Madinat Zayed, sandwiched between the twin arteries of Electra Street and Al Falah Street, is a bustling community in the heart of downtown Abu Dhabi.
Named after the nation’s late founding father, His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the family-friendly neighbourhood plays a huge role in Abu Dhabi’s rich cultural scene.
Home to the city’s longest-standing structure Qasr Al Hosn (more on that later), you can also visit a number of other cultural attractions including Children’s Library and the Cultural Foundation. There’s a dizzying array of activities and events hosted here and you’re as likely to see big-name artists from the Arab world and theatre and dance as you are calligraphy and modern art. With a diverse programme of events, expect to pay repeat visits throughout the year.
But events aside, here are the top reasons to pay a visit right now.
Al Ibrahimi Restaurant
For decades, Al Ibrahimi has remained a favourite for a delicious, well-made shawarma (complete with fries and pickles, of course). The restaurant also offers Middle Eastern, Pakistani and Chinese dishes, if you want something different, but it’s the wraps that will keep pulling you back.
Near Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre (02 632 3344).
Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre
Located right in the heart of the city, this is the place to go for reasonably priced, international retail shopping. The massive mall offers a wide selection of brands and stores that stock everything from fashion, perfume, household goods and groceries to electronics, plus loads more. Ready to hit the shops?
Zayed the First Street (02 633 3311).
Beijing Restaurant
With a venue named after the Chinese capital, you’d be expecting some top-notch Chinese food and you won’t be disappointed here. And when it comes to noodles Beijing Restaurant has it down, with all manner of wok-fried options across meat and seafood as well as Dan Dan noodles and more.
Madinat Zayed (02 621 0708).
Qasr Al Hosn
Abu Dhabi is a modern city littered with glittering skyscrapers and stunning architecture. Offering a reminder of its history and heritage is Qasr Al Hosn. The emirate’s oldest building is also one of the most popular cultural attractions in the city and it’s a great place to visit to imagine the city long before the skyscrapers dominated the skyline.
(02 697 6400).
The Espresso Lab
Taking pride of place as part of the Cultural Foundation at Qasr Al Hosn, this specialist coffee joint roasts its own beans, allowing you to try locally-made produce. Coffee-lovers can choose from classics such as filter coffee and espresso-based drinks as well as affogato, citrus-infused shots and more. Perfect.
Qasr Al Hosn, Zayed the First Street (055 100 0161).
