Abu Dhabi is a one-stop tourist destination where you can satisfy your wanderlust. It is home to one of the world's largest hand loomed carpets as well as a series of beautiful man-made islands. Abu Dhabi tourism will take you on a ride through the tallest skyscrapers, a hospital only for falcons, luxurious malls, biggest sand dunes and lavish hotel chains. The rapid urbanisation has made it one of the wealthiest cities in the world, but still, the place has retained its authentic Arabian feel. The capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi, hosts numerous tourists every year from across the globe and entertains them with its rich cultural essence. This Abu Dhabi travel guide will help you explore this stunning destination, scroll down to know more.

How to reach Abu Dhabi

• By air: Abu Dhabi International Airport is located at a distance of about 32 km (30 minutes drive) from the Abu Dhabi city. IndiGo has direct flights to Abu Dhabi from Kochi and Kozhikode along with seamless connections to several other cities in India.
• You can also reach Abu Dhabi by taking a flight to Dubai and then travelling by road (one and half hour journey) using public buses, taxis or rental cars. IndiGo operates 14 daily flights to Dubai from Bengaluru, Delhi, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Mangalore, Thiruvananthapuram, Chennai, Chandigarh, Kochi, Kozhikode and Amritsar.
• Getting around/local transport in Abu Dhabi: You can travel around Abu Dhabi using taxi, buses and rental cars. Taxis are differentiated into silver taxis operated by taxi companies and pink taxis driven by women and meant for female passengers and boys below the age of 10. And buses are operated within Abu Dhabi and its suburbs.

Abu Dhabi tourism boasts diverse culinary options, from upscale restaurants serving international cuisine to local eateries offering authentic Emirati flavours.

The best time to visit Abu Dhabi is from November to March as it experiences pleasant weather that is perfect for outdoor activities.

The official language spoken in Abu Dhabi is Arabic. However, English is frequently used in tourist areas and for easy communication.

In one of your Abu Dhabi travel guides, you can buy some local art ornate wooden carvings, carpets reflecting Arabian culture and jewellery. Some of the shopping places to visit in Abu Dhabi are:

• Al Mina Fruit and Vegetable Souk: Al Mina Fruit and Vegetable Souk is a bustling market that offers a vibrant array of fresh produce. Since it is located in the heart of the city, getting here is easy. You can see an abundance of locally sourced fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices. While here, you can soak in the lively atmosphere while exploring the colourful stalls.
• Souk Qaryat Al Beri: One of the vibrant waterfront markets Souk Qaryat Al Beri has a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. It is an ideal place to come stroll along the picturesque promenade, and admire stunning views of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Most houses have a blend of traditional Arabic architecture, providing a cultural experience. 
• Gold Souk Abu Dhabi: Gold market in Abu Dhabi is a treasure trove of luxury. It features an array of exquisite gold jewellery, gemstones, and traditional Emirati designs. This famous marketplace offers visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship of the UAE.
• AlSouq: A bustling marketplace, AlSouq offers a good collection of products, from traditional handicrafts and spices to modern fashion and electronics, you can explore a diverse range of products at AlSouq. The market also has a lively atmosphere providing an authentic shopping experience.

The festive season in Abu Dhabi is lively with many events that take place during this time. Some of the popular festivals in Abu Dhabi are:

Abu Dhabi tourism is all about exploration and fun frolic time roaming around the attractions and savouring delicious meals. Some of the more interesting reasons to visit Abu Dhabi are: 

• Ferrari World Abu Dhabi: A paradise for car fanatics, this place satisfies the need for speed to the utmost level. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is a Ferrari branded theme park for all age groups. Here you can live your dream of driving a Ferrari. It is home to various classic cars and more than 20 rides including the world's fastest roller coaster ride, Formula Rossa.
• Yas Waterworld: This huge water park is the best option to beat the heat during hot temperatures. Being the first of its kind in UAE, Yas Waterworld boasts of 43 slides, attractions and rides including the longest, fastest tornado water slide and first water-laser rollercoaster in the world.
• Desert safari: You can’t miss desert safari while in Abu Dhabi. It is one of the most thrilling activities to enjoy in deserts. You must experience Dune bashing riding in an SUV for 20 to 30 minutes. Try to stay overnight in the lap of the desert and enjoy camel rides, scenic sunset and belly dancing along with scrumptious dinner.

If you’re an Indian passport holder having a US Visitor Visa/ Green card, you are eligible for a visa on arrival for a maximum stay of 14 days in Abu Dhabi, while others would be required to apply for a UAE Visa one month prior to your date of travel. For passengers holding ECR (Emigration Check Required) passport and labour and work e-visa, an OK to Board (OTB) message, will be necessary.

To ensure a hassle-free and seamless travel, here is a detailed information about the Dubai visa – www.goindigo.in/information/visa-information/dubai-uae-visa.html

• Abu Dhabi Do! Here’s Everything to do in the capital city of UAE
• From shopping to food, here’s where you should go to enjoy Abu Dhabi
• 10 reasons why you should visit Dubai right now
• Nose for thought: 5 perfume stores in Sharjah worth getting lost in
• 7 reasons why Dubai is the best place to go shopping