Al Markaziyah

Abu Dhabi is a wonderful place to visit. The largest and most populous emirate of the United Arab Emirate is full of diverse tourist attractions for every kind of traveler. Whether you are a relax traveler, a thrill seeking one, an adventurous one or simply a curious one, Abu Dhabi will satisfy your craving of a good vacation. 

 
The large city is full of places to go. There are beautiful islands in the cost of the Persian Gulf; there are many architectural successes that would make you wonder how these buildings were made. Then there is the mystifying Arabian desert where you can take a good safari and enjoy different kinds of sand sports. There is so much to see, you’d be confused where to go first. This is why, it is best for travelers to visit one place at a time, so make sure you have enough time to visit all the wonderful places in Abu Dhabi.

One of the first few places a tourist should go is the Al Markaziyah, the downtown district and also known as the Central Business District of Abu Dhabi. If you want to sight see and relax at the same time then Al Markaziyah is perfect for you. The district has parks, stunning gardens, terrific fountains and modern buildings. 

 
Al Markaziyah contains the Abu Dhabi Stock Exchange and Headquarters of companies such as Etisalat, National Bank of Abu Dhabi, ZADCO, ADMA and Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank. Many International Companies and Banks hold Branches in this area. Traffic in this area is very busy with the two major roads in Abu Dhabi, Hamdan Street (5th Street) and Electra Street (Shk. Zayed The Second Street or 7th Street). Enviable views of the glass towers and high rise buildings along the Corniche road are an eye retreat to travelers. 
 

Living in Al Markaziyah means you are in the middle of shopping hub. The Central Market is the new sensation for shopping enthusiasts. The Liwa Centre and the Hamdan Centre are both on Hamdan Street and are interesting places to shop around. The Fetouh Al Khair Centre (Marks & Spencer’s building) is located on Airport Road and is home to several expat favourite brands. There are two cinema theatres near Electra Street, the El Dorado and the National, showing movies from Hollywood and Bollywood. Al Markaziyah is home to several medical care centers and hospitals which include the New Medical Centre (NMC) Specialty Hospital is just off Airport Road and Electra Street (7th Street), Lifeline Hospital which is at the corner of Al Muroor Road (4th Street) and Electra Street (7th Street), the National Hospital and Hospital Franco-Emirien.

 

One of the most famous places to go in the downtown district for the breath of fresh air is the Formal Garden. It’s always nice to find a beautiful sanctuary in the middle of a busy day in a busy city. The Formal Garden is the oasis and sanctuary of Al Markaziyah. This gorgeous garden can be seen from Abu Dhabi’s Corniche as it is part of the Corniche Garden. Inside the garden is a labyrinth that would surely be enjoyable to the adventurous people. The open grass field is used for cricket and football as well as picnic places for people who want to relax. The centerpiece of the garden is a magnificent fountain. Surrounding this fountain is a miniature theme park for children as there are various rides available as well as a playground. The Formal Garden is not only beautiful to look at, but it is also great to experience. 

 

Another favorite is the Central Park. Located on Khalifa Street, the park is again along the Abu Dhabi Corniche. The park is well maintained with beautifully mowed green grass perfect for people looking for a perfect day out.  The park is full of fun rides that attract children. The latest attraction of the park is the horse riding. Adults who often come with their children will be picnicking and barbecuing. Central Park is open from 9a.m. to 11a.m. during the weekend and 3p.m. to 11p.m. during the week.
 
This downtown side of Abu Dhabi has become one of the greatest tourist hubs because of the diverse attractions it offers to tourists. Every tourist will be able to experience the unique Middle Eastern way of life when going to Al Markaziyah as this is one of the old parts of Abu Dhabi. 
 
Travelers would love Abu Dhabi for its uniqueness; the simple perfection of being itself, staying true to its traditions and values while making big changes. This is what makes Abu Dhabi so special.