Whether you’re planning a visit to Abu Dhabi or are already in the emirate, this section provides a host of useful information to help you make the most of your time here.
The official language of the UAE is Arabic although English is widely spoken, especially in all hotels, restaurants, shops and attractions.
The UAE is four hours ahead of UTC (Coordinated Universal Time, formerly known as GMT) and there is no daylight saving.
Recognised as one of the safest cities on earth, Abu Dhabi's virtually crime-free environment and well-organised emergency services will bring you peace of mind and a relaxing stay.
The local currency is the UAE dirham (AED or Dhs), which is divided into 100 fils and is pegged against the US $ (US $ 1: AED 3.6725). All major credit cards are accepted almost everywhere.
Abu Dhabi is a destination with almost year-round sunshine, little rainfall and near perfect winter temperatures. In December during the congress, temperatures will range from around 13°C (50F) at night to 25°C (77F) during the day.
Abu Dhabi has a well-planned road system and getting around the emirate is easy, with people often relying on landmarks to give directions.
Thanks to its geographically diverse scenery and rich culture and history, the emirate is a dream to explore. Enjoy exquisite desert sunsets in the Empty Quarter, get up close and personal to wonderous wildlife on Sir Bani Yas Island, kayak through mangrove forests, marvel at ancient UNESCO World Heritage sites and wander beneath palm trees in centuries-old oases.
From its majestic dunes to its lush mangroves, from islands in the blue of the sea to islands of green in the desert, an exhilarating natural adventure is waiting just round every corner
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The best places to eat in Abu Dhabi. From family-friendly to fine cuisine, something for everyone.
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Abu Dhabi has a beach to suit every traveller, whether you want a laid-back stretch of powder-soft white sand near the city, a family-friendly escape on a remote island home to 17,000 free-roaming animals, or a luxury break on a lush boutique private island with swings that soar over the sea.
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Abu Dhabi is a year-round destination filled with unrivalled options for leisure and a rich programme of events and entertainment stretching across Abu Dhabi city, our heritage heartland of Al Ain and the Western Region of Al Dhafra.
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Abu Dhabi's culture is rooted in the region's Islamic traditions and its foremost message of peace. A mix of international influences paired with loyalty to local heritage has resulted in a welcoming capital city that boasts a charming mix of new and old.
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Shopping is something of a national pastime in Abu Dhabi, probably because there are so many fabulous malls and souks (markets) around town.
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