If you’re anything like the majority of the population in the city you probably navigate your way around from the comfort of your car. But a quick stroll around the back streets reveals a place full of wonderful, bizarre and intriguing cuisines, bric-a-brac stores and bargains aplenty. Whatever you need, Abu Dhabi has it – you just need to know where to look. That’s where we come in. We’ve spent the past few weeks investigating every nook and cranny of the city to reveal the most outlandish and, frankly, brilliant establishments we could find. So, what are you waiting for? Leave the car at home and go exploring.
Al Meena
Raiqa Date & Fruit Trading
This little stand is one among several that specialises in selling different varieties of dates. You can just drive up and an assistant will bring your goodies to your window. Although prices are written down, you can haggle, especially if you are buying a large quantity.
(02 673 2520).
Souq
Located at the back of the fruit and vegetable market, this neat store stocks all kinds of fresh produce that is grown locally and some of it is organic. Prices are a little cheaper than other grocery stores and the place is managed by the Farmer’s Service Centre.
Municipality of Abu Dhabi Vegetable and Fruit Market
Unlike the other outlets, vendors at their little stands in this large tented area don’t pressure you to buy. The choices are excellent and the staff extremely friendly; this spot is quickly becoming popular for great produce.
Al Sayad Marine Restaurant & Grills
If you love seafood and spice, you cannot afford to miss the ‘Special’ fish dish they make here. The venue is tiny and shabby but the wonders that come out of the kitchen will blow your mind, without leaving a dent in your wallet. They also do takeaway.
(02 673 3711).
Morka Restaurant
This place is a bit of an enigma; it’s large and can seat up to 200 people. The décor is a mismatch of kitsch and gaudy tastes, and the room is full of leather sofas, each with its own large flat screen TV. Open 24 hours a day, you can unwind here and try their international menu of sandwiches, Mexican, pizzas and shisha.
(050 814 8366).
Sahara Marine
For the serious water babies among you, visit this venue for all kinds of diving gear. You can get knives, under-water lights and cameras. They also sell kayaks and pedalos, for those of you who prefer surface action to the deep blue below.
(02 673 3177).
Rainbow Garden Flowers
Known as the Iranian market, this place is packed with stands that sell all sorts of plants and garden accessories. If you have a green thumb you are sure to find what you fancy here. They also sell shrubbery trimmed in shapes like elephants and vases, although these are quite pricey and can cost thousands of dirhams!
Abdul Hameed Khoury Trading Est.
This spot specialises in industrial-sized kitchenware; however they also stock some weird items that could come in handy. You can find recliners, chairs and mats, and other kit that could be great on camping trips. We also found small cupboards and shelves which are ideal for storage.
(02 673 0444).
Khalidiyah (A)
Karamella
This cute little Moroccan sweets café can seat seven people and serves tea and delicious pastries that will satisfy your sugar cravings. Choose from a delectable selection of cookies, almond pastries and fekkas (crunchy biscuits that are similar to biscotti) and relish in authentic Moroccan tea for the afternoon.
(02 666 3401).
Arabian Oud
If you’re after some traditional Arabic scents then you could do a lot worse than popping into the oud store (not to be confused with the musical instrument as one TOAD staffer discovered to their embarrassment) for some aromas. They sell amazing sweet smelling stones that’ll keep you and your abode fresh and distinctive.
King Mindi Yemini Restaurant
Yemini food is one cuisine that’s becoming increasingly popular on the Abu Dhabi culinary scene and we’ve noticed a few of these joints have been springing up around the city’s streets. Located on Passport Road, facing Golden Furniture and sandwiched between Habib Bank and Abu Dhabi National Bank is where you’ll find this particular venue. According to the menu you can expect to dine on the likes of Meat Precarious! So choose wisely…
(02 643 7723).
Khatayef
This cute Egyptian eatery serves mouth-watering native mini pastries, pies and pizzas and spicy koshari. We strongly recommend the Egyptian pies, known as ‘fteir’. There are sweet and savoury options and they are encased in flaky and buttery bread. The mini pastries are savoury and cost only Dhs2 a piece; try the potato with meat and the labneh with olives.
(02 633 3877/02 633 3055). Other locations: Muroor (02 449 0906), Khalifa City (02 556 2773).
Prince of Keys
Does exactly what it says on the tin. If you’re anything like us and have lost countless sets of keys and are continually having to get new ones cut or you need some locksmith advice, it’s not an easy thing to do in this city unless you know exactly where to go. Thankfully the chaps at Prince of Keys know all about such things so get yourself down there for all your key cutting needs.
(800 2100).
Habaiba Fashions
If you fancy trying the local look, visit this store and choose from a wide selection of abayas, beautifully beaded and adorned with colourful threads. You can also order a bespoke creation, which you can design with the seamstress. Note, the abayas are not cheap and will cost you between Dhs500-Dhs2,000.
(02 633 2990).
Tourist Club (A)
Sweet Cut
Parents will know that some kids can be apprehensive when it comes to trimming their locks. This bright and inviting venue has experienced staff that will put your tots at ease while they style their hair.
(02 644 2269).
Beautiful Cut Tailors
Buying clothes in the city can be expensive and sometimes you just want something original. This shop is manned by some dexterous ladies who can alter, mend and sew any item you like. You need to provide the material, however the prices are quite reasonable and the staff are professional and helpful.
Al Tayyiba Flour Mills
Carb lovers should definitely try the fresh Afghani bread, prepared before your eyes, at this tiny spot. Similar to Indian naan bread, the large triangles go great with sweet and savoury toppings.
(02 644 5233).
Sport Line
This little sports equipment store is about as random as it gets. Outside it offers a host of treadmills for sale but the real treasure is inside. This place has everything from skateboards to dartboards and ridiculously cheap gym equipment. Provided you’re prepared to fight your way through the piles of goods, chances are you’ll find a real bargain. The staff are very helpful too.
(02 645 2922).
Al Hamra Bicycles
There are few better ways to explore a city, or keep fit for that matter, than cycling wherever you can. It’s not a cheap hobby though – unless you know where to look, which we do. Head to Al Hamra bike store near Juma Al Majid where they’ve got a whole host of bikes on sale (including smaller ones for the kids) ranging from Dhs500-900.
(02 644 8803).
Antique Museum Shop
Now this place is bizarre. It’s kind of like where you’d imagine a quirky, slightly unhinged wizard might do his shopping. They stock everything from giant wooden Buddhas to helmets (we’re not joking), spices, men’s and women’s clothing to decorative gramophones. See what we mean?
Filipino Kitchen Restaurant
It’s hard to walk around Tourist Club Area and not be tempted by the copious amounts of little street cafés. If you’re looking for something a bit different the Filipino Kitchen could be the answer. They do all sorts of traditional Filipino grub as well as interesting desserts and shakes. The menu is pretty extensive and you can choose from various chicken, beef and seafood dishes.
(02 677 8500).
Tourist Club (B)
Dirham Plaza
Another place that sells a little bit of everything and all of it dirt cheap. Do yourself a favour and avoid all the… er… ‘familiar’ looking aftershave brands and check out their kitchenware and household stuff instead. Not the most exciting of products of course but still a shop that could well come in handy in the future. Look out for the comical ornaments as well. Upstairs they also stock a wide range of men’s and women’s clothing and while none of it is exactly stunning if you need some cheap T-shirts to work-out in, for example, you could do worse than try here.
Masala Magic Restaurant & Sweets
What could be more authentic than eating Indian food on banana leaves? This budget eatery does a delicious range of Asian fare. Beware of asking for extra spice, as the chef might deliver a burst of chilli that will have you crying and squirming in your seat.
(02 674 7469).
Chow King
This newly opened eatery serves Chinese grub for the noodle lovers among you. Just opposite the main entrance of the Crowne Plaza, you can find decent rolls and dishes to satiate you. Prices are very reasonable, although the staff can be a tad curt.
(02 633 4727).
Rainbow Steakhouse
Don’t be fooled by the name of this eatery – it’s more than just a steakhouse. The surroundings are a bit rough and ready, so not a great spot for a romantic bite to eat, but they do just about everything under the sun from curries and Chinese food right through to Russian salads and even fish and chips. It’s a bit of a mission to find mind you, but if you’re in the area and feeling peckish…
(02 633 3434).
Deem Mobile Phone
We have all had our clumsy moments with our mobiles, dropping them, forgetting they’re in our pockets and washing them, or just taking out our aggression on the defenceless units. Although Abu Dhabi is replete with mobile shops, we particularly like this venue because the staff are very accommodating and can repair any disaster that befalls everyone’s best friend these days.
(02 674 3101).
Al Saeed Bakery & Sweets
Manouche lovers have to try the specimens at this venue. We fell in love with the kishek and zaatar varieties. Open until 3am, this bakery is never empty and you will often find yourself queuing behind people to get your goodies. Aside from the fresh items baked on the spot, they also do phenomenal desserts that will keep you coming back for more.
(02 677 6611).
Al Deera Stationary Establishment
A good stationery shop is one of those things you never even think about until you really need one. There are a couple to choose from in this area, and in the city generally, but we’re quite fond of this little shop – mainly because it has just about everything you could possibly want in terms of stationery. What more can you ask for?
Tourist Club (C)
Yamaha Thomsun Electronics
Situated just opposite the Smoker’s Center on Hamdan, this venue has loads of instruments for sale at reasonable prices. From guitars and saxophones to electronic pianos, you’re almost certain to find something to fit your musical needs at this shop. They also sell all the attachments and cleaners that you might need for your new instrument.
(02 677 9230).
Barracuda Marine Fishing & Trading
For the serious fishers among you, visit this shop to get all sorts of gear that will help you while hunting in the sea. Equipment is available for boat fishing, as well as spear fishing; with all kinds of rods and lines.
The staff are friendly and will help you navigate the items. They also sell a wide range of tackle; all you need to lure the big ones in!
(02 676 9881).
Gulf Marine
Living on an island surrounded by so much water, you simply cannot avoid ocean-based activities. This shop sells items for snorkelers and divers. They sell all sorts of masks, including ones for free diving. Beginners will find affordable snorkels, tubas and fins here for their maiden trips and the gear is durable. Divers can find booties, knives, lights and all sorts of equipment for underwater explorations.
(050 446 7956).
Lebanese Village Restaurant
While there are numerous Lebanese eateries in the city, we like this one because they deliver late and do great falafel. Prices are very reasonable, and on weekdays they do a daily dish for Dhs20. Situated behind the Capital Al Diyar Hotel, the outlet does excellent salad and decent grills. Some of the items can be hit and miss, but they will be there for you until 1am.
(02 676 9297).
Modern Art Music Institute
This venue teaches visitors how to master all kinds of instruments, such as piano, bass and drums. The teachers are friendly and you can work out a package that suits you. Whether you are looking to adopt a hobby or play professionally, this spot can get you on your way to becoming a musical wonder.
(02 673 8380).
Khalidiyah (B)
La Fontana Restaurant and Café
With a great view of the Corniche and the city skyline, this is a great rooftop venue to enjoy some outdoor lounging. The service is friendly and the venue is a prime location for taking in the sunset in an uber relaxed atmosphere on top of the world.
(02 679 6661).
Caramel Beauty Lounge
Tucked away on the ground floor of the Pearl Tower building, this cute little salon does mean manis and pedis, along with other services to get you glammed up and looking your best. The staff are very friendly although it’s best if you can call ahead to book an appointment.
(02 639 5030).
Elegant Touch Handcrafts
If you like the Arabesque look, you will find a wealth of treasures at this quaint shop. All products are made in Palestine and include handmade pillow cases and table throws, made with intricate designs and colours. There are also T-shirts with iconic comic characters on them.
(050 313 2892).
Shish Shawerma
The city is not short on shawarma venues, but we love this spot because they do a wide range of yummy plates and sandwiches that hit the spot. They make fresh kaak (thick bread with sesame seeds) that comes with many savoury fillings; the turkey and cheese is a favourite. Fresh from the oven or grill, it’s no wonder this venue is always busy at mealtimes.
(02 650 5576).
Cleopatra Palace Spa
This large salon does it all; from massages to hair and nail treatments, they have every service you could need from head to toe to make you feel gorgeous. We love the aloe vera treatment for the scalp; the hairdresser cuts a fresh piece from the aloe plant, squeezes out the gel, rubs it into your scalp and then heats it gently for 20 minutes before washing out.
(02 222 2141).
Little known web wonders
Aside from all the cool spots we found around town, we also happened upon these internet-based gems
1 Cake In A Cup: This wonderful business does all sorts of cakes and sweets in bespoke shapes. You can scroll through their Facebook page to see some of their creations.
www.facebook.com/CakeinacupAD (050 816 7419).
2 Abu Dhabi Speaks: This is an excellent group for those who are learning a new language. The group meets regularly to converse in foreign languages so you can practise with friendly people.
Email abudhabispeaks@gmail.com or visit www.facebook.com/ADspeaks.
3 Meet Up: Activity seekers should definitely register with www.Meetup.com. This great site has tons of fabulous groups for all kinds of interests and pursuits; such as the Abu Dhabi Book Club, Fabulous Forties and the Movie Club.
4 Maria’s Kitchen: Just because the city might be short on Mexican food, doesn’t mean you have to go without your tacos! This site lets you order all sorts of Mexican dishes, homemade and prepared fresh. You need to become a member of the group to get the contact details. Search for ‘Maria’s Kitchen (Mexican Food)’ on Facebook.
