Escape from the hustle and bustle of downtown and head for the St. Regis on Saadiyat Island. The newly opened five-star resort is still close to attractions both in the city centre and on neighbouring Yas Island, but has the peace and quiet of a hideaway. 377 rooms and suites, each with a balcony or terrace, await the sophisticated traveller. Meander between five pools or the turquoise-coloured Arabian gulf, choose between a round of golf and a tennis match, enjoy a meal in the Mediterranean restaurant. For a very special weekend, book one of the three spa suites – each comes with a private treatment area, terrace and Jacuzzi. The resort is close to the cultural district, which is currently being developed, but no construction vehicle will disturb the tranquillity.

How about Camelccino – coffee with camel milk, date syrup and a camel milk chocolate to go with it? Or something savoury: a Camelburger with chickpea fries and spicy pickles? The lounge-coffee shop Le Café in the iconic Emirates Palace hotel, is following the latest trend in food and offers high-quality regional produce, but served on gold-rimmed plates and with a wink on top. For a full, authentic Emirati dining experience with traditional seating, try Mezlai restaurant, also in Emirates Palace.

Stars are peeking in through the canopy, a soft breeze eases the day’s heat, and the bartender comes up with a superb Mai Tai. Skylite lounge is Abu Dhabi’s most spectacular bar, situated on the roof of Viceroy Hotel on Yas Island with views of the marina and the racetrack. It’s open air but still covered by a futuristic dome of geometrical shapes. The architecture itself is worth the 30-minute drive from the city centre, and the loungey sofas on the planked deck will make you want to linger for a while.

Abu Dhabi has always been on the conservative side, which also shows in its fashion. The women are more heavily veiled, and for local men even capris are a no-no. But a new trend is on the rise: crystal-adorned designer abayas for the ladies, thoubs (long shirts) in colours other than white for men. Take some time for people-watching and exploring the latest creations exhibited in the boutiques for local attire while strolling Marina Mall or Souk Central Market. This modern shopping centre replaced the traditional market of groceries and knickknacks, but cherishes the memories with its wooden interior and range of shops selling crafts.

With its white domes and towering minarets, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is an impressive landmark. It was planned by and named after the late founder and president of the Emirates. Opened in 2007, it is an icon of Abu Dhabi culture that goes beyond being a place of worship – it’s taking the Emirate’s tradition into the 21st century by boasting its riches without being boastful. Marvel at crystal chandeliers, floral ornaments of multi-coloured marble on the walls and a 5,700-square-foot carpet. As one of very few mosques in the region, this one is open to the public. Just drop in during the morning hours.

Oh dear, the peregrine falcon broke a wing feather while hunting bustards in the desert! Quick, hurry, take him to Falcon Hospital! It’s very likely they can mend it with some balsa wood and glue. The falcon is not only the national bird, but also a beloved pet in the Emirates, so it is well cared for in this special clinic. Doctors and nurses take curious visitors under their wings, too, and offer tours of the premises (prior registration is mandatory, location is just outside the city). There’s even a chance to fondle a falcon, if you don’t fear its bill.

During Formula 1 weekend, the city gets into gear with parties and events all over the place (November 2nd-4th, 2012). But the world championship of racing not only brings the sportsmen into town, auto-owners from across the region are rallying to present their most precious super cars in a seemingly endless convoy along Cornice Road. The actual race is on Yas Marina Circuit, but the entire area is currently being developed into a giant playground, with Ferrari World theme park already having started its engines. For a true grid experience year round, the circuit offers guided tours around the premises, including a peek into the race control room and a pit lane walkabout.

Just enter Chi, the Spa and feel instant relaxation. The noble interior is pure Feng shui, and the treatment menu is inspired by Chinese philosophy, too, aiming at harmony and choosing products matching the customers’ natural elements. The luxurious setting is in Shangri-La Hotel 'Qarayat Al Beri', and since this one is Arabian-themed, the spa’s harmony would be disturbed were there not a hammam, an Arabic coffee or a sandalwood scrub and a rose and honey wrap to prepare for a particularly special one of the 1,000 nights.