Abu Dhabi Holidays
Abu Dhabi is both the capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the largest of the seven emirates that make up this country and what was once a gentle fishing village, is now a beautiful garden city, with wide tree lined streets, lush green parks, and bubbling fountains.

This ultra modern metropolis has always been a special place, but until recently it remained an undiscovered jewel. It offers all the attractions of any top class resort with a taste of something extra. From the year round sunshine, endless unspoilt beaches and impressive skyline, to luxury hotels, superb facilities with the spice and mystique of Arabian adventure.

Steeped in ancient culture and heritage of Arabia, it brings together old world charm and cosmopolitan sophistication, in a clean and safe environment, combining a perfect blend of east and west. Delivering either a new cultural experience, an action packed holiday or a relaxing escape.

Weather
In the summer, there’s an average of 11 hours of sunshine a day, and all of it hot. If you are planning to be in Abu Dhabi in the summer months, roughly June through September then be prepared for midday temperatures to reach between 42°C to 45°C. Temperatures generally dip at night, usually to the low 30s C but the humidity can also rise. December and March, is the most comfortable time to visit as daytime temperatures range between 22°C and 30°C with night temperatures sometimes dropping as low as 7°C.By Day
There is plenty to do in Abu Dhabi, from the regular holiday activities such as relaxing on the beach and taking part in any number of watersports and land sports, to more unique ventures such a desert safaris, sand skiing, abseiling and camel rides. The city boasts world class shopping opportunities and much in the way of sight seeing, including the old Dhow Shipyard where you can see boat builder’s practice their ancient craft.By Night
As with any cosmopolitan city of this size, there are many options when it comes to drinking and dining. Whatever your tastes, whatever your mood Abu Dhabi will be sure to cater for you. Top Attractions
• Corniche – visit this stunning park set alongside the beach.
• The Old Dhow Shipyard - See boat builders practice the ancient craft.
• Desert Safari – a Safari to discover the dunes.
• Dhow Cruise - A fascinating two-hour evening cruise aboard a traditional Arab dhow.
Events
Shopping festival (Early March) / Ramadan (mid Sep – mid Oct)Local Flavours
Abu Dhabi caters for every flavour, from Middle East fare to exquisite international cuisine, with every kind of establishment, from international fast food outlets, to fine dinning restaurants. When it comes to shopping it provides a wealth of luxury shops and shopping centres. Good buys include; perfume, electronic items and most international goods.History
Though the United Arab Emirates did not gain full autonomy until 1971, their history has been traced back as far as 3000 B.C. It is known that there were mostly nomads living in the area at the time, herding and fishing for sustenance. Nothing really changed in the area for centuries, with the exception of the introduction of Islam, which at times either united or tore apart the region. By the mid-1900's, the main source of income in the area was from camel herding and the production of vegetables. Fishing and pearl diving also were important for the economy, but in a lesser role. Great Britain had been in control of the area for a long time, and after World War I the tide had started to turn and steps were being taken to hand over power. Oil was first drilled in UAE in 1958, but because of the ruler, Sheikh Shakbut, the importance of oil was not exploited. It was not until the family agreed that the brother, Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahayan, should take over as ruler in 1966 that the oil industry truly grew. With the support of Britain, the oil industry flourished and finally, in 1971 Britain handed over complete control to Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahayan. Today UAE has been able to flourish and become extremely well off. In Abu Dhabi's last census, there were about 1 million citizens in the city. It is now the largest of the seven emirates that make up the nation. Size & Location
Abu Dhabi city is on an island less than 250meters from the mainland, connected by the Maqta and Musaffah bridges. The emirate of Abu Dhabi is located on the Persian Gulf bordering the Kingdown of Saudi Arabia to the south, the Sulante of Oman to the east and Dubai to its northeast and is 26,000 square miles in size.