Duty Free in Abu Dhabi
 

When I travelled from the UK to Australia changing at Abu Dhabi, I wasn't allowed to take any liquid on to the second flight, even though I had cleared security and bought it in the terminal. It wasn't really a problem since I only lost a bottle of water, although I could have done with the drink while waiting to board.

I am wondering of this will be the same in the other direction. If I buy anything from the duty free shops at either Sydney or Abu Dhabi, will it be confiscated before I board the flight to Manchester?

If you buy duty free in Sydney, the seller should put your bottles in a "tamper proof" bag which should then be allowed on to the flight in Abu Dhabi. Alternatively, just buy in Abu Dhabi on your way through.