There are many reasons why early in the year is the ideal time to visit Abu Dhabi, Dubai’s low-key, easy-going sibling. At that top of the list is weather. This capital city of the United Arab Emirates promises much more manageable temperatures (around the low 20s Celsius/high 60sF) in the new year than during the sweltering seasons. After all, just beyond the city and its gorgeous setting along the Persian Gulf is pure desert.
Plan to take advantage of Abu Dhabi’s diverse, appealing offerings regardless of when you go:
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center
A vacation to Abu Dhabi is not complete without seeing the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (pictured). The largest mosque outside Mecca or Medina, it is a stunning and reverent architectural center. The Mosque is closed for tourism during worship on Friday morning to 5:00 pm, but general visiting hours are available Saturday through Thursday from 9am and 10pm.
Heritage Village
For a true glimpse of pre-oil, historical Abu Dhabi, visit Heritage Village. You can meander about replicas of barasti (a palm frond house), a small souk, and a traditional mosque, while experiencing Bedouin culture, crafts, and traditional desert life.
Ferrari World and Yas Island
Children on board—or child at heart? Consider adding Ferrari World (pictured) on Yas Island to your itinerary. You can experience the thrill of racing a Ferrari in the world’s largest indoor theme park. While on Yas Island, you could check out the many other attractions close by. Or, opt for a slower, more serene pace just strolling the beautiful, white-sand Yas Beach. Your winter vacation couldn’t get any better!
Formula One Racing
If you time your trip appropriately, you may be able to catch some more fast-paced fun watching Formula One Racing (pictured) 
from the Yas Viceroy Hotel. On the shores of the City beside a luxurious marina, the hotel’s locale is appealing for many reasons. Many rooms offer spectacular views of the Formula One track below, and the hotel’s Skylite rooftop bar—a prime spot for watching the races—is a locally known venue that truly is sublime.
Abu Dhabi Food Festival
Not quite ready to leave the perfect temperature and wonderful, relaxing energy of Abu Dhabi? If you’re in town for the Abu Dhabi Airexpo and are looking for some good food before you leave town, wrap up your trip at the Abu Dhabi Food Festival. The festival takes place throughout February and is a delightful culinary adventure!
More information:
Yas Beach Photo (right): Yas Beach CC Image courtesy of Sarah Ackerman on Flickr
Yas Island Header Photo: This photo of Yas Island shows the Yas Maria Circuit track around the Yas Marina in the foreground. The large red building in the background is Ferrari World.
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