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CITY LIFE
BLENDING THE OLD WITH THE NEW, ABU DHABI'S DEVELOPED SKYLINE IS A MIX OF MODERN AND TRADITIONAL ARABIA AS VISITORS WILL DISCOVER.
CORNICHE
Abu Dhabi's most spectacular view is that of the Corniche, with its charming necklace of white mosques and glass buildings. Having undergone a massive renovation programme in recent years, the Corniche is lined by parks, benches and fountains, and is an easily accessible leisure spot located in the centre of the city offering many kilometres of safe and pleasant walking, cycling, jogging and rollerblading along the seashore.
The edge of the breakwaters, consisting of reclaimed land at the western end of the Corniche, affords a panoramic view of the city's imposing skyline and offers myriad attractions for visitors to enjoy, including restaurants, shops and a mini funfair. The Clock Tower near the Corniche remains one of its most visually striking landmarks, with plans underway for a new, 70-metre high structure to replace the existing tower, which will eventually house an information centre, cafeteria, stores, gardens and other recreational outlets.
Another distinguished landmark is the Maqta Bridge Fort, a 200-year-old fort in the middle of the water near the Maqta Bridge, strategically positioned at the gateway to this island city.
Early morning or late afternoon walk Unlimited All day
Add an element of fun to the event - get your team on rollerblades and organise mini races
MADINAT ZAYED SHOPPING CENTRE The Madinat Zayed Mall encom- passes two buildings: the Gold Centre and the Shopping Centre. The Gold Centre has more than 65 leading gold and jewellery shops under one roof and the Shopping Centre houses more than 220 popular retail stores.
SHOPPING
Shopping in Abu Dhabi can be an air-conditioned preamble around a modern mall or a hot, dusty and unforgettable adventure around an authentic Arabian souk. Both make for great group excursions, especially as part of a spouses' programme.
Abu Dhabi Mall and Marina Mall are the two stalwarts of the emirate's shopping basket, offer- ing a host of international brands at tax free prices, but more recent entrants into the retail game include the Al Wahda Mall and Khalidiya Mall, both of which offer new brands and old favourites as well as unlimited dining and entertainment opportunities. For a more authentic shopping experience, and one that requires a bit of bargaining prowess, head for one of the two main souks Ð the Iranian Souk and Afghan Souk (or Mina Souk) Ð which are both situated out on the fringes of the port area.
Set to open fully in 2011, Abu Dhabi's Central Market, which is
Madinat Zayed Shopping Cen- tre boasts leading international brands like Nine West and is highly recognised for its range of exquisite abayas and sheylas, handicraft and antique, gifts, perfumes and cosmetics, electronics, furniture, textiles, fashion wear and house- hold items.
located on the site of the original open-air city souk, reflects the style of a traditional Islamic bazaar. The perfect place for that special take-home gift, the market features purveyors of gold and precious stones, carpets, rugs, textiles, Arabian coffee pots, shisha pipes, khanjars (curved daggers) and inlaid jewellery boxes among other things.
The Iranian Souk, near port Za- yed, is an open-air market selling goods imported from Iran, includ- ing soft furnishings, carpets and pottery. It is well worth a visit for a walk around the area's pools and fountains. And the nearby Afghan Souk is a great place to seek out Oriental carpets and rugs.
Spouses half-day tour 10 Ð 30
Avoid the midday heat. Late afternoon and evenings are better times to shop Keep the group together, or make sure you have a designated meeting spot, as the souks can turn into a maze
Besides being home to more than 65 gold and jewellery stores, Madinat Zayed Gold Centre also houses Homes R Us and The Daiso - Japan's premier value store.
Spouses half-day tour 10 Ð 30
Most shops open at 10am and stay open until late
When buying gold make sure you take note of the daily rate per ounce, as dealers will use this to calculate prices, adding on a small charge for design work
abudhabi 2011
ATTRACTIONS KEY
Ideal for
Group size Timings Top tip
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