India, Oct. 1 -- Growing up between Singapore and the United States, the Middle East was no more than a map in a textbook to me. But after five days of travelling solo through Abu Dhabi, I found myself staring out of the plane window, wondering: Why didn't I ever study this place more deeply?

At first glance, Abu Dhabi is the UAE's largest emirate, from Al Ain's ancient emerald oases to Saadiyat Island's cutting-edge museums. But as I dug deeper, I found that this trip offered me something far rarer than picture-perfect memories-perspective.

Abu Dhabi's Heart Is Warmer Than Its Deserts I'd chosen July, an offbeat time to travel, but also quieter. I expected the heat, but not the kind welcome that greeted me at Zayed International Airp...