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Next escape: Abu Dhabi

Ever wondered what it would be like to ride the world’s fastest rollercoaster, bash some desert dunes or immerse yourself in the peace and tranquility of sprawling mangrove forests? Find out in Abu Dhabi.

Maybe it’s been on your travel list for years, or maybe you’re looking for a big trip to take when we’re able to travel again. Either way, Abu Dhabi might be just the place. With its majestic dunes and lush mangroves, opportunities for outdoor adventures and cultural exploration, here are 5 reasons why Abu Dhabi should be on your list.

1. Pristine beaches.

Abu Dhabi has nearly 200 islands dotted along its coast. Swim in turquoise waters, relax on white beaches or connect with a sailing legacy that stretches back centuries. From wake-boarding and kite surfing to kayaking through the natural mangrove forests, from enjoying fresh air on-board a sailing catamaran to zooming to the pace of a speedboat tour of the UAE capital’s coastline, the emirate’s waters are yours to discover.

2. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque stands out as one of the world’s largest mosques. Sheikh Zayed’s vision for the Grand Mosque was to incorporate architectural styles from different Muslim civilisations and celebrate cultural diversity by creating a haven that is diverse and inspirational in its foundation. The mosque’s architects were British, Italian and Emirati, and design inspiration was borrowed parts of Turkey, Morocco, Pakistan, and Egypt among other Islamic countries, revealing an architectural marvel with an astonishing capacity of 40,000.

3. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi.

The world’s first Ferrari-branded theme park is home to a winning mix of Ferrari inspired rides and attractions, the biggest Ferrari Store and a range of authentic Italian dining options, so there’s plenty of choice for the whole family! It houses a number of high-adrenaline rides including the most dynamic roller coaster on the planet “Flying Aces”, featuring the tallest loop in the world; the world’s fastest roller coaster, Formula Rossa, with a top speed of 250kmph in 4.9 seconds, family-friendly attractions, state-of-the-art simulators, live shows and tons of racing memorabilia.

4. Mangroves.

Just outside Abu Dhabi’s city center, the sprawling swathes of the Mangrove National Park continue to be one of the emirate’s most important ecological assets. The Mangrove National Park makes up about 75 percent of the total mangrove forest area in the UAE and is a biodiversity hotspot that includes mangrove forests, salt marshes, mudflats and algal communities. A haven for nature lovers, the mangroves are also home to a wide variety of different aquatic inhabitants, including fish, crabs, herons and flamingos.

5. Abu Dhabi desert.

The vast expanse of desert that lies outside the Liwa Oasis in the Western Region is perfect for adrenaline fueled off-road driving. With nearly 1000-foot dunes and long sand valleys, you’ll never get bored of desert driving. And a trip to the desert isn’t complete without a night under the stars. You can arrange camping adventures with a tour company or rent a four wheel drive and buy the equipment yourself.

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