Christmas in Abu Dhabi is really quite a happening time of the year. Although it is an Islamic state, the high numbers of expatriate workers present in the city from all corners of the world give it a relatively westernised outlook. Pairing this with the huge number of tourists that flock to the city in December in order to escape the cool winters elsewhere, it can be easy to see why Christmas can never truly escape the largest emirate state. There are so many people keen to celebrate Christmas in Abu Dhabi and you will find that the cities are packed at this time of year.

The great number of hotels and shopping malls throughout the city are decked out in Christmaslights and decorations during the festive season and one thing that expatriates look forward to once December comes round is the Christmas Tree lighting ceremony that many hotels host as part of their festive events for the month. Abu Dhabi also fails to escape Santa Claus, as he makes an appearance in various hotels, interacting with the children while choirs sing traditional Christmas songs in the background.

So if you live in Abu Dhabi, or are thinking about relocating to the emirate to start a new life, you need not worry about the lack of a Christmas – decorations, choirs and Santa Clauses fill the city so you can feel perfectly at home. If you can do without snowy weather but like heat and beach barbeques instead then you should be perfectly fine!

Christmas is a time for togetherness, and with the huge amount of expatriates that have settled inthe city, you certainly won’t be on your own in celebrating the festive season. Abu Dhabi is vibrant and cosmopolitan and one of the richest cities in the world, with a great deal of new properties being constructed for expatriates. Most expatriates decide to settle in villas and apartments, but like anywhere, prices vary, and to find the best property in Abu Dhabi you should look online and search a number of letting agents before deciding which is more suited to you.

Well known as one of the most modern cities in the world, Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates. Despite its contemporary looks and facilities, Abu Dhabi boasts of an array of imposing historical monuments and landmarks.

Most monuments in this fascinating city reflect the country’s great heritage, culture and long lived traditions. For instance, the White Fort which is also known as the Al Hosn Fort is among Abu Dhabi’s oldest structures. Within the palace travellers will find the Cultural Foundation with numerous photographs and exhibits of natural artefacts. Travellers will also have the opportunity to view a range of diverse cultural activities at the Foundation such as book publishing, cultural workshops, film festivals and so much more.

The traditions of Bedouin are best explored at the Heritage Village which also houses a traditional mosque, souk and replicas of mud brick houses. The second Heritage Village which is managed by Emirates Heritage Club features attractions such as an old fishing village, shops and Bedouin tents.

Hatta Watchtower is also a fascinating landmark and historical monument in Abu Dhabi. This 200 year old Watchtower is located in Hatta which is a small village. Hatta Watchtower fort is magnificently built on high rocks that offer breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area. Another popular landmark in Abu Dhabi is the Maqta Bridge Fort which is also a fort that is nearly 200 years old. It is beautifully positioned near the Maqta Bridge right in the centre of the water.

Travellers who visit this extraordinary city can also visit its oldest museum which is the Al Ain Museum. Located within the Al Jahili Fort, the museum displays Bedouin artefacts, relics discovered in the Fossil Valley and much more. The Women’s Craft Centre in Abu Dhabi is an ideal place to explore the nation’s traditional handicrafts that include shawls, woven bags and carpets.