Exploring the marvels of the Middle East - Part 1

Part 1 :

A holiday in the city of Abu Dhabi

Dubai and Abu Dhabi 2 of the famous cities of the Emirates.

Abu Dhabi was where my voyage in the middle east began. The Capital city of the UAE an island in the Persian Gulf this city has its own charming skyline.

The Arab city with a mix of the Arab culture, architecture and industries.

The Yas islands of Abu Dhabi was one of my first sights in Abu Dhabi. A man made island Yas is well connected to the airport. Yas island hosts several of abu Dhabhi's chief attractions including the Ferrari World. The other attractions at Yas are the Yas Beach, Yas Marina, Marina Circuit, Yas Mall and the Yas Water World. While touring the Yas island on hearing the sound of the racing cars we hopped off and were fortunate to witness the practice session at the circuit.

The Ferrari World AD has the worlds fastest roller coaster. No visit to Abu Dhabi could be complete with out riding in the Ferrari Roller Coaster. Picture yourself with the range of Ferrari cars which are at display in the Ferrari world. A visit to Ferrari world could take about 6 - 8 hours. To enjoy most of the rides its ideal to spend a day here. A couple of rides at the Ferrari World need a reservation. Updating your Ferrari pass to a gold could get you quick entries to several rides.

Overindulge in the luxurious sights of the Emirates palace. Typically called "beyond 7 star" this place is more than just a hotel. The famous 24 carat gold flakes cappuccino in Le Cafe at the Emirates Palace is worth a try. The place also has a gold ATM with about 320 items at disposal. It is delightful to enjoy an evening here. From gardens to private beach name it and Emirates palace has it for you.

The dome in the lobby area is gold picked.

A visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque will help you acknowledge the beauty and indulge in the Arabic culture. Several unique elements make this mosque special. From carpet in the main prayer hall which is the worlds largest hand woven carpet. The carpet was made by Irani artist.

It is important to observe the desired dress code in this mosque.

The abaya's are available in the lower level of the mosque. They are offered free of charge. Do remember to carry an identity proof like the voter id or the international driver's license to get the same. No visit to Abu Dhabi could be complete with out visiting the Grand Mosque. The mosque's unique beauty is immensely admirable at every hour of the day.

The Dhow Cruise - One should not miss the Dhow Cruise Experience and enjoy the mesmerising Abu dhabi skyline while you sip your favourite drink. Dhow is the name given to traditional sailing utensils primarily used in the Indian Ocean region. The Marina Mall Heritage Village are all close to the Marina where you would take the Dhow Cruise.

The BigBus tour are great to explore Abu dhabi. These wifi enabled buses would take you all around the city at a nominal fare of 230 Dirhams a day (as on Jan 2016). You can choose to hop off the bus at any stop spend as much time as you like and hop in again when you wish. The big bus ticket also includes the Dhow cruise ticket. Don't miss to visit the Tiara Revolving Restaurant in the Marina Mall and get the bird's eye of the skyline. Plan your Big bus tour well in advance and ensure to take the first bus from your stop in order to fully enjoy exploring Abu dhabi.

Signing off until the draft of Part 2 ;)