abu dhabi - TwoFour54

ABU DHABI
A T R U LY G L O B A L C A P I T A L
ABOUT ABU DHABI
Hello there! We’ve compiled this informative fact sheet about
Abu Dhabi to help you learn more about the life in this wonderful city.
Each of the sections in this document contains a comprehensive list
of informative material, which can help you get to know the city better
before you come over. Each section also features an interactive link to
online resources that can provide you with more detailed information,
so feel free to click through and discover what Abu Dhabi is all about.
ABU DHABI IS A CITY
THAT DREAMS BIG
As a city of vision, Abu Dhabi is driven by opportunity, with long term
strategic plans to develop the UAE capital into a world-class economy
through diversification, integrating with the global economy, as well as
optimising and investing in appropriate resources. The city of Abu Dhabi
has achieved extraordinary results in just over half a century, making its
mark as a global business hub, and becoming home to a diverse range
of nationalities with residents from over 150 countries living here.
Over 2 million people live and work in Abu Dhabi, lured by year-round
sunshine and the chance to enjoy a tax-free lifestyle in one of the
world’s most progressive cities. Abu Dhabi has entered a new era of
development that will, over the next 20 years, propel the Emirate to
become one of the world’s leading centres of excellence, not only in
business, but also in culture, infrastructure, tourism and social activity.
A series of substantial investment projects have been initiated, promising
to establish Abu Dhabi as a place everyone wants to be a part of.
Abu Dhabi is the capital and the second most populated city in the UAE, and its
geographical location makes it a strategic destination that connects east to west as
a vital transit point in the world. Abu Dhabi hosts federal government offices, and is
the seat of the Government of the United Arab Emirates. Rapid development and
urbanisation, coupled with relatively high income per capita, has transformed the
city into a larger and more advanced metropolis. Today, Abu Dhabi is the country’s
centre of political and industrial activities, and a major cultural and commercial hub,
due to its position as the capital.
EDUCATION AND
OPPORTUNITIES
Abu Dhabi is home to international and local private schools and
universities including several government-sponsored ones.
Universities
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
ABOUT THE UAE
The United Arab Emirates is comprised of seven Emirates, which include
Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah, Ajman and Ras Al Khaimah.
Almost four-fifths of the UAE is desert, but has contrasting landscapes, from
the towering red dunes of the Liwa to the rich palm-filled Oasis of Al Ain, from
the precipitous Hajjar Mountains to the more fertile stretches of its coastal
plains. Since its birth, the UAE has become an important player in regional and
international affairs. In 1971, the late President Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan
Al Nahyan unified the small, underdeveloped states into a federation - the only
one in the Arab world. Under his visionary leadership, oil wealth was used to
develop the UAE into one of the world’s most open and successful economies.
United Arab Emirates University in Al Ain
New York University
New York Institute of Technology
Higher Colleges of Technology
New York Film Academy
Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi University
During admissions season, the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre
hosts an annual exhibition where universities from every corner of the
world showcase their career programmes and scholarship incentives.
Schools
The Emirate of Abu Dhabi currently has around 185 private schools
operating in three regions: Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and the Western Region.
All schools fall under the authority of the Abu Dhabi Education Council
(ADEC), which oversees public schools, issues licenses and inspects
private schools. Since 2009, ADEC has brought over thousands of
licensed teachers from native English speaking countries to support
their New School Model Programme in government schools.
LIFESTYLE
AND ACTIVITIES
Abu Dhabi has a variety of indoor and outdoor activities and
entertainment for kids, adults and families to enjoy.
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
As one of the largest indoor theme parks in the world, Ferrari World
offers thrilling rides, attractions, themed stores and restaurants, all
inspired by the Italian auto brand Ferrari.
Yas Water World
As big as 15 football fields, this popular water park has 43 exciting rides,
slides and attractions, designed for both children and adults.
Yas Marina Circuit
The world-famous circuit offers Driver Experiences, Passenger
Experiences, Private Driving Tuition programmes and Racing Licence
Courses for all driving and motorsport enthusiasts.
Emirates Park Zoo
Located off the main island in Al Bahia, the zoo is home to 1,700
animals from all over the world, including tigers, lions, bear, cheetahs,
zebras, giraffes and many more.
Etihad Airways
Al Forsan International Sports Resort
As the national carrier of the United Arab Emirates, Etihad Airways is
the world’s fastest growing commercial airline, and flies guests to more
than 85 destinations across the world. As Abu Dhabi is strategically
located within 8 hours of a majority of international airports, Etihad
offers travellers an ever-expanding network of destinations to visit all
year round.
The most exciting destination for those who enjoy adrenaline, Al Forsan
offers fun activities like shooting, karting, horse-riding, water sports and
paintball. It is a destination for professionals and amateurs alike, and also
hosts a series of international sports competitions.
Abu Dhabi International Airport
Abu Dhabi has several parks and gardens for families to enjoy and spend
the day away from the hustle and bustle of the city, including Khalifa
Park, Al Nahyan Garden, Airport Garden and Al Mushrif Central Park.
Voted as the Best Airport in the Middle East by SkyTrax for three
consecutive years, Abu Dhabi International Airport serves as the city’s
primary hub for air travel, with three world-class passenger terminals and
53 global airlines. The airport has seen a significant expansion in recent
years, including a new terminal dedicated entirely to Etihad Airways. It is
also one of only five locations worldwide that offers a US preclearance
facility, allowing passengers to have their US immigration processed
before they board, and land as domestic passengers upon arrival.
Parks and Gardens
Zayed Sports City
This iconic landmark is a vibrant sports and entertainment hub that
promises great sporting and fitness experiences. These include Haddins
Fitness Centre, International Tennis Centre, Khalifa Bowling Centre, several
training pitches, a paintball ground, and the city’s most popular ice rink,
along with a range of yearly events, corporate days and social gatherings.
Public and Private Beaches
Being an island, Abu Dhabi City is renowned for its world-class beaches,
with an overwhelming selection for both families and ladies, including
Al Bateen Beach (for ladies), Yas and Saadiyat Private Club Beach, and
the popular Corniche Public Beach.
Hotel Brunches on Friday
The city’s luxurious hotels offer some of the most outstanding Friday
Brunches in the country, where diners can savour international culinary
masterpieces and get a chance to unwind with friends and family.
Kayaking
A truly unique outdoor experience, kayaking in Abu Dhabi is fast gaining
popularity as a weekend adventure, with dozens of kayaking tours
through the city’s natural mangroves.
Ice Skating
The ideal way to escape the heat, Abu Dhabi residents love taking a
break on the ice with world-class skating rinks at Zayed Sports City
and Marina Mall.
Golf
Ripe Organic Market
With three championship-standard courses within a 20 minute drive,
Abu Dhabi offers world-class golfing options, such as Saadiyat Beach
Golf Club, Abu Dhabi Golf Club, Yas Links Golf Club, Abu Dhabi City Golf
Club and Al Ghazal Golf Club.
As the leading provider of fresh, organic, local and seasonal produce in
the UAE, the Ripe Food & Craft Markets are held every Saturday in Abu
Dhabi, where visitors can shop for their favourite organic food items and
get a chance to mingle with other community members.
Ride and Run on Yas Island
Yas Marina Market
Whether you’re a dedicated runner, a cycling enthusiast, or even looking
for a relaxing stroll with the family, TrainYAS by Activelife welcomes
participants of all fitness levels to get a workout on the Formula 1 track.
This weekly event brings the promenade to life with a variety of pop-up
shops, food vendors and exciting children’s activities, as well as al fresco
dining, watersports, boat charters and a playground for the little ones.
CREATIVITY
AND INNOVATION
Abu Dhabi Government supports innovation through various
government initiatives and funds.
ICT Fund
The ICT Fund provides targeted funding and advisory services to
companies, organisations and individuals, in order to develop the
innovation and knowledge capital of the UAE’s ICT sector.
Technology Development Committee (TDC)
TDC encourages, supports and supervises the development of Science,
Technology and Innovation (STI) across the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.
Takamul
This exciting programme helps Emirati individuals, as well as universities
and enterprises in Abu Dhabi, to protect and commercialise their
innovative ideas.
Masdar Institute Centre for Innovation
and Entrepreneurship
Masdar Institute facilitates innovation and entrepreneurship activities
in Abu Dhabi and throughout the rest of the UAE.
Khalifa Fund
Entrepreneurship and Innovation Centre
Khalifa Fund aims to create a new generation of Emirati entrepreneurs by
instilling a culture of investment amongst young people. It also supports
and develops local small to medium-sized investments in the UAE by
offering training, consulting and several marketing-focused initiatives.
The EIC has been mandated to assist and motivate UAE nationals who are
looking to start a business. It offers nurturing, mentoring and development
support to help entrepreneurs and grow start-ups into SMEs.
LANDMARKS
AND CULTURE
Abu Dhabi maintains a proud tradition of culture and heritage. With
the development that has taken place over the last 40 years, the city is
home to some of the most remarkable landmarks in the entire region.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
A truly inspirational work of art, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one
of the largest mosques in the world, and can welcome more than 40,000
worshippers. It features 82 domes, over 1,000 columns, 24-carat gold
gilded chandeliers, and the world’s largest hand-knitted carpet.
Emirates Palace
Few hotels come close to the luxury and opulence that can be found
at the Emirates Palace. Its combination of traditional Arabic and modern
architecture makes it one of the most breathtaking hotels in the world.
Qasr al Hosn
As one of the oldest buildings in Abu Dhabi, Qasr al Hosn is renowned
as the first residence of Abu Dhabi’s ruling Al Nahyan family. Today, it is
a historical monument where visitors can learn more about the history of
Abu Dhabi, and how life in the UAE used to be many years ago.
Sir Bani Yas Island
Saadiyat Cultural District
A world of adventure awaits at Sir Bani Yas Island, the UAE’s largest
natural island located 170 km away from Abu Dhabi. Decades of efforts
in conservation have turned the island into a sanctuary for thousands of
free roaming birds, as well as cheetahs, hyenas, gazelles, peacocks and
giraffes. The island also features a luxurious resort and activities such as
safaris, kayaking, mountain biking, hiking and snorkeling.
Unprecedented in scope and scale, the Saadiyat Cultural District serves
as a living canvas for cultures of the world. It will be home to unique
exhibitions, permanent collections, productions and performances with
Louvre Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi,
Performing Arts Centre and Maritime Museum all calling it home.
EVENTS
The annual events calendar in Abu Dhabi is packed with exciting
performances, concerts, exhibitions and tournaments, covering
sports, business, music, theatre, art and entertainment.
Abu Dhabi International Book Fair
One of the fastest growing international book fairs in the region,
ADIBF brings together booklovers, booksellers, publishers and
distributors for a week long celebration of the written word.
Abu Dhabi Classics
The Classics, organised by Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation, is one
of the most popular events in the city, and plays host to some of the
world’s most renowned international musical talents and orchestras.
Notable performers at the Classics have included Staatskapelle Dresden,
Grammy winner Jordi Savall, pianists Khatia Buniatishvili and David Fray,
oud virtuoso Nasser Shamma, oud master Faisal Al Saari, as well as
violinists Gidon Kremer and James Ehnes.
The Color Run
Known to fans as ‘the happiest 5K on the planet’, the Color Run is
an annual race where participants get covered with different coloured
powders from head to toe as they try and complete the race. The event
is about running for fun with no time limits, and just being happy and
enjoying the positive energy.
Abu Dhabi International Exhibition of Flowers and
Gardens (Flowers 2015)
One of the Middle East’s largest flower and gardens exhibition, this event
showcases the latest achievements in gardening and floristry, as well as
beautiful works of art that are created entirely using flowers.
IPIC World Triathlon Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is one of ten global cities to host the world’s pinnacle triathlon
series, where athletes, both novice and experienced, compete in
back-to-back swimming, cycling and running challenges.
Liwa Date Festival
TriYas
Held each year in July, the Liwa Date Festival promotes and celebrates
the symbolic and historic role that the date palm plays in Emirati culture.
The festival revolves around the date competition, where Emirati farmers
compete for the title of Best Date Grower. The festival is an ideal chance
for visitors to experience Emirati culture up close.
Held at the world-famous Yas Marina Circuit, TriYas is Abu Dhabi’s own
triathlon, where both first-timers and professional triathletes can compete
in swimming, cycling and running. The event offers three disciplines,
which include Full Olympic distance, Half Sprint option and Relay Team.
Abu Dhabi Art
As one of the capital’s most eagerly awaited events, Abu Dhabi Art
draws crowds from around the region as well as the rest of the world.
The exhibiting galleries showcase some of the most innovative and
exceptional artworks, and the event also features a series of talks and
experiences for audiences of all ages to enjoy.
Abu Dhabi Festival
Running for a full month from March to April every year, the popular
Abu Dhabi Festival includes a series of concerts, experimental theatre
and various film screenings, featuring a world-class calibre of artists.
Camel Beauty Pageant
Attended by thousands of visitors every year in December, the annual
Camel Beauty Pageant in Abu Dhabi is a much-awaited event in the capital,
and a glimpse into the soul of the country’s heritage. Camel owners
showcase the best of their herd and enter them into the competition to
be judged on various criteria.
Abu Dhabi Science Festival
Since 2011, the Abu Dhabi Science Festival has attracted almost
400,000 visitors who participated in various workshops, shows and
exhibitions all built around exciting scientific experiences. The annual
festival is part of the Emirate’s strategy to build a talent base in Science,
Technology and Innovation (STI) in the UAE.
du Arena Concerts
The du Arena on Yas Island has seen some of the greatest names in
music performing sold out concerts, including current and legendary acts
such as Aerosmith, Tom Jones, The Who, Pharrell Williams, Linkin Park,
Jay Z, Eric Clapton and several others.
Cityscape
Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
As one of the flagship business events of the year, Cityscape brings
together the biggest names in local, regional and international real estate
for communications, discussion, networking, deals and partnerships all
under one roof.
Undoubtedly the city’s most exciting and iconic sporting event, the
annual Abu Dhabi Formula 1 Grand Prix takes place at the breathtaking
Yas Marina Circuit, and draws the attention of the entire world of
motorsport as drivers compete against each other in a day-night race.
The race weekend is one of the most thrilling times to be in Abu Dhabi.
Mubadala World Tennis Championship
Red Bull Air Race World Championship
Held every year since 2009, the Mubadala World Tennis Championship
sees the world’s top players face off on outdoor hard courts in a knockout
tournament at the Abu Dhabi International Tennis Complex at Zayed
Sports City.
Taking place over the beautiful Corniche breakwater, the Red Bull World
Championship is an international series of air races where pilots compete
over speed, precision and flying skills as they overcome various air
obstacles. The Red Bull Air Race has proved to be an extremely popular
event for families.
t +971 2 401 2454
f +971 2 401 1305
e [email protected]
twofour54.com