We spent the morning taking in the beauty of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi’s principal place of worship and the largest mosque in the UAE. The architecture was awe-inspiring, with design contributions from artisans around the world. 
It feels like a palace with its rambling arcades, soaring domes, and endless expanses of white marble, gold, and semi-precious jewels.
Next we stopped at Yas Island, a vast and exciting entertainment park. The Yas Waterworld functions like a family resort, with tons of kid-friendly activities from treasure hunts to surfing . Adults can enjoy the Links (a first class championship golf course), concerts at du Forum, and shopping at the Yas Mall. Race car enthusiasts will love Ferrari World and the Formula 1 Marina Circuit.
Abu Dhabi is an up-and-coming destination for art and history. The world’s most important fine art centres are taking notice; the Louvre has recently built a branch here, and the Guggenheim has plans for a striking Frank Gehry design. Both are currently still under construction, but are scheduled to open in the coming months.
At the end of the day, my guide brought me to the Emirates Palace Hotel, an impossibly luxurious property overlooking the Persian Gulf. Here I met with the general manager and several mutual friends in the hotel’s bar to toast to my visit in this dazzling city.
I returned to the airport for the final leg of my trip, rejuvenated by 20 hours of rich cultural experiences.
(Photo: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque)
Virtu World Travel 