The best flight deals to Abu Dhabi

An Abu Dhabi vacation encompasses dazzling white beaches lapped by turquoise seas and splendid nature, gilded mosques and fabulous shopping, world-class dining and leisure activities. Since the region's humble beginnings as a simple settlement in the sand, to the gleaming metropolis of today, Abu Dhabi (which translates as Land of the Gazelle) is an intoxicating blend of tradition and innovation, and gateway between eastern and western cultures. A veritable playground, no matter what kind of vacation you are looking for, be it beach, shopping, adventure or gastronomy, there's something to suit all tastes.

Whether you decide to immerse yourself in the city's culture, admire the stunning mosques, stroll down the Corniche, perfect your tan or flex your credit card in the countless shopping malls and souks, a break in Abu Dhabi means you won't be short of things to do.

On a vacation in Abu Dhabi, be sure to:

• Amble down the Corniche, a sweeping four-mile promenade interspersed with green spaces, manicured gardens, and gurgling fountains
• Escape the city and go kayaking in the city's lush mangroves
• Test out your racing skills at the Ferrari World
• Take a sunset cruise and glide past the city's spectacular skyline
• Climb up to the observation deck of the Jumeirah at the Etihad Towers hotel for some of the city's best views
• Cool the family off on the waterslides of the Yas Waterworld
• Check out an art exhibition in the city's leading cultural district, Saadiyat Island
• Visit the eye-popping Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, which features 82 domes and 24-carat-gold-gilded chandeliers
• Take a tour of the Emirates Palace, an opulent hotel that showcases Arabian luxury like never seen before
• Lie back on the snowy-white sands of exclusive Yas Island and bathe in the glistening turquoise sea