Abu Dhabi: your luxury holiday awaits

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If you’re looking for a winter break with a touch of luxury, Abu Dhabi might just be the golden ticket. With Etihad now offering direct flights from the UK, you can be there in just seven hours.

Here’s a look at what’s on offer…

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Luxury hotels

Abu Dhabi is rapidly growing in popularity as a destination, and the supply of hotels is following suit, with a range of new luxury accommodation, for a full package of pampering and relaxation.

The Emirates Palace is certainly the most luxurious in the UAE, offering an unrivalled opportunity for the ultimate in relaxation amongst its private beaches and marina.

Fine dining

Abu Dhabi is replete with high-end restaurants where guests can enjoy cuisines from all around the world. There is a world of options to choose from, but if you feel like sampling traditional Middle Eastern delicacies you should choose an Emirati restaurant. The traditional style of UAE cooking is a fusion of South Asian and Persian tastes and uses a lot of meat, seafood and rice. You’ll notice a lot of aromatic spices, like saffron and cumin that add a sprinkle of Middle Eastern magic to each dish.

Beaches

Winter sun wouldn’t be complete without a beach, and in Abu Dhabi you’re spoiled for choice. From private beaches to small islands and hotel beach clubs, the white sands and turquoise waters won’t disappoint.

Saadiyat beach is one of the best known spots, with beautiful, seemingly endless sand, and the rare opportunity to see wild turtles and dolphins. Or, if you favour a more secluded experience, visit one of Abu Dhabi’s archipelago of natural islands. Sir Bani Yas Island is just 170km off the coast and offers guests a chance to experience luxury totally surrounded by natural beauty.

Formula One

Abu Dhabi is well known for its Formula One racing, and visitors with a thirst for speed have the chance to experience the thrill first hand. Yas Marina Circuit, where some of the world’s biggest races have taken place, offers racing experiences for guests who can hire cars and drive the circuit for themselves.

If you’re not ready to get behind the wheel, but still want to pump a bit of adrenalin, try Ferrari World. You can have a go in the Ferrari simulator or, if you’re brave enough, try the Formula Rossa roller coaster. It’s the fastest roller coaster in the world and accelerates to 240 km/hr in less than five seconds.