From my original archive
Abu-Dhabi
Destination overview
About this destination
Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates and also the name of its largest emirate. The city occupies islands and coastal land beside the Arabian Gulf. Its waterfront contrasts with the desert landscapes of the interior.
The Corniche provides a clear view of the modern skyline. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a prominent architectural landmark. On Saadiyat Island, Louvre Abu Dhabi connects art collections from different cultures.
Al Ain, within the emirate, preserves an oasis landscape and historic forts. Maritime trade, pearl diving and oil development form important chapters in the region's history.
My connection
Tourist visit.
Original archive notes and photographs
My original travel notes
Abu Dhabi is the capital and largest city of the United Arab Emirates, with a population of about 2.9 million people in 2016. It is a cosmopolitan city that hosts more than 200 nationalities, with UAE citizens accounting for 19% of the total. Abu Dhabi has a high standard of living, ranking 12th in the world in terms of per capita income. The city also has a large UAE national population over 550,000 people. The average life expectancy within Abu Dhabi is 75.9 years for men and 79.5 years for women. Abu Dhabi is a global hub for culture, tourism, trade and innovation, with ambitious plans to diversify its economy and reduce its dependence on oil revenues.
Personal memories
In 2009, we stopped in Abu Dhabi, in the United Arab Emirates, and met a friend there. During our daytime visit, I did not find a great deal to see beyond the large city and its shopping malls, where we bought a few souvenirs.