Canoeing or Kayaking
Canoeing or kayaking through the dense mangroves that are literally a stone’s throw from one of the main thoroughfares into Abu Dhabi City is a rare experience that I would list as one of the most engaging things to do in the UAE. An environmentally-aware adventure company called Noukhada (02 650 3600) provides kayaks and guides. No experience is necessary and Noukhada also organize sailing and trail biking.
Car Rallying
Although Formula One is a relative newcomer to the UAE motorsports scene, rally driving has been an extremely popular sport here for many years, spearheaded by UAE citizen Mohammed bin Sulayem who has made the transition from competitor to administrator: