THINGS TO do

• Activities

  If relaxing on golden sand and swimming in turquoise waters is what you’re after, Abu Dhabi won’t disappoint. To stay active you can try some snorkelling or scuba diving. For unadulterated fun, head to Yas Island, where there are three theme parks: Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld and Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi.

• Culture

  Head into the desert and learn about traditional Salukis (desert hunting dogs) and the ancient sport of falconry. For a dose of history, tour the 5,000-year-old Jebel Hafeet Tombs or the UNESCO-listed garden city of Al Ain – one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements on Earth.

• Dining

  Retail therapy is something that we all enjoy every once in a while, and you’re likely to leave Abu Dhabi with a few shopping bags in tow. The city is renowned across the region for offering a tax-free shopping experience with huge malls, beautiful boutiques and lively marketplaces on offer.

• Shopping

  Set on Yas Island, the dazzling Yas Mall is the city’s largest shopping centre, offering an enormous range of stores, eateries, and indoor edutainment that the kids will love. Be sure to shop at some traditional marketplaces, known as souks; visit Al Ain Souk to practice your bargaining skills and take some great photos.