern global city. The village features thematic mini-museums and exhibitions displaying artefacts dating back to ancient times. Visitors can witness the creation of jewellery, daggers, household items, and traditional attire in the craft huts. There are authentic Bedouin tents, a mosque, dwellings from the past, aviaries housing domestic animals, and even a camel. Positioned along the village's shore where ancient boats are docked, guests can admire a stunning view of contemporary Abu Dhabi. The Heritage Village stands out as a popular destination among tourists, easily accessible via both public and tourist buses.

Another major free attraction is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a must-visit site for all travellers to Abu Dhabi. Constructed by Sheikh Zayd ibn Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the UAE, this mosque has welcomed visitors since its inauguration in 2007. Spanning an area of 12 hectares (larger than five football fields), the mosque took 11 years to complete and involved over 3,000 workers and 38 contractors from various countries. Noteworthy features include a carpet woven by 1,300 Iranian craftsmen for the main hall, recognized as the world's largest. The mosque boasts marble floors and walls adorned with exquisite artwork, gilded chandeliers embellished with Swarovski crystals, a vast marble mosaic in the courtyard, and pools reflecting the ornate columns. Official reports estimate the construction cost at over $500 million. Recent enhancements include the addition of an expansive lower floor area accessible via a modern entrance system. Visitors must register online, obtain a free ticket with a QR code, and adhere to a relaxed dress code. While men can now wear shorts and short-sleeved shirts, women must ensure arms and legs are covered, with heads veiled. Those not meeting these requirements can purchase appropriate attire nearby or opt for traditional local clothing like dishdashas or abayas. Many European tourists prefer donning these garments while visiting the mosque or exploring the city.

Among the interesting places to visit and explore on your own is the most famous, luxurious and expensive Emirates Palace Hotel, where you can admire the hotel's gold trim and mosaics, and drink coffee decorated with real gold shavings.

For art enthusiasts, the Manarat Al Saadiyat Centre offers a rich cultural experience on Saadiyat Island. The centre hosts free guided tours, lectures, workshops, and creative activities for visitors. Additionally, guests can explore The Founder's Memorial, a monumental three-dimensional structure honouring Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE's visionary leader. Surrounding the memorial is a picturesque garden ideal for leisurely walks after delving into the Emirates' history. Abu Dhabi boasts numerous parks, with Umm Al Emarat being one of the largest. This park features a captivating botanical garden, a charming pergola, and a petting farm where children can interact with camels, goats, cows, and ponies. Adjacent to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque stands the Wahat Al Karama Memorial, a tribute to fallen heroes of the nation. A poignant remembrance march takes place daily at dawn, drawing tourists seeking to pay their respects.

And, of course, don't overlook the opportunity to sunbathe, swim, and leisurely stroll along the expansive Corniche Beach in Abu Dhabi. Spanning two kilometres, this beach boasts pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters. Amenities include gender-specific toilets and showers, drinking water taps, several beachside cafes, and convenient coffee and tea machines. Visitors can engage in beach activities such as volleyball, badminton, and football, providing onlookers with enjoyable spectacles. Additionally, designated family recreation areas cater to larger groups seeking a relaxing beach experience.

A favoured pastime in the UAE capital is shopping, with numerous shopping centres dotting the cityscape. Major destinations include Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi Mall, Marina Mall, Al Wahda Mall, Al Khalidiyah Mall, and Al Raha. These malls showcase a plethora of renowned European brands, encompassing both premium labels and collections from various democratic brands. Furthermore, Abu Dhabi features themed markets worth exploring, including the central market and markets specializing in gold, carpets, dates, and seafood.

Future Starts Today

Looking towards the future, Abu Dhabi authorities have invested substantial sums over the past decades to enhance the emirate's infrastructure and appeal to tourists. The cityscape continues to evolve with the emergence of new urban centres, skyscrapers, and even artificial islands. Recently, plans were announced for 144 infrastructure projects totalling $18 billion aimed at developing housing, education, and tourism sectors. Many of these projects are already underway or nearing completion.

Exciting additions to Abu Dhabi's cultural landscape include the forthcoming Natural History Museum, offering a journey through space and time to explore the Universe's history. The museum will span 35,000 square meters and house rare natural history exhibits. Additionally, the Zayed National Museum on Saadiyat Island features a distinctive design resembling falcon wings symbolizing the UAE's national identity.

Art enthusiasts have likely visited the Louvre Abu Dhabi Art Museum, showcasing original masterpieces from prestigious institutions such as the Louvre in Paris. Anticipated for 2025 is the inauguration of the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi art museum adjacent to the Louvre Abu Dhabi. This innovative museum will feature four levels of galleries covering 30,000 square meters interconnected by glass bridges.

Moreover, the Abrahamic Family House on Saadiyat Island will serve as an interfaith complex promoting coexistence among Islam, Judaism, and Christianity. The architectural design emphasizes equality among religions with prayer houses of equal proportions connected by gardens and pathways. Noteworthy additions to the religious landscape include the Abu Dhabi Hindu Temple and the new St George's Orthodox Cathedral.

Abu Dhabi is actively developing expansive housing projects like Jubail Island valued at $10 billion. Six residential communities are under construction between Saadiyat and Yas islands across 400 hectares. Notably, 60% of Jubail Island will remain a protected area featuring mangroves, salt marshes, and reservoirs. These endeavours exemplify Abu Dhabi's commitment to realizing ambitious future projects today.

Renowned as a beacon of a promising future by many, Abu Dhabi invites visitors to experience this vision first-hand in the vibrant capital of the UAE.