Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
( 02-441 6444;
www.szgmc.ae
; off Airport Rd, near Al Maqta Bridge; 9am-10pm Sat-Thu, 4.30-10pm Fri,
closed prayer times)
This snowy white mosque - conceived by Sheikh Zayed himself -
can accommodate up to 40,000 worshippers and is architecturally impressive inside and
out. More than 80 marble domes dance on its roofline, which is held aloft by over 1000
pillars and punctuated by four 107m-high minarets.
Taking design cues from Morocco, Turkey and even India's Taj Mahal, the interior is a
made-to-impress mix of marble, gold, semi-precious stones, crystals and ceramics. Walk
on the world's largest Persian carpet (which took 2000 craftsmen two years to complete)
with seven massive gold-plated crystal chandeliers dangling above you.
You're free to walk around except during prayer times or join a free 45- to 60-minute
guided tour (in English). See the website for the latest prayer and tour timings and be sure
to wear long, loose fitting, ankle-length trousers or skirts; women must also wear a head-
scarf.
Approaching the mosque, you'll pass by Sheikh Zayed's mausoleum where attendants
recite the Quran 24/7 (no photos).
Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital
WILDLIFE RESERVE
( 02-575 5155;
www.falconhospital.com
;
Al Raha; 2-/3-hr tour adult Dh170/220, child Dh60/80; tours 10am &
2pm Sun-Thu)
Falcons have an almost mythical status in Arab culture. The largest falcon hos-
pital in the world with 'patients' arriving from all over the region, this veterinary clinic
also provides fascinating guided tours. Visit the falcon museum, the examination room an
d the free-flight aviary before having a live raptor sit right on your arm (bring that cam-
era!). The three-hour tour includes a falcon pedicure and lunch.
Reservations are mandatory and tickets are available online. The hospital is about 6km
southeast of Abu Dhabi airport. Coming from central Abu Dhabi, follow Airport Rd (E20)
to Sweihan Rd in the direction of Falah City; about 3km past the junction with Hwy E11,
turn right after the water tank (before exit 30A) and follow the signs to the hospital.
YAS EXPRESS
A great way to get around Yas Island is aboard the free
Yas Express
, a shuttle bus that links Yas Viceroy Hotel,
Yas Central, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld and hotels at Yas Plaza every 40 minutes between 9am
and 9pm.
Activities
