Discover Abu Dhabi Destination – Abu Dhabi and its growth to its present stature and its tourist importance.
Abu Dhabi is ruled by the Al Nahyan family from the year 1793 and has developed the desert sheikhdom into a modern society, also at the same time holding to its roots and preserving its natural and cultural heritage. The present ruler of Abu Dhabi is His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, he is also the current UAE President. The brother of Sheikh Khalifa , his Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed forces skillfully supports him in the running of the affairs of the country.
Some period back, Abu Dhabi Emirate was something more than an empty desert, though beautiful, it was occupied by nomadic tribes, with some villages dotted around the more fertile area of oasis. Abu Dhabi economy developed around pearl diving, fishing and date palm cultivation. The Arabic meaning of Abu Dhabi is ‘Father of the Gazelle’ and was founded when an young antelope led a nomadic tribe to fresh water, on an island consisting of not more than 300 palm(barasti) huts, a ruler’s fort and a few coral buildings. From this simple settlement developed the present modern cosmopolitan city of Abu Dhabi and the high-rise capital of the United Arab Emirates. Radical change occurred to the population and emirate with the discovery of oil in 1958. The revenue from oil and gas was astutely invested and this led to the overall development and prosperity of the region.
It all happened because of the strong leadership and farsighted vision of the late UAE President and ruler of Abu Dhabi, His Highness Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The Emirate prospered and developed the present infrastructure virtually from scratch.
Growth
Abu Dhabi recognizes the success of it based on the oil sector, but at the same it is working hard to reduce its reliance on hydrocarbons and expand the emirate’s economy. Tourism, transport, investment in infrastructure, health and education is continuing according to the government’s urban plan of 2030. In the economic transition tourism is playing a fundamental role and the emirate target is 2.5 million hotel guests per year by the end of 2012. Many new attractions of great importance are progressing along with luxury resorts, desert retreats and business centre hotels.
Abu Dhabi Tourism
Serene Oasis, more than 400 kilometers of pristine coastline, over 200 natural islands, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, rocky mountain-like heights, modern city scapes, Abu Dhabi unfolds you diverse and unique experiences. But that doesn’t mean it is oblivious of its heritage, it is preserving and leveraging on its centuries-old history and rich traditions. People who visit this country can explore palaces, forts, one of the world’s largest mosques, renovated oases, desert camps, camel trekking, enjoy the warm hospitality and experience the unique falconry.
Abu Dhabi presents diverse attractions. Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) manages and regulates emirate’s tourism industry. It operates world-class hotel and hotel apartments and ensures visitor’s expectations are satisfied. There are also major events like international Aerobatic show, a PGA golf tournament, a desert rally, gourmet food festival and summer-long family carnival.
