Abu Dhabi

This sumptuously designed, modern monument boasts white Moghul-style domes that are reminiscent of the Taj Mahal. In fact, the foyer’s white marble walls inlaid with gorgeous floral patterns were designed by descendants of the Taj’s original artisans. Marbles were gathered from all over the world to build what is one of the world's ten largest mosques, covering 30 acres. It is a testament to symmetry and Islamic beautification focusing on geometry, floral and calligraphic decoration. The main prayer hall features massive chandeliers, including one that weighs 35 tons; more than 40 million Swarovski crystals were used in all of the chandeliers. The world’s largest Persian carpet took six months to design, nine months to knot and another six months to transport and install . Clearly, no expense was spared in the building of this mosque, and it is worth a visit just to see the monument’s craftsmanship.

Ground was broken for the mosque in 1996 by Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder of the United Arab Emirates, but was not finished until after his death in 2007. It is an incredible display of wealth and devotion, but also of Islamic unity as architect Yousef Abdelky integrates elements of Islamic decoration from many cultures. (Examples are the Iznik tiles from Turkey and Persian carpet from Iran.) It can host over 40,000 worshippers in the hall and center courtyard. Sheikh Zayed is buried in a tomb near the northern gate of the mosque from which live singing can be heard twenty-four hours a day. Non-Muslims are welcome to visit much of the mosque, but women are given full-length polyester abayas (with hoods) to wear if they arrive in attire that is not deemed appropriately modest. Both men and women are required to remove their shoes to enter the mosque so it is wise to wear or bring socks; but wear thin ones because the colors of marble will feel different on your feet, with white ones cool and darker vines and flowers warmer.

River Hawk International Limited Tip: a private tour with a guide is the best way to fully understand the mosque and its significance, and some will allow you access to areas that are not open to the general public. Contact River Hawk International Limited to book a guided tour.

A highlight of a stay in the UAE desert is dune bashing, which Qasr al Sarab can arrange for guests at sunrise. The early risers meet their driver/guide in the lobby around 5am and head out to the tall dunes that surround the property in a fortified Land Cruiser. The expert driver deflates the tires and then the car takes off, up and down and around the dunes, a veritable, natural roller coaster. You will stop as the sun rises above the dunes for a tea break. Note: those who get carsick might want to take a pass, or the necessary precautions.

One of the Middle East’s leading attractions and home to the world’s fastest roller coaster, Ferrari World is a massive theme park built to honor the speed and sophistication of the Ferrari racing cars. Kid-friendly and thrilling driving rides inspired by Ferrari are on offer as well as interactive exhibits about Ferrari’s history. Visitors can take a break from the simulating activities at one of the many Italian eateries, ranging from a café to a trattoria.