The capital of the United Arab Emirates sits off the mainland on an island in the Persian Gulf. Abu Dhabi presents an eclectic mix of old and new, traditional and modern, past and future. Tracing its rich history back to around 3000 B.C., this fascinating city has undergone massive changes over the decades. In the whitewashed Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque you can admire the exquisite architecture and the world’s largest carpet. Visit the Emirates Palace that holds the award for the most expensive hotel built in the UAE.