ABU DHABI

From Desert Tribe to Cosmopolitan Capital

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The drive from the airport offers an incredible glimpse into how this city has become the thriving capital of the UAE.

The robust modern infrastructure goes beyond just apartments, hospitals, and parks. It includes ports, massive highways, and an ever-growing number of artificial islands. Visionary leadership with innovation and global partnership has transformed the city and also created a major tourist destination.

For me, however, the extreme humidity and long, hot days make this a maximum four-day stay. If you have children, they may want to stay longer.

In truth, we are primarily here for a concert and an IMAX movie. Hans Zimmer's modern, funky orchestra, comprising over sixty musicians, takes to the stage at the Etihad Arena. 18,000 attendees have a mind-blowing music/ light show. Zimmer is the mastermind behind the music in films like Gladiator, Top Gun Maverick, The Lion King, and many more.

Cars, mainly luxury vehicles, speed along multilane highways. It takes just twenty minutes to get from the airport to downtown Abu Dhabi.