Tag: Abu Dhabi

Enjoy Deep Sea Fishing Expeditions in Desert Angling Hub Abu Dhabi

Travellers on the lookout for Abu Dhabi beach hotels will find no finer alternative to the Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara. Ideally located in a scenic landscape this verdant oasis with its own spa is suitable for both business travellers as well as holidaymakers.

Although one might regard Abu Dhabi as an unlikely fishing hub in the Emirates this bustling metropolis in the desert offers angling enthusiasts a plethora of engaging attractions. The main contributing factor to its success as a deep sea fishing heartland is due to its advantageous location on the fringes of the Persian Gulf with the ocean within close driving distance from nearly every corner of the island. As a land that is bound to the ocean Abu Dhabi was once a tranquil fishing hub with angling and fishing serving as its core industry. Although the discovery of oil altered the prominence given to fishing activities the island remains one of the Emirates’ most potent fishing locations with numerous tour operators offering angling expeditions on chartered vessels.

Fishing fans heading to Abu Dhabi should be aware of the fishing regulations in the city as certain guidelines on the size and amount of fish one can catch are in place for fishing expeditions. Most tour operators and boat charters will inform tourists of the guidelines before heading off to the designated fishing areas in the ocean surrounding the island as fishing is banned in certain regions. A 7-day recreational fishing license in another important requirement fishing enthusiasts must secure setting sail. Blessed with tranquil waters with fantastic visibility fishing excursions in Abu Dhabi is a popular hobby among locals as well as expats. The best season for fishing falls between the months of November to February although official fishing season begins in October and lasts till May.

A typical deep sea fishing tour can last up to 3 hours while those who wish to engage in the activity without a guide can charter a vessel and rent fishing gear and bait from a number of vendors around the city. Some of the fish varieties up for grabs in Abu Dhabi include Sail Fish, Tuna, King Fish and Dorados while Spanish Mackerels, Wahoos, White Marlins, Giant Trevallies and Groupers are other species that occupy the deeper sea bed off the island’s coast.

Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.

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A breath of Fresh Air

Abu Dhabi has significant mangrove forests around islands and sheltered coastal zones. While some new planting of mangrove trees were necessary to improve their condition, a great part of the 70 sq miles of mangrove forests spread along its 547 km shoreline is naturally occurring. The nutrient rich waters among the trees provide habitats for birds and nurseries for coastal fish species. Mangrove kayaking can be enjoyed at Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara, an Abu Dhabi resort on Yas Island.

Leaving the city behind and taking a kayaking trip deep into the mangroves, paddling along coastal channels and among low hanging branches introduces many to a different side of the emirate. Although the mangrove forests are close to the city, it is another world out here. The predominant noises are the dip of the paddle in the water, the call of birds and the soft sounds of fish moving about in the water.

Kayakers can take advantage of specially tailored trips to experience this exceptional natural environment. A trip to navigate the Eastern and Yas Island mangroves for instance takes about one to two hours. However the experience is dependent on tides. High tide allows kayakers to move in the shallows under the mangrove canopy but as the shore is inundated there is no shore life. Low tide allows access to the bigger channels and little or no access to the mangrove forest. However paddlers can observe life on the exposed shore. Avid birders will find both expeditions fascinating. There is also a moonlight option but this is understandably only for expert kayakers. Taking an eco mangrove tour is a great way to learn about the mangrove ecosystem and its wildlife. Experienced kayakers can take a three hour trip to Abu Dhabi Island and lunch on shore or circumnavigate it and camp overnight. Other kayaking experiences include catch and release fishing, a paddle along the Umm Al Quwain coastline known for its marine life including black tipped reef sharks, green turtles, flamingos and storks in the summer and dolphins and dugongs during the cooler months.

Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.

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Bird Handling

Falcons have been used as a hunting weapon by the Bedouins in Abu Dhabi’s Liwa desert region for centuries. Taking falcons out into the desert on hunting expeditions lasting several days was how rulers kept in touch with tribes at one time. Although they are not used for practical purposes anymore, falconry is now a popular sport in the Liwa desert although using them to hunt wildlife is restricted. Sporting birds are taken out into the desert each day as they have to be flown and trained daily. The main species of falcon being used for sport are the saker and the peregrine. One of popular luxury hotels Abu Dhabi, Qasr al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara offers a selection of desert based leisure activities that include falconry.

The bird’s eyes are covered with a hood during the acclimatization process to keep it calm. Out in the desert when the hoods are removed the birds soar up into the air reveling in the wide open spaces. A GPS transmitter attached to their tail feathers keep track of movements. The falcons are capable of flying at 200 miles an hour and are efficient hunters in open terrain. Training comprises of the bird’s handler whirling a feathered, baited lure until the falcon dives for it. When the bird catches the lure it receives a reward. Later the falcon is trained to dive on a live prey. This time the handler lures it away before it can get its talons into the prey, getting the bird used to not killing the prey immediately. When the sun goes down over the desert, it is time for the falcons to go back to their roost. At the end of the sporting season some falconers release the birds into the wild after embedding a micro chip for identification. The capturing and training of falcons need patience, skill and even bravery as they are dangerous raptors. They have to be trained for months before they can be used for sport.

 

Jayani Senanayake is a writer who dabbles in travel and all things exotic. Under the pseudonym of Caliope Sage, she writes of the allures that must simply be discovered.

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Discover Desert Adventures with Engaging Activities in Sir Bani Yas Island

Travellers in search of well-positioned resorts Abu Dhabi ranks among its most conveniently located rests should look no further than the Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort, Abu Dhabi. Providing guests with a strategic base in the heart of the island this breathtaking resort is suitable for both business travellers and holidaymakers.

As the most popular island of the Desert Islands of Al Ghrabia Sir Bani Yas Island is a dream come true for desert vacationers. Although all eight islands are recreational hubs for the masses Sir Bani Yas Island offers visitors the most diversity in terms of the activities and attractions on offer.

When it comes to desert adventures there’s nothing quite like uncovering wild beasts in a vast natural landscape. Occupying more than half of the island’s landscape the Arabian Wildlife Park is a mammoth wildlife sanctuary that contains more than 10,000 animals within its confines. Roaming free majestic jungle dwellers the likes of Arabian Oryxes, leaping cheetahs, grazing gazelles and giraffes can be spotted on a four wheel drive safari adventure at Sir Bani Yas Island. Wildlife drives on 4x4s are available through variety of tour operators and resorts while other adventure activities include nature walks which explore the mangrove lagoons of the sanctuary while a Wadi walk takes thrill seekers to the rugged terrain atop the salt crested summits of the island’s mountains that occupy the heart of the island. Sand dunes, intriguing minerals, centuries-old fossils and rocky pathways are just some of the highlights of this tour.

Mountain biking is another sporting activity that is a staple among adventure enthusiasts exploring the island as the guided tours encompass wildlife encounters and spectacular scenery in a ride that will test one’s skills and nerve on rocky terrains crisscrossing the island. Kayakers can also paddle along the coastal areas of Sir Bani Yas while snorkellers can engage in an underwater adventure exploring the coral reefs and stunning marine creatures the likes of Arabic Fish and Hammour that inhabit the deep blue waters.

 

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Nature & Wild Life Activities in Abu Dhabi

Explore the wild side of Sir Bani Yas by indulging in a 4×4 Nature and Wild Life excursion specially organized by one of the finest Abu Dhabi Beach hotels; Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara. Book a 4 hour tour and explore nature to your heart’s content. The hotel also provides its guest with learned guides who are more than happy to share all sorts of interesting information about this fascinating natural island.

The Sir Bani Yas Island is located some 100kms south west of Abu Dhabi and makes the largest natural island in the United Arab Emirates. The unparalleled scenic appeal and rich array of flora and fauna makes Sir Bani Yas extremely popular with the tourists. Infact the wild life reserve in Sir Bani Yas is the islands biggest attraction. Established in 1971, the reserve has blossomed into a successful wild life sanctuary that is today home to 1000s of large, free roaming animals and a number of rare species of plants. In addition to the wildlife reserve the park houses an interesting bird sanctuary as well, altogether occupying over half of Sir Bani Yas Island.

Some of the interesting species found in Sir Bani Yas includes the Arabian Oryx, Gazelles, Deers, giraffes and even dolphins and sea turtles. The Arabian Oryx is particularly fascinating as it is one species that has been completely extinct in the wild but in this sanctuary the world’s largest herd of Arabian Oryx can be found. The Bird sanctuary of the Park is home to a number of wild birds, some of which are even indigenous to the island.

Like everything else in the Emirates the park goes all out in ensuring its guests have an excellent time here. Nature is showcased in this reserve through a number of interesting activities such as safaris, mountain biking, kayaking, hiking and snorkeling. The Sir Bani Yas gives you the finest experience that you could have with the Wild life of the Emirates.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Abu Dhabi Travelling Tips

The city of Abu Dhabi is the capital and center of governance of the United Arab Emirates. Adorned with the epitome of luxury, Abu Dhabi and its neighboring city Dubai makes perhaps the two most exciting regions in the whole of the Arabian Peninsula. Characterized by thousands of sky high buildings, unparalleled cityscapes, lush manmade gardens and opulent shopping malls, Abu Dhabi is nothing short of paradise for the luxury loving tourist. Almost every hotel in Abu Dhabi mirrors the sheer class that is synonymous to this city’s name. People come from afar to bask in this jewel studded city and the many comforts that it beholds. Perfectly located in close proximity to the many attractions in Abu Dhabi, the Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa by Anantara is a popular choice for many who visit the city; be it for business or leisure purpose.

Abu Dhabi’s location on the Eastern end of the Arabian Peninsula makes it prone to dry and extremely hot weather conditions; particularly in the months between May and August. When heading out on the many excursions in Abu Dhabi particularly to the deserts or the beaches, sun screen is almost always an absolute must. On many occasions the luxury again comes to rescue Abu Dhabi from the harsh weather conditions as excellent temperature control is found in nearly every enclosed region in the city.
Although far more cosmopolitan than the rest of the Arabian nations put together, a little modesty would be appreciated in regions sensitive to culture or religion. The breathtaking Sheikh Zayed mosque is an excellent example of such a location. One of the most spectacular attractions of the city, the mosque demands its female visitors to be head covered while touring the premises of this place of worship.

Abu Dhabi is a city that enjoys its tourists and in turn tourists fall in love with this city. So hold back nothing and indulge in this city completely and bask in its luxury from dawn till dusk and even beyond.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Desert Activities in Abu Dhabi

The endless stretches of soft golden sands are one of UAE’s biggest attractions. People from around the globe visit these deserts to bask in their unspoiled beauty. Although deserts are made of merely dunes and dunes and more dunes there is so much to discover in these amazing dunes. Pretty much all the luxury hotels Abu Dhabi has includes touring these golden wonders as part of their available excursion packages but nothing quite tops the desert experience offered by the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara.

There is so much to do, so much to see and so much to part take in. There is something absolutely awe inspiring and intriguing about the Arabian Desert. Several of the desert activities boast rugged strength and power. Take archery for instance. In Liwa the tribesman took great pride in their hunting skills. Today in this very desert you get an opportunity to try your hand at archery. There is a number of shooting ranges which you can indulge in depending on your level of experience with archery. Another interesting fat burning activity in the deserts of Abu Dhabi is Mountain biking. The experience of biking on sand dunes is unique in all angles. If you are looking for means of exploring the deserts why not opt for a ride atop the back of a camel. These tall crooked animals give you a spectacular ride and better yet a spectacular view of your desert surroundings.

One of the most exciting and adventurous activities on the desert is dune bashing. Hire a 4×4 vehicle along with a guide and be a part of the thrilling adventure where your driver conquers the dunes in a series of sharp and exciting moves. Another bold and beautiful activity depicting the age old culture of the Emirates is the Falconry and Saluki show. The traditional sport of Falconry which was practiced for thousands of years has made this fierce bird a cultural symbol of the UAE. A live falcon and a saluki show are presented followed by exciting stories about hunting with these mighty falcons.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Camel Trekking across the Liwa Desert

The Desert of Abu Dhabi is one of the most exciting attractions in the city. Adorned with a number of historic wonders and an unspoiled golden backdrop, the Desert of Abu Dhabi makes some of the few remaining places where one can enjoy a sneak peek of what Abu Dhabi once was. Camels made an important part of the historic and nomadic Arabian lifestyle. These enormous innocent animals were used for milk, meat and mainly transportation. You can still experience and relive the feeling of traveling from one region to another on the back of a camel by indulging in a camel safari across the Liwa Desert.

The Liwa Desert in Abu Dhabi boasts vast stretches of rolling dunes with a breathtaking Oasis in the center. For tourists, the Liwa desert is an excellent spot to absorb some authentic Emirati culture. The Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara is one of the many luxury hotels Abu Dhabi has that organizes tours to the Liwa Desert. The Tour packages covers 6 important locations in the area which includes a palm tree farm, a cucumber farm and a Camel farm. The Camel farm gives you a unique opportunity to experience an up-close and personal interaction with camels. Taste delicious camel milk and camel milk yoghurt or better yet, hop atop a camels crooked back and indulge in a ride across the Liwa desert.

Camels are amazing creatures to show you across the desert. For one, the ride is an interesting experience and for the other, camels give you an authentic glimpse of nomadic travel. Indulge in your adventure close to sunset because in addition to the cooler weather conditions you can enjoy the unparalleled experience of the sun disappearing behind the dunes. The sunset in Liwa atop a tall camel’s back is one experience you would never want to miss in Abu Dhabi.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Arabian Wildlife Park, a natural sanctuary

Nature lovers visiting the charming desert Emirate of Abu Dhabi should make it a point to visit the attractive Arabian Wildlife Park located on Sir Bani Yas Island. Here visitors will be able to observe a host of native animals roaming free in this sanctuary. To conveniently access this and other attractions in Abu Dhabi selecting a quality accommodation such as the Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort, Abu Dhabi is important. One of the fine resorts Abu Dhabi offers this attractive hotel provides tasteful rooms and attentive hospitality.

The meticulously conceived Arabian Wildlife Park occupies roughly half of the area of Sir Bani Yas Island. This park was created with the objective of providing a hospitable natural environment for the varieties of animals native to the region. Today thousands of these indigenous creatures wander freely within this sanctuary. In turn these wild denizens attract a steady stream of animal lovers who arrive to observe these creatures in their natural environment.

Some of these animals are herbivores such as the Sand Gazelle, Mountain Gazelle and the threatened Arabian Oryx. Carnivores and scavengers at this sanctuary include the cheetah and the hyena. Although the management of this park places great importance on conservation and research initiatives, an array of attractive wildlife and adventure themed activities have been organized with visitors in mind. These options include wildlife drives, nature trail excursions, outdoor dining facilities and mountain biking adventures. The management takes understandable pride in having created this world-class sanctuary and is eager to share its attractions with visitors from abroad.

The initial breeding efforts at the park commenced as far back as 1971. One of its most notable successes was the conservation efforts to revive populations of the Arabian Oryx, which was at one time declared to be extinct in its natural environments. Today this species is making great strides towards recovery, highlighting the significant role played by this wildlife park.

Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.

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Abu Dhabi Waterfront Park

Travellers on the lookout for villa accommodation in Abu Dhabi will find no finer alternative to the iconic Anantara Al Sahel Villas. Ideally situated in a strategic location this elegant rest is also ranked among the finest resorts Abu Dhabi has on offer.

Tipped to be one of the most scenic corners of the city the Abu Dhabi Waterfront Park is a one of a kind attraction in the Emirati nation. Offering visitors breathtaking oceanic views from a wave fringed walkway this iconic waterfront path is a breathtaking venue that is also an architectural marvel that highlights the natural surroundings of Al Bateen. As the most popular feature of the Abu Dhabi waterfront project the water park is flanked by the ocean front developments of Al Bateen.

Famed for its wave shaped borders the stunningly designed venue is as captivating as the Abu Dhabi Corniche with its futuristic design elements that compliments its location at the water’s edge. Offering visitors unparalleled views of the ocean and the cityscape the venue is also a revered observation point for locals as well as travellers. Providing panoramic views across the water of the iconic sky-piercing structures that lie on either side of the bay the Abu Dhabi Waterfront Park is the first place tourist should head to once landing in the holiday Mecca as it offers travellers an all encompassing view of the city’s beauty and potential as a touristic haven.

Perfect for families the venue is ideal for talking leisurely walks after a busy day while those who wish to engage in a picnic can also visit the Waterfront Park for a relaxing evening surrounded by soft breezes and truly awe-inspiring views. Spread out across several miles the Waterfront Park will be surrounded by various lifestyle attractions in the near future. The brainchild of Bloom Properties, exclusive retail outlets and luxury residences are set to take centre stage in the coming years. Premium restaurants and chic cafes will also be established in the area while trendy restaurants will offer those who visit the park a plethora of fine dining experiences in addition to mind-blowing ocean vistas.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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