Arriving to Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is one of the best places to go to. This largest emirate and the capital of United Arab Emirates has plenty of exciting offerings for leisure and business travelers. So if you are planning a trip there yourself, you will not be disappointed.

However, before you start packing your luggage, it is wise to know some things about this beautiful city in the Middle East. As you will most likely take a plane to get there, you must be aware that there are two world class airports in Abu Dhabi – the Al Ain International Airport and the Abu Dhabi International Airport.

The Al Ain International Airport is 160 kilometers away from the city of Abu Dhabi. So far, only nine airlines, including the Elihad Airways, fly to Abu Dhabi, but this topnotch international airport has a host of facilities that are nothing less than stimulating to the senses. There are restaurants and cafes if ever you get hungry while waiting for your flight. There are also banking facilities and Automatic Teller Machines if you need fast cash to shop at the Al Ain Duty Free Shop.

The Abu Dhabi International Airport, on the other hand, serves thirty-four airlines flying passengers to over 150 destinations worldwide. It has been hailed as one of the best, one of the biggest, and one of the fastest growing airports in the world. In 2007, it served around 6.9 million passengers with an estimated yearly increase of 30%. Such being the case, the Abu Dhabi International Airport is embarking on a huge expansion project involving 6.8 billion dollars.

It is easy to understand why the Abu Dhabi International Airport has earned an outstanding reputation. Its facilities are all of world class quality. There are restaurants and cafes there, prayer rooms, a medical center operating for twenty-four hours, banking facilities and ATMs, a post office, and VIP lounges. There’s even a five-star hotel there, the Abu Dhabi Airport Hotel, and an 18-hole sand golf course. And, of course, there’s the famed Duty Free Shop where you can shop to your heart’s content for just about anything - perfumes, cosmetics, clothes, food, souvenirs to take home, even gold, antiques, and electronic devices. With so many things to do while awaiting your flight, you will hardly ever get bored.

The Abu Dhabi International Airport is also kind to the physically challenged. The airport has a special check-in gate specifically for those on wheelchair. There are also elevators and ramps, and specially-built toilets.

At the terminal, taxis are available to take you to your intended destination. There are also public buses should you wish to ride a bus instead.

If you are planning to take the next flight to Abu Dhabi, you can buy your tickets online. There are many online travel agents who can give you the best deal. Do not commit to one, though. Always compare the prices before buying your ticket.

It is easy to get overwhelmed by all these, but a trip to Abu Dhabi is always worth every penny. The experience is just too great to quantify.