Abu Dhabi is the largest emirate constituting the United Arab Emirates and is the wealthiest of the seven with its large oil reserves. Abu Dhabi ranks third in the world after Luxembourg and Norway in terms of per capita GDP. Abu Dhabi literally means the Father of the Gazelle, and the legend goes that it was discovered by nomadic tribes as they followed a gazelle and came upon a source of fresh water. Abu Dhabi and Al Ain are the major cities in Abu Dhabi emirate. It is truly cosmopolitan with a huge population of expatriate workers from every part of the world. Arabic is the official language, but English is widely in use.

Abu Dhabi City, ranked as the world’s richest city, is located on an island but rapidly expanding out into the mainland as well, and presents an amazing contrast between ultra-modern high rises and sprawling lush greenery. It is the hub of the oil & gas industry in the region and is fast growing into a nerve centre of commercial activities. It is uncongested and unpolluted with a pleasing laid-back charm, thanks to the visionary planning. Abu Dhabi boasts of every convenience and amenity for modern living, and at the same time, is deeply rooted in its rich Arabic heritage. 

Geography
Abu Dhabi is the largest of the seven emirates occupying over 80% of the total land area. Nearly 200 islands come under Abu Dhabi territory. 70% of the land area is dominated by desert, which stretches all the way to Oman and Saudi Arabia. On the east, the imposing Hajar Mountain forms its border with Oman. The oasis town of Liwa is about two-and-half hour's drive from the city and offers a magnificent view of some of the largest and most spectacular sand dunes in the world. The commercial hot spot Dubai is 160 kms away.

Climate
Sunshine prevails throughout the year and showers are light and sporadic. April to September are hot months with high humidity. Summer peaks in July-August with the mercury often rising above 40°C. November to March is pleasant with the weather getting cooler and winter is mild and enjoyable.

Visas & Procedures
Three-month visa is issued on arrival for British citizens and residents of GCC countries. Citizens of Australia, New Zealand, US, Canada and most western European countries are issued one-month visa on arrival. Others will have to apply for their visa at their embassies before arrival. However, it is advisable to check the current visa regulations before taking the trip to avoid delays.

Business Hours
Normal hours of business are from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Sunday to Thursday and Friday & Saturday are weekend days. Most major shops and stores are open late into the night till 11 pm and on the weekend, barring Friday morning as it is the day for prayers. Business hours are subject to change during the Holy Month of Ramadan.

City Safety
UAE is considered to be one of the safest countries to visit. Crime rate is comfortingly low and mostly of minor nature. However, it pays to be cautious with your valuables when on a visit. Abu Dhabi police is very accessible and always willing to help the visitors to the city.

Health Care
Abu Dhabi is one of the cleanest cities in the world. In the hotter months visitors are advised to carry sunscreen lotions and protective clothing and to drink ample quantity of liquids to prevent dehydration.

Currency
The official currency is the UAE Dirham, made up of 100 fils, Notes are available in the denominations 5, 10, 20, 100, 200, 500 and 1000 and coins as 25 and 50 fils. The dirham is pegged to the US dollar at around 3.68 to a dollar. Valid exchange rates are available at all major hotels and exchanges. All major credit cards are accepted in most places. ATM machines and moneychangers are available all over the emirate.

Transportation
Abu Dhabi International Airport is linked to most major cities in the world, and the emirate has its own carrier, Etihad Airways. Wide boulevards and multi-lane highways connect Abu Dhabi with the rest of the emirates and also to the bordering Oman and Saudi Arabia.

Accommodation
Abu Dhabi has enough to offer in terms of staying convenience. Options range from 7-star luxury at the Emirates Palace to a number of 5 and 4 star hotels operated by international chains. There are also budget hotels and furnished apartments on the more affordable end.