Abu Dhabi: reasons to visit now

Motor racing, contemporary art fairs, sailing, beaches and winter sun... There has never been a better time to visit the cultural capital of the UAE. By Laura Fowler

One result of the Arab Spring is that the UAE has become a more popular Middle-East destination than ever, with its capital, Abu Dhabi, gaining a reputation as a hub of culture, sport and leisure.

Among other highlights in coming months: the F1 Grand Prix and Volvo Ocean Race are swinging by on their world tours, Norman Foster has designed a futuristic pavilion for Abu Dhabi Art as well as a stylish shopping mall, Frank Gehry is working on the world's third Guggenheim and there's even a new Louvre planned for completion in the next couple of years. There are also beaches and an astonishing number of big hotel openings taking place this year and next - plus winter sun, less than seven hours away.