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Recreating recreation!

There is plenty of fun and lot to explore in Abu Dhabi at an affordable cost

There is no dearth of opportunities for leisure and recreation in Abu Dhabi. And the good point is that most of them are cost-effective, and within reach. Going on long drives, eating out, attending BBQs, trekking, swimming, desert safari and roaming around in the malls are some of the ways to have fun. There are plenty of shopping offers for shopaholics, and discounts all around. Abu Dhabi, the capital of UAE, is unique for its style and fragrance when it comes to recreation. At the same time, it is majestic and colourful, to say the least. The emirate has a remarkable range of activities catering to almost every market segment. For young couples and singles, Abu Dhabi offers an exciting and diverse nightlife and is considered one of the culinary capitals of the country.
Camel safari
It is a traditional sport, and at the same time adventurous. A camel ride makes a trip to the UAE all the more remarkable. Camel safaris are quite cheap. The decorated humps of Arabian camels with all their colours and splendour make it a great treat. There are many tour operators offering trips to a variety of stunning destinations such as Al Ain and Liwa.
Cultural activities
Abu Dhabi is rich in cultural activities, and the mosaic of the emirate is so colourful that throughout the year it is festive to the core. The capital has a wide range of world-class cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, historic buildings and edutainment venues. Abu Dhabi is a unique mix of modernity and historic places. There are pockets of old streets and buildings that bring back to life the fishing origins of the emirate. Most of the attractions can be reached on foot, and is part of great tourism at a competitive cost. 
Similarly, experiencing the taste of local cuisine is also considered a part and parcel of the emirate's cultural offering. These include shawarmas, qaiwah, and sheesha. There are so many chains of international brands of hotels, clubs and other destinations that are more than enough to enrich leisure options for all kinds of people.
Dhow cruising
Boats built in traditional styles, commonly known as dhows - tailor-made to cater to the needs of tourists as dining avenues - are a great attraction. These floating vessels are a sought-after activity. It is great fun to sail on them to a host of nearby islands, and experience the richness of traditional menu and hospitality.
These sea-worthy dining restaurants on dhows are very popular. They also provide an opportunity to explore the intriguing network of channels and passages that are teeming with birdlife and marine creatures.
Corniche 
It is a must to walk around the Corniche in Abu Dhabi, if one wants to feel the breathtaking skyline of the capital. It is momentous. The focal point is its charming and surprising expanse of greenery and coastline that is incredibly picturesque. A lot of paved cycling tracks, and walkways offer a unique blend of sport activity for children and adults alike. It is a perfect leisure spot during the winter season. The breakwater sections in the capital along the Corniche have a variety of amusement centres. It is one of the cheapest options but leaves behind a rich experience of the emirate.
Scuba diving and snorkelling
The blue waters of the Arabian Sea are home to a variety of fish, sea mammals and other marine life, making scuba diving and snorkelling a very tempting sport. The coastline around Abu Dhabi is dotted with islands with shallow lagoons, which are serene and lovable with coral reefs, wrecks and deepwater trenches. Scuba divers can't miss to explore this part of the world. Similarly, Yas Marina Circuit is another exciting sporting and entertainment multi-purpose venue. It is also home to annual festivals like the F1 Formula, and other cultural happenings.
- mehkri@khaleejtimes.com