In a few days I'll be travelling to Abu Dhabi via Muscat with Gulf Air.

I've never flown with GF (normally fly BA) and as I'll be flying in First I was hoping that someone could advise on how to make the most of the whole experience (check-in, lounges, airport, plane, food, amenity kits etc). I don’t have a fully flexible ticket so I understand that I'm not eligible for the chauffeur service.

I've searched FT, GF's website and the Internet in general and I have the basic information but I would be extremely grateful for some inside knowledge from those of you who travel GF regularly.

I know that the LHR-MCT sectors, both outbound and return will be on A330s so I should expect the new SkyBeds.

On the LHR-MCT leg I have about 4 hours to kill in MCT before my connection to AUH on a A320 (business class - not sure what to expect if anything on this short sector).

On the return flight I have a 90 minutes connection from the AUH-MCT flight landing and the MCT-LHR flight departing. I hope the AUH-MCT flight isn't delayed!

I've heard great things about the GF lounge in Bahrain but sadly I couldn't find a routing through BAH that suited my timings.

Also, is my understanding correct that as a UK citizen I do not need to purchase a visa, as my passport will be stamped with a free visa on arrival.

On a side note, I plan to go to Dubai from Abu Dhabi by car to see my brother. I understand that this journey by car should take about an hour? Would you recommend I take a taxi or is there a shuttle-bus service? Also, any ideas on cost.

Thanks to all in advance