Abu Dhabi has become popular for being the vibrant and exciting capital city of the United Arab Emirates. However, it is better known to locals and foreigners who have lived in the city long for having a laid-back and comfortable lifestyle. In fact, people residing in Abu Dhabi have found a better balance in work and life compared to the neighboring busy modern city of Dubai.
While it also houses famous vacation spots, there’s something special about experiencing Abu Dhabi like a local that is entirely different compared to when you visit it as a tourist. Not only will you get to behold the beauty of famous local destinations, but you also get the privilege to learn about the people, culture, and history behind it.
If you’re ready to get to know Abu Dhabi the way locals do, here are six things you should do to get that authentic Emirati experience based on advice from people who actually live there:
1. Join an Emirati-Led Tour
When visiting a new place, most people aren’t selective of the person who will guide them through the experience. However, if you genuinely want to experience Abu Dhabi like a local, your best bet is to have one to guide you through it.
Unlike tours led by non-locals, those led by a genuine Emirati will ensure that you enjoy the sights, the experience, and the behind-the-scenes stories that go with them. Aside from gaining first-hand insight into the culture and heritage of this rich Middle Eastern city, you will also get useful insider information to help you get better bargains at local shops tourists who come off as “tourists” will never get their hands on.
2. Enjoy the Beaches
The city of Abu Dhabi is also well-known for having several picturesque beaches, but Saadiyat Beach continues to reign supreme. This tourist spot is composed of a long stretch of white sand and azure sea waters that is a perfect spot for paddling and swimming. It is also surrounded by resorts and hospitality establishments that will give your comfort and luxury, all at the same time.
3. Visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is Abu Dhabi’s biggest mosque lauded for its sophisticated architecture and luxurious features. From crystalline pools to a gold and precious stone-embellished interior, the Grand Mosque will definitely be worth your time.One important information you should know to experience this like a local is the right timing of your visit. The mosque is available for tourism between 9 a.m. and 10 p.m. from Saturday to Thursday, with the last entry scheduled at 9:30 p.m.
Friday mornings are exclusively dedicated for worship. Unless you’re a Muslim, you won’t get to see the inside of this grand edifice until 4:30 to 11 p.m. on that day.
4. Save on Food by Eating Genuine Middle Eastern
To experience Abu Dhabi like a local, you also have to eat like one. This means trying out genuine Middle Eastern food for an authentic taste of the place. Several food joints can be found along the side streets of the city offering true Lebanese, Egyptian, Iraqi, Moroccan and Emirati cuisine at very reasonable prices.
5. Get into the Emirati Brunch Mania
Friday brunches in Abu Dhabi are all the rage for locals and tourists alike. Some come in massive buffets while others are available à la carte in luxury hotels and restaurants. There are those that are incredibly cheap while others come from the other side of the spectrum.The bottom line is that there’s plenty for you to choose from, so you’ll surely have at least one to go to no matter what your preferences may be.
6. Bring Friends to Qasr Al Hosn
As Abu Dhabi’s symbolic birthplace, Qasr Al Hosn should be on top of your to-visit list with your friends when visiting the city. This is because the edifice is considered as the most historic stone building since it was the first-ever permanent structure built in the emirate. You will also learn about the complete history of the city through a free-for-all exhibition, complete with oral testimonies and interesting photographs from Abu Dhabi’s past.
To enjoy all these and more, make sure to time it during the annual Qasr Al Hosn Festival scheduled in February of every year. Visiting Abu Dhabi has been a thrill for many tourists because of the city’s rich culture, extensive history, and wonderful scenery.
If this is the case for visitors, just imagine how much more exciting it would be to experience the UAE capital the way locals do. Just follow the tips in this article so that even you can experience Abu Dhabi in the most genuine way possible.
AUTHOR BIO
Soraya Abdul Azis is the Marketing Manager for Saadiyat Beach Club in the UAE, the very first beach club on Saadiyat where guests can enjoy and celebrate a world of fine living, health and well-being. Soraya has worked in Design, Advertising and PR in Dubai and Beirut for the past 4 years.