| Abu Dhabi is a unique destination in the emirates, | | | | multi-billion dollar development project that includes |
| where luxury and style are infused with the traditional | | | | "world-class entertainment centres, museums, resorts, |
| values of hospitality and respect. With sunny weather, | | | | upscale residences and business centres are currently |
| tranquil beaches, lush oases, a vibrant city life, as well | | | | being built on the natural island." |
| the mixture of culture and traditions ensures a | | | | Al Futaisi Island: The perfect bird spotter's paradise, |
| congruent coming together, which results in the | | | | and situated only five kilometres south of Abu Dhabi |
| creation of a holiday experience and lifestyle unlike any | | | | city, this island offers a range of activities such as |
| other. | | | | nature trips via a local bus tour or through bicycles. |
| One is invited, if not enticed to explore the emirate's old | | | | There is also a well-kept stable on the island which |
| souqs, while sipping a fragrant Arabic coffee, one can | | | | houses purebred Arabian horses as well as camels, |
| also loose time in the dunes on an exhilarating desert | | | | which can take visitors for rides. |
| safari, or be one with nature by diving into the dazzling | | | | These are just a few of the 200 islands one can visit |
| marine life - there is something for everyone in Abu | | | | when in Abu Dhabi. |
| Dhabi. | | | | According to the tourist sector in Abu Dhabi, the best |
| Many investors are largely unaware of the fact that | | | | time to pay these bountiful islands a visit would |
| Abu Dhabi emirate is in fact archipelagic, meaning that | | | | probably be the period between November and April. |
| nearly 200 islands are strewn along its coastline. | | | | Despite the fact that Dubai is quite new on the |
| Accordingly, 'island-hopping' is a popular pastime among | | | | property-buying radar, many developments in Dubai |
| the more affluent residents (who have boats) and | | | | are setting and maintaining a high standard of quality |
| even for non-boat owners, where public transportation | | | | and service - making this UAE country a top choice |
| is available. | | | | for investors, holiday makers and retirees the world |
| There are various private tour operators, which also | | | | over. |
| offer similar island-hopping services. Due to the fact | | | | So, why exactly are tourists and investors so keen on |
| that some islands are currently undergoing major | | | | Dubai? |
| development, access may be limited for sometime. It is | | | | Well, aside from the obvious: the famous, sought-after |
| advisable to check with your local tour operator for | | | | beaches; diverse landscape; rich culture and idyllic |
| more information on which islands are accessible at | | | | climate - Dubai is also, most importantly, reasonably |
| present, and which are not. | | | | affordable. |
| The vast number of islands which are available to | | | | Tourism, as an industry, is quite the relatively new |
| tourists and the locals in Abu Dhabi are excellent | | | | concept for Dubai. This novel industry is however fast |
| destination choices. The following Islands can be visited | | | | becoming one of the main reasons why people are |
| and enjoyed at length: | | | | flocking to Dubai in droves. |
| - Lulu Island: perfect for short weekend trips, this large | | | | With an increase in tourism statistics of approximately |
| man-made island is situated directly opposite the | | | | 30 per cent in the last year alone, one can only |
| Corniche and is accessible by boat. Visitors are free to | | | | assume that the Property Industry in Dubai is also well |
| take a dip in the pools or beaches and then enjoy a | | | | on its way to new heights and bigger profit margins. |
| treat from a couple of restaurants, coffee shops and | | | | Picture unchartered territory at your doorstep; long |
| cafeterias on the island. | | | | lazy days basking in the warmth of the sun; days and |
| - Saadiyat Island: Located to the east of the Corniche, | | | | nights spent bathing in the warm waters of idyllic |
| this island is being transformed into a luxury leisure and | | | | beaches - and you will find your mystery haven is |
| cultural destination. This island boasts a massive, | | | | situated no where else but in the delightful Dubai. |