Five things not to miss in Abu Dhabi

Juliet Komuhendo, the writer at Yas Beach .

What you need to know:

ADVENTURE. While Abu Dhabi is the capital city of United Arab Emirates, most people seem to be more familiar with its neighbour, Dubai. Juliet Komuhendo, a software products sales executive who recently travelled to Abu Dhabi, shares her experience

When I was first informed that I had won a trip to Abu Dhabi, I did not know what to expect. I had travelled to Europe before but I was yet to travel to the Middle East. Aboard Etihad Airways, I enjoyed the e-box music and mivies and I tried to get my head around Abu Dhabi. My impression was expanse deserts but when we touched down, the magnificent architecture swept me off my feet . Little did I know that I was yet to experience a haven of more wonders.

Yas Island Rotana hotel


I stayed at Yas Island Rotana hotel where we were treated well by very hospitable and friendly staff. The neatly arranged and spacious hotel room left me gaping. With a fully stocked mini bar and an amazing balcony view, I had been offered to take a plunge in the crystal clear swimming pool, the spa, gym and lounge. Restaurants and laundry rooms were a to die for sight. I got to know that this facility is a few metres away from great tourist attractions such as the Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Waterworld, the Ferrari World, and Yas beach.

Ferrari World


Ferrari is often associated with one of those luxury sporting cars, and a visit to the Ferrari World (above) can literally take you on a roller coaster ride. Besides being the world’s largest indoor amusement park, it has the world’s biggest and fastest roller coaster – the Formula Rossa. It is the ultimate experience for anyone thrilled by speed. Rolling at 239 km per hour, unfortunately I could not hold myself together to ride on it. Blame it on my fear for heights and speeds. At least I stole a photo moment.

Yas Marina Circuit


Yas Marina Circuit is the home to Formula One (F1) , one sport that has always intrigued me. I often watched racing cars on TV but most of the time they seem, to me, to be like video games. A visit to Yas Marina Circuit gave me a chance to have F1 experience in real life. It was a thrilling experience sitting on those F1 cars, it felt like I was the next Kimi Raikkonen. I have developed more love for the sport after the visit. I hope it lasts.

Yas Waterworld

The writer poses with her friend in the vicinity of Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi.


The Yas Water World is the ultimate experience for water lovers. It is a huge water park with various water slides. Our tour guide told us that there are 43 different rides in this water park. If you want to drop straight down into a high-intensity looping waterslide, this is the spot. Also, a unique pearl diving experience that showcases traditional Emirati pearl diving culture, and an Interactive Treasure Hunt game that will keep your adrenalin rush high.

Desert Safari


The desert Safari was different from the rest of the Safari’s. It is not for the faint hearted. The dune bashing makes you feel like the car is about to overturn. However with experienced drivers taking control.
On return, the airline on-board entertainment system kept me hooked that I did not realise how fast time had flown. I had fun in Abu Dhabi.