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10 reasons why Abu Dhabi should be on every bucket list

A colourful collage of ancient traditions, modern architecture, abundant natural beauty and compelling events, this stunning emirate is fast emerging as an absolute must-visit destination.

Here, discover 10 things to see and do that will convince you to go.

1. Luxurious Spas

Unwind and pamper yourself at a myriad of luxurious spas, from the traditional Hammam at Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa by Anantara, to the deliciously indulgent treatments at the Anantara Spa at
Emirates Palace.

2. Gourmet Abu Dhabi

This gastronomic festival held each February boasts a star-studded cast of Michelin-star chefs and special guests, masterclasses, industry insights from hospitality experts, as well as gourmet dinners hosted at some of Abu Dhabi city’s finest restaurants and venues.

3. Sir Bani Yas Island

A true island getaway with three stunning resorts, the Arabian Wildlife Park with up to 10,000 free roaming animals, and an array of activities from hiking, mountain biking, diving, snorkelling, horse riding, archery and the unique pearling and fishing trips.

4. Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara

A stunning oasis in the midst of the mystical Liwa Desert, Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara is far removed from the outside world while still less than 200 kilometres from Abu Dhabi city.
Guests can immerse themselves in the beauty of the legendary Rub Al Khali (Empty Quarter), the multi-award-winning facilities and magical desert experiences.

5. Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital

The world’s largest and most advanced falcon hospital, guided tours take visitors into the luxurious wards to see where these majestic birds are kept during their stay, while in the museum visitors gain an insight to this regal desert bird.

6. Abu Dhabi Pearl Journey

A true once-in-a-lifetime experience; board a traditional pearling dhow to take a leisurely cruise and hear tales of dedication to the ancient art of pearling. You will witness the traditional way of opening a living oyster and receive your very own pearl as a souvenir.

7. Al Maryah Island

Home to one of the world’s most sophisticated shopping malls – The Galleria – with the highest concentration of luxury brands in the Arabian Peninsula.

8. Kayaking Through the Mangroves

Take a guided kayaking trip through the eco-vital mangroves, discover their beauty and learn of the vital contribution they make to the emirate’s eco-system.
Tours leave from the Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa by Anantara.

9. Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

The world’s only twilight race on the magnificent, grand-stand shaded Yas Marina Circuit. Race weekend is one of the most glamorous on the F1 circuit with after-race concerts and an Abu Dhabi city-wide activity program.

10. Volvo Ocean Race

Be in Abu Dhabi this December/January and join in the celebrations to welcome the round-the-world Volvo Ocean Race fleet to the UAE capital.
Get down to the Corniche Destination Village for all-day entertainment and fun for free.

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BREAKING: Australia lowers travel warning for Middle Eastern countries

    Eleanor Edström Eleanor Edström
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    In big news, the Australian government has officially changed its travel advice for five Middle Eastern countries from ‘do not travel’ (Level 4) to ‘reconsider your need to travel’ (Level 3). Here’s what it means for travellers.

    Australia has downgraded its travel advice for five Middle Eastern countries, including Bahrain, Israel, Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. However, some areas within Israel remain a ‘do not travel status’.

    The announcement comes ahead of the USA and Iran’s formal signing of a peace deal on Friday, and is expected to have a significant positive impact on travellers’ confidence.

    In a joint media release published this morning, Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong and Assistant Foreign Affairs Minister Matt Thistlethwaite said that, while the security situation in the Middle East could rapidly change or decline, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has assessed the conditions and judged it appropriate to change Bahrain, Israel, Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates to a Level 3 or ‘reconsider your need to travel’.

    What does this mean for travellers?

    passport
    The announcement comes ahead of the formal signing of a peace deal between the USA and Iran. (Credit: Unsplash/Kit Formerley Convertkit)

    With Level 4 locations highly unlikely to be covered by travel insurers, travellers from Australia can now travel through and to the Arabian Peninsula with travel insurance protection. The change clears a major hurdle for Australians transiting through the Middle East to reach the United Kingdom, Europe, India and Africa. These travellers will no longer face some of the complications that the Level 4 warning created for transit travel, particularly those related to insurance.

    As a result, we may soon be seeing a surge in travellers finally setting off on the trips they have been postponing as a result of the Middle East conflict.

    There could also be some welcome relief for travellers’ wallets. Middle Eastern carriers such as Qatar Airways and Emirates account for a significant share of Australia–Europe/UK flight capacity, and when concerns about regional conflict prompted many travellers to avoid Gulf transit hubs, demand shifted to alternative routes via Singapore, Bangkok and other Asian cities. This meant prices for flights transiting through Asia increased. As confidence in those Middle Eastern connections returns, increased competition between airlines could help keep a lid on airfares – particularly on popular Europe-bound routes.

    middle east travel
    The change in travel advice could see a surge in travellers’ confidence. (Credit: Unsplash/Rocker Sta)

    Smartraveller states that Level 3 or ‘reconsider your need to travel’ means avoiding or postponing non-essential travel, and taking extra precautions to protect yourself against security and health risks. These destinations are still classed as unstable, with DFAT warning that circumstances can shift abruptly.

    The government urges travellers to obtain travel insurance and ensure they have carefully read the product conditions so they understand what is and isn’t covered. Not all travel insurance policies may cover Level 3 locations.

    DFAT continues to advise ‘do not travel’ to Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Palestine, Syria and Yemen, and ‘reconsider your need to travel’ to Jordan, Oman and Saudi Arabia. The body will continue to monitor the conditions closely and keep all Smartraveller advisories under review.

    Ten reasons why Abu Dhabi should be on every traveller's bucket list