Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emeritus. This is a conglomerate of 9 gulf emirates and Dubai forms a part as well. Dubai is more well known but Abu Dhabi is also a paradise to shop and dine. It's hard to think that just about 5 decades back the entire area was a sandy dune. Located at the edge of the great Arabian desert. Abu Dhabi has its own ethos and culture.
The discovery of oil has fuelled a massive development. The development index is even better than America as sky towers and shopping malls have sprung up.
Some of the best malls have also been set up and shopping and Dining is a great way of life here.The most sophisticated shopping mall is the Marina. It overlooks the sea at Corniche. It can be recognized by its Arab tent like Bedouin structures that constitute its roof. This is a architectural wonder.
The mall also has the revolving restaurant and Dining there gives you a lovely view of ocean and the boats plying. It's really a inlet Bay that connects to the Arabian Sea. The food served is Continental and Italian and eating there is an experience. The restaurant does clockwork movement of a circle in about 50 minutes. The time will pass so fast you won't notice it.
The hostesses and waitresses are fair girls from the Philippines. This adds to pleasure, but sorry no alcohol is served. Maybe that's a good thing as a lot of nuisance is avoided.The Marina also has least another 25 eating joints with a food court. One of the outlets there served Indian food. You can get cuisine from anyplace in the world. In case you just want a cup of coffee there, at half a dozen coffee outlets won't let you down
The shopping is the best part. A string of the most famous names from Paris and New York stud the mall. For genuine products the prices can be high but thn you have to be well heeled to shop in Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
The Mall also has a Bowling Alley and one can try ones hands at the Pins. There are another dozen shopping malls in Abu Dhabi but the Marina takes the cake for aesthetic beauty.
The Marina also houses the largest superstore Carre Four. It sells everything from a pin to bread and food. Great place. Visiting Abu Dhabi is fun and it' has its own charm vis a vis Dubai.
