Location
Abu Dhabi is the largest of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE), comprising more than 80% of its landmass. The UAE sits on the Arabian Gulf, bordered by Oman and Saudi Arabia.

Capital
Abu Dhabi (Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates).

Geography
The emirate of Abu Dhabi is divided into three main regions: Abu Dhabi city and its surroundings, Al Ain or the Eastern Region, and Al Dhafra or the Western Region. Together they offer 400km of pristine coastline, more than 200 natural islands, vast tracts of serene desert, cool oases, thriving mangroves and vibrant, cosmopolitan cities.  

Time
+4 hours Greenwich Mean Time with no daylight saving.

Population
The population of Abu Dhabi is approximately 3 million, with Emirati citizens making up nearly 20% of the total population; the other 80% are expatriates from around the world.

Language
Arabic is the official language, although English is widely spoken and most road and shop signs, as well as restaurant menus, are in both languages.

Basic Arabic:
Hi: Salam
Good morning: Sabah el kheer
Good evening: Masaa el kheer
Welcome! (to greet someone): Marhaba
How are you?: Kaifa alhal
I’m fine, thanks: Ana bekhair, shokran
And you?: Wa ant?
Thank you (very much)!: Shukran (jazeelan)
You’re welcome! (for thank you): Afwan
Goodbye: Ma’a salama

Religion
Islam is the official religion of the UAE and is widely practised. The Islamic holy day is Friday, when some attractions may change their opening times. Abu Dhabi is tolerant of other religions with people being free to practise their religious beliefs.

Currency
The UAE dirham (AED or Dhs), which is divided into 100 fils and is pegged against the US dollar (1 USD = AED 3.6725). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, though notably not in taxis.

Power Outlets
Abu Dhabi uses the same type of plug as the United Kingdom: square three-pin sockets with an electricity supply of 220/240 volts at 50 Hz (Type G).