One of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi has earned a reputation for offering visitors a more authentic experience than nearby Dubai by retaining the charm and traditions of the region, while simultaneously dazzling tourists with the pizzazz and glamour for which the region is renowned.

With an eye on the future and a foot in the past, a variety of experiences are on offer in Abu Dhabi, where the sun shines year round and daytime temperatures do not fall below 20°C, even in the depths of winter. You can rev it up and tackle the high-octane thrills at Ferrari World, hire a camel to see you safely across a stretch of desert, train your camera at the domes of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, or gaze at the impossibly glamorous luxury hotels of Abu Dhabi, even if you choose not to splash out and book a room in one. (The Emirates Palace is one such hotel not to be missed.)

It's an ideal winter-sun destination, with flights taking around seven hours from UK airports and arriving into Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH). Most visitors opt to stay in the tourist zone, which can be found near the Corniche (the waterfront promenade). There are many hotels, restaurants and cafés here, as well as easy access to the sun-baked coastline, where beaches welcome guests looking to relax on the sands.

Don't just stick to the tourist areas, though. After all that sightseeing and relaxing on the beach, one of Abu Dhabi's excellent, low key eateries is the perfect place to soak up the atmosphere and savour the flavours of the local cuisine.

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The average daytime temperature in January hovers at around 20C, while summer days see the figures skyrocketing into the 40s. The heat of the May to October period makes air conditioning a must, but you'll probably be grateful that your hotel has it at any time of the year. Forget packing an umbrella for Abu Dhabi holidays, though: rainfall is insignificant whenever you travel.

There's a very good supply of cheap holidays to Abu Dhabi on TravelSupermarket - whenever you plan to travel.

Abu Dhabi Festival; March: A huge celebration of the arts and culture. Look out for the free performances if you don't manage to secure tickets for the big shows.

Camel racing; year round: Going to watch camel races at the desert courses is a great day out. What's more, entrance is usually free and pre-arranged tours can take you to the action if you don't have your own wheels.

Concerts on Yas Island; throughout the year: This huge and modern venue hosts the cream of the music world. Many visitors plan their trip in Abu Dhabi around their favourite artist's performance.

Grown-up families: The Heritage Village attraction gives you an idea of Abu Dhabi before it struck oil and became super rich, with workshops taking place around the old-fashioned backdrop.

Active types: Get your engine revving at Ferrari World or try your hand at wakeboarding in the waters around Abu Dhabi - it's quite the craze here.

Shopping: Marina Mall is the place to indulge in a little retail therapy. And when you tire of the shops, you can head up the Sky Tower for amazing views.