The island city of Abu Dhabi, capital of the United Arab Emirates, owes its existence to the chance discovery of fresh water on the island around 250 years ago. The abundance of this valuable commodity ensured its growth and Abu Dhabi is now a thriving modern, commercial city. Nevertheless, much emphasis is placed on the origins and culture of old Arabia and the Bedouin traditions, which are carefully preserved alongside Abu Dhabi's new leisure facilities. This means the best of both worlds for stopover visitors – golf courses, spas and modern shopping malls, bazaars, souks and falconry.