About The Capital (Abu Dhabi)

Introduction

Abu Dhabi is the Capital of the UAE, and the largest of the seven Emirates, constituting over 85% of the nation's total land area. Abu Dhabi possesses 10% of the world's oil 5% of its gas reserves, and produces 90% of oil in the U.A.E. The generated income has been purposely invested to create a first class infrastructure and flourishing modern metropolis.

At the same time great effort has been taken to protect Abu Dhabi's natural scenic beauty and to preserve the authentic spirit of Arabia. Abu Dhabi offers its cosmopolitan population the chance to pursue a very attractive lifestyle. One in which all the amenities and conveniences of modern living are available in the pleasant surroundings of a sun-kissed, waterfront city, and abundant parks and tree-lined boulevards.

Abu Dhabi offers a variety of beautiful landscapes. Lush and verdant with large gardens and parks it is known as the Green State whilst also being the location of the world's largest sand dunes. In addition there are nearly 200 islands around Abu Dhabi, offering some of the most natural untouched beaches in the region. With a population of 1.6 million, and 87% of the UAE land area, Abu Dhabi is the center of government and business life in the UAE.

Abu Dhabi International Airport, for ease of use, ranks among the best airports in the Arab world. Within an eight hour radius of the city, business professionals and holiday makers alike can reach a vast array of cities and international destinations.

The city is a unique mix of traditional Arabian charm and cosmopolitan sophistication. Combined with its beautiful beaches, fantastic shopping and top international resorts Abu Dhabi City an ideal place to live, work or visit.

Statistics

Situated on the North East coast of the Arabian Peninsula, Abu Dhabi is the Capital of the United Arab Emirates and the largest of the seven emirates which form the federation of the UAE. With a population of 1,600,000 and a land area of 67,000 square kilometers, Abu Dhabi is the largest as well as the most populated of all the Emirates. Stretching south to the beautiful green oases of Liwa lies some of the world’s largest sand dunes, and to the east is the ancient oasis of Al Ain.

Its sandy coastline is dotted with over 200 islands and is gently lapped by the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf. The Emirate was once the world's best site for pearling and its rich seafaring tradition continues today with a myriad of watersport activities available from sailing on a traditional dhow to diving and deep sea fishing. Abu Dhabi is 160 km south of Dubai, the second major city of the UAE, and is easily accessible by car or plane.

Abu Dhabi at a Glance

• Climate
  Abu Dhabi has a subtropical, arid climate and sunny blue skies with temperatures that vary but never disappoint. Rainfall is infrequent and irregular, falling mainly in winter. The most pleasant time of year to visit is in the cooler winter months (November to March) when temperatures are around 24o C (75 o F) during the day and 13 o C (56 o F) at night.


• Land
  Posses 87% of UAE land Over 200 natural islands


• Centre of UAE Government and finance


• Language
  Arabic


• Currency
  UAE Dirham


• Time Zone
  GMT + 4


• Population
  Population of the UAE 5 million
  Population of Abu Dhabi 1.6 million, largest in the UAE


• Economy
  Abu Dhabi produces:
  90% of the UAE’s oil
  10% of the world oil
  5% of the world gas
  In 2005, the Emirate of Abu Dhabi experienced GDP growth of 11%
  Abu Dhabi enjoys the highest income per capita in the world
  No corporate, personal, income or withholding tax.
  No foreign exchange controls, quotas or trade barriers. Exceptionally competitive import duties with many products exempted