The Mina Port

The Mina Port Zayed is one of the jewels of Abu Dhabi for tourists, locals and expatriates. With a number of attractions, there is likely enough for you to do for an entire day. The Mina port will give you a true Arabic experience, so enjoy the hospitality and the bargaining.

The Carpet Souk
I believe this is one of the lesser known areas in the port, mostly because it’s difficult to get into the car park area. Located at the corner of Al Mina Street and 14th street, the only entrance requires a U-turn on 14th when coming from downtown. Here you will find about 100 stores selling carpets, prayer rugs, fabrics and upholstered cushions from around the region.
Enter any of these shops and you can bet there is a smiling shop owner ready to sell you whatever it is you desire. Serious buyers can expect the shop owners to unroll every carpet in their store on your quest to find the perfect carpet. It’s likely they will also retrieve carpets from other stores around the souk. Once a decision is made, then the bargaining can begin. Expect to spend a good bit of time driving the price down and expect to pay about 1/3 the owner’s first price.

Vegetables & Fruits Market
Located on the right hand side of 20th Street at the port (you’ll see signs), the Vegetable & Fruit Market holds some great values. There are a number of stalls selling fruits and vegetables wholesale as well as a few stalls selling produce to consumers. Here you will find the freshest fruits and vegetables at the lowest prices in town. For the best value and variety check out the covered market located in the back left corner, it’s covered with a blue and white striped tent.

Making your way towards the dates and dried fruits section should be a must when visiting the port. Here you will find piles and trays of the finest Middle Eastern dates from around the region. There are also small shops inside that offer figs, dates, date syrup and a selection of other dryed goods. Don’t be surprised if you are offered samples and perhaps even a tea while you sample. Take your time and try everything before you buy. These goods will be much cheaper and of higher quality then those sold in the local stores and remember the more you buy the cheaper they get.

Plant Souk
It’s not likely that many tourist will be purchasing plants in Abu Dhabi but they may want to check out what grows in the region. For residents, the plant souk is the place to buy indoor and outdoor plants, pots and soil wholesale. Located on the left hand side of 20th at the first roundabout.
The stock changes throughout the year but you can usually find citrus trees, cacti, flowers as well as hearty dessert plants great for your garden or patio. Make sure your getting the best price and try to buy from the same owner consistently, as the prices get better with multiple visits.
Iranian Souk

Located next to the plant souk, this eclectic souk is filled with goods from Iran and other countries in the region. Goods are carried on traditional wooden dhows across the Persian Sea by small merchants. Goods here range from wood for camp fires to lawn chairs to large pots for cooking. It is another great experience to walk in the narrow corridors searching for hidden gems and deals. Often a trip to the Iranian Souk results in purchasing items you didn’t know you needed.
The Fish Market

Every morning dhows from around the region bring their fresh catches to the Mina Fish Market in Abu Dhabi. Located near the marina, follow the signs and the smell, after a turn around at the first roundabout on 20th street you will find it on the right. At the market you will find countless stalls selling all kinds of sea creatures including Shrimp, Prawns, Crabs, Clams, Tuna, Hammour, Skate, Cuddle fish, and even Shark. If your looking for a regional fish, you will find it at the Mina Fish Market.

It’s recommended that if you plan on eating or purchasing fish that you do so early in the day, say before noon. Once you have purchased you fish or seafood, you can take it to any of the eager fish cleaners for scaling, gutting and filleting. It’s also possible to have your fish cooked right in the market and is a great meal alternative to an expensive restaurant. Just locate one of the small stands and they can prepare your fish however you would like, grilled, fried, seared, etc. There are few other places where you can have fish cleaned and cooked at their peak freshness and you’re encouraged to enjoy a fresh fish lunch for a fraction of the cost.

Tip: Finding your way around the port can be confusing but there are many signs to guide you. Remember that as an active government port, taking pictures in this area can attract unwanted attention. When taking photos stay away from sweeping landscapes as you may take photos of sensitive things. Always ask permission when taking pictures of people or their shops. Enoy!

Emirates Park Zoo

One of the hidden gems of Abu Dhabi, The Emirates Park Zoo should be on the list of every expat, local or adventurous tourist. Emirates Park Zoo is located in Shahama about 30 minutes outside Abu Dhabi on the road to Dubai. You will only need a few hours to see all of the attractions but it’s worth the drive.
Entrance to the park will cost you about 25 dirhams but make sure you bring a bit of extra cash for feed or bring your own dates just in case they run out (which they do).

Emirates Park Zoo gives you a unique chance to interact with camels, goats, giraffes, monkeys and a variety of other wildlife. Patrons are actually encouraged to feed the animals, usually leaves and dates.

The giraffes, monkeys and camels steal the show with an up close and personal interaction that you cannot get at most western zoos. You can get an up close view of a camels teeth, watch a giraffe grab a leaf with its enormous tongue or play tug of war with a monkey trying to get a date. There are also a large number or big cats including 3 of the world’s 300 Siberian White Tigers. Though small, the zoo is laid out in a way that allows you to see and interact with animals from around the world. For more information on the zoos timings visit Emirates Park Zoo

Tip: Interacting with the zoo staff is a great way to get a closer look at other animals such as the falcons or seal lions. The zoo is outdoors so plan accordingly and consider the weather. Also keep in mind that when driving to the Zoo there are a number of brown signs along the way….they interchange between Emirates Park Zoo and Kids Park Zoo.

Ferrari Wolrd

Ferrari World is one of the top attractions in Abu Dhabi and is a must visit attraction on your trip.

Ferrari World is the largest indoor amusement park in the world and is contained under a massive 2 million square foot roof. There are a limited number of major attractions due to the small size, but you will still find enough fun to spend a whole day here.
Formula Rossa– By far the number one attraction, this roller coater is currently the fastest in the world at a top speed of 149 mph. It’s fast enough they make you wear goggles for the 90 second ride.

Fiorano GT Challenge– The other major attraction at Ferrari World, features two racing coasters with Ferrari inspired cars.
There are a number of virtual reality, 3-d and 4-d rides throughout the park, a galley featuring iconic Ferraris and a few attractions for children. Some find the park disappointing, expecting it to rival theme parks in the US, but Ferrari World is meant to be enjoyed for its sites and iconic memorabilia as well as its prized attractions. For ticketing and timings Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

Tip: As always it’s best to visit on a Friday morning to avoid long queues and crowds. Also be aware that food is quite expensive but if you’re willing to fork over the cash, there is an authentic Italian restaurant to enhance the Italian Ferrari experience.

Yas Waterworld

On January 24th 2013 the long awaited Yas Waterworld opened for business on Yas Island, a 30 minute drive from downtown Abu Dhabi.

With 43 rides and attractions, Yas Waterworld is quickly becoming a must visit attraction during any trip to Abu Dhabi. There are a number of unique rides at the park including the longest suspended roller coaster in the Middle East.
Liwa Loop– The only looping water slide in the Middle East, this enclosed water slide drops the rider straight down before sending you on an inverted loop and spitting you out. Easily the top attraction for those seeking an adrenaline rush.
Dawwama– This giant water slide sends six people in one raft through a series of drops and turns using hydro magnetic technology into the 65 foot funnel. Though they allow children on the ride make sure they can hold on tight.
Slithers Slides– A series of six raft required water slides, featuring laser and light shows and though not the adrenaline rush of some rides, these rides are some of the best fun Yas Waterworld has to offer.
For a full list of attractions see the Yas Waterworld Attractions

Yas Waterworld boasts three children’s play areas including low profile slides, a tot’s play area and Marah Fortress a children’s paradise with six water slides, two dumping buckets and countless water sprayers.
With a courteous staff, good food and a park filled with non stop attraction you can easily spend an entire day if not two days soaking in the sun. Enjoy.

Tip: Getting to the park early is essential if you want to beat the crowds and ride the top attractions. The park opens everyday at 10 am and, as always, Friday is the best day to do almost anything in Abu Dhabi, particularly in the morning. Also bring your own towel if possible, towels are 30 dirhams each to rent at the park.

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mousque

Perhaps the most iconic building in Abu Dhabi, The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a must see attraction when visiting Abu Dhabi.

Commissioned by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the UAE, it was completed and open for worship in 2007. With a price tag of $545 million every detail of this beautiful landmark has been meticulously planned and executed.

Visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a must when in Abu Dhabi. Visitors can tour the mosque everyday, but timings change based around daily prayer times. Please check their website for timings, both self tours and guided tours are available Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center. Give yourself ample time, at least an hour, before your tour to both walk the grounds and get yourself on a guided tour. The guided tours last about 45 minutes and is by far the best way to see and learn about the mosque. Guided tours are free and are given on a first come first serve basis to groups of fewer then eight. Tour guides begin tours in the main atrium located on the eastern facing wall and are free of charge.

Arrive for the earliest tour to beat the rush or wait for an evening tour to see the mosque during a golden sunset. Either way visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque will enhance you understanding of Abu Dhabi and Islamic culture. Enjoy.


Tip: Please be aware that decent clothing is a must here at the mosque.
For men please wear long pants and a collared shirt.
For women it is recommended you wear a loose fitting outfit with long sleeves, long pants and no plunging neck lines. Following these guidelines and bringing your own pashmina or head cover is also recommended. Follow these tips and you will avoid having to wear the mosque provided abaya and head scarf.
Sandals or slip on shoes are also suggested, as you will need to remove them to enter the main prayer hall.

Arriving in Abu Dhabi

When traveling in a foreign country your experience at the airport can be confusing, stressful and off putting. Luckily, the Abu Dhabi airport is quite small and with a few tips you can be in and out with little issue.
There are 3 passenger terminals at the current airport (a new airport, the $7 billion Midfield Terminal is under construction set to open in 2017),
Terminals 1 & 2 service most airlines and upon arrival you will be ushered into the main terminal on your way to immigration, baggage claim and customs.

Immigration here is not quite as large as some, but there seem to be an excessive number of options and making sure you get into the right line can be key to your quick exit. The first thing you may notice is a long line of men to the far left. Most of these guys are migrant workers who upon entering are subject to additional scans and checks. Please do not get in this line.
There are lines for Airline Crew, UAE Citizens, GCC Citizens and Other Nationalities. Your safest bet is in the Other Nationalities line. Long cues are not the norm here but be patient as the lines typically move quickly. Once through immigration it’s time to get your bags.
If you have a large number of bags make sure you grab a porter (these guys wear blue jumpsuits) on your way into baggage claim. There are also a large number of carts you can push yourself, but for around 50 dirhams ($13.50) the porter will take you all the way through the airport to your cab or car.
After you make a quick stop in the duty free bottle shop (this is highly recommended as alcohol is quite expensive in Abu Dhabi) it’s a quick walk through customs and off to either your hotel transport or a cab.
Terminal 3 almost exclusively serves Etihad Airline passengers. This terminal is new, large and most services like immigration and customs are far quicker. Though the walk to the cab stand and other transportation services is a bit longer.
Please remember, that when entering Abu Dhabi, this is a Muslim country and a number of everyday items like medicines are not permitted without approval. It’s best to verbally claim items when prompted by customs (though few westerners are stopped). Contact your embassy for an up to date list of restricted and banned items as the list is ever changing.
Want to make your airport experience even smoother? Check out the Gold Class options.