Abu Dhabi holidays

What Abu Dhabi lacks in the way of historic landmarks, it more than makes up for in knock-out modern architecture.

The two real must-see buildings on any Abu Dhabi holiday are the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the unbelievably luxurious Emirates Palace Hotel - stay here on an affordable Abu Dhabi package deal to enjoy the yoga classes, champagne bar and caviar-based spa treatments.

Other feats of 21st-century engineering include the Capital Gate Building, which leans four times more than the Tower of Pisa, and pioneering zero-carbon development Masdar City.

History and heritage

Behind Abu Dhabi's high-rise facade is a traditional culture that's still very much alive. One essential stop on your Abu Dhabi holiday is the Heritage Village, a reconstructed oasis village where craftsmen labour in traditional workshops and people trade goats for dates in the reconstructed souk.

For a more authentic experience, lose yourself in the Mina Zayed Fish Souk near the main port and watch fishermen haggling over their catch, or take your pick of the freshest and cheapest Abu Dhabi produce at the nearby Al Mina Fruit and Vegetable Souk.

Sunlit sands

Those endless butterscotch beaches are the highlights of any Abu Dhabi holiday. A marine promenade called the Corniche stretches for six kilometres along the coast, linking some of the more central beaches and all-inclusive Abu Dhabi hotels.

Off the coast you'll find a smattering of sand-fringed islands - Nurai, Lulu and Al Maya are all secluded spots worth checking out, while Saadiyat combines beautiful beaches with a brand-new booming Cultural District. For a sand-themed adrenaline shot, take a 4x4 trip into the rolling desert dunes that surround Abu Dhabi.

If it's guaranteed sunshine you're after, then this is the place to come. It rarely rains in Abu Dhabi, with wet weather between May and October virtually unheard of.

Even during the colder months, the mercury rarely drops below the mid-teens and grey skies are an unusual occurrence.

The reliability of the emirate's weather makes it a perfect winter sun destination, although bear in mind that December through to February is peak tourist season. Spring and autumn are better choices - temperatures hover around 25C and there are plenty of cheap Abu Dhabi deals on offer. If you're planning a visit in the sweltering summer months then be sure to book a room with air conditioning.

Sightseeing tips - Abu Dhabi is home to a sizzling selection of adrenaline-thumping theme parks. Enjoy a ride on the world's highest and fastest rollercoaster at Ferrari World, which reaches speeds of up to 120kmh (75mph).

Don't miss the chance to see camel racing, Abu Dhabi's most entertaining national sport. Events take place at the Al Wathba Camel Race Track and the Al Maqam Track near Al Ain over the cooler winter months. Entrance to the races is free, but it's good advice to get there early for a decent viewing spot.

Cultural tips - Visitors are welcome to tour cultural attractions such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, but follow the advice laid out on the Mosque Manners website and cover up. Men shouldn't wear shorts, while women must cover every part of their body other than their face, hands and feet. You should only shake hands with your right hand (never the left hand as it is considered unclean). Also, men do not shake hands with women unless the woman initiates the handshake.

Cuisine tips - Abu Dhabi is home to a constellation of international restaurants, but that's no excuse to eschew the local cuisine. Emirati dishes are often single-pot stews revolving around chicken, goat meat and spices. Take a tip from the locals and try harees (mixed wheat and meat porridge) or tharid (lamb stew). Try fine Emirati cuisine at the upscale Mezlai. For fresh seafood buffets, Finz Restaurant (Beach Rotana, 10th St) which overlooks Al Reem Island, is the place to go.