The Cultural Foundation comprises the National Archives, the National Library and the Institute of Culture and Art. All of these are housed in a modern, Islamic style building with wonderful tilework and an intricately decorated passageway.

The foundation hosts excellent exhibitions of contemporary art, an annual Emirati film festival and regular screening of art house cinema, theatre performances and classical musical concerts, along with interesting exhibits on local heritage, crafts and Islamic calligraphy.

Al-Hosn Palace, commonly known as the Old Fort or the White Fort, was built in the late 19th century, making it the oldest building in town. In fact it's one of the few buildings in Abu Dhabi that's more than 30 years old.

The interior is off limits, used by the Cultural Foundation as a research centre, but the courtyard is a wonderful place to cool down. The tilework over the main (northern) gate is gorgeous.

At the eastern end of the Corniche, near the port, lies Abu Dhabi's fresh produce markets and small dhow (boat) wharf. It's not as exciting as Dubai's waterfront, but it does offer good local colour, an interesting Iranian Souq, and an excellent view back towards the city.