Expert Info
on 10 May 2012
Hi, I am traveling to Abu Dhabi for a few days and am looking for some advice on things to do/see during my visit. Unfortunately, I am limited to only a couple free days as I am going for a job interview. This is my first time visiting and would welcome any insight and/or advice on what to consider should I receive an offer. Also, considering I literally only have 2 free days to explore, and I will need to make a decision based on my short time, would like to make the best of my time there. I currently live in NYC, how drastically different will Abu Dhabi be in comparison? Many thanks.
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Boy, what a question! 80 percent of the UAE's population in made up of expats, so you'll probably make American friends and have a similar life in a lot of ways. That said, the culture shock will still be huge. If I were you, I'd start by having a look at our Expat Experiences in Abu Dhabi, Culture Shock in Abu Dhabi and Lifestyle in Abu Dhabi pages for some short, easily digestable overviews of what to expact. (Perhaps you could explore our whole Guide to Moving to Abu Dhabi on the plane on your way there.)
Do you have a family? Getting them into good expat schools is the biggest hassle you'll have by far. They're expensive and have long waiting lists, so you could perhaps make use of your time there to visit a few of them.
In terms of sightseeing, Abu Dhabi is more of a shopping destination than anything. What sort of thing are you looking for? Ferrari World in Yas Island is the biggest indoor amusement park in the world. Heritage Village on the Corniche strip is a living museum depicting traditional Bedouin life, complete with tents, an ancient irrigation system, workshops and a museum. Al Hosn Palace, known colloquially as the White Fort and constructed in 1793, is the oldest building in Abu Dhabi and worth a look. After all that, you could round off your trip with dinner on a sunset cruise off the coast.
Enjoy your trip, and good luck with your decision!