Abu Dhabi up close

Leslie Nicolas Nasr's latest book, Living In Abu Dhabi, doubles as a guidebook and a history book on Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE. It is full of useful information, interesting tidbits and stunning photographs.

The glossy cover with the iconic Emirates Palace and the UAE flag hoisted on a large flagpole sets the tone and the glossy paper and colour photos vividly illustrate the capital's opulence and rich cultural traditions. In addition to its slick looks, this 339-page guide also contains a wealth of information.

Living In guidebooks — Living In Dubai, Living In Qatar and Living In Sao Paulo — are among the most comprehensive books and this latest instalment is no exception. While written in the familiar Living In style, this guide is specifically adapted to the emirate and its uniqueness. It covers all the bases — just about everything on the capital — in great detail. It has great information on hospitals and clinics, institutions of education, restaurants, spas and salons, leisure and sporting facilities.

Nasr, a global citizen of Lebanese origin, left her country at the age of 17 and has moved 16 times across four continents. She has thoroughly researched the history of the emirate. Written with the help of Susie Sirri and Danae Edgar, this book is different from a standard guidebook. It is much more than a travel guide as it does not just give basic information but delves deeper and unearths the history of Abu Dhabi. Therefore, this book can be read and enjoyed by an armchair traveller, a resident or a visitor to this oil-rich oasis.

At the beginning of the book is a History section which traces the history of the Bani Yas tribe and Abu Dhabi, an island that was once known as Meleih.

Legend has it that the Bani Yas tribe found a freshwater spring where the tribe's shaikh had been hunting a gazelle, hence the place came to be known as Abu Dhabi, "the father of the gazelle".

From history to present day

It also features a list of the Rulers of Abu Dhabi from 1793 to the present day. A large portion is dedicated to the founding father of the UAE, Shaikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. There is a detail of how he transformed Abu Dhabi from a pearl-diving island to a tourist, cultural and business hub during the 33 years of his leadership.

The write-ups are candid and honest. The authors give useful tips. For instance, in The Hotel Life section they offer advice on dishes to try out at restaurants and the house specialities. Most establishments featured are high-end but they have also included cafés and pizzerias. So there is everything for everyone — fine dining options and affordable Friday brunches for families. Shopping covers malls filled with designer labels and traditional souqs, which are good for souvenirs, unique artefacts and gifts. Somehow I got the impression that the authors went an extra mile and actually dined at the restaurants, stayed in the hotels and resorts and did some shopping in the malls.

The UAE is a largely expatriate community. As a result there is constant movement of people coming in and going out of the country. The authors have thoughtfully included two important sections — Moving to Abu Dhabi and Leaving Abu Dhabi. The first has tips on visas, education and housing. Helpful tips on dress code and a list of forbidden material — for example, X-rated literature and certain types of medications — make the book a great asset to people who like doing research before relocating to a new place. On the other hand, Leaving Abu Dhabi covers visa and house lease cancellations, getting movers and selling stuff one isn't taking along.

Residents planning a weekend getaway may try suggestions in the Out and About section, which is filled with marvellous hideouts in and around Abu Dhabi. Retreat to the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara or Angsana Resort & Spa Eastern Mangroves. The neighbouring emirates also have gems, including the Mercure Grand Jebel Hafeet, Al Ain and Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa in Dubai.

Useful expressions in Arabic are packed into the Quick Arabic section towards the end of the book. It will help you charm the locals by throwing in a few phrases in their language.

The guide contains maps showing the emirate's major landmarks. These reference maps are comprehensive but not loose leaf, meaning you have to take the whole book with you. At 16x21cm the book is portable and easy to carry around all day long. Also, the maps are just good as reference tools, not for navigating around the city. The directory is detailed and some entries have accompanying websites and e-mails, making it easy to contact the companies. However, the entries are not necessarily in alphabetical order. It may take time to find what you are looking for.

Aside from these weaknesses, Living In Abu Dhabi is packed with enough information to ensure you enjoy exploring and living in this majestic city. This easy and fast read has all you need to know about the emirate. An excellent, compelling read.