Most of my time was spent in Dubai and Jebel Ali, both are just down the road from Abu Dhabi. Housing is usually houses, large even on American standards, sometimes within a compound of other expats or stand-alone. The few apartments I have visited were usually very large by American standards.
Shopping is great, gold, persian rugs are all good bargins.
Usually whatever the merchant says the price is, you counter with about half, then you will be in the ball park to begin serious bartering. For the most part, the country is extremely clean. Lots of expats in the local area, especially Brits. Hope this helps. Most of my time was spent in Dubai and Jebel Ali, both are just down the road from Abu Dhabi.