The UAE’s capital is booming thanks to some epic openings, writes Lina Molloholli
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1. Snow Abu Dhabi
Tucked inside the Reem Mall, this indoor snow park (which opened in June) provides a cool escape from the heat – a winter wonderland for powder enthusiasts of all ages. Visitors can enjoy exhilarating activities such as snowboarding, tobogganing and snowball fights amid the backdrop of an Alpine-style village. Families can also partake in frosty experiences such as building a snowman.
skidxb.com/en-ae/snow-abu-dhabi
2. Corniche waterfront
Stretched along the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf, the five-mile Corniche waterfront is renowned for its meticulous urban design, blending verdant parks with pristine white-sand beaches.
Along the promenade, visitors will find cycle paths, children’s play areas and seaside cafes, all set against a skyline of towering modern architecture and cultural landmarks. The Corniche beach invites watersports enthusiasts to indulge in activities such as paddleboarding and kayaking, or simply to bask in the sun. In 2024, visitors will be able to sunbathe with a cocktail from the lagoon at the all-new Mondrian Abu Dhabi, a stone’s throw from the Corniche.
3. Sheikh Zayed Festival
Taking place every weekend until March 9, 2024, the Sheikh Zayed Festival celebrates Abu Dhabi’s heritage and innovation. Honouring the UAE’s founder, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the festival is testament to the nation’s way of life, but also features pavilions and displays from countries ranging from Bosnia to Pakistan.
From traditional Arabian horse riding to technological exhibits, the event is a showcase of global cultures.
zayedfestival.ae
4. TeamLab Phenomena
This art gallery with a twist is due to open in the blooming Saadiyat Cultural District next year. Conceived by the creatives at Tokyo-based TeamLab, the uniquely shaped gallery is an immersive journey through cutting-edge installations sitting at the crossroads of art and technology.
Visitors are transported into an interactive digital realm and invited to navigate through vibrant landscapes that respond to movement and touch.
teamlab.art/e/phenomena_abudhabi
Getting there
British Airways will start daily flights from Heathrow to Abu Dhabi on April 20, 2024. Return fares start at £463.
britishairways.com
Etihad Airways also flies direct to Abu Dhabi, from £507 return.
etihad.com
Book it
Kuoni offers seven nights’ B&B in a Superior Sea View room at the Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers from £1,175 per person. The price includes British Airways flights from Heathrow and transfers, based on a May 6, 2024, departure.
kuoni.co.uk
PICTURES: Shutterstock/Ali A Suliman; frantic00; elena bee
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