The Al Bateen area (not to be confused with Al Bateen Airport) stretches along the coast on the south western side of Abu Dhabi Island, between the InterContinental hotel and 19th Street. A world away from the bustling city centre, it is one of the capital’s most affluent areas and has a pleasant, residential neighbourhood feel with plenty of green, open spaces to enjoy.

Culture
The Bateen dhow yard closed a few years ago, and was a fantastic spot to see the traditional boats made. The area has been redeveloped to accomodate some impressive new housing and marina areas. The Bateen jetty is a popular launching spot for boats and the Emirates Heritage Club’s sailing department is housed here too. Also in the area is the Zayed Centre which houses memorobilia of the late Sheikh Zayed, affectionately known as the 'Father of the Nation', and two relatively new galleries; the Etihad Modern Art Gallery and Etihad Antiques Gallery.

Leisure
The main draw of this area is the extensive waterfront area, including the Fishermen’s Marina and the Yacht Marina. The area is still undergoing development and is continuing to change, but after strolling around and admiring the yachts you can visit one of the marina’s restaurants and cafes which have scenic views across the Arabian Gulf. There are also a number of shops and diving clubs based in the marina. Al Bateen has several public gardens and parks, popular for picnics and ball sports when the weather is cooler. There’s a special green and pink running/cycle track along parts of 32nd Street. Wedged in between the mangroves surrounding the palace, Al Bateen Beach has been recently upgraded to include lots of superb facilities, including children’s play areas and toilets, and costs a nominal fee to use.

Dining
Overlooking the marina is the InterContinental Hotel, one of Abu Dhabi’s landmark hotels, with renowned seafood restaurant Fishmarket and the always-popular Chamas Churrascaria and Bar.