While Dubai is caught up in the glamorous lifestyle of the rich and famous, Abu Dhabi has stepped back as the neighboring emirate grew exponentially. However, when Sheik Khalifa came into power in 2004, Abu Dhabi began investing in eco-tourism development.
According to Mother Nature Network, Abu Dhabi is planning to create a green tourism scene, which could make it the Middle East’s greenest destination and a model to cities around the region.
Sheikh Khalifa has consistently pushed for greenery in a city that was a desert in the early 1960s. Khalifa Park, which hosts gardens, museum and a zoo is in the middle of the city that boasts tree-lined streets.
For those looking to travel in an eco-friendly manner, Abu Dhabi makes it easy and encourages being environmentally friendly, according to the news source.
While getting around without a car used to be nearly impossible, the city has now developed a public transportation system with over 1,000 buses that take patrons around the city.
Visit Balghelam Island, near mainland Abu Dhabi, where herds of gazelles and groups of small mammals live along with exotic migrating birds. Sir Bani Yas Island bird sanctuary, which is part of the Desert Islands project, is home to many native birds. Around the bird sanctuary there is a no fishing zone, according to the news source, as dolphins and sea turtles have moved into the growing coral reefs.
For the most authentic experience in Abu Dhabi, you should travel with a small group.
Abu Dhabi offers unique green tourism opportunities
Posted on Monday, July 26th, 2010
