Abu Dhabi or Dubai? Why not both?!

The United Arab Emirates offer a unique mix of tradition, luxury, innovation and adventure, with their world class cities, desert adventures, pristine beaches and rich cultural heritage. If you’re trying to decide between Dubai and Abu Dhabi for a UAE getaway, why not follow in the footsteps of Gemma, Felixstowe Branch Manager, and enjoy both! Her amazing twin-centre break was courtesy of Jetset Holidays, and featured both these dynamic cities, for a sensational sunshine break.

“Flying direct to Abu Dhabi with Etihad Airlines from Heathrow was a total breeze in just under seven hours. The aircraft was a double decker which offered Economy, Business Class and First-Class upstairs. The service was fantastic, the staff were very attentive, food was lovely and leg room was ample, with lots of films to while away the journey, as well as series.

Our first two nights were spent at the Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi, which certainly has the wow factor! This striking hotel is an iconic architectural landmark, and it stands out on the skyline like a jewel in the sun. There are 36 floors, with either a city view or a pool & beach view and it is situated directly on the beach. The lobby was out of this world, with the most humongous flower display I’ve ever seen, and there are two amazing pools with swim-up bars, and waiters on roller skates to take your drinks order! The hotel has a spa, gym and a vast array of activities for their guests, with a great kids’ club too. It’s perfect for families and couples, and famous Yas Island is only about 40 minutes away.

Yas Island is Abu Dhabi's premier entertainment destination, a man-made island packed with world-class theme parks like Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World™, Yas Waterworld, and SeaWorld, offering non-stop fun for families, adrenaline seekers, and film fans. It's a major tourism hub in the UAE, featuring record-breaking rides, cinematic adventures, marine life, and unique experiences like the world’s fastest rollercoaster and indoor skydiving. We also visited the famous Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, which is free to enter, and we went in the evening when it was beautifully lit up.

Our second hotel was the Rixos Premium JBR in Dubai. This stylish urban hotspot is located in the heart of Dubai’s Jumeirah Beach region. The hotel offers 414 rooms over 35 floors, with views overlooking the beach and the world’s largest ferris wheel. Dubai is a vast city with so much to offer, and a beach or city vibe, depending on where you choose to stay. I was blown away with the vast selection of food available in both Rixos hotels, and the staff were all very friendly and attentive. They have seven gorgeous hotels across the UAE, each with a distinct luxury vibe.

In Dubai we were lucky enough to spend the day at the famous Atlantis on the Palm, exploring the hotel and its aquarium and waterpark. We also saw the Dubai Fountains and the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa all lit up at night.

Before I went, I thought that Dubai and Abu Dhabi would be very built up, bustling cities, but now I realise that there is so much more to see and do across the region, and it truly offers something for everyone. Whether it’s a beach-based break or a glitzy city stay, your hotel will offer a fantastic base for exploring the main attractions, and being just an hour apart, a twin-centre holiday could offer the best of both these vibrant destinations. It’s a holiday of superlatives, and my personal highlights were ticking off the world’s fastest rollercoaster and visiting the aquarium at the Atlantis."

Gemma's top tips for visiting the UAE:

* Take a neck pillow for a nap on the flight and arrive ready to explore.

* When visiting any mosques you need to be covered head to foot, and women must have their hair covered with a scarf.

* You don’t need travel adapters as they use the 3 prong plugs and USB chargers.

* Everyone drives everywhere, so ubers are the best way to travel and are very reasonable.

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If you feel inspired to visit the United Arab Emirates, contact us now!