Abu Dhabi: New Mecca for Shopaholics
Abu Dhabi, shopping in a blended scenario of age-old traditions and new-world modernism. There are those among us who cannot pass a SALE sign in a boutique window or miss out on the chance to either purchase a unique, luxury item or hunt down the best bargains in the area. These people will love the cosmopolitan city of Abu Dhabi, where the offerings are laid out in diverse venues ranging from ultra-modern malls to the ageless, traditional souks.
Holiday travellers, arriving on one of the 17 airlines flying into the city, will delight in opportunities to hammer out negotiations for bargains on Arabian carpets, spices, and traditional perfumes or to find an exquisite antique in the souks. Others will take pleasure in visiting the haute-couture houses for designer outfits, prowling the technological section of the city for high-tech gadgetry, or creating an original piece of jewellery with an artisan. Most of the shopping areas are open from 10AM to 10PM, although some still follow the tradition of closing the shop in the afternoon between the hours of 1PM and 4PM. Travellers visiting during Ramadan and Eid should expect changes that accommodate the religious observations. Then, most shops will close in the afternoon and reopen at 7PM, remaining open until midnight or later.
Those who cannot wait to get to Abu Dhabi International should book with BMI, who offers the shortest flight to Abu Dhabi International from Manchester - 2,527 miles each way. American Airlines offers the most non-stop flights, whilst those with one-stop flights will most likely land in London before continuing with their journey.
