Maitri has lived in Abu Dhabi for almost 13 years. She works as a freelance writer, photographer and video editor. Abu Dhabi Week asked Maitri what are the five things that she likes best about Abu Dhabi.

The Corniche

I’m going to start with the most obvious one. Abu Dhabi is an island so kudos to the planners for having a Corniche all around. It’s just so refreshing after a hard day of work to go for a walk or a jog, cycling or skating along the Corniche. I know there’s some beach work going on and, though I’m not a beach person, I’m eager to see what they’ve done – they always come up with something nice.

The lack of queues

I come from a very populated city, Mumbai, and there are queues for everything. But over here I’ve noticed that it’s much easier. Oh and I love Abu Dhabi Airport! You just go there and within ten minutes you’re checked in, within ten minutes immigration is done and you’re just chilling in Duty Free – it actually makes travel stress-free.

Pedestrian friendly

I like that I can walk everywhere within the city. I know a lot of people who live in Khalifa City or further wouldn’t agree, but I live downtown – so it’s awesome. Whether I want ice cream or groceries, it’s just great not having to depend on a vehicle to get from one place to another within the city.

Safety

The infrastructure is top class, basic things like roads and rules and regulations, how the laws are enforced. Security is one of the things I’m talking about, I come home alone at 3am, park my car and walk home and I feel safe!

The future potential

The last one – although so many different cultures live here, Abu Dhabi is not yet a melting pot (as the phrase goes). But it’s becoming one. If we’re open to each other’s cultures, it could lead to something very organically beautiful – I have hope.