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Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
S a j e e v K u m a r , a ss i s ta n t c h i e f c o n c i e r g e at A l Raha Beach Hotel, gives his top tips for visitors
Learn about Islam and the role it plays in UAE society by taking a free guided tour of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. The iconic mosque was opened to the public in 2007 and is one of the few in the region accessible to non-Muslims. Visitors must wear conservative clothing and women will be given an abaya and sheila to wear on arrival. Where: Al Maqtaa. When: Tours are held from Sunday to Thursday at 10am, 11am and 4.30pm, Fridays at 2pm, 4.30pm and 8pm, and Saturdays at 10am, 11am, 2pm, 4.30pm and 8pm. Price: Free. Contact: 800 555 or see szgmc.ae
Experience Ice skating
Whether you’re a budding Olympian or merely a beginner, Abu Dhabi’s numerous ice-skating rinks offer hours of ‘chilled-out’ fun. There are rinks in malls across the emirate and all offer tuition for those looking to polish their skills. One of the biggest is at Abu Dhabi Ice Rink, an Olympic-sized facility at Zayed Sports City (pictured), which can accommodate up to 400 skaters. Where: Abu Dhabi Ice Rink and Marina Mall in Abu Dhabi; Bawadi Mall, Hili Fun City and Al Ain Mall in Al Ain. When: Most operate from 10am to 10pm. Price: Varies per venue, with average cost AED25 for 1.5 hours. Contact: See Experience listings for details.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the most picturesque structures in the capital. It features 80 domes, approximately 1,000 columns, 24-carat gold-plated chandeliers and the world’s largest handwoven carpet. Heritage Village, a recreation of a traditional oasis village, provides a glimpse of the country’s past, including the falaj irrigation system and workshops where craftsmen demonstrate traditional skills. Al Ain Museum, next to the Sultan or Eastern Fort, provides an overview of the UAE’s traditions and culture, alongside the much older story of the people who inhabited the area. I also recommend a visit to the world’s biggest theme park, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and its Formula Rossa, a rollercoaster which reaches speeds of 240kmh. A desert safari is an authentic experience that showcases the grandeur of the dunes, famed Arabian hospitality and camel riding. Al Forsan International Sports Resort offers horse riding, go karting, dune buggies, paintball and wakeboarding. Abu Dhabi is an ideal place to shop for designer brands and Marina Mall and Abu Dhabi Mall are the best places to do this. Miraj Islamic Art Centre, next to Marina Mall, sells carpets, silks and handwoven pashminas, so it is a good place for souvenir shopping. For restaurants, I recommend Azur Mediterranean in Al Raha Beach Hotel. Further afield, there is Italian food at Cipriani on Yas Island, seafood at Fish Market at the InterContinental Abu Dhabi and Emirati food at Mezlai at Emirates Palace. For nightlife, visitors can head to the Souk at Qaryat Al Beri for Left Bank and Eight bars.
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