Abu Dhabi lights up for the Fourth of July

Buildings in Abu Dhabi were bathed in the colours of the American flag on Sunday night to mark the Fourth of July.

Landmarks across the UAE capital were illuminated with images of the Stars and Stripes itself or its famous colours.

UAE leaders extended their congratulations to US President Joe Biden on the country's 245th Independence Day.

Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed, President of the UAE, sent a message of congratulations to Mr Biden.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai and Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, sent similar messages to the US leader.

US to mark independence with hot dogs, fireworks and vaccinations

US to miss 70% July 4 vaccination goal as Delta variant spreads

In the US, Mr Biden threw a huge Independence Day party on Sunday. This also marked America's fight against Covid-19, amid concerns that pockets of the country with low vaccination rates remain in the grip of the pandemic.

Mr Biden and his wife Jill welcomed 1,000 military personnel, their families and essential workers for the largest in-person event at the White House since he took office.

A fireworks display that traditionally draws thousands to the National Mall in Washington was just one of similar events across the country.

While you're here

Gavin Esler: Coronavirus offers stinging rebuke to protectionists

Kareem Shaheen: Pandemics can save us from waging wars

Sholto Byrnes: Why the climate change clash will get nastier

Key facilities

Olympic-size swimming pool with a split bulkhead for multi-use configurations, including water polo and 50m/25m training lanes
Premier League-standard football pitch
400m Olympic running track
NBA-spec basketball court with auditorium
600-seat auditorium
Spaces for historical and cultural exploration
An elevated football field that doubles as a helipad
Specialist robotics and science laboratories
AR and VR-enabled learning centres
Disruption Lab and Research Centre for developing entrepreneurial skills

Know before you go

Jebel Akhdar is a two-hour drive from Muscat airport or a six-hour drive from Dubai. It’s impossible to visit by car unless you have a 4x4. Phone ahead to the hotel to arrange a transfer.
If you’re driving, make sure your insurance covers Oman.
By air: Budget airlines Air Arabia, Flydubai and SalamAir offer direct routes to Muscat from the UAE.
Tourists from the Emirates (UAE nationals not included) must apply for an Omani visa online before arrival at evisa.rop.gov.om. The process typically takes several days.
Flash floods are probable due to the terrain and a lack of drainage. Always check the weather before venturing into any canyons or other remote areas and identify a plan of escape that includes high ground, shelter and parking where your car won’t be overtaken by sudden downpours.