Be active
Visiting a new city is often an energy sapping experience, but if your guests are looking to get out and about and burn a few additional calories then there are plenty of options available around the city.
Run the Yas Marina Circuit
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix F1 track is one of the most iconic constructions in the city, and just to step foot on the Yas Marina Circuit sends shivers down your spine. But not only can visitors walk out on this hallowed tarmac, but they can also work out at the same time by lapping the 5.5km track (at slightly lower speeds than Lewis Hamilton).
Tuesdays 6pm-9pm, Yas Marina Circuit www.yasmarinacircuit.com.
Get a round in
There are fabulous golf courses dotted all around the UAE and some of the best can be found around Abu Dhabi. So if your guests are partial to spoiling a good walk (Oscar Wilde’s words, not ours) then this is the perfect time of year to dust off your clubs. Abu Dhabi City Golf Club, Abu Dhabi Golf Club and Saadiyat Beach Golf Club are all fabulous, but for something a little more tricky why not try the UAE’s only links golf course, which can be found on Yas Island.
Yas Links Golf Course, Yas Island (02 810 7777).
Go on a voyage of discovery by kayak
The mangroves located a stone’s throw offshore from the city’s main island is a unique ecosystem teeming with wildlife and adventures. The best way to discover this sprawling stretch of outstanding natural beauty is to book a tour by kayak. This is also a great getaway from the busy city streets, allowing your guests to clear their minds as well as spotting wildlife and getting some exercise in.
Noukhada Adventure Company (050 721 8928).
Life’s a beach
If chilling by the sea or getting involved in water sports is on your visitor’s minds, then your options here are unlimited.
Sunbathe
Residents flock to the public Bake beaches on the Corniche, Al Bateen and on Saadiyat Island. These are the most cost effective beaches to visit and afford some of the best access in the capital. You can rent chairs and umbrellas, so all you have to bring is a towel. From Dhs10 per person.
www.bakeuae.com.
Go to an exclusive beach club
The poolside cabanas at Monte-Carlo Beach Club on Saadiyat Island offer enchanting views of the crystal blue waters. Perched on its own private beach, visitors are able to enjoy a tropical haven with five-star amenities. Day pass prices vary, call for current rates.
www.montecarlobeachclub.ae.
Take a charter
You can get an eco-tour with a qualified marine biologist through the mangroves and you might even see some dolphins! It’s a great way to see Abu Dhabi’s greener side.
www.captaintonys.ae (02 650 7175).
Feel the speed
One of the best and most popular activities is Jet Skiing, it’s commonplace to see riders whizzing through the water-ways. You can rent one, with a full briefing by qualified professionals and then go where you want to go (within the Jet Ski guidelines) and enjoy the outdoors.
PJ Performance Marine, www.rjperformancemarine.com.
Have a go of wakeboarding
The flat waters make the capital a great place for beginners to pick up wakeboarding. It’s not an easy sport at the best of times, so Abu Dhabi offers spanning flat waters to accommodate those more inexperienced in this thrilling sport.
Hiltonia Beach Club (02 681 1900).
Paddle standing up
Abu Dhabi Stand Up Paddle Club offers an easy-going but toning exercise. You can enjoy the sun and sand (and water) with this low-intensity, beginner friendly activity. Lessons, tours and rentals available.
www.abudhabisup.com (050 905 9743).
