Tag: Abu Dhabi

Deep Sea Fishing in Abu Dhabi

Imagine a holiday where you can fish in the warm blue oceans of the Arabian Gulf in the Middle East and enjoy the best of hospitality and great times. All this and more is what awaits you in Abu Dhabi.

If it is catching big fish in the deeps seas or waiting patiently till you know for sure that your catch is hooked to your bait, that excites you and get your adrenaline rushing, one of the must do activities during a holiday to the Middle East to go on one of the much popular deep sea fishing trips. It is undoubtedly one of the most popular places amongst serious fishing enthusiasts.

For those who are keen on game fishing or even those who are keen to learn this exciting sport, Abu Dhabi is definitely a great place to try out this activity. There are numerous service providers who will not only take you to the best of fishing sites around the island, but also make sure that you catch some of the best underwater specimens of your life! What is more, there are many options ranging from state-of-the-art yachts to small boats to choose from for your fishing trip and varying trips ranging from half a day fishing trips to full-day adventures.

Even if you are new to this sport, there is nothing to worry as there are many lessons that you can take and with the expert guidance of the staff, you are sure to have a great time engaging in deep-sea-fishing in Abu Dhabi.

It is important to note that the government does not allow fishing without a license and you can avoid the hassle of getting a licence for a short period by using one of the service providers who already have the necessary licences.

Many hotels and resorts have facilities for these activities or have contacts of service providers. If you are staying at an Abu Dhabi Resort, or one of the Abu Dhabi Beach hotels such as the Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara, make sure you make use of this great opportunity to catch the game you always wanted.

 

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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Abu Dhabi Camel Ride, a delightful experience

The desert Emirate of Abu Dhabi has in recent years acquired a strong reputation as a significant visitor attraction. Part of the appeal of visiting this desert state is experiencing the natural environment of the region, which the Arabs have inhabited for thousands of years. Many visitors choose to undertake a desert safari which will undoubtedly provide a memorable experience.

However, for a truly authentic insight into the Arab lifestyle, you should take the opportunity to go on a desert camel ride. Camels are commonplace in the United Arab Emirates and are an excellent way to explore the desert environment.

Camel rides are often offered in the early morning as well as during the sunset hours. Typically, you will be taken by four-wheel-drive vehicle to the camels in their station amongst the sandy expanses of the desert. The camels are gentle and well-behaved and are expertly handled by the camel handler. However, it is important to hold yourself on securely when the animals rise to their feet and descend to the ground. Visitors will swiftly become used to the distinctive gait of the camel and the resulting wobbly movement.

Camels are unusual creatures who are perfectly adapted to the forbidding environment of the desert. It is said that they can survive for one month without water, and when given the opportunity to drink, ingest up to 120 litres at a time. However, the belief that camels store water within their hump is a misconception; the hump in fact stores fat which will be consumed if the animal does not eat for a period of time.

Often, your tour provider will arrange to provide refreshments at a location in the desert. At this time, you may disembark from your beast of burden, clamber up a sand dune and take some photographs of this magical setting. Taking a camel ride can only be experienced in a location like Abu Dhabi, and it will be a truly memorable experience you will look back on as a treasured memory.

If you would like to stay at a spa resort Abu Dhabi, an outstanding choice would be the Anantara Al Yamm. The villas in Abu Dhabi offered by this quality rest provide sumptuous accommodations and courteous service.

Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and hopes to visit them all someday.

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Abu Dhabi Road Trips

Take to the wide open road heading out of Abu Dhabi, and see what adventures await you, when you embark on Abu Dhabi road trips during your visit to this splendid emirate. Ensure that you check into one of the fine resorts Abu Dhabi has to offer, with the Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villas featuring luxury Abu Dhabi villas that are perfect to host your stay here. If you’ve got a rugged 4×4 at the ready, head over to the town of Shawka, which is two hours away from Abu Dhabi and features a fun collection of wadis (sand dunes), and spectacular off-road trails that are adventures in and of themselves. Hitch a mountain bike to the back of your truck, as there are plenty of trails that are perfect to cycle through. The area also features the spectacular Al Shawka dam, so bring your camera for some perfect photo opportunities. You could visit some of the other emirates in the region, with Shajah presenting a delightful selection of experiences. It features over 20 museums – perfect for the culture vulture to explore to their heart’s content. Here, you will also find a thriving underground arts scene, and the Corniche is your best bet to soak up all these unique cultural experiences. Another emirate, Ajman, features a fabulous beach that is never crowded (owing to the lack of press), and the city itself is worth spending a day trip exploring. Afterword, head over to the market near the town of Al Dhaid, where you can pick up handicrafts, trinkets, odds and ends, and other traditional souvenirs that are perfect as gifts for yourself or the folks back home. If you are interested in learning about the history of Abu Dhabi, the Liwa Oasis, which is the birthplace of the emirate’s ruling families. With over 50 villages, as well as some date farms, it is a charm to explore. So when you have got a few days off, hit the UAE road and see where it takes you!

 

Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and intends to visit them all someday.

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Desert Safari & Dune Bashing

The United Arab Emirates boasts some of the most exquisite desert scenery. The endless expanses of sandy light brown are adorned by soft rolling dunes that look like velvet hills from a distance. The feel of these dunes is just as perfect as it looks and it really is hard not to fall in love with them. The desert side of the UAE is one of the most popular tourist attractions as it gives the perfect feel of authentic Arabia.

It is not just the exquisite scenery that the rolling dunes of Arabia are famous for; it is a region filled with fun and adrenaline pumping adventure. The desert and the dunes are fantastic locations to experience raw and authentic off road driving. Abu Dhabi affords plenty of tour packages that provide you with everything you need for a fun and adventurous desert safari. The Net Tours Liwa Safari found in Abu Dhabi is an excellent tour operator. This company provides tours that take you to the massive Rub Al Khali (Empty Quarter) that boasts the Moreeb Hill and massive 300 metre high sand dunes. The sunsets and sunrises here are truly out of this world.

The trip to Liwa takes around 2 hours from the capital Abu Dhabi. The tour is kick started with a thrill- a-minute spot of dune bashing that you can enjoy as the tour operators navigate a truly bumpy trail through the adventurous sands. 4×4 drive here is an experience like no other and will keep you geared up for a thrilling excursion. Before stopping for a snack, the tour will take you to famous spots in the desert such as the ancient Fossil Rock, the Saddle Rock and the Camel Rock. The safari party then takes you to old settlements and camel farms that will help you appreciate the desert lifestyle. The tour ends with an amazing night under the perfect desert sky adorned with millions of twinkling stars.

While staying in the region look to stay at luxury hotels Abu Dhabi has to offer such as Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. One of the leading Abu Dhabi hotels, it offers a wide range of luxurious comforts and conveniences that make your stay all the more memorable.

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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Cycling on the Corniche

A popular pastime that unities friends, family, and partners during the busy work week is a spot of cycling on the Corniche. Despite the arid heat, this activity is fast gaining popularity on one of the most scenic areas in the emirate. Make this sport a must-do activity to enhance your stay at a stylish hotel in Abu Dhabi such as the Kingsgate Hotel Abu Dhabi. With gracious hospitality and charming interiors, a stay at this luxury hotel Abu Dhabi will prove utterly unforgettable. For fitness fans or those looking for a unique way to while away the afternoon and evening, peddling down the eight kilometer stretch of the Corniche. You don’t need to own your own set of wheels; many shops in the area will let you rent them in a variety of sizes and shapes for a very reasonable fee. The Fun Ride Sport Shop features an impressive range of rides, which include tandem bikes, four-wheelers, two-wheel peddle cars, and a special one for ladies who wear Abayas. An hour’s use will set you back a mere Dhs 20, with Dhs 15 for kids, or 15 hours of use for Dhs 200 – an absolute steal. You will need some valid ID and a refundable deposit of Dhs 100. You can ride out on your own, or enlist a guide who will point out various places of interest along the way – perfect if it’s your first time in the Corniche. Tour companies such as the Noukhada Adventure Company will be happy to set you up with bikes, helmets, and a guide for only Dhs 150 per person. Peddling down the cornice is fantastic fun, but make sure you carry enough loose change, as many vending machines scattered throughout the strip take only exact change. When you’re finished, kick your feet up and relax at one of the myriad coffee shops gracing the Corniche, as you more than earned that latte.

 

Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and intends to visit them all someday.

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Tel Moreeb

The deserts of the UAE not only offer visitors a chance to witness the sheer beauty of the barren landscapes that abound, but also take part in thrilling adventure sports too. Believed to be the tallest sand dune in the world, Tel Moreeb is one such desert attraction and can be visited while staying at a hotel in Abu Dhabi. When in search of accommodation Abu Dhabi has to offer consider the luxurious Eastern Mangroves, Abu Dhabi which provides an ideal base for business and leisure alike.

Plan a trip to the desert area known as the Empty Quarter where you will find the imposing Tel Moreeb sand dune. Situated around 25 kms from the Liwa Oasis, Tel Moreeb is aptly referred to as the ‘Scary Mountain’ since it is more than 300 metres in height and features an incline of 50 degrees. A popular spot for motorsport enthusiasts, Tel Moreeb attracts those interested in quad bike and four wheel drive vehicle excursions. One of the best times to visit this area is during the event known as the Moreeb Hill Climb which takes place each February and which gives you a chance to see dirt bikes and other vehicles in action.

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. Google+

Off Road Driving

A tour of the United Arab Emirates is not complete without experiencing authentic desert life. The rolling sands that comprise the glittering golden landscape of the Middle East pose immense significance to the nations of the UAE, beyond being exquisite to admire and capture through the lens. The many dunes that make up the UAE afford an array of off-road fun that range from driving to simply rolling down the soft slopes.

The popularity of the dunes among the many visitors to the island gave rise to an array of ‘Desert experience’ packages. Now, from the heart of the city, you can rent your own four-wheel drive vehicles and get yourself a tour guide and experience the thrill of indulging in a variety of exciting desert activities. Of all the types of fun desert excursions one can indulge in, the most simple yet most thrilling activity is off road driving. Driving off road is absolute fun despite all the humps and bumps. In fact it is perhaps the turbulence that truly adds the spice to this activity. A word of caution: avoid large meals prior to chaotic off-roading in the desert.

One of the most popular off-road driving destinations is the massive Empty Quarter. These huge dunes present a fantastic driving challenge and is a must experience feature here if you are in town during the cooler months of the year. In the summer, the heat soars to absolutely scorching heights. There are plenty of 4 wheel drives that can be hired with or without a guide and all you should make sure is that it is insured for off-road riding. Company is important when you are wandering off into the desert. A good 2, 3 jeeps along with yours and you are all good to go. Off road driving is excellent as a group activity. If you are going driving without a guide, it is important that you first get the hang of the ropes of the desert from one of the many tour companies in Abu Dhabi. They will provide you with the right tips for the skill and equipment that you would need to enjoy your adventure.

While exploring UAE and all its wonders, consider a stay at the Eastern Mangroves, Abu Dhabi. Offering gracious hospitality and charming surrounds, this luxury choice of hotel in Abu Dhabi presents a fine option of five star accommodation Abu Dhabi has to offer its corporate and leisure visitors.

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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Flying Down the Dunes

Sand boarding and skiing has added a whole new dimension to two sports once limited to areas with snow. Once adrenaline junkies found that snow boards and skis could be used on smooth sandy surfaces with the same effect there was no stopping them. Now there are several keen followers of these sports who regularly sand board and ski where there are impressive dune formations. Towering sand dunes in the Liwa Oasis bordering the Empty Quarter in Abu Dhabi are popular both with sand boarders and sand skiers.

Where ever there are dunes or a considerable build up of sand there are sand boarders who want to swish down their sides and experience an adrenaline rush. Sand boarders ride across or down a dune with their feet strapped to a board although some daring and more experienced types ride without the straps. Unlike snow boarders sand boarders don’t have the advantage of being taken to the top of a dune by a lift. They generally have to clamber up the dune themselves or use an ATV or a dune buggy. Sand boarding is enjoyed by enthusiasts throughout the year in desert climates where there is plenty of sand and of course dunes. The board used for sand boarding is much harder than a snow board and it has to be waxed prior to use to make the board glide. On steeper dunes snow boards are also used.

Abu Dhabi’s sand dunes towering several hundred meters above the surrounding area are ideal for sand skiing enthusiasts. Novice sand skiers are advised to start on the smaller slopes prior to attempting the 300 meter high Liwa dunes. Other than in the cooler months the best times to both sand board and ski are the early mornings. A thick layer of sunscreen, light clothing covering most parts of the body and sun glasses is advised when taking to these sports. Additionally it is better to have basic lessons on how to stay up and fall properly and safely before attempting the dunes. Children too can try but on the lower slopes and a plastic sledge will afford them a great deal of pleasure flying down the ‘nursery slopes’.

On Sir Bani Yas Island just off the coast of Abu Dhabi in the Arabian Gulf Desert Island Resort & Spa by Anantara not only offers an extraordinary location but some of the most luxurious guest rooms, suites and villas from where guests can explore the beautiful natural environment around this Abu Dhabi resort. Food is one of the experiences here where guest get to taste a variety of local and international cuisines, the other is the amazing landscape which can be enjoyed via kayaking trips, mountain biking, trekking, on safari and on horseback. As one of Abu Dhabi beach hotels guests have access to several water sports among which are special diving and snorkeling packages.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.

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Drive Jebel Hafeet

Towering high over the plains of Al Ain, the Jebel Hafeet stands proud as the tallest peak in the entire Emirate. There is a rugged beauty about Jebel Hafeet; its surface red and raw is the evidence of its endurance. The chiselled edges of the Jebel Hafeet gives it sheer majesty, the mere sight of which will leave you in awe and will give you an authentic taste of the desert side of the United Arab Emirates.

The Middle East in general is known for its excellent roadways, the United Arab Emirates in particular tops this list boasting fantastic automobiles and smooth carpeted roads. Driving is such a pleasure in the UAE and the blissful desert scenery in the outskirts of the city is a real pleasure to savor. One fantastic location to experience the bliss of driving is the Jebel Hafeet. The Jebel Hafeet rises just over 1200 meters above sea level and has winding roads that adorn all sides of the mountain. The best part about these mountain roads are that they are wide and comfortable to ride on. The many bends that come with this road makes a drive to the top of Jebel Hafeet both fun and adventurous.

The Jebel Hafeet is exotic; every inch of this mountain has beauty to savour. It is built out of craggy limestone that has stood tall over millions of years weathering the harsh climatic conditions of the desert side of UAE. The many rains and scorching suns have shaped Jebel Hafeet to what is today a symbol of artistic magnificence in the UAE. In addition to all its beauty the mountain is also a historically significant location. It holds the heart of the world’s past and several important fossils have been discovered here including over 500 ancient burial tombs that date back over 5000 years.

Once you reach the top of the mountain you will be rewarded by unmatched beauty, sceneries that will take your breath away and magnificent bird’s eye views of Al Ain. After an adventurous day at the peak, come home to the Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara. This Abu Dhabi resort is the finest of all the Abu Dhabi beach hotels.

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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Camp in a Desert

The deserts of Arabia, seemingly foreboding but in actual fact sites of haunting beauty, offer perfect getaways in which to experience a camping adventure like no other. Those heading to the region and the UAE can look forward to such activities when in Abu Dhabi. It is best to find Abu Dhabi hotels set amidst the desert itself and one such option is Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. It is one of the leading luxury hotels Abu Dhabi has to offer and is uniquely located in the Liwa Desert, an area rich in history.

Camping in the desert gives you a chance to experience firsthand the stunning landscapes, the mile upon mile of sand and the towering dunes that create an otherworldly like setting. Amidst this harsh backdrop one will find patches of greenery, exotic wildlife and plenty of space to indulge in activities such as camel trekking, dune bashing and taking desert hikes. As night falls you can camp under the stars, as the landscape changes before you, with the blistering sun giving way to the cooling and calming shades of night.

 

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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