Tag Archives: Abu Dhabi

Mazayina Dhafra Camel Festival (Camel Beauty Show) – Calling all camel lovers!

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Visitors to the impressive emirate of Abu Dhabi will find a range of excellent Abu Dhabi hotels to choose from, but to truly enjoy a holiday in one of the grandest desert states, consider staying at one of many luxury hotels Abu Dhabi. One option is the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. Its traditional Arabian setting with state-of-the-art modern conveniences make it the ideal property to enjoy the wonders of desert culture.

Set amidst the rolling sands of the Arabian Desert that birthed numerous myths, legends and occasional movie settings, Abu Dhabi is a magical emirate to venture into. In addition to hosting events such as film festivals, Abu Dhabi also hosts an event that venerates and celebrates an important aspect of desert culture: the impressive and at times irritable camel. This noble “ship of the desert” is honored in an annual festival that showcases the most “beautiful” camel, in the Mazayina Dhafra Camel Festival, otherwise known as a camel beauty show. The festival is held in Zayed City in Al Gharbia, and it provides a glimpse into traditional Arabic desert culture, as well as bridging the gap between the country’s generations. The main event is the camel beauty contest, which features the Asayel and Majahim camel breeds vying for the beauty crown. For those interested in adding one of these magnificent beings to their family, there is also a camel auction. Other notable events at the festival feature a traditional bazaar straight out of Arabian nights, a handicrafts market featuring the best of Arabic arts and a dates presentation competition that highlights the best offering of these sweet treats. To set the atmosphere, there is also folklore music that hearkens to the time of Aladdin, a poetry competition and other activities that spotlight the splendid Arabic heritage. So come and sample the best of the Arabian Desert culture at the Mazayina Dhafra Camel Festival!

Saadiyat Island Cultural District Exhibition

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Predicted to become one of the top tourist destinations, the strikingly unique Saadiyat Island is bound to mesmerize any first time visitor! A traveler enjoying the exceptional level of accommodation Abu Dhabi, specially at a hotel in Abu Dhabi such as Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa By Anantara cannot afford to miss a visit to the one of a kind attraction, Saadiyat Island. Get an insight into the plans for this marvelous destination with a visit to Saadiyat Island Cultural District Exhibition. Tracing the plans for a maritime museum, performing arts centre, Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and the Zayed National Museum, the exhibition highlights how the Cultural District will become the most expansive single concentration of premier cultural institutions in the world.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
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2013 Abu Dhabi International Book Fair – A World designed for the Reader

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The United Arab Emirates is a hub for endless opportunity; be it in entertainment, career, or showcasing a new skill, you can do it all in this vibrant and cosmopolitan city in the Middle East. Every year this city hosts a very popular book fair; The Abu Dhabi International Book Fair. A major business initiative of the KITAB; (an organization who thrives on enlightening the world of reading), this fair lives up to its standards and the visions of its organization in every way. It is a platform for writers, editors and publishers and for the visitor it is an affair with a book kingdom.

For all of you who love reading, the Abu Dhabi international book fair is nothing short of paradise. Over 500,000 titles are on display giving you a variety you have never seen before. You would see authors you have never heard of and experience writing styles like never before. The KITAB works in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Authority for culture and heritage and the Frankfurt Book Fair. Reading is not as prioritized as it should be in this city and the other Arab Emirates are no better. The KITAB recognizes this and strives to create awareness and change in the society. The Fair attracts the most creative talent and showcases works of such caliber. This year it is scheduled to be conducted between the 24th and 29th of April and is gearing up to be bigger and better than ever. It is a firework with words in the book fair and just like everything else in this nation it is designed to awe and astound you.

Abu Dhabi is a city that is captivating in all levels imaginable. You can learn so much, do so much and experience so much. Even a month in this city sometimes does not feel like enough, for the wealth of attractions you find here are almost endless. Take your time and leisurely stay at the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. Being the finest of luxury hotels Abu Dhabi has you can be sure to be treated like royalty here. This fact and more makes this the most popular of Abu Dhabi hotels.

Liwa Date Festival – A veritable show of culture and tradition

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July is the best time for dates in this captivating country of Abu Dhabi. The date palm being symbolically as well as historically important in the history of the country, the Liwa date festival is an event much anticipated by locals as well as various tourists visiting the location. The festival revolves around the date competition where Emirati date growers from all over the place compete against each other for the prestigious title of the best date grower.

The date palm is a powerful symbol in the Emirati culture and has played an integral part in the country’s thriving economy. The vision of the festival is to present the date palm as a source of prosperity for the country in the future as well as to signify its role in the country’s glorious past. This annual celebration brings together all those who value the country’s ingenuity, tradition and its magnanimous heritage and is truly a joyous occasion to behold.

Non-locals who participate in this event are simply blown away by the powerful and vibrant splash of culture and tradition practiced during the festival. Culture enthusiasts from all over the world come together to witness this fascinating event, dedicated in the name of this glorious fruit that is a favourite among many all over the world. This event enrobed within the very essence of Abu Dhabi is the ideal place for those of who crave for a veritable taste of the Emirati magnificence. The auction of the dates is an event that is much anticipated where date lovers compete over one another with the aim of getting their hands on the crème de la crème of the crop. It is astonishing to see that some dates get sold for over US$ 1,650 per kilo and yet however, one witnesses the triumphant smiles of the buyers at the owning of their precious treasures at the auction.

It is wise to choose one of the luxury hotels Abu Dhabi such as the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara to experience the best of what Liwa Date Festival has to offer. Out of all the Abu Dhabi hotels available within the area, this particular one is known for the sheer sense of genuinity and the Arabian charm it enchants its guests with.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.

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Al Gharbia Festivals in Abu Dhabi – Fun Fiestas at the Waterfront

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History reveals that Al Gharbia has not been only a beautiful coast, but also a protective frontier that safeguarded the nation in the early parts of the 19th century. Al Gharbia, in Abu Dhabi has always been famous throughout the world for the golden sandy beaches that spread for miles. Over the years the village men have capitalized on the natural blessings and commenced promoting numerous sports and fun activities along the coastal line. Hence, today the area stands as a bustling hub for both local and foreign tourists.

One of the favourite events at the Water Sports Festivals is Kite surfing, which is a spectacular sport that requires relatively high skills to harness the wind power. Al Gharbia winds are ideal for the activity as the wind power is available for days to keep these kites airborne. Many other water sports add the attractions to make it your wettest holiday ever.

Throughout the year many festivals keep Al Gharbia vibrating. For those who have a penchant for riding the waves there is dragon boating, dhow racing, kayaking and surf boarding. Those who love to get behind a wheel will find desert driving and off road driving to be their cup of tea, both od which will expose the driver to sceneries never seen before. For those who wish to burn some calories outside the water, there is beach volleyball and beach football.

Ensure that the best skilled photographers of the family and the most photogenic of the entourage are on site as well. They can shoot away to their hearts content and stand a chance to win rich rewards for their mastery. Amidst all the action pop into the souks to pick up a few trinkets, enjoy the multi ethnic cuisine served at the numerous restaurants and attend the many musical concerts that are staged in Al Gharbia frequently.

You can afford to be selective when choosing a hotel in Abu Dhabi as there are many star class types of accommodation Abu Dhabi. Among them is the Eastern Mangroves, Abu Dhabi a well loved hotel that has impressed and enticed.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+

Experience the Rich Islamic Culture in Abu Dhabi’s

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Set on a waterfront, Eastern Mangroves, Abu Dhabi is one of the Hotel in Abu Dhabi which provides modern accommodation to all its guests. The beauty of this hotel and the hospitality has become the reason that this hotel is opted over other Accommodation Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi is a country where Islam is the main root.

Even the rules and regulations of the country are based on the Islamic religion. There are mosques all over the country where all people are religious. All over the city all religious needs are facilitated. It is hard for anyone else to work and live in Abu Dhabi without having any knowledge or respect towards the Islamic religion.

Al Ain International Music Festival – Middle Eastern Musical Celebration

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Luxury is the middle name for the United Arab Emirates and luxury with Anantara spans at a whole new level. So come stay at the new Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara that gives you a truly fascinating taste of this Middle Eastern wonder. Combining the vastness of the dessert with sheer style, this is certainly one of the finest of all Abu Dhabi hotels. The Anantra has here in the city made itself one of the finest luxury hotels Abu Dhabi can now finally call its ultimate host.

Music, Dance and a 100% pure entertainment: that is what the city of Al Ain is so famously known for. Like other parts of the United Arab Emirates, the city of Al Ain portrays its rich diversity and modern nature in the many fun filled activities it has lined up. For a classical experience of music in the city, visit the Al Ain International Music Festival. This festival organized in the city of Abu Dhabi is one of the biggest crowd pullers in UAE entertainment.

The Al Ain Music Festival brings out some of the finest talents from different ends of the world. Located in the capital of the United Arab Emirates, the music festival is a massive affair that has some of the elite personnel from all over the gulf in its audience. Some of the finest talents in the art of Music are showcased here. Some notes come from regional musicians and others from big international names. This time of the year the entire nation adorns itself gearing up for this gastronomic event. For music lovers the preparation, the happening vibe of the city in addition to the performance also adds up to this treat like no other. The Al Ain music festival lasts for a total of 3 days and includes an interesting agenda that will keep you in a daze throughout the music festival. It is an annual event that usually takes place in the first quarter of the year.

 

Umanga Kahandawaarachchi is a passionate travel writer who writes under the pen name, Maggie Tulliver. Her field of writing covers a wide array of content and articles related to travel and hospitality industry.

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Abu Dhabi Grand Prix: The Pinnacle of Motor Racing in the Middle East

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Announced during the F1 Festival in Abu Dhabi in 2007, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in 2009 on Yas Island was also Formula One’s inaugural day and night race as well, with the circuit well lit with floodlights and the consequent races held in the Emirates have also been day-night races. As motoring enthusiasts gather from all over the world to witness these races it is best to arrange accommodation at an Abu Dhabi resort for the duration of your stay early on. Make a vacation out of your visit to the emirate and book one of the many Abu Dhabi beach hotels to make it an exhilarating yet relaxing holiday. Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara will give you the opportunity to witness the Grand Prix and return to a comfortably luxurious setting to relax in till the end of the races.

Formula One, the pinnacle of motor racing is undoubtedly a motoring enthusiast’s most favoured sporting event. Sanctioned by the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), Formula One is its highest class in single-seater motor races. To determine the ultimate grand winner, Grand Prix races are organized worldwide, primarily in Europe but as of late, in a number of non- European countries as well.

Though the inaugural Abu Dhabi Grand Prix did not have a bearing on the world championships, subsequent races now held annually, do, and the winner of the event in 2010 went on to win the World Championship that year. Sebastian Vettel currently holds the record for winning two consecutive Abu Dhabi Grand Prix races while Red Bull has won the constructors races in both 2009 and 2010. The 2011 race had the distinction of being the second before last race of the season where Lewis Hamilton triumphed in a McLaren Mercedes while the 2012 race title was taken by Kimi Räikkönen. However, the lap record of the Yas Marina Circuit is still retained by Sebastian Vettel.

The 2013 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is provisionally scheduled to be held at the Yas Marina Circuit from the 1st – 3rd of November.

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Abu Dhabi Nightlife – Exuberant and Energetic Entertainment!

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Being an Islamic nation has not stopped the United Arab Emirates from boasting some of the best nightlife in the region; after all the country does contain a large expat population. Most restrictions and limitations apply only to Muslims and foreigners can enjoy a nightlife that rivals that of many Western nations. Inside the United Arab Emirates both Dubai and Abu Dhabi have a very active night scene and although the latter is a little more conservative in outlook, it still offers tons of fun. The nightlife in Abu Dhabi falls into two categories; the malls and cinemas and the bars and nightclubs. 
The emirate contains plenty of terrific malls and one can find some sort of sale going on at any time of the year. However, the malls are not solely for shopping, but are a form of entertainment as well. The local malls usually stay open till midnight and provide a variety of entertainment options such as cinemas, bowling alleys and ice rinks. The malls contain activities that are suitable for all ages. 
When it comes to adult entertainment the options maybe limited but are still easy to find. Hotels act as a one stop destination for dinner, music, drinks and dancing, thus reducing the time spent driving around. In addition to this, many bars and clubs also have live music. The best local bars to visit are PJ O’Reilly’s, The Captain’s Arms, 3rd Avenue and Ray’s Bar, Mood Indigo and In Cooler Weather. The best nightclubs are Allure by Cipriani, the Yacht Club, Illusion, Left Bank and Sax Club. The Mood Indigo Bar has excellent live jazz music on Fridays. Tourists should note that local laws on drinking and driving are quite severe and diligently enforced.
While the emirate’s roadways may have been designed for cars, Abu Dhabi does contain an excellent public transport system. Public buses can help tourists reach the furthest boundaries of the emirate for a relatively small price. Metered taxis are a bit more expensive but are somewhat faster. Accommodation is also quite easy to find. Those looking for luxury hotel resorts should definitely try Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas. They operate several luxury hotels in strategic locations throughout Abu Dhabi which are perfectly suited for both business and leisure travellers.

Family and Kids Park Zoo – Sightseeing in the UAE

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Abu Dhabi (which is Arabic for ‘Father of Deer’) is the capital of the United Arab Emirates and is the second largest city in the country. While not a traditional tourist destination, the city has become quite popular in recent times with renewed interest in Arab customs and culture. The emirate is perfectly suited for a family vacation with plenty of kid friendly activities. One activity that should be at the top of the list for families travelling to Abu Dhabi, is visiting the Family and Kids Park Zoo, now renamed as the Emirates Park Zoo.
The Emirates Park Zoo is a popular zoo containing nearly seven hundred animals including hippopotamuses, giraffes, seals, lions, leopards, cheetahs and a pair of white tigers. In addition to the main zoo one will also find a large indoor ice rink, a Marine Zone with four fresh water tanks and twenty six salt water tanks, a Gaming Zone and a Butterfly Park. The site is currently undergoing expansion with new attractions being added including a new Parrot Park, a Chimpanzee Park and a Reptile and Amphibian House. By the time it is complete, the site will house more than two thousand animals. It offers a truly memorable day out for the entire family and visitors can enjoy learning about the zoos fascinating animal residents. 
The Emirate Park Zoo is a great way to spend an afternoon and is sure to delight both children and adults alike. Weekday opening hours (Sunday to Wednesday) are between 9.30 am and 8 pm. The park remains open an hour longer during the weekends (between Thursday to Saturday) and on public holidays. It is located in Al Bahia, which is about half an hour away from the Abu Dhabi city centre.
As a highly developed city the local infrastructure is very good. Finding a well appointed hotel Abu Dhabi UAE will not be a problem and Grand Millennium Al Wahda is a popular choice among those looking for luxury accommodation. This Abu Dhabi hotel is a thirty minute drive from the airport and contains a spa, a health club and even a rooftop swimming pool.