Book a flight to Abu Dhabi with Qatar Airways

Since its opening in 2007, Sheikh Zayed Mosque, which is dedicated to the memory of the UAE’s founding father, has become the pride of Abu Dhabi. This majestic structure is one of the biggest mosques in the world, featuring 82 marble domes, more than 1,000 pillars, Swarovski-crystal-studded chandeliers, and the world's largest hand-woven carpet.

Take a cultural plunge and head to Heritage Village, which replicates the way of life of the Bedouin, the original settlers of the UAE. A 14-minute drive from Heritage Village will take you to Qasr Al Hosn, the oldest building in the capital and former home of the ruling Al Nahyan family.

You don’t have to check in to check out Emirates Palace, a splendid, gated hotel complex of staggering opulence, including a vending machine that dispatches gold coins.

If you want to get your adrenaline pumping, head for Yas Island, where you can ride the world’s fastest roller coaster at Ferrari World. Another theme park popular with families is Yas Waterworld, which offers a variety of thrilling rides for a truly active day out. Nearby is the Yas Marina Circuit, which springs into action each November during the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. If you want to burn some rubber outside the F1 season, the circuit offers visitors both driving and passenger experiences.

Adventure seekers must not miss a visit to Liwa Oasis when they travel to Abu Dhabi. It’s a tranquil sea of sand ideal for a guided desert safari. If you’d like to travel a little further afield, and explore the country in more detail, head to Al Ain. Known as the Garden City, its history stretches back over 4,000 years, and is one of the most beautiful locations in the UAE.

If you’re keen on swimming you’ll not be disappointed on your trip to Abu Dhabi, as many hotels have their own beaches. You can walk along the Corniche, an impressive, 8km waterfront, which is a popular destination featuring cafés, restaurants, beach parks and a children’s play area.

Outside the city, Liwa Oasis offers a perfect venue to try your hand at dune-bashing in a 4X4, or sand-skiing. One of the big attractions in the desert is the Camel Race Track, where you can visit the paddocks as well as watch the races. This makes for a great day out, with plenty of refreshment options available. Meetings are held on Thursdays and Fridays during winter.

Abu Dhabi is a cosmopolitan city with something to cater for every palate here, from Middle Eastern and Asian foods, to European and American cuisine. For a gourmet meal, head to any of the city’s hotels, some of which play host to celebrity chefs.

There are also several fast-food and casual-dining restaurants throughout the city, including in its shopping malls. Vegetarian food is especially prominent, so vegans will not go wanting.

When travelling to Abu Dhabi for shopping, you’ll discover that there’s a long list of options. International chain stores rub shoulders with vast malls, and fashion items are especially well represented.

The variety of goods on offer ranges from the cheap and cheerful tourist trinkets to high-end luxury items. Head for the Madinat Zayed Shopping and Gold Centre, for anything from electronics and clothes to jewellery and perfumes.

For a more traditional experience, Souq Al Bawadi is home to more than 50 shops selling traditional Arab items and souvenirs. If you have a hankering for luxury retail, visit The Galleria on Al Marayah Island, which has 130 of the world’s top branded outlets under one roof.