Brian Cummins, a teacher from Ireland, moved to Abu Dhabi in August 2010. He tells us his favourite spots in the capital
Which restaurant serves the best Irish cuisine?
McGettigans in Al Raha Beach Hotel and Resort does a full Irish breakfast, while Porters Pub does a great Irish stew.
McGettigans. Contact: 02 652 4333 [email protected] www.mcgettigans.com
Porters Pub, Grand Millennium Al Wahda, next to Al Wahda Mall. Contact: 02 495 3936
[email protected] www.millenniumhotels.ae
Where do you find Irish groceries?
I buy Glenisk yoghurts, Kerrygold butter, Keogh’s potatoes, Clonakilty products and Tayto crisps in Abela.
Etihad Plaza, Khalifa City A. Contact: 02 556 7061 [email protected] www.abelaandco.com
Can you recommend a class?
The Music Hub’s Rusty Fingers is an adult music class with a philosophy that it’s never too late to learn. Abu Dhabi Irish Society hosts weekly Irish dance classes with the Bailey-Murray Dance Academy. It’s a great way to learn steps even if you’ve got two left feet like me.
Flat 202, second floor, Falcon Tower, Hamdan Street, opposite Al Hosn Fort. Contact: 02 632 7888 [email protected] www.musichub.ae
Abu Dhabi Irish Society. Contact: 056 759 2756 www.irishsocietyabudhabi.com
Where do you play sport?
I play hurling, an Irish game similar to hockey and lacrosse, in Zayed Sports City Wednesday and Sunday nights for Na Fianna GAA Club. It also organises Gaelic football Mondays and Wednesdays.
Na Fianna GAA Club. Contact: [email protected]
www.abudhabinafianna.com
Where do you get your car fixed?
East & West Car Denting Workshop, because Bashar Abdulbaki is the most straight-talking mechanic I’ve met. He speaks perfect English, offers great after-care service and has reasonable prices.
38th Street, next to Spinneys, Musaffah. Contact: 02 550 7318.
Tell us about a hidden gem
Saudi Cuisine VIP has a Bedouin theme, so you sit on the floor in traditionally decorated booths. The lamb mandi is fantastic. It’s a great place to take visitors.
Behind NBAD, off Khaleej Al Arabi Street, Khalidiya. Contact: 02 665 5355.
Who is your favourite social media poster?
I keep an eye on the adventures of Emirati brothers Mohamed and Peyman Al Awadhi via their Peeta Planet Instagram page – their pictures are superb. Their show on Dubai One follows their travels.
Which website do you recommend for Abu Dhabi residents?
I founded www.abudhabipaddy.com to help the Irish community but its local knowledge caters to all expats. It’s useful for people thinking of moving to Abu Dhabi, too.
What advice would you give to someone new to Abu Dhabi?
Be patient. I found it difficult at first; the climate, culture, people and food are different. You must give Abu Dhabi time because once you embrace the city it’s hard to leave.
Any other recommendations?
Get involved with groups. I’ve made friends and valuable connections through Na Fianna GAA, AD Wolfhounds FC, Abu Dhabi Players and British Business Group. The Abu Dhabi Golf Society hosts monthly tournaments across the country – contact [email protected]. I’m also on the Irish Society committee, which hosts a St Patrick’s Day ball. There’s a real sense of community among expats here, which helps make Abu Dhabi a home from home.
