Abu Dhabi vs Dubai
Abu Dhabi and Dubai are two emirates forming the United Arab Emirates that includes in total 7 emirates. Of the 7 cities or emirates, Abu Dhabi is the largest and the capital of the UAE while Dubai is the 2nd largest in area and population. Both the emirates hold great significance and importance in administration of UAE and have veto powers to decide on matters of national importance. The two cities, though very rich and powerful, are as different as chalk and cheese, and as hard to compare as LA and San Francisco. This article attempts to highlight the differences between these two important emirates of UAE.
If one looks at the two cities from the eyes of a westerner, it appears that while Abu Dhabi is traditional and quieter of the two, Dubai is noisier and full of tourists all the time. From the outset, it becomes clear that while Dubai is made cutout for the tourists, Abu Dhabi means business, and it is official in nature. Western influences are clearly seen on Dubai with the same kind of hectic nightlife as you would expect in Paris or London. The main attractions in Dubai are Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab and lots of shopping, while the attractions in Abu Dhabi are the Emirates Palace, Ferrari World, and the Grand Mosque.
Let us compare the two emirates on a few points.
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What is the difference between Abu Dhabi and Dubai? • As far as living conditions are concerned, Abu Dhabi is smaller of the two, and you need not be concerned about the location of your flat or home to reach the office on time. One also does not need to drive around as there are hundreds of taxis plying on the roads. Though rents are at present lower than those in Dubai, all other things are priced in a similar manner as in Dubai. • For entertainment, all that is there in Dubai is available in Abu Dhabi too, albeit on a smaller scale. Looking for pubs? You would find only one in an area in Abu Dhabi in which you could easily find 9-10 pubs in Dubai. The same goes for malls. However, in terms of parks for kids and overall greenery, Abu Dhabi does not lag behind Dubai. • Dubai has higher rise buildings than Abu Dhabi and, traffic in Dubai is also regulated in a much better manner than in Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi is more of an island than proper city, and for many important activities, (like car repair), you may need to go to mainland. • Abu Dhabi, being the capital of UAE is more political in nature while Dubai is more commercial and glamorous in nature. |
In the end, it would suffice to say that if you are looking for a glamour packed life, stay in Dubai, but if you like the conservative and laid-back approach, Abu Dhabi might be a better choice for you.
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