Yas Mall Opening Hours: A Comprehensive Guide


Intro
In the ever-evolving landscape of Dubai, where luxury meets innovation, Yas Mall stands out as a cornerstone of commercial activity. Opened in 2014, this expansive shopping haven has become a favored destination for locals and tourists alike. Its striking architecture and curated blend of retail, dining, and recreational options capture the essence of modern shopping experiences. Understanding Yas Mall's opening hours is essential for visitors planning their outings, for retailers seeking optimal operating times, and for investors gauging the mall's accessibility in relation to consumer patterns.
Knowing when Yas Mall is open offers a practical advantage when navigating its vast offerings. As the largest mall in Abu Dhabi and one of the crown jewels of the Yas Island entertainment hub, it attracts myriad visitors daily. From fashion boutiques to family-friendly entertainment, the right timing can enhance the overall experience. This guide aims to furnish a comprehensive overview of Yas Mall’s operating schedule, seasonal variations, notable events, and their implications on the mall's status in Dubai's dynamic retail landscape.
Market Insights
Current Trends in Dubai Real Estate
Dubai's real estate scene is known for its glitzy developments and cutting-edge infrastructure. As more investors flock to the emirate, malls like Yas Mall play a crucial role in sustaining economic momentum. The mall's strategic location and diverse attractions contribute significantly to the residential property appeal in the area. Investors are increasingly showing interest not only in commercial properties but also in how these retail giants can uplift adjacent neighborhoods.
The demand for retail space remains robust in Dubai, fueled by a combination of tourism and a steady influx of expatriates. Periodic shifts in shopping preferences, particularly towards experiential retail, reflect broader consumer behavior. Malls are not just shopping venues anymore; they are destinations that create memorable experiences. Trends such as sustainability and technology integration are also becoming focal points for future developments.
Investment Opportunities in Key Areas
Investing in properties surrounding Yas Mall offers attractive returns for those in the real estate market. With a constant flow of foot traffic, retailers enjoy a lucrative environment rich with potential customers. Here are some current investment opportunities arising from the mall's influence:
- Retail Ventures: Opening a shop in or nearby the mall can offer high visibility and access to a large customer base.
- Residential Developments: High-quality living spaces close to Yas Mall can appeal to discerning renters and buyers.
- Mixed-Use Developments: Projects that combine retail with residential or hospitality components can leverage the advantages offered by mall proximity.
"Yas Mall is not just about shopping; it's a gateway to the vibrant lifestyle that Dubai offers. Understanding its operational dynamics can provide significant insights for those looking to invest in this booming market."
Lifestyle Features
Luxury Living and Amenities
The allure of Yas Mall extends beyond retail; it is surrounded by luxurious residential developments that cater to a high-end audience. Many properties nearby feature state-of-the-art amenities, exquisite views, and convenient access to both the mall and nearby attractions like the Yas Marina Circuit and Ferrari World. As luxury living stakes its claim in this region, buyers can expect properties with excellent investment prospects.
Cultural Attractions and Experiences
Yas Mall is not just a shopping destination, it also encapsulates Dubai's cultural vibe. With events like art exhibitions and seasonal celebrations, the mall becomes a platform for both local and international talent. This blend of culture and commerce enhances its reputation, attracting visitors who are not solely focused on shopping but on experiencing the city's burgeoning arts scene.
In summation, Yas Mall's operational hours are a critical aspect for stakeholders navigating both the retail environment and the broader trends of Dubai's real estate market. By paying attention to the dynamics of Yas Mall, investors, residents, and retailers can position themselves strategically within this thriving economic hub.
Overview of Yas Mall
Yas Mall stands out as a premier destination within Abu Dhabi, making it essential to examine its significance and the broader retail landscape of the region. This section aims to lay the groundwork by offering a detailed insight into the mall’s multifaceted offerings and its role in attracting visitors from around the globe.
Yas Mall is not just another shopping center; it's an experience that brings together shopping, dining, entertainment, and leisure all under one roof. Located within Yas Island, it serves as a vibrant magnet for families, tourists, and locals alike. With over 400 stores, it features a mix of high-end brands and popular retail chains, creating a shopping environment that caters to diverse tastes and budgets. The importance of the mall goes beyond its retail offerings. It's a social hub where people gather and engage in various activities, making it integral to community life.
A few key points highlight the significance of Yas Mall:
- Diverse Retail Options: From luxury boutiques to everyday shopping, the wide range of choices ensures that every visitor finds something of value.
- Entertainment Experiences: It houses entertainment venues, cinemas, and experience-based activities which enrich the visit, appealing to all age groups.
- Culinary Delights: The food court and myriad dining options available cater to every palate, from quick bites to gourmet experiences.
- Strategic Location: Positioned close to major attractions like Ferrari World and Yas Waterworld, Yas Mall serves as a convenient stop for tourists, enhancing its footfall.
In summary, understanding Yas Mall's offerings and its positioning is crucial for anyone interested in the dynamics of the retail sector in Abu Dhabi. This exploration sets the stage for a detailed guide on its opening hours, allowing visitors, investors, and retailers to maximize their experiences within this bustling hub.
Prolusion to Yas Mall
As the gateway to an exceptional shopping experience, Yas Mall beckons with open arms. Its design and layout have been meticulously planned to offer not just a place to shop but a venue that encourages social interaction and exploration. The bustling atmosphere is complemented by modern architecture, spacious walkways, and a variety of entertainment options, which enhance the overall visitor experience.
Whether you are an expatriate looking to settle in Abu Dhabi or an investor eyeing retail opportunities, Yas Mall embodies potential. With significant developments continually taking place, the mall’s impact on the retail scene is profound. For tourists, it provides a familiar yet luxurious environment—an antidote to the conventional outdoor shopping experience commonly found in many parts of the world.
Yas Mall's commitment to quality service and diverse offerings exemplifies why it remains a significant player in the competitive international retail market. The sections below will provide further insights into its operational schedule, detailing all you need to plan your visit effectively.
General Opening Hours
Understanding the general opening hours of Yas Mall is crucial for everyone involved—whether you’re planning a family outing, assessing business opportunities, or simply exploring the retail landscape. These hours serve as a roadmap for visitors, allowing you to strategize your trip effectively. Knowing when the mall opens and closes can help you avoid the peak hours and create a more pleasurable shopping experience. Moreover, for investors and retailers, these hours can influence sales, customer flow, and staffing decisions. Having a clear grasp of operating hours makes navigating the bustling environment of Yas Mall much easier.
Typical Operating Days


Yas Mall operates throughout the week, making it accessible for both locals and visitors alike. Typically, the days of operation span from Saturday to Thursday, with most businesses bustling from the early hours of the day until late in the evening. On Fridays, however, the timing shifts slightly, allowing for later openings and extending into the night. This change caters specifically to cultural and social practices prevalent within the region, particularly with Friday being considered a more relaxed day for families to enjoy their outings.
This consistent weekly schedule establishes a routine for visitors but also influences the shopping habits of the local populace. Knowing that Yas Mall is open seven days a week provides ample opportunities for spontaneous trips or specific shopping needs, reinforcing its position as a retail hub in Abu Dhabi.
Daily Operating Hours
When it comes to daily hours, Yas Mall typically opens its doors at 10:00 AM and closes at 10:00 PM, providing a full twelve hours of shopping bliss. On the weekends, however, this extends to 12:00 AM, which is particularly appealing to night owls and those looking to enjoy a late-night meal or a last-minute shopping spree. Here’s a snapshot of the usual daily hours:
- Saturday to Thursday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Being well aware of these operational hours makes it easier for everyone. Whether you’re a retailer planning sales campaigns or a shopper organizing an outing, knowing when Yas Mall is alive with activity is undeniably valuable.
"Understanding mall hours can lead to better shopping experiences and informed business strategies."
By integrating these specific operational patterns into your plans, you can harness the full potential of what Yas Mall has to offer, whether that is a quiet afternoon of indulgence or a lively evening with friends and family.
Special Operating Hours
In the heart of Abu Dhabi, Yas Mall stands as a bustling hub, drawing both locals and tourists alike. Understanding the Special Operating Hours is crucial for anyone looking to visit, whether for a shopping spree or a leisurely day out. These hours are not just an arbitrary schedule; they serve multiple purposes, offering flexibility and catering to varied preferences.
One of the primary benefits tied to special operating hours is that they align with peak shopping seasons and significant events in the region. This information can prove invaluable for investors and retailers, as it directly influences foot traffic and sales performance.
Additionally, these hours often vary during festive occasions and public holidays, ensuring that the mall accommodates the heightened flow of visitors during such periods. Let’s delve into the specifics in the next sections.
Holiday Hours
The holiday hours at Yas Mall are particularly noteworthy as they reflect the spirit and vibrancy of the community. On major holidays like Eid al-Fitr and Christmas, the mall extends its hours significantly. Shoppers can expect extended hours, often running from morning until midnight, making it convenient for both early birds and night owls who enjoy a lively atmosphere.
Here’s a closer look at how Yas Mall adapts to the festive mood:
- Eid al-Fitr: The mall often opens earlier, catering to families who might want to shop after prayers. Expect an influx of visitors, as many enjoy shopping for gifts and clothes during this time.
- Christmas: There’s a festive ambiance with decorations that reflect the holiday spirit. Shops often have extended hours, paired with special promotions that attract a substantial number of visitors.
- National Holidays: Yas Mall might extend its hours for celebrations, allowing families to spend time together in a favorite leisure space.
Knowing these holiday hours can aid in planning visits, ensuring that potential customers do not miss out on unique shopping experiences.
Seasonal Adjustments
As seasons change, so do the operating hours at Yas Mall. This adaptability ensures that the mall remains accessible and relevant, no matter the time of year. Seasoned shoppers know that summer and winter hours differ significantly, and that knowledge can be a game changer for planning outings.
During the summer, for instance, operating hours tend to shift to accommodate the extreme heat. It’s not uncommon for the mall to open earlier in the day to allow people to shop before the midday sun becomes too intense. Conversely, winter sees longer hours, as people prefer to shop during the cooler evenings.
Here are some key aspects regarding seasonal adjustments:
- Summer Adjustments: Emphasis on morning opening hours, and often, shops may stay open later to support a cooler shopping environment at night.
- Winter Adjustments: Extended evening hours capture the interest of families and tourists who enjoy outdoor leisure activities during the milder climate.
This dynamic approach ensures that businesses within the mall can cater effectively to the changing habits and preferences of shoppers depending on the season, enhancing overall visitor accessibility and supporting the retail environment.
Understanding these special operating hours is essential for maximizing both shopping experiences and investment opportunities in the vibrant marketplace that Yas Mall represents.
Festivals and Events
Festivals and events play a crucial role in enhancing the appeal of Yas Mall to both visitors and retailers alike. While the standard operating hours provide a framework for accessibility, it’s during these special events that the mall truly comes alive with vibrant energy and increased foot traffic. Festivals not only offer entertainment but also create unforgettable experiences that keep visitors returning year after year.
These events can range from cultural festivals to seasonal celebrations, often synchronized with holidays or significant local happenings. They present unique marketing opportunities for businesses to showcase their offerings through limited-time promotions and themed merchandise. From an investor's perspective, a well-timed festival can dramatically boost retail performance and visibility, making it an essential consideration when planning store operations.
Annual Events Schedule
The annual events calendar at Yas Mall is carefully crafted to resonate with the diverse demographic of the UAE. Each year, you’ll find a schedule peppered with engaging activities:
- Dubai Shopping Festival: This month-long event, usually held in January, attracts both locals and tourists, making it an excellent opportunity for retailers to maximize sales.
- Ramadan Nights: The holy month brings unique evening events, including special Iftar menus and cultural displays, catering to the community’s needs and traditions.
- Eid Celebrations: After Ramadan, the Eid festivities feature family-friendly attractions like workshops and entertainment, encouraging families to shop and celebrate together.


These activities not only build community relations but also create a sense of belonging among frequent visitors. Having a calendar of events prominently displayed at the mall ensures that everyone is informed and ready to partake.
Promotions and Specials
Connected to these festivals are promotions and specials, which serve as a draw for foot traffic during peak times. Yas Mall retailers often introduce exclusive deals during events, appealing to both budget-conscious shoppers and those looking to splurge. Here are some promotional strategies that have proven effective:
- Limited-time Discounts: Offering significant markdowns during festivals to entice shoppers who may only visit during peak seasons.
- Purchase Incentives: For instance, customers spending above a certain amount can receive free gift vouchers or exclusive merchandise, enhancing the shopping experience.
- Collaborative Promotions: Retailers often collaborate for bundled deals, encouraging customers to explore multiple stores and services within the mall.
Choosing the right promotional strategies aligned with the calendar of events can create buzz and excitement, ensuring that businesses get the most out of their participation in Yas Mall's vibrant retail environment.
“Festivals at Yas Mall transform a typical shopping experience into an unforgettable adventure.”
By understanding the significance of festivals and events and how they tie into broader shopping patterns and practices, investors, retailers, and visitors can reap substantial rewards. Ultimately, it’s about creating an atmosphere that not only promotes commerce but also fosters a sense of community and celebration among all attendees.
Factors Influencing Opening Hours
Understanding the factors that influence the opening hours of Yas Mall is crucial for all those connected to the retail ecosystem—be it visitors seeking a smooth shopping experience, retailers shaping their operational strategies, or investors assessing profitability potential. The hours during which Yas Mall operates can significantly impact customer engagement, sales volume, and overall experience. This section delves into critical elements such as customer traffic patterns and competitor analysis, which shape the mall's operational schedule.
Customer Traffic Patterns
Customer traffic patterns refer to the fluctuations in the number of people visiting Yas Mall at different times of the day, week, or year. These patterns are not only vital for mall management but also for retailers who rely on foot traffic for their sales.
Research shows that weekends usually see a surge in visitors, with families flocking to the mall for leisure and shopping. During holidays or festival seasons, the footfall can skyrocket, making it imperative for the mall to adapt its hours accordingly. For example, during Ramadan, many shoppers prefer to visit post-Iftar when they break their fast, leading to extended evening shopping hours.
Additionally, weekdays may experience a dip in visitors during standard working hours. However, after office hours, a noticeable increase occurs as professionals wind down. Understanding these patterns helps mall management optimize staffing needs and ensure that resources are adequately allocated during peak hours.
"Adapting to customer patterns is like dancing to their rhythm, ensuring both visitors and retailers have a seamless experience."
Competitor Analysis
In a competitive retail environment, the hours of Yas Mall can also be influenced by the opening and closing times of nearby shopping centers. When one mall extends its hours or adjusts its schedule for special occasions, others must consider similar changes to remain appealing to shoppers.
For example, if Dubai Mall extends its operating hours during the holiday season, Yas Mall might feel the competitive pressure to match or exceed those hours. This competition not only enhances overall customer engagement but also keeps the businesses within Yas Mall viable and thriving.
Furthermore, an analysis of nearby competitors can unveil insights regarding successful promotional strategies, special events, and unique offerings that can influence customer decisions. Retailers within Yas Mall need to be aware of these trends to adapt and refine their strategies. Knowing when competitors attract the highest foot traffic can help them decide when to launch sales or promotions, ensuring they capture as much market share as possible during the busy hours.
In summary, both customer traffic patterns and competitor analysis play a significant role in determining the operational hours of Yas Mall. An astute understanding of these factors allows mall management and retailers to create a dynamic and profitable environment.
Visitor Experience
Understanding the visitor experience at Yas Mall is crucial for anyone looking to explore this impressive retail space. From the moment a guest steps foot in the mall, their journey is laden with opportunities for exploration, engagement, and leisure. A positive visitor experience can encourage repeat visits and drive word-of-mouth marketing, which can be significant for both the mall and its many retailers.
To make the most of a trip to Yas Mall, it is essential to consider various elements that contribute to a satisfying experience. These include the ambience of the mall, the availability and quality of services, and the layout that helps visitors navigate their way around efficiently. A well-designed space not only enhances enjoyment but also ensures guests can locate shops, restaurants, and entertainment options without feeling overwhelmed.
Best Times to Visit
When discussing the best times to visit Yas Mall, several factors come into play. Many visitors prefer weekdays as opposed to weekends, primarily to avoid the hustle and bustle. On weekdays, particularly in the mornings and early afternoons, the foot traffic is markedly lower. This translates to shorter queues at stores and eateries and a more relaxed shopping atmosphere.
During weekends, especially Friday and Saturday evenings, the mall can resemble a bustling marketplace, filled to the brim with families and shoppers. While this high energy can be appealing, it may not suit those looking for a calm shopping experience.
Seasonal variations also affect the best times to visit. For instance, during major holiday seasons, Yas Mall can be a hive of activity, with many enticing promotional events and special displays. So, aligning a visit with off-peak periods ensures a more enjoyable experience. Visitors should keep an eye on the mall’s calendar events for any potential fluctuations in visitor traffic.
Useful Amenities
Another aspect of a good visitor experience at Yas Mall is the range of amenities available to guests. Having access to essential services can significantly enhance the overall shopping journey. For example, family rooms, nursing rooms, and children's play areas can be a blessing for those visiting with young ones. Providing a comfortable space for families allows parents to manage the needs of their children without interrupting the flow of their shopping.
Furthermore, the mall offers a variety of dining options, from food courts to extravagant restaurants. These culinary establishments, each with their unique flair, cater to different tastes and budgets. Plenty of hydration stations and rest areas are also strategically placed around the mall, giving shoppers a place to recharge after hours of browsing.
Other helpful facilities include:


- Free Wi-Fi: Staying connected is significant in today’s world. Free Wi-Fi allows visitors to share their experiences in real-time.
- Transportation Links: Yas Mall connects seamlessly with various transport avenues, including buses and taxis, which simplifies travel logistics.
- Event Spaces: Often, visitors can enjoy live performances or community events hosted within the mall’s spacious areas, providing an added layer of entertainment.
Impact of Opening Hours on Businesses
Understanding the impact of opening hours on businesses within Yas Mall is crucial for various stakeholders including retailers, potential investors, and more importantly, the shoppers themselves. The operational hours of a retail establishment are not merely a reflection of when a business is open; rather, they can heavily influence the overall success and performance of the retail environment. Here’s how this works.
Retail Performance Insights
The correlation between operating hours and retail performance is backed by data and real-world observations. Retailers experience fluctuations in foot traffic based on the time of day and even the day itself. For example, during weekends, the footfall is typically higher compared to weekdays.
- Extended Hours: Many businesses see increased sales when they extend their operating hours. This caters to varying customer schedules, allowing those who work standard hours to access retail spaces in the evening.
- Peak Hours: Identifying and capitalizing on peak hours can drive strategic decisions about staffing, inventory levels, and promotional activities. An analysis of Yas Mall’s traffic might reveal that certain stores, say a popular electronics outlet, benefit from being open later than others.
- Seasonal Trends: Retail performance can also vary seasonally. For instance, during the Dubai Shopping Festival, the demand peaks, making extended hours a potential revenue boost for retailers ready to capture the influx of tourists and locals alike.
"Understanding traffic patterns at Yas Mall allows retailers to fine-tune their strategies for customer interactions and maximize revenue."
Staff Scheduling Considerations
With changing opening hours, staff scheduling becomes a critical point of concern for mall operations. Consistently high traffic doesn’t just require more hours but also skilled personnel to assist customers. Here’s how effective staff scheduling is influenced by opening hours:
- Adequate Coverage: Increased hours mean increased staffing needs. This includes not just retail clerks but also support staff such as security and maintenance. Ensuring sufficient coverage at all times can help maintain standards and customer satisfaction.
- Flexible Staffing Models: Some businesses opt for part-time or flexible staffing solutions to cope with varying traffic. A restaurant within Yas Mall might choose to hire additional staff during peak hours while reducing shifts during slower periods.
- Employee Satisfaction: Balancing operational demands with staff welfare is an art. Ensuring employees have reasonable shifts while obtaining full coverage can be challenging but essential for reducing turnover and boosting morale.
As businesses continue to adapt, understanding how opening hours affect both performance and staffing will be invaluable in leveraging the full potential of Yas Mall's market and enhancing the shopping experience in a competitive landscape.
Comparison with Other Malls
Understanding the dynamics of Yas Mall in relation to its closest competitors is crucial. This segment sheds light on how Yas Mall stands out and what it offers in comparison to other prominent malls, particularly Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates. Each mall operates within a distinctive niche in the retail market, attracting various demographics. By comparing these malls, investors, expatriates, and potential visitors can grasp not just the operational hours but the overall visitor experience.
Yas Mall vs. Dubai Mall
Yas Mall, nestled on Yas Island, offers an anchored shopping experience with a unique blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment that often contrasts sharply with the mammoth Dubai Mall. While Dubai Mall boasts the title of the world’s largest shopping mall, it generates an intense atmosphere that might overwhelm some shoppers. Yas Mall, by contrast, provides a welcoming environment, ideal for families.
- Opening Hours:
Yas Mall generally opens from 10 AM to 10 PM on weekdays and extends its hours until midnight on weekends.
Meanwhile, Dubai Mall tends to maintain consistent hours from 10 AM to 12 AM daily. The extra late-night hours offered by Yas Mall may appeal to night owls and those looking to avoid crowds. - Visitor Experience:
Yas Mall often sees less foot traffic compared to Dubai Mall. This makes for a more relaxed shopping atmosphere. You can find covered walkways and ample parking, making the mall accessible. But Dubai Mall pulls in thousands daily with its iconic attractions, such as the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Aquarium, leading to a bustling vibe that many find exhilarating.
If you favor a leisurely day out, Yas Mall might better suit your needs. However, for those in search of iconic landmarks as they shop, Dubai Mall remains a pivotal experience in Dubai's cultural landscape.
Yas Mall vs. Mall of the Emirates
Mall of the Emirates, famous for its indoor ski slope and shopping diversity, is another competitor in the same league. When juxtaposing Yas Mall against it, several noteworthy distinctions emerge.
- Opening Hours:
Yas Mall typically operates from 10 AM to 10 PM on weekdays and offers midnight shopping on weekends. Mall of the Emirates has solid hours of 10 AM to 1 AM, which might appeal to shoppers who crave a late-night shopping spree. - Attractions:
While Mall of the Emirates showcases Ski Dubai, Yas Mall focuses on entertainment venues like a cinema and family entertainment center. This includes an immersive experience tailored for kids and adults alike. Families visiting Yas Mall can enjoy a smoother outing without the added thrill of skiing in a desert.
In choosing between these malls, the decision often rests on personal preference. Families may prefer Yas Mall for its effortless accessibility and family-oriented amenities, while those attracted to unique adventures often find Mall of the Emirates magnetic.
"When it comes to retail, the experience varies immensely across each mall, influenced greatly by their distinct offerings and opening hours."
Ending
In wrapping up our exploration of Yas Mall's opening hours, it's imperative to underscore the significance of this topic. Knowing when the mall is open can impact not just individual shopping experiences but also broader business strategies for retailers and service providers connected to the mall.
For visitors, understanding Yas Mall's hours means they can plan their trips efficiently, avoiding peaks and maximizing their time spent indulging in shopping or dining. Retailers, on the other hand, rely heavily on these hours. They can tailor their operations, staffing needs, and marketing strategies to align with customer traffic, which fluctuates throughout the week and during various events.
Additionally, industry stakeholders or investors pondering business opportunities should consider how the operating hours can affect footfall and sales revenue, as well as how competitors’ hours might serve as a case study for best practices.
"Knowledge of the opening hours will indeed empower both consumers and businesses to make informed decisions."
Finally, these hours don't remain static; they adapt in response to seasons, holidays, or special promotions, reflecting the dynamic nature of retail in today’s economy. Keeping abreast of these changes ensures that both visitors and businesses can seize every opportunity.
In essence, a thorough grasp of Yas Mall's operational timetable urges a ripple effect that can resonate throughout the retail sector, lending significance and depth to the narrative of not only the mall but also the vibrant retail framework of Dubai.
Final Thoughts on Yas Mall
As we draw the curtain on our examination, Yas Mall emerges not just as a shopping destination but as a pivotal player in the UAE retail landscape. Its opening hours serve as a vital connective thread weaving together the experiences of diverse patrons ranging from casual shoppers to dedicated investors. Understanding this aspect of Yas Mall creates a more enriching experience for visitors and provides invaluable insights for businesses eager to tap into its potential.
Investors looking at Yas Mall should note that its schedule is not merely about when doors open and close; it's about capturing the pulse of consumer activity in a fast-paced environment. This knowledge allows for better positioning within the market, potentially translating to significant gains.
For homeowners and expatriates navigating their daily lives, being aware of the mall's operating hours can enhance convenience and lifestyle choices.
Therefore, as you consider your next visit or venture into investment within this bustling hub, remember that the opening hours hold more than just numbers—they embody opportunities, strategies, and a vibrant pulse that reflects the flow of urban life in Abu Dhabi.