It all started with an antelope – a young one. A tired crowd would finally reach freshwater, thanks to the young antelope. And then over time, it turned out to be a land of the gazelle with huts, about 300 in all, and a fort for the ruler. Quite later in history, the land was to be known as Abu Dhabi – founded, interestingly, by an antelope!
And to this day, Abu Dhabi enjoys the privilege of being the sophisticated capital of the United Arab Emirates. The capital has been designed to entertain its visitors with its remarkable attractions such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. The mosque is surprisingly spacious and can accommodate about 40,000 devotees. It is the biggest mosque in the United Arab Emirates, and its domes (80 in all), gold chandeliers and vast number of columns, create an image of magnificence and offer a sufficient reason for anyone to visit this sacred place. Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara is located very close to the mosque, if you are looking for a convenient place to stay. If you are considering a prolonged stay in order to study the mosque (especially its architecture), there are other Sir Bani Yas Island hotels as well in the vicinity.
If your interests lie elsewhere other than religious places, Abu Dhabi is teeming with water sports such as surfing, wake-boarding and parasailing. Even if religion and water sports are not your thing, do not be quick to judge that Abu Dhabi is boring. It has far more things to offer than you would ever imagine. Shopping, for one, will be an enthralling experience in this high-rise capital of UAE. Start from the heavenly aroma emanating from the traditional perfumes and carry on your shopping spree in search of spices, handicrafts and carpets.
Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world.Google+
