Destination information
Abu Dhabi
Traditional values of hospitality and respect sit happily alongside modern luxury and style in Abu Dhabi. Wall-to-wall sunshine, tranquil beaches and vibrant city life combine to offer a truly incredible holiday experience. Cultural attractions include the 200-year old Al Maqaa Fort, the Emirates Heritage Village and Hili Archaeological
Gardens. Alternatively, head inland to explore majestic sand dunes, play a few rounds of golf on Championship courses or join a kayak tour of the surrounding mangroves and islands. Kids Park allows children to interact with farm and wild animals whilst Sheikh Khalifa Park showcases Arabic and Islamic architecture to perfection. There are over 18 shopping malls in Abu Dhabi, with brand names ranging from IKEA to Chanel and Louis Vuitton. For more traditional arts and crafts, head to one of the souks instead, selling antiques, spices, oriental carpets and so much more.
Yas Island
Yas Island, is the hottest new place to be in the Middle East. A purpose built, man-made island off Abu Dhabi, which if you are a Formula 1 fan, you will definitely have seen on your screen at home, as it is home of the Abu Dhabi Formula 1 Circuit – which is a unique attraction in itself. The Emiratis come here to pose and on weekend
evenings, don’t be surprised to find international DJs spinning tunes in your hotel lounge. Most activity centres around the marina where the most amazing yachts of the rich and famous are docked overlooked by the iconic architecture of the Yas hotel, just one of the hotels which now offer accommodation on the island.
Sightseeing ideas
Yas Island
CultureThe development of the UAE has simply got better and better over the last 40 years. The mixture of atmosphere, the warmth of the Emiratis and
extraordinary variety of experiences and memories will stay with you and inspire you to return. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world,
is breathtaking in its design and beauty and is a focal landmark only 20 min from Yas Island. Equally awe-inspiring is the Falcon Hospital where injured falcons are cared for and gradually returned back to nature. In addition, a visit to one of the souks is a must.
ActionFor the more adventurous there is Ferrari World Abu Dhabi for the world’s fastest roller coaster, Formula Rossa, and many other adrenaline-filled
thrills in the collection of rides and displays and the opportunity to drive or be driven on the Yas Marina Circuit, home of the Abu Dhabi Formula 1 Grand Prix. Golf also forms a significant part of Yas Island in the form of the Yas Links Golf Course, the only true links course in the Middle East. With a par 72, 18-hole Championship golf course, a 9-hole, Par 3 floodlit Academy course, driving range with shaded bays and indoor swing studios.
RecreationSimply relax by the pool, enjoy yoga, Pilates, Zumba, cooking lessons and a variety of new experiences on the 2 rooftops of The Yas Hotel, Longitude and
Latitude, both of which have a hidden corner of tranquillity and calm. Enjoy an early evening drink in Skylite before feasting on award-winning Arabic, Indian, Italian, South East Asian and Japanese cuisine. End the evening dancing in Rush, the most exciting bar/club in the Middle East.
Additional info
Please Note: Most hotels require gentlemen to wear long trousers in the evening.
Different destinations have different magic touches so make sure to check out the "Rockstar Service" to see what makes your holiday with us so special.
Getting there
Flight Details - Virgin Atlantic flights to Dubai depart daily from London Heathrow.
Flight Supplements - Fri/Sat/Sun £15 per person each way.
Flying Time - Approx 7 hours to Dubai.
Flight Upgrades - Premium Economy available from £159 supplement per person each way on Virgin Atlantic. Upper class available from £595 per person one way on Virgin Atlantic.
Time - GMT +4 hours in Winter and +3 in Summer
Currency - UAE Dirham (Dhs)
Visa Requirements - British citizens do not require a visa.
Language - The official language is Arabic. English is widely spoken.
Alcohol - Legal drinking age is 21.
Dubai Flight Arrivals - Virgin Holidays' transfers in Dubai are direct to your chosen hotel. Transfer times may vary due to traffic conditions. The Virgin Atlantic flight to Dubai arrives early in the morning. Hotel check-in times start at 2.00pm. You will be able to store your bags at the hotel and use the hotel facilities until your room becomes available. If you would like to check in on arrival, you will need to pay for an additional night's accommodation.
Religious Periods - The holy month of Ramadan is celebrated between 20th July 2012 - 18th August 2012. During these dates there are restrictions on alcohol, food consumption and entertainment for local Muslims between sunrise and sunset when they must fast. Restrictions within hotels with international guests tend to be more relaxed, however you should be aware that the consumption of alcohol in public areas is prohibited within daylight hours and services maybe reduced in some food outlets. However at nightfall there are many lively traditional celebrations, known as Iftah, where hotels often arrange lavish buffet feasts. Whilst visitors are asked to respect these traditions it is also a great time to see the real Dubai and experience local customs and it should not impact the enjoyment of your stay.
Weather - can be extremely hot in the summer months; average temperature in Aug is around 41 degrees Celsius, however most hotels offer shaded pool and outdoor areas and there are many fantastic attractions which are under cover and full air-conditioned.