Not to miss

Cultural Foundation

The vibrant Cultural Foundation is Abu Dhabi's artistic and cultural centre with a regular programme of live theatre, classical music, ballet, local poetry, music and dance, art and photography exhibitions, and screenings of world cinema. It's situated in the centre of the city in a modern Islamic-inspired building, with elegant arches and intricately decorated tiled passageways.

It's also home to the excellent Emirates Film Competition, which provides a rare insight into local culture through short films, the Abu Dhabi International Pearl Festival (www.ad-pearl.com), the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage, National Archives, the National Library, an Arts Workshop, and Children's Centre. Throughout the building there are small displays of musical instruments, Islamic art, old black-and-white photographs, and a fascinating model of old Abu Dhabi.

Dhow Wharf, Iranian Souq and Market

At the eastern end of the Corniche, near the port, lies Abu Dhabi's fresh produce markets and small dhow (boat) wharf. It's not as exciting as Dubai's waterfront, but it does offer good local colour, an interesting Iranian Souq, and an excellent view back towards the city.

Qasr al-Husn

Once home to the ruling Al-Nahyan family, this splendid, white palace fort, built in 1761, is Abu Dhabi's oldest building. This is from where Abu Dhabi was governed from the 18th century until 1966. Not officially open to the public, the palace will soon be undergoing restoration to return it to its original state - until work begins you can call the Cultural Foundation to arrange an informal tour.

Decorated with gorgeous Portuguese tiles, the imposing main entrance features a small, wooden door spiked with black iron nails set within a larger wooden door. Within the walls there are pleasant courtyards and palm-filled gardens that are wonderful to wander around. Inside the palace itself are intricately carved wooden doors, long corridors divided by delicate mashrabiyya screens, and high-ceilinged rooms decorated with painted friezes of birds, peacocks, flowers and calligraphy.