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Showing all posts tagged "Abu Dhabi"

How to Get Around Abu Dhabi – Navigate the Capital of the UAE

Abu Dhabi stands as a beacon of luxury and modernity. Its glittering skyscrapers reach for the clear blue skies. But amid all this urban sprawl, Abu Dhabi has stayed true to its roots as a bustling transport hub. Whether you are roaming its swanky malls or marvelling at its architectural wonders, this city has you covered with a wealth of transport options.

FuzyAD, AbuDhabiCityBus, CC BY-SA 3.0

Journey from Abu Dhabi to Dubai

The iconic cities of Abu Dhabi and Dubai are conveniently connected by well-maintained highways. You've got plenty of options for your trip – public buses, taxis, or rented cars. The journey usually takes around two hours, but keep in mind that traffic can be heavy at times.

Arriving at Abu Dhabi International Airport

Abu Dhabi International Airport, your gateway to the city, is well-linked to the city centre. Once you've grabbed your luggage, you can hail a taxi, hire a car, or hop onto the airport's shuttle service to whisk you away to your destination in the city.

Tips for Navigating the City

Before setting off for the day, you should plan your route and factor in Abu Dhabi's peak traffic hours. Google Maps is a reliable source for routes and directions. Plus, it gives you a good idea of how long your journey will take.
You should also carefully consider your accommodation options. Staying at a centrally located place like Oaks Liwa Executive Suites might be a good idea if you are planning to travel around a lot. Besides, the amenities of a deluxe suite will be a welcoming idea.

Getting Around in an Abu Dhabi Taxi

In Abu Dhabi, you'll spot taxis everywhere – they are as common as the city's towering buildings. They are a fast and fuss-free way to zip around the city, and with a meter to keep track, there are no haggling worries. So whether you are heading to the majestic Sheikh Zayed Mosque or planning a retail therapy session at a luxury mall, simply flag down a taxi, hop in, and enjoy your journey through the city's streets.

Hitch a Ride on the Abu Dhabi Shuttle Bus

Many hotels and tourist hotspots in Abu Dhabi offer shuttle bus services, which is a great option if you prefer a bit of comfort and convenience. They'll drop you right at the door of popular destinations like Yas Island, famous for its theme parks, or Saadiyat Island, home to world-class museums.

Abu Dhabi Public Buses

If you are watching the pennies or simply prefer a slower pace, Abu Dhabi's public bus system is worth a look. With routes crisscrossing the city and its suburbs, you are likely to find a bus that'll drop you close to your destination. These buses are spotless, well-maintained, and run like clockwork, ensuring a smooth journey.

Renting a Car in Abu Dhabi

If you like the idea of having your own set of wheels, you'll find plenty of car rental agencies in Abu Dhabi. With a rental car, you can zoom around the city at your own pace, exploring every nook and cranny at your leisure. Just make sure you have an international driving permit and are familiar with the local driving rules.

Bikes in Abu Dhabi

For short trips, bikes are a great option. Bike-sharing services are catching on big time in Abu Dhabi, and it's not uncommon to see locals and tourists alike pedalling around. You'll find bike stations sprinkled all over the city, so grab one and start exploring!

Walking

Sure, Abu Dhabi is a bustling metropolis, but that doesn't mean you can't explore it on foot. Walking gives you the chance to absorb the city's vibes, especially in pedestrian-friendly areas like the Corniche Beach or the Saadiyat Cultural District. So lace up your most comfortable shoes and go for a stroll!

Posted on August 14th, 2023

How to Spend a Weekend in Abu Dhabi - 6 Must-do Activities for Visitors

The city of Abu Dhabi offers plenty of diverse experiences for visitors over the weekend or on longer holidays. Irrespective of your individual preferences and tastes, you would be likely to find activities that take your fancy here. From enjoying theme parks to experiencing shopping attractions, sightseeing highlights, and natural features there would be diverse things to do in Abu Dhabi for the whole family; some of these captivating experiences are described below.

Image via Image via Wikimedia Commons

Visit Warner Bros. World

A delightful experience in Abu Dhabi would be visiting Warner Bros. World, a splendid theme park based on the numerous Warner Bros. movies and shows. From exciting rides to live entertainment and family-oriented attractions, this theme park would offer experiences that would appeal to visitors of all ages and preferences. Kids would be enthralled by the opportunity to meet their favourite movie and cartoon characters such as Batman, Wonder Woman, Superman, Fred Flintstone, and Bugs Bunny. There would also be several engrossing zones for you to explore such as Dynamite Gulch, Bedrock, Gotham City and Cartoon Junction.

Explore the Mangrove National Park

An attraction of a very different kind would be Mangrove National Park which would present a striking contrast from the modern skyscrapers and bustling urban environment of the city of Abu Dhabi. As you might expect, this national park would be a wonderful place at which to admire the beauty of nature as you observe the water channels, dense vegetation, and interesting kinds of wildlife. You can go kayaking here and have a chance to see creatures like turtles, crabs, flamingos, herons, dugongs, and foxes at this nature sanctuary.

Shop at Yas Mall

Shopping enthusiasts have much to look forward to in Abu Dhabi as they would find appealing retail options here like the well-known Yas Mall. This mall happens to be Abu Dhabi’s largest and UAE’s second-biggest shopping venue. At Yas Mall, you would find over 370 stores including Tryano, an upscale department store, an Apple store, and a selection of well-known brands such as Zara, Adidas and Nike. When it comes to entertainment options, you would find a multi-screen cinema, an entertainment zone and a KidZania (a kids’ edutainment complex) at the site as well.

Have fun at Ferrari World

All members of the family would be captivated by Abu Dhabi’s distinctive Ferrari World, a leisure park themed on the illustrious Italian sports car marque. You would have the opportunity to experience attractions like Formula Rossa, the world’s most rapid rollercoaster and Flying Aces, which features the tallest loop in the world. However, there would also be more leisurely attractions like the Bell’Italia ride which would take you through a miniature version of Italy. There would be electric go-karts, cutting-edge simulators, live shows and much more at this theme park on Yas Island as well.

Experience Sir Bani Yas Island

Another not-to-be-missed place in Abu Dhabi would be the distinctive Sir Bani Yas Island where you would find several engrossing attractions including the marvellous Arabian Wildlife Park. At this expansive wildlife sanctuary, you would have the opportunity to observe interesting kinds of wild creatures like gazelles, the Arabian oryx, giraffes, cheetahs, and hyenas roaming freely. Here, you would be able to take an exciting wildlife safari on a specially designed vehicle. An accommodation choice to consider from which you could easily explore this park on wildlife drives and enjoy sightseeing in Abu Dhabi would be the pleasingly located Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara. Such getaways on Sir Bani Yas Island are best experienced for the entire weekend since there is plenty of other things to do as well; these include water sports, horse riding, culture & history tours, mountain biking, archery and more.

Enjoy the attractions of the desert

Your visit to Abu Dhabi wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the attractions of the nearby desert expanses. On such adventures to areas like the Empty Quarter, you would be able to enjoy many captivating activities such as dune bashing (travelling across sand dunes at speed in a four-wheel-drive vehicle), quad biking and sandboarding. You could also choose to enjoy traditional Arabian food and entertainment and even take a ride on a camel. There would be several operators who offer outstanding desert safaris, while luxury accommodation is on offer in the Empty Quarter as well.

Posted on July 26th, 2023

How to Explore Abu Dhabi's Rich Culture and History – The Timeless Allure of Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is known for its towering skyscrapers, luxurious shopping malls, and pristine beaches. But beyond the glitz and glamour lies a rich cultural and historical heritage waiting to be explored. Here's how you can explore Abu Dhabi’s rich culture and history.


Image by olgazeren from Pixabay

Architecture

Abu Dhabi boasts an impressive range of architectural styles, from traditional Emirati designs to modern structures. One of the most iconic landmarks in the city is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, which features intricate designs, chandeliers, and marble floors. Other noteworthy examples of modern architecture include:
  • Etihad Towers: a complex of five skyscrapers that offers stunning views of the city skyline.
  • The Capital Gate: a skyscraper that leans at an angle of 18 degrees, earning it the nickname ‘The Leaning Tower of Abu Dhabi’.
  • Qasr Al Watan: a palace that showcases traditional Emirati design, with intricate mosaics and calligraphy.

Festivals

Abu Dhabi hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year that celebrates the culture and heritage of the region. Abu Dhabi International Book Fair is one of the most popular festivals; it features book signings and discussions. Other festivals you should look for include:
  • Eid Al-Fitr: a three-day celebration marking the end of Ramadan, featuring traditional food, music, and dance.
  • Al Dhafra Festival: a cultural festival showcasing traditional Emirati sports like camel racing and falconry.
  • Abu Dhabi Art: an art fair featuring the work of local and international artists, talks and workshops.
Keep in mind during these festivals, hotels and resorts go high up in demand, which is reflected in prices. If you want to stay at a place like Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, one of the 5-star hotels in Abu Dhabi, you should make your booking early on. Also, there are plenty of hotel packages and offers you can benefit from if you make an early booking.

Cuisine

The local cuisine in Abu Dhabi is a fusion of Middle Eastern, Indian, and Asian flavours. A dish you absolutely must try is the Machboos, a spicy rice dish served with chicken, lamb, or fish. Also, make sure to add these to your must-try list:
  • Shawarma: a wrap filled with meat, vegetables, and sauces.
  • Harees: a porridge-like dish made with wheat and meat.
  • Luqaimat: sweet dumplings drizzled with date syrup.
  • Biryani: a fragrant rice dish typically made with lamb or chicken, cooked with a variety of spices and sometimes served with a side of raita.
  • Thareed: a hearty stew made with vegetables, meat, and chunks of bread, often eaten during Ramadan.

Dance and Music

Traditional Emirati dance and music are an essential part of the culture in Abu Dhabi. Ayala, for example, is one of the most popular dances; this is a dance performed by men using sticks and swords. The music is often accompanied by the oud, a traditional stringed instrument. You can witness these performances at cultural events and festivals throughout the year.
More examples of traditional Emirati dance and music include:
  • Al-Razfa: a dance performed during celebrations and weddings, where men chant and dance in a circle.
  • Liwa: a traditional dance performed by women during special occasions, such as weddings and Eid.

Art and Craft

The UAE’s capital is home to several art galleries and museums that showcase the work of local and international artists. One of the most popular is the Louvre Abu Dhabi, which features a collection of art from around the world.
Also, if you visit the Qasr Al Hosn Cultural District. You can also explore the traditional crafts of the region, like weaving, pottery, and metalwork.
Here are some types of arts and crafts you are likely to find in Abu Dhabi:
  • Al-Sadu: a form of weaving using wool and camel hair.
  • Al-Saffah: a type of pottery made with clay and decorated with intricate designs.
  • Al-Khous: a form of metalwork using silver and gold, often used to create jewellery and other decorative items.

Posted on April 21st, 2023

How to make your short break amazing in Abu Dhabi

Do you have some work leave coming up? Have you thought about flying the family along for a short holiday in Abu Dhabi? You’ll need to do a bit of meticulous research and plan a good itinerary to enjoy Abu Dhabi during a short holiday. The main goal is to enjoy your days as blissfully and efficiently as possible. Let’s talk about it.

Photo by Christian Konopatzki pexels

How to stay in a central and accessible location to enjoy the holiday?

Abu Dhabi’s cityscape is a wonderful world of entertainment. It really appeals to families with kids. You can look for 5 star hotels in Abu Dhabi to find the perfect fit for your family. Check out hotels like the Anantara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi Hotel to have easy access to a lot of entertainment in the city. The centre of Abu Dhabi can give you access to a lot of things to do and cover the ground.

How to enjoy theme parks in Abu Dhabi?

Consider buying the 1 Day Any 2 Parks package from Warner Bros. This will give you entry to the Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi and another theme park you wish to visit. You can go to Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi or Ferrari. This will let you enjoy two theme parks in just one day. Yas Waterworld is your chance to splash around in the water and have a great family fun time together. Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi is an indoor park, and the kids will have a lovely time interacting with the characters and going on rides.

Visit the Jubail Mangrove Park

Explore the city’s coastal mangroves at the boardwalks of Jubail Island. The entry fee is insignificant, but you have to book in advance. You are going to have different experiences during low and high tides. So, try to book with that in mind. Wear sunscreen and take a facial hydrator along as you would be spending a lot of time outside on the boardwalk.

How to go on a guided tour in Abu Dhabi?

A good way to make the most of your time in Abu Dhabi is to sign up for a guided tour. You can pick the theme of the tour after a family vote. Do you wish for an architectural tour, a religious one or do you carve some adventure? A guided tour will let you enjoy all the attractions and facilities without the emotional burden of organizing everything.

Spend a day at the beach in Abu Dhabi

If your hotel doesn’t provide you access to the beach or even if they do, try some public beaches to add variety to the trip. They don’t require COVID testing now to enter the beaches. Most public beaches have minimal charges, and you can easily maintain social distancing from fellow beachgoers. Take plenty of sunscreen, water, and aloe vera cream for after-sun care. Always wear your protective sunglasses and dress appropriately.

Visit the Qasr Al Watan

This presidential palace is a new and luxurious attraction for visitors. You can go on a public tour with a group of four people or fewer. They offer self-guided tours as well as special kids’ tours. The kids’ tour includes fun activities at a slow pace for the little ones.

Grab Friday brunch in Abu Dhabi

Friday brunch in Abu Dhabi is an indulgent, extended affair. After the lull during the pandemic, brunching is back in full swing. They offer table service options as well for a maximum of 10 people. There are al fresco options as well. You can linger over brunch and enjoy the lavish hospitality and epicurean delicacies to make the most of your well-deserved time away from the mundane world.

Posted on March 18th, 2023

How to Organise Your Trip to Abu Dhabi - Tips for Planning a Holiday in Abu Dhabi

As the capital city of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi is a dream destination that's on everyone's bucket list. Revered for its recreational and retail highlights, Abu Dhabi is also a cultural epicentre that's home to some of the Middle East's finest museums and art galleries. Whether you are heading to Abu Dhabi for a weekend getaway or planning to spend a few weeks in the city, here are some tips to help you organise your holiday in the desert capital.

Image via Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara

1. Timing is Everything

While most holiday destinations are conducive to holidaymakers even during the low season, it is simply not the case when it comes to cities in the Middle East such as Abu Dhabi. With summer temperatures and humidity reaching unbearable levels, the only time tourists can visit Abu Dhabi is during the winter months. This is when temperatures are low enough for spending time outdoors and when even the locals step out in great numbers to experience life outside of their air-conditioned abodes. That's why your trip to Abu Dhabi must take place between December and March. Although the peak tourist season, which coincides with the winter months, does mean costs will be high, it is a non-negotiable aspect of holidaying in Abu Dhabi due to the weather patterns.

2. Find a Strategic Base

Although Abu Dhabi is well-connected in terms of public transport networks, those who are vacationing in the city would benefit from a convenient base. Whether you choose to stay at the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara or any city hotel that doubles as popular wedding venues in Abu Dhabi, it is crucial to consider the location of the property. Make sure the hotel you select is within close range of the attractions and activities you hope to enjoy during the stay, as a culture buff should ideally stay close to the Louvre Abu Dhabi while someone enticed by desert safaris should find a glamping site on the outskirts of the city.

3. Create a Sightseeing Plan

Depending on how much time you have at your disposal, it is crucial to create a daily sightseeing plan for each day of your stay. Highlights that every visitor should explore during a trip to Abu Dhabi include Qasr Al Hosn, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the iconic Louvre Abu Dhabi, which is the only instalment of the Paris Louvre Museum outside of Europe. Qasr Al Watan, the Al Ain Palace Museum, Wahat AlKarama and the Al Ain Oasis are also worth including in your travel itinerary as there's more to Abu Dhabi than skyscrapers and massive malls.

4. Sign up for Activities

When it comes to some of the most rewarding things to do in Abu Dhabi, kayaking and windsurfing on Saadiyat Island should be a top priority. Dune bashing and desert tours are also available through local resorts and private tour operators while spending a day or two on Yas Island with its impressive theme parks and splash centres are also musts. Ferrari World offers motorsports fans an array of adrenaline-pumping experiences while kayaking around the Eastern Mangroves can be a magical excursion for nature lovers.

5. Enjoy a Shopping Spree

Counted among the region's top retail hotspots, a shopping spree is a veritable rite of passage for first-time visitors vacationing in Abu Dhabi. While it may be impossible to hit all the major department stores and shopping complexes in the city, tourists should aim to visit at least the big 5 including the Marina Mall, Al Wahda Mall and the Abu Dhabi Mall. The souqs in Abu Dhabi such as Souq Al Zafarana and the Al Mina Souq are alternative retail landscapes where tourists can lose themselves in a traditional Arabian bazaar where stalls selling everything from frankincense and perfumes to Persian rugs and gold jewellery can be found.

Posted on February 21st, 2023

How to plan your vacation in Abu Dhabi - Do’s and Don’ts for Tourists

Abu Dhabi could be unfamiliar territory to someone from a different culture. However, you only need to understand a few generic cultural norms to be able to blend in with the expat community and enjoy a rich vacation. Below the gold flakes in coffee and sky-high buildings, Abu Dhabi hides a lovely culture worth exploring.

How to dress the part in Abu Dhabi?

You don’t have to cover yourself with an Abaya in Abu Dhabi, but you should cover up to your knees and shoulders when in public. You can wear spaghetti straps and shorts at your resort like the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. Covering yourself well in Abu Dhabi is necessary as immodest clothing can get you in trouble with the police. You can sport western attire as long as it is respectful and helps you stay safe from the elements. Wherever you go in the country, be it glamorous wedding venues in Abu Dhabi or visiting an old souk, simply wear something on the conservative side.

How to drink alcohol (and water) in Abu Dhabi?

Contrary to popular belief, it is legal to drink alcohol in Abu Dhabi as long as you do it at licensed premises. You can drink at bars and restaurants attached to resorts and hotels. It is best to drink in moderation and never drive with any amount of alcohol in your system. Do drink plenty of water to stay healthy. You can’t drink tap water in Abu Dhabi, but you can opt for filtered water bottles to save money on bottled water.

How to manage travel in hot weather?

Like we said, drink plenty of water. Avoid walking along the hot streets and use taxis. They do have public transport, but it is not ideal for short stops. When you travel, daytime outdoor weather can reach well into 50 Celsius, and air-conditioned indoors tends to feel like the arctic. Always carry a light jacket to wear indoors.

How to enjoy the sand in Abu Dhabi?

Sand is everywhere in Abu Dhabi, and you should enjoy its spell in the desert. Operators have mastered the art of offering modern and traditional experiences in the desert to tourists. A 4x4 safari never fails to satisfy even high expectations. You can go to the desert on your own but if you don’t have the proper tools, you will have a tough time. Enjoy henna art, desert feasts and shisha with traditional dancing around a fire. You can also look forward to hunting with falcons and sandboarding.

How to enjoy food in Abu Dhabi?

The multicultural associations of Abu Dhabi make it a delectable food scene. Modern Arabic cuisine borrows rustic inspiration from Bedouin culture and exotic influence from Lebanon, India and Egypt. Get yourself some voucher apps for five-star dining (you don’t have to pay the entire rate). Don’t forget to indulge in Friday brunch – always a lavish affair.

How to enjoy Emirati culture?

Make it a point to visit the Sheik Zayad Grand Mosque and go on a free tour of the Presidential Palace to learn more about the culture. Qasr Al Hosn provides a glimpse into the history of the nation. You will get a little taste of Bedouin culture on your desert camping tour. However, to experience the true Bedouin culture visit during November and December in time for the Al Dhafra festival in Madinat Zayed and Sheik Zayad heritage festival in Al Wathba. You’ll walk into a veritable bazaar with falconry, Saluki dancing, date (the fruit) collecting and even camel beauty parades. Feast your eyes on the festivities and your taste buds on delicious food.

Posted on January 30th, 2023

How to Stay Fit on Holiday - Fun ideas to keep fit!

Abu Dhabi is certainly a getaway destination where one may relax and indulge in luxury. But with any vacation, we tend to ignore our well-being for that duration of time. And as we all know, health and well-being should come first, no matter where you are. This article offers some recommendations for you to keep you in shape while you are visiting Abu Dhabi! Read on for some fun ideas to keep fit this vacation!


Image via stockvault


Walk instead of using public transportation or cabs!
What better approach is there to completely absorb the new surroundings you find yourself in while on vacation than to go sightseeing on foot? You might also go on walking tours, which is a fantastic way to discover more about your place while getting some exercise at the same time. This is something that you should take into consideration regardless of where you are staying—in the middle of the city, on the beach, or in the middle of nowhere. Checking this out ahead of time will allow you to be as well-prepared as possible for your vacation since many vacation spots provide local walking trails and hiking pathways that are open to the public.



Relax and unwind in the waters
If you are going to be staying at 5-star hotels in Abu Dhabi the likes of Anantara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi Hotel, which is close to the water, then heading to the waters is the best way to get some exercise. Properties like this offer a range of water sports that you can enjoy for pleasure whilst getting your heart pumping.



Get on that Bike!
Cycling is yet another fantastic physical activity; not only does it engage all the muscles in the lower body, but it also helps to prevent heart disease, decreases blood pressure, and lessens your likelihood of developing diabetes and certain types of cancer. It may serve as an excellent mode of transportation when you are away on vacation.



Having fun while working out on the beach
Jog down the beach rather than simply lying around doing nothing there. If you are the sort of person who thrives on competition, you can consider organising a friendly game of volleyball, beach cricket, or football. Walking on soft sandy beaches will provide an additional challenge for your heart, legs, and lungs due to the additional effort that is required. Could it get any better than this?



Sports
Why don't you try something completely different? What about water sports such as windsurfing or water skiing, or snorkelling? You may even decide to go on a vacation that involves exercise, such as yoga retreats or fitness boot camps. These kinds of vacations are quickly becoming more preferred since there are so many different options available.



Yoga at dawn or sunset
You could always try your hand at some yoga instead. Yoga is a comprehensive mind-body activity that blends strength as well as stretch postures with deep breathing exercises and meditation to produce a sensation that is both physically and mentally challenging. This results in yoga being able to accomplish much more than only burning calories and tone muscles. Booking a session first thing in the morning or a relaxing stretching session after a tiring day of exploring the city will be the way to go about this!



HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training)
If you're a fitness fanatic, the fitness centre at your resort is the perfect place to get your HIIT exercise of choice. The majority of high-end hotels provide guests with access to fully operational fitness centres that are outfitted with cutting-edge exercise machines.

Posted on July 26th, 2022

How to Enhance Your Spa Experience - A place to unwind and destress!

Make absolutely sure to follow these helpful pointers if you want to get the most from your visit to the spa, whether you are going out for the day at local spas or a much-needed vacation at a spa retreat. You will get the most out of your visit if you do. Continue reading if you want to learn how various spa treatments may help you attain a state of profound relaxation, provide you with a number of health advantages, or show you some of the more obvious perks.



Make sure you don the appropriate attire
The changing rooms at many spas are stocked with amenities such as shampoo and shower gel, as well as robes and slippers for you to wear throughout your stay there. Visit the spa's website in advance to see what services and amenities it provides. Bring your exercise clothes and shoes with you if you plan on attending a fitness class or working out at a gym. Bring your swimwear with you if you want to make the most of the many advantages that the water, as well as the heated facilities, provide.


Keep to the Schedule
Imagine the spa as a well-maintained and efficient machine. Make sure to arrive on time. If you have a spa appointment scheduled for, say, 2:00 p.m., you shouldn't linger over lunch and then get there at 2:10 p.m. If this happens, the therapist providing your spa treatment would have to attempt to speed through it so that she may attend to the next client in a timely manner.


Your massage therapist has the most expertise
Keep in mind that the spa therapist has spent a significant amount of time learning about the body, the effects of various massage methods, and the qualities of the components that make up the active chemicals in the products that are utilised. Make sure that she is aware of any particular health issues or aches that you have in advance if possible. The therapist then will guide you toward the therapy that is the most suitable for you, and she will adjust the massage appropriately. It is possible that the advantages of a massage will be null and void if she works on a problem region without first being informed of its existence. Always go for reputed spas if you want the best experience. For instance, you can check out an Abu Dhabi spa resort the likes of Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara for the best experience.


Keep the volume down
No one likes being away from their reliable cell phone for an extended period of time, but while your stay at the spa, you should at least store it in the locker. When other customers are enjoying a much-anticipated spa getaway, they do not want to be disturbed by the ringing of cell phones or by noisy discussions. Also, do not spend time inside the pool with your buddies who are always laughing and shrieking since this will cause everyone's stress levels to rise, and no one wants that!


Following the rules
If the notice in the sauna instructs you to sit on a towel, you should comply with the instruction. Is there a sign that says, 'Do Not Dive'? Don't go diving then. It really is that easy. There are good reasons for having regulations, the most important of which being cleanliness and safety. If you don't follow them, you'll make your fellow spa guests uncomfortable and give the staff a lot of extra work to do. In addition, the rejuvenating effects of a day spent at a spa will not rub off on you.

Posted on July 25th, 2022

How to Speak Like a Local in Abu Dhabi - Tips on Conversing with Locals during a Trip to Abu Dhabi

Although it is not necessary to be fluent in Arabic to enjoy a holiday in Abu Dhabi, those who are heading to the cosmopolitan city would benefit from learning a few useful phrases. As an Islamic city where most locals converse in Arabic, getting around and enjoying your time in Abu Dhabi will depend on how well you can form connections with locals. Here are some terms and phrases you can employ in everyday conversations during a trip to the UAE's capital city.


1. Greetings

Travellers heading to Abu Dhabi will find that knowing how to say "hello" or "goodbye" will not only come in handy when dealing with the staff at Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara or any one of the other Abu Dhabi resorts but also when travelling around the city. The best way to greet a local in Arabic is to say "salam alaykum" to which the response ought to be "wa'alaykum as-salam." The phrase's meaning goes a little beyond a simple "hello!" and actually translates to "may peace be upon you." If you are on friendly terms with any locals, it is permissible to greet them with a simple "Salam" or "Halla", which actually does mean "hello." Don't be surprised to hear your taxi driver or airport personnel greet you with the words "ahlan" or "marhabaan" as these are also formal greetings.

2. Common Inquiries

When it comes to asking about someone's health or well-being, one must use the proper variation of the phrase for "how are you?" in Arabic because it differs based on whether you are addressing a man or a woman. "Kayfa halluk" is how one many ask a man how he's doing while the phrase changes to "kayfa halluki" when it is a woman. Responding to this question is "ana bekhair, shukran" regardless of the gender of the person posing the question as it means "I'm fine, thank you." The phrase "go in peace" is often substituted for "goodbye" in Arabic conversations and tourists who learn to say "mae alsalama" will find plenty of use for this sentence every day. Asking for the price of an item in Arabic is as easy as uttering "kam yukalif?" while the Arabic word for yes is "na'am" while no is indicated with a simple "la."

3. Colloquialisms and Popular Phrases

When apologising, it is best to use "aeset", which means "sorry" or " alma'derah", which translates to "excuse me." Thanking someone is as easy as saying "shukran" while visitors may also hear locals referring to one another as "habibi." This popular term actually means "beloved" but is used in familiar settings among friends, colleagues, and those who are nearest and dearest to you. "Habibi" refers to a male while "habibit" is used for a female. The best way to say "no problem" or "no worries" in Arabic is to simply say "Maafi mushkila." "Insha'Allah" is another sentence that visitors will hear all around them during a trip to Abu Dhabi and it has several meanings including "if God wills it" or "God willing." This is a statement that indicates the speaker's confidence that some event or happening will take place as planned.

4. Other Useful Terms

Terms that will come in handy when wining and dining in restaurants are " Khallas", which means " I'm done" or " I'm finished" so waiters can clear away your plate. " Shu hadha" is another common phrase that will change in meaning depending on the tone used as it simply means "what is this" but can also mean " what on earth are you doing?" if uttered in aggression.

5. Words to Watch Out for and Avoid

Haram is a term that broadly refers to prohibited and sinful activities as it pertains to Islamic laws. If this term is used near you, it could mean that some local custom has been broken and that it has been deemed offensive.

Posted on April 23rd, 2022

How to Prepare for Your First Camel Trek – A One of a Kind Experience in the Desert

Riding the noble ‘ship of the desert’, the camel, is sure to be a unique experience that you could enjoy if you visit a country where these creatures are found. However, if you are not accustomed to this activity, you may find that it is rather more complicated than it may seem at first. On the other hand, if you prepare thoughtfully for your camel trek, you should be able to enjoy it without any undue hassle. Provided below are some suggestions for your unforgettable camel ride in the desert.


Prepare yourself and approach confidently

There will be some precautions that you should take as you prepare for your exciting camel trek. You should take care to wear long socks and long pants to safeguard your skin. As camels move with an unusual sideways motion, this will cause considerable friction; obviously, you will not like rough camel hairs scraping your legs! Therefore, your socks ought to be as long, as possible as this motion will tend to push up your pants. Other essentials for your camel trek would include sunglasses, a hat, a scarf / bandanna and dust goggles.

You should move towards the sitting camel confidently and slowly from the side. If you are nervous, you should avoid looking the camel in the eye. You should stride up purposefully, approaching the camel diagonally. First-timers should only attempt to mount a camel if the animal is sitting. Ideally, there will be a guide present to show you what steps to take.

Mount the camel assuredly

After approaching the camel, you should swing your leg around the camel’s back and mount it swiftly. You will usually find a stirrup on which you can place your foot; you should place your foot here and swing over the other leg. You will often find a handle at the saddle’s front which you can hold as you mount the animal.

Since camels will stand with their hind legs rising first, you should lean back while holding onto the saddle as it begins to rise. Next, you should gently lean forward as the camel, in turn, raises its front legs. In this way, you can maintain your position as it gets onto its feet.

Get into a comfortable position

Although it may seem natural for you to straddle the camel as you would while riding a horse, it will be more comfortable if you raise up a leg and cross it, wrapping it across the saddle post; doing so with both legs would be even better. This will more evenly distribute your weight so that your tailbone does not experience avoidable pain.

You will find that the walk of a camel would be rather irregular and uneven, unlike the more regular movement of a horse. Rather than fighting the camel’s gait, you should allow your body to swing with it while supporting yourself by grasping the saddle post. An accommodation choice to consider from which you could undertake a camel trek would be Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara which may be regarded as one of the uniquely located Abu Dhabi 5 star hotels.

Relax and enjoy the ride

You should not attempt to control the camel during your trek. Although these creatures will respond to the commands of their master, you will usually find that attempting to direct or steer them would be futile. You should try to relax and loosen your muscles as this will in turn calm down the camel. If by some chance the camel panics or becomes agitated, you should calm it down with even steady words while gripping the reins firmly (without tugging them). You should be aware that your first camel trek is likely to be a little uncomfortable; as you might experience pain in the tailbone, you could take a pain reliever before the trek or have one handy for when the ride concludes. All in all, however, it is bound to be an unforgettable experience.

Posted on April 21st, 2022