Destination: Abu Dhabi

"The falcon is waking up now," the veterinary technician says, causing everyone to take a step back. The groggy patient looks around, his pedicure complete, those lethal talons clipped, filed and massaged with moisturiser - all under anaesthetic, of course.

Like glitzy neighbour Dubai, Abu Dhabi - the largest and wealthiest of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates - has its fair share of over-the-top architecture and no-expense-spared attractions (the giant Ferrari theme park springs to mind), but, in town for 48 hours, we're determined to seek out some more unusual adventures, too.

The Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital certainly fits the bill. The clinic, located a few kilometres from the airport, treats about 5,000 birds a year and welcomes a few thousand more tourists, who are given fascinating guided tours.

As a dozen birds sit on perches in front of us, their heads covered in small leather hoods, technician Mohammed Nafeez explains that falconry - hunting with trained birds of prey - has been practised in these parts for centuries, originally by Bedouins in pursuit of small animals for food and, later, as sport. Today, many well-heeled falconers take their birds abroad, mainly to Pakistan, during the winter hunting season.

"The birds need a falcon passport but they don't need a visa or photo," Nafeez jokes.