Meriem Sayah is 29 years old and has lived in Abu Dhabi for two years. She moved from Algiers to live here with her husband and works as a private banker. Abu Dhabi Week asked Meriem what are the five things she likes best about living in Abu Dhabi.

Local traditions

The locals in Abu Dhabi are deeply devoted to their traditions, and that’s what I love to see. They have a rich culture of local customs rooted in their Bedouin heritage and the Islamic religion – like traditional Arab hospitality and the traditional dress, which are symbols of national pride and identity and they’re doing their best to maintain them.

The sun

It is such a great thing to have the chance to live in a city with almost year-round sunshine. Apart from getting a beautiful tan, I find the sun has many good effects on my body, my mental health and my mood – just being outside in sunny weather, to take a walk or chill out on the beach, offers me a way to reset my mind.

Yas Island

This island is just amazing! It offers so many attractions like Ferrari World, concerts and events like the Formula One, as well as leisure facilities and restaurants in the hotels. I am a real music lover, and I’m delighted every time I go there for a concert – I can’t wait for the new season of Yas Island Show Weekends!

Emirates Palace

This iconic landmark was the first hotel I visited when I first came to Abu Dhabi. My first impression as I stepped into the main lobby was "WOW!!" Incredible opulence, glittering chandeliers and marble with oodles of gold plating on every available surface… I was dazzled by the grandeur and the beauty of this hotel. It is simply a feast for the eyes.

Bord Eau

The French restaurant in the Shangri-La Hotel is one of my favourite restaurants in Abu Dhabi. The food is superb and the atmosphere is warm and elegant. The service is really outstanding and the decoration is classy. It’s a chic dining room with magnificent fabrics and furniture – the perfect place for a romantic evening.