Abu Dhabi is often hailed as one of the best places to visit in the UAE. But what makes this magnificent city stand out from the rest of the world? Apart from its world-class shopping experiences, luxury stays and vibrant culture, here are a few fascinating features of the city that make it truly unique.

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The World’s Largest Sand Mass

The city is home to the largest uninterrupted sand mass called Rub Al Khali or the Empty Quarter. This is where you’ll find plenty of desert-based resorts like Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara and abundant opportunities for desert experiences.

The World’s First Eco-City

Abu Dhabi’s Masdar City is a sustainable eco-city that was the first zero-waste, zero-carbon, car-free city in the world. Today, it is home to several cleantech companies and the International Renewable Energy Agency.

The World’s Oldest Pearl

Like many other countries in the UAE, Abu Dhabi has a rich history of pearl diving, evidenced by the fact the world’s oldest pearl was discovered in the city. It was found on Marawah Island in 2019 and dates back to 5,800 to 5600 BCE.

The World’s Largest Carpet

The city’s iconic Sheikh Zayed Mosque is not only the third largest mosque in the UAE but it also houses the world’s largest handmade carpet which is 60,570 square feet. You can visit the mosque to catch a glimpse of this stunning creation while you enjoy Abu Dhabi hotel offers.