Flight to Abu Dhabi

Brian Berry, our latest participant in the Customer Delight Programme, holidayed in Abu Dhabi in February. He had an exciting time in the Emirate and considers his seaplane ride as one of the holiday highlights. Find out more about his holiday at the UAE capital and what all he has to say about his experience with Southall Travel. 

With beautiful beaches lapped by warm azure waters, captivating cultural attractions, mesmerising museums and a whole lot more – Abu Dhabi has got it all. Perhaps to get a sense of this dazzling Arabian destination, a visit to the Sheikh Zayed Mosque would be a good starting point. Completed in 2007, this sprawling Islamic place of worship features superb architectural elements based on the Mughal and Moorish traditions, and there is also a visitor centre where people can learn all about the region's culture and heritage. Other top attractions in Abu Dhabi include Ferrari World – said to be the biggest indoor theme park in the world – and Al Ain National Museum.

Due to its hot desert climate, Abu Dhabi enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year, but for UK visitors there can sometimes be too much of it! During the summer months, the mercury can climb close to 40C and sometimes even higher, and it's extremely humid at that time of year. The winter months have more pleasant temperatures "averaging around 24C" so if you're put off by extreme heat, the best time to visit is from November to around the end of April. That way, you can enjoy the beaches, the bazaars and everything else without breaking out in a sweat!

Abu Dhabi International Airport is the arrival point for visitors flying into the capital of the United Arab Emirates. Located 19 miles outside the city, the airport is noted for its excellence in passenger services and has received numerous international "best airport" awards. It has three terminals and is the main base for Etihad Airways, the UAE's second biggest carrier after Emirates. Many dozens of flights take off and land at Abu Dhabi International Airport each day, and in total, flights are available to more than 80 destinations around the world, making this airport a true global aviation hub.