Abu Dhabi, the wealthiest emirate of the UAE (in terms of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and per capita income), has more than $1 trillion invested world-wide alone. The GDP per capita reached $63,000, which is far above the average income of the United Arab Emirates.
Abu Dhabi's sovereign wealth fund, the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA), currently estimated at US $875 billion, is the world's wealthiest sovereign fund in terms of total asset value. Abu Dhabi's government has plans to expand revenue from oil and gas production to tourism and other sorts of features which would attract different types of people.
This goal is proof of the attention that Abu Dhabi is giving to its International Airport, which has experienced a 30% plus growth in passenger usage in recent times. The idea of diversification will be sustainable and not dependent on any one facet or source of revenue. More specifically the non-oil portion of income is planned to be increased from about 40% to about 60%.
The city: The city has an unmatched blend of antiquity with modernity. It is a city of immense promise and this is reflected in its sky-scraper business centre skyline, which flanks its signature Corniche, and overlooks the sparkling Arabian Gulf. Both of these 21st century icons lie harmoniously alongside outstanding cultural landmarks with their traditionally authentic Arab and Islamic architecture.
All along the city's coastline, the area is dotted with lush green parks, fountains and wide pavements. The public beach, which has a nominal entrance fee, has a vast shaded area and is equipped with lifeguards should the visitors encounter any unfortunate incident while beating the heat in the cool water.
Besides this, the Heritage Village also provides a welcome treat with its traditional atmosphere and Arabian charm. The bus company operates open-top tours along the corniche and throughout the city. Those preferring their views from sea can join a speedboat tour or a personalised coastline trip from sea cruiser.
After-dark activities: Nightlife in Abu Dhabi can be as quiet and refreshing as a stroll by the corniche or in a park in the cooler seasons or as active as watching a rock band performance in a pub or dancing in a night club in one of Abu Dhabi's five or four-star hotels. Between the two extremes, nightlife in Abu Dhabi has much to offer for everybody.
Enjoying an evening could range from a culinary treat from a wide range of oriental and international cuisines, watching a play, listening to a lecture, attending a concert or an art exhibition, or it can simply be a show at a movie theatre or going to an Arabic coffee shop where the traditional shisha is served. Shopping malls remain open till 22:00 or 23:00 and these provide the main attraction for many of Abu Dhabi residents and visitors. You can indulge in a rich shopping experience or simply enjoy window-shopping at the wide variety of shopping outlets available.