FAMILIE BYLEMANS GOES ABU DHABI DAY 1 March 05, 2016

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2 DAY 1 March 05, 2016 Abu Dhabi International Airport With more than 52 airlines flying to and from some 85 cities in over 49 countries,abu Dhabi International Airport holds the 2013 World Airport Awards' Best Airport in the Middle East' accolade, for the second year running. The newly refurbished Terminal 1, with design and architecture reflecting traditional Emirati hospitality elements set in a high-end, ultramodern ambience, delivers a 5-star travel experience. The home of Etihad Airways - the national airline of the United Arab Emirates - Terminal 3 welcomes travellers to plush Etihad lounges and an award-winning concierge style check-in. Impressive retail is managed by DFS, the world's largest luxury retailer, and is complemented by up- market restaurants and cafés. The planned Midfield Terminal Complex (MTC), the centrepiece of Abu Dhabi Airport's Company (ADAC)'s multibillion-dollar investment programme, will provide a full terminal building, passenger and cargo facilities, duty-free shops and restaurants for between million people a year. Are you flying into Abu Dhabi? Click here for full flight information Abu Dhabi International Airport is also well connected to the rest of the emirate by numerous bus services. For more information on bus services, fares and schedules, or to download bus routes, click here.

3 DAY 1 March 05, 2016 Al Ain Palace Museum The former home of the late UAE founder, Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Palace was once a political and social hub. Built in 1910, the building became a museum in Now creatively restored, the museum houses a large collection of material about the ruling family. Visitors can tour the private rooms and gardens once occupied by the Father of the Nation'. Entrance is free. Opening times: Daily 8.30 am to 7.30pm, except Monday (closed); Friday - 3pm to 7.30pm. Where: Al Ain St, near the commercial area on the road to Sinaiyya Telephone:

4 DAY 1 March 05, 2016 Al Jahili Fort The picturesque Al Jahili Fort is one of the UAE's most historic buildings. It was erected in 1891 to defend the city and protect precious palm groves. The former headquarters of the Oman Trucial Scouts, the force that protected the mountain passes and kept inter-tribal peace, it also served as a residence for the local governor. It is set in beautifully landscaped gardens, and visitors are encouraged to explore it. An Al Ain landmark, the fort has been carefully restored and now houses a permanent exhibition of the work of British adventurer Sir Wilfred Thesiger (whom the locals affectionately refer to as Mubarak Bin London') and his 1940s crossings of the Rub Al Khali (The Empty Quarter) desert. Where: near Public Garden, close to Al Ain city centre Timings: Saturday-Thursday : 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Friday: 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm Monday : Closed Tel:

5 DAY 1 March 05, 2016 Al Ain National Museum On the edge of Al Ain Oasis, this museum showcases the city's unique heritage and history. It is housed in the same compound as the Sultan Bin Zayed Fort (also known as the Eastern Fort). Divided into three main sections - archaeology, ethnography and gifts - its presentations illustrate various aspects of UAE life and include an interesting collections of Bedouin jewellery, musical instruments, weapons, and a reconstruction of a traditional majlis. The archaeology displays are extensive, and include many artefacts from the nearby Hili Gardens so it is helpful to visit the museum before the gardens. Some of the displays, such as the one from Garn Bint Saud (12 kilometres north of Hili), date back to the first millennium BC. The gifts section houses an unusual collection of gifts that Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan received during his lifetime. It includes golden swords, silver daggers and a golden palm tree. Displays are labelled in English and Arabic. Entrance fees: AED 3 (USD 0.8) for adults; AED 1 (USD 0.2) for children under 10 Opening Times: Daily 8am to 7:30pm, except Monday (closed); Friday - 3pm to 7:30pm. Where: near Al Ain Oasis Telephone: /

6 DAY 1 March 05, 2016 Drive Jebel Hafeet Rising 1,240 metres, Jebel Hafeet is the emirate's highest peak, and UAE's second. This towering rocky height, which stands guard over Al Ain and borders Oman, is forged out of craggy limestone that has been weathered over millions of years. Significant fossil discoveries have been made in the area, which are vital pieces in the jigsaw of the city's ancient history. Over 500 ancient burial tombs dating back 5,000 years have been found in the Jebel Hafeet foothills. You can drive or, if you have the stamina, cycle to the top via a winding highway, which edmunds.com (the automotive information online source) describes as among the world's greatest driving roads. Once you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with magnificent views over Al Ain, where you can take a break at the Mercure Jebel Hafeet hotel near the Jebel's peak.

7 DAY 1 March 05, 2016 Wadi Adventure The region's first man-made white water rafting, kayaking and surf facility built in the foothills of the majestic Jebel Hafeet. The park's 3.3 metre man-made surf wave is the world's largest and its 1.7 kilometre kayaking channel network is the world's longest. Surfing Magazine has voted Wadi Adventure's surf pool on to its 50 Favourite Surfing Sites' list. The magazine ranks the pool - the only man-made attraction on the list - as the 41st best surfing beach in the world, even though it has artificially created waves. Bringing together water and adrenaline-filled adventure, Wadi Adventure makes a great day out for water sports enthusiasts and families. Lessons are provided by certified trainers for all levels of competency; guests can bring their own equipment, rent or buy gear from the resort's shop. Where: Follow the E22 from Abu Dhabi city towards Al Ain. As you enter Al Ain, turn right at the 2nd roundabout. Continue to the 6th roundabout where Ain Al Fayda appears on your right. At this roundabout, turn left onto the driveway of Wadi Adventure. Telephone: Website:

8 DAY 1 March 05, 2016 Al Ain Oasis In the heart of Al Ain, near Al Ain National Museum, this impressive oasis is filled with palm plantations, many of which are still working farms. The cool, shady walkways transport you from the heat and noise of the city to a tranquil haven; all you'll hear is birdsong and the rustle of the palm fronds. Employing a 3,000-year-old falaj irrigation system, Al Ain Oasis features a series of mesmerising water channels that give life to the palm plantations in this inner-city paradise. Spread over 1,200 hectares (nearly 3,000 acres) and containing more than 147,000 date palms of up to 100 different varieties, choose one of eight separate entrances to explore how countless generations have tapped into underground wells to keep the beautiful city green. The date palm oasis is one of a growing number of ecosystems that have been formally recognised by the United Nation's Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) for their importance as repositories of genetic resources, biodiversity and cultural heritage. The oasis has been designated as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS) and the FAO has praised the UAE's active conservation efforts. Entry is free. Telephone: /

9 DAY 1 March 05, 2016 Al Ain Palace Museum The former home of the late UAE founder, Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Palace was once a political and social hub. Built in 1910, the building became a museum in Now creatively restored, the museum houses a large collection of material about the ruling family. Visitors can tour the private rooms and gardens once occupied by the Father of the Nation'. Entrance is free. Opening times: Daily 8.30 am to 7.30pm, except Monday (closed); Friday - 3pm to 7.30pm. Where: Al Ain St, near the commercial area on the road to Sinaiyya Telephone:

10 DAY 1 March 05, 2016 Al Jahili Fort The picturesque Al Jahili Fort is one of the UAE's most historic buildings. It was erected in 1891 to defend the city and protect precious palm groves. The former headquarters of the Oman Trucial Scouts, the force that protected the mountain passes and kept inter-tribal peace, it also served as a residence for the local governor. It is set in beautifully landscaped gardens, and visitors are encouraged to explore it. An Al Ain landmark, the fort has been carefully restored and now houses a permanent exhibition of the work of British adventurer Sir Wilfred Thesiger (whom the locals affectionately refer to as Mubarak Bin London') and his 1940s crossings of the Rub Al Khali (The Empty Quarter) desert. Where: near Public Garden, close to Al Ain city centre Timings: Saturday-Thursday : 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Friday: 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm Monday : Closed Tel:

11 DAY 2 March 06, 2016 UAE Pavilion Moved piece by piece from Shanghai, where it welcomed almost two million visitors to the UAE's national exhibition during the World Expo 2010, this striking dune-shaped structure, designed by London's acclaimed Foster + Partners, stands close to Manarat al Saadiyat exhibition centre, adding to the Saadiyat island's cultural attractions. A landmark exhibition and events venue, the pavilion is hosting some of the country's most important cultural functions. A coming together of prominent global collectors, connoisseurs and artists, the pavilion annually hosts the Abu Dhabi Art contemporary art fair. Websites:

12 DAY 2 March 06, 2016 Qasr al Hosn Abu Dhabi's symbolic birthplace, Qasr al Hosn is the emirate's first permanent structure, which was home to the emirate's ruling Al Nahyan family. A permanent, free-to-enter exhibition at the Qasr al Hosn Centre tells the story of Abu Dhabi and its people through the city's oldest building. Fascinating oral testimonies and historic photographs bring this important monument to life. Contemporary Emirati voices reflect on Abu Dhabi's history and transformation and Qasr al Hosn's key role as a vibrant symbol of Emirati heritage, culture and tradition. Qasr al Hosn began life in the 1760s as a coral and sea stone watchtower, with a commanding position overlooking the sea, later transformed into an impenetrable fort. Due to the shells' reflective effect, the fort's walls would sparkle in the sun offering a welcome coastal navigational tool for the region's merchants. Mangrove was chosen to make the flooring and roof structure due to its natural strength and durability. During the exploration and discovery of oil between 1939 and the 1950s, Qasr al Hosn went through a period of expansion and an iconic palace enclosed the initial fort. The Father of the Nation, the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, ordered a large scale renovation of Qasr al Hosn, transforming it from ruler's residence into a museum and repository of collections relating to Abu Dhabi and the Gulf. Now, Qasr al Hosn is going through a new phase. Earlier this decade, it was discovered that the white render on the fort's walls was causing corrosive moisture to be trapped on the original coral stone bricks. A project is underway to reveal the original brickwork and allow the structure to breathe.

13 DAY 2 March 06, 2016 Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque This architectural work of art is one the world's largest mosques, with a capacity for an astonishing 40,000 worshippers. It features 82 domes, over a 1,000 columns, 24 carat gold gilded chandeliers and the world's largest hand knotted carpet. The main prayer hall is dominated by one of the world's largest chandeliers -10 metres in diameter, 15 metres in height and weighing twelve tonnes. The mosque's first ceremony was the funeral of its namesake, Sheikh Zayed, who is buried at the site. Reflective pools surround the mosque, amplifying its beauty. The striking white and gold colours shining in the sun are transformed at night by a unique lightning system which reflects the phases of the moon. Ramadan opening hours: During the Holy Month the mosque is open daily, except Friday, from 9am to 2pm, with last entry at 1.30pm. Visitors' Tip: Why not finish sight-seeing or shopping for the day and take the 5pm Sunset Tour'? Get to the mosque around 4:30pm - a wonderful time to take photos - to wind down and chill out for 20 minutes in the lovely, afternoon breeze before the tour. Opening hours: Unlike other mosques in Abu Dhabi, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is open daily to visitors, except on Friday morning, which is for worshippers only. The opening hours are 9am to 10pm (last entry at 9.30 pm) - Saturday to Thursday and 4.30pm to 10pm on Fridays. Complimentary one hour guided tours run (Sun-Thurs) at 10am, 11am and 5pm. Friday times are 5pm and 7pm and Saturday 10am, 11am, 2pm, 5pm and 7pm. To check the current times, visit szgmc.gov.ae

14 DAY 2 March 06, 2016 Capital Gate Drive down Khaleej Al Arabi Street and you will see a modern day challenger to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Capital Gate, developed by Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company, has been certified as the World's Furthest Leaning Man Made Tower,' by the Guinness World Records. It leans 18 degrees westwards - more than four times that of Pisa's famous Leaning Tower. The 160 metre (524.9 ft), 35 storey tower is a postcard image of Abu Dhabi and makes a great holiday snap. Hyatt Capital Gate Abu Dhabi, a premium 5-star business hotel, is in the iconic building. Website:

15 DAY 2 March 06, 2016 Al Bahar Towers The 29-storey twin skyscrapers, serving as the Abu Dhabi Investment Council's headquarters and Al Hilal Bank head offices, have an external facade composed of 2,000 honeycomb-like elements, which are cooled with the world's largest computerised façade. These open and close in response to the sun's movement, helping reduce interior heat gain by around 50 per cent. An array of roof solar panels is also used to heat water. The eco-friendly towers are one of the Gulf's first buildings to receive the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver rating. They also came second at the Emporis Skyscraper Award - the world's premier honorary event for high-rise architecture - for projects completed in 2012.

16 DAY 2 March 06, 2016 Heritage Village Run by the Emirates Heritage Club, this reconstruction of a traditional oasis village provides an interesting glimpse into the emirate's past. Traditional aspects of the desert way of life, including a campfire with coffee pots, a goats' hair tent, and a falaj irrigation system, are attractively displayed in the open museum. There are workshops where craftsmen demonstrate traditional skills, such as metal work and pottery, while women sit weaving and spinning. The craftsmen are happy to share their skills, and may occasionally give you the chance to try them out. The little spice shop is a treat - you can get a range of dried herbs, handmade soap and plenty of chatter. Opening Times: Saturday to Thursday from 9am to 5pm, and Friday from 3.30pm to 9pm Where: near Marina Mall, Breakwater, Abu Dhabi city Telephone: info@torath.ae Website:

17 DAY 2 March 06, 2016 Abu Dhabi Corniche The Corniche Road spreads across an impressive eight kilometres of manicured waterfront that includes children's play areas, separate cycle and pedestrian pathways, cafés and restaurants, and the Corniche Beach - a lifeguarded beach park. Corniche Beach This lengthy stretch of beach extends along Corniche Road from near the Hilton Hotel to beyond Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street, where you'll find its main entrance. During the week you can usually find a beach umbrella, but during the weekend they may all go quickly. You can't swim out very far; floating fences keep you within 40 metres of the beach, and there are plenty of lifeguards around. Abu Dhabi's pristine Corniche beachfront has been awarded coveted Blue Flag status - the internationally renowned eco-label for beaches and marinas that guarantees clean and safe bathing water. Some 30,000 to 50,000 visitors flock to the Corniche every month, enjoying three separate sections for families, singles and the general public. There are more than 1,100 free parking spaces with a five minute walk of the beach, which charges AED 10 (US D2.7) entry to the family and singles sections. Entry to the public beach is free. Corniche Pedal Power A fun and healthy way to tour the Corniche is to hire a bicycle. FunRideSports hires out a selection of cycles - from mountain bikes, to city bikes which can fit two or three passengers on the back, and even specially designed bikes for ladies wearing abayas. FunRideSports has four rental stations along the Corniche boardwalk with its main station outside The Hiltonia Beach Club. Hire starts at AED 30 (USD 8) per hour for adults and AED 20 (USD 5) for children. Voucher booklets for 12 hours of cycling are also available for AED 250 (USD 68). For more information or to book in advance call or info@funridesports.com

18 DAY 3 March 07, 2016 Masdar City Initiated in 2008, Masdar is the emirate's pioneering vision of a city of the future. With the goal of becoming the world's most sustainable eco-city, Masdar is leading the way by developing a greenprint for how cities can accommodate rapid urbanisation and dramatically reduce energy, water and waste. The city combines ancient Arabic architectural techniques with modern technology and is built around a huge central Arabic wind tunnel that channels a cooling breeze through the streets and alleys making it comfortable to stroll around even during high summer temperatures. Masdar also harnesses the power of the sun, using clean energy created onsite from rooftop solar and one of the largest photovoltaic installations in the Middle East. Cars are banned within the city. It is a really unique experience travelling into the centre of the development in the Personal Rapid Transport (PRT) pods - small unmanned electric cars. More than a thousand people live and work at Masdar City, which sprawls around the Masdar Institute of Science and Technology - a research university dedicated to cutting-edge solutions in the fields of energy and sustainability. Open to the public Masdar City is also open to the public to come and explore. There is no admission charge, simply leave your vehicle in the car park and board one of the unmanned electric pods, which will take you directly into the heart of the city. Whether you just want to wander the streets and marvel at the unique architecture, relax at one of the numerous restaurants and coffee shops, or browse the luxury convenience store, and organic food shops and cafes, there is plenty to do for the whole family.

19 DAY 3 March 07, 2016 Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital Close to Abu Dhabi International Airport, the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital is the world's largest and most advanced falcon hospital. Its highlight is a falcon display museum as well as a facility with free-flying falcons. Guided tours of this award-winning specialist hospital are available. You can visit the luxurious wards where the birds are kept, explore the museum, which gives an insight into the noble desert sport of falconry, or try your hand at the pursuit in the lush gardens. Tour Timings: Sunday to Thursday,10am & 2pm (Except weekends and public holidays). Location: near Abu Dhabi International Airport Telephone:

20 DAY 3 March 07, 2016 Behind the scenes at Yas Marina Circuit Take a tour behind the scenes of one of the world's most technologically advanced motorsports circuits. The Yas Venue Tour is a must-do for those who want to see firsthand how much effort goes into running this large, multifaceted facility. Adults: AED 120 / USD 33, children AED 60 / USD 17; Timings: Tuesday to Saturday 10am - 12pm and 2pm - 4pm Website: Telephone: or 800 YAS (927) (9am - 6pm)

21 DAY 3 March 07, 2016 Ferrari World Abu Dhabi The world's first Ferrari-branded and largest indoor theme park is home to a winning mix of Ferrari inspired rides and attractions, the biggest Ferrari Store and a range of authentic Italian dining options, so there's plenty of choice for the whole family! Beneath its gigantic, iconic red roof it houses numerous high-adrenaline rides including the world's fastest rollercoaster, Formula Rossa, with a top speed of 250kmph in 4.9 seconds, family-friendly attractions, state-of-the-art simulators, electric-powered go-karts, live shows and an inspiring treasure of racing memorabilia! Open 365 days a year, at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi the fun never stops as it offers a unique experience for visitors of every age in a refreshing, indoor, climate-controlled environment. Opening Hours: Sun-Sat, from 11am to 8pm Website: Facebook: Twitter: Instagram: YouTube:

22 DAY 3 March 07, 2016 Yas Mall With 235,000 square metres of floor space and 10,000 car parking spaces, Yas Mall is Abu Dhabi's biggest shopping centre and the UAE's second largest. The mall provides a vibrant getaway shopping experience for tourists, international guests and local residents. Mall highlights include the largest Debenhams outside the UK, the region's first Lego Concept store and Rogo's Rollercoaster Restaurant, the emirate's first Brooks Brothers, 4Dx technology and biggest VOX Max screen and more than 60 restaurants and cafes. The mall is at the heart of the action-packed Yas Island, 20 minutes from downtown Abu Dhabi and just 10 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport.

23 DAY 4 March 08, 2016 Saadiyat Beach The first public beach on Saadiyat Island - home to Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, Manarat Al Saadiyat exhibition centre, Monte-Carlo Beach Club and two five-star beachfront resorts operated by St. Regis and Park Hyatt - offers multiple facilities and activities for trendy beachgoers and sun-lounging guests. Set on the island's serene natural shores, the 400-metre beach is a great spot for a day out, and to enjoy Abu Dhabi's clean, warm turquoise waters. There are lounge chairs, showers, bathrooms, lockers, changing rooms, towels, umbrellas, ample parking and lifeguards are on duty throughout the day. There's a snack lounge and shop selling beachwear and sports equipment, while areas on the beach can also be booked for special events. As Saadiyat's nine kilometre stretch of beach is environmentally protected, the public beach - much like the beachfront of the island's resorts - is fringed by a Dune Protection Zone, which effectively limits development to a minimum of 60 metres from the shoreline, preventing damage to the sensitive natural dune vegetation and the nesting grounds of the endangered hawksbill turtle. The beach is open daily from 8am to sunset, and entry is AED 25 (USD 6.8) for adults and AED 15 (USD 4) for children over six years old. Children aged 5 and below enter free. An entrance fee of AED 50 (USD 13.5) on weekdays and AED 75 (USD 20) on weekends and public holidays secures you an umbrella and a sun-lounger.

24 DAY 4 March 08, 2016 Yas Beach Set on a majestic stretch of white sand, and easily connected to all of the island's diverse leisure activities, this laid-back beach is a blissful new development on the emirate's entertainment district. Sun seekers holidaying at any of Yas Island's seven hotels and hotel apartments can now enjoy complimentary access to Yas Beach. To enter for free (and bag a complimentary sun lounger), Yas Plaza hotel guests have to collect a voucher from their hotel reception and present it upon arrival at Yas Beach. There are also a number of additional activities including beach volleyball, outdoor gym and non-motorised motorsports such as sailing, kayaking, mangrove tours and stand up paddle boarding courtesy of Noukhada. Admission for non-yas Island hotel guests, which includes beach towel and sun lounger, is AED 50 (USD 13.60) for adults and AED 25 (USD 6.80) for children aged 8-16 during the week, and AED 100 (USD 27.25) for adults and AED 50 (USD 13.60) for children during weekend. Children under 8 enter free. Saturday is Ladies Day. The beach is open weekdays from 10am - 7pm and at the weekend from 10am - 10pm. Telephone: Facebook: Website: Yasbeach.ae

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