A UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE: ABU DHABI PICTURES
My Abu Dhabi Music Playlist
|
a
|
VIDEO LOGS & JOURNAL
|
Out of all my travels, the ones to Abu Dhabi seemed to be the most unfamiliar of them all. I was there a handful of times. It was probably the closest I will ever be to interacting with Middleastern society. Admittedly, the United Arab Emirates is one of the most westernized Middleastern countries. Despite this it still has a strong foundation based in Islamic traditions and courtesy. As I have said on my intro page for UAE; I think that many people take this for granted because of the heavy western commercialism and highly modern amenities here. Personally, I like the fact that they retained their own cultural values.
I guess this next comment can be taken with a grain of salt since I am not a woman. From the experiences of the females I know, and the interactions I observed in the public, UAE tends to have a much more pointed stance on traditional gender roles. I am not saying that every woman is covered from head to toe or they aren’t allowed to talk. What I am saying is that there is a general indifference towards women. Men will more than likely acknowledge a man before a woman if he meets a mixed gender group. They also seem uncomfortable with women in power positions. That’s what I have seen.
In general, they have very traditional values. You can be jailed for public displays of affection and homosexual behavior. After doing the research, I can say with confidence that the UAE Federal Penal Code, Article 354 simply states “ Rape on a female or sodomy with a male shall be punishable by death”. Additionally, Article 177 of the Penal Code of Dubai has consensual sodomy as being punishable by up to 10 years in prison. Basically if you’re in the middle of a shopping mall with your tongue down someone’s throat there’s gunna be a problem. In the west, people would tell you to “get a room”. In UAE you will probably be arrested. Also keep in mind that these are the most liberal areas, the cities. Apologize for getting off track. Its important for potential visitors to be aware of these things, especially Westerners, being so accustomed to the "anything goes" mentality.
The most famous and relatively new attraction I was able to see while in Abu Dhabi was Ferrari World, located on Yas Island. The building was a site to behold and it currently stands on the record for the worlds largest "indoor amusement park". More importantly it holds the title for the worlds fastest roller coaster reaching speeds over over 150 mph. I don't mean to be Debbie Downer but.....
For a 180DRM, roughly 60USD entrance fee you expect much more than what you get here. Yes, the building itself is impressive, and yes it does currently hold the record for the fastest roller coaster in the world, but that's were it stops. There is a number of rare Ferrari models on display however unless you are an avid car enthusiast it doesn't cover the price. If you don't mind paying the exorbitant entrance fee for the roller-coaster which is amazing. It's neat to say you've been on it, I'm just not sure if that's worth parting with all your money for. |
Ferrari World was exciting but Abu Dhabi's Marina Mall was probably one of my favorite places in the city. I have gotten the chance to visit a number of times. It is relatively small compared to its peers but offers quiet and relaxing places to have a turkish coffee or get a view. There is a giant tower located in the center of the mall with a elevator that takes you to the top.
The top has two floors, the bottom is a coffee shop and the top a restaurant. One other thing, the restaurant level actually rotates 360 degrees. Pretty crazy. This is me taking the elevator up.
|
