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The city of Abu Dhabi, a dazzling jewel on the Arabian Peninsula, is not just a destination for modern extravagance, but also a treasure trove of rich heritage and artistic marvels. In the midst of its opulent skylines, pristine islands, and world-renowned entertainment venues, Abu Dhabi’s soul lies in its vibrant art and culture.
From the meticulously curated exhibitions at the renowned Louvre Abu Dhabi to the historic embrace of Qasr Al Hosn, the oldest standing structure in the region, this emirate is a testament to the fusion of tradition and innovation.
It’s a place where time-honoured customs coexist harmoniously with cutting-edge creativity. Join us as we delve into the heart and soul of Abu Dhabi, exploring the myriad places and experiences that showcase its deep-rooted heritage and artistic landscape. It’s a journey that promises to unveil the enduring spirit of this magnificent emirate
1. Visit The Cultural Oasis of Louvre Abu Dhabi
The launch of the universally-recognised Louvre museum was a crowning moment in the growing Abu Dhabi art scene. During your visit, we guarantee every moment will be filled with awe as you take in the museum’s architecture, the Arabian medina-inspired interiors, and the stunning artwork.
The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions alongside its permanent collections. Make sure to check out the Louvre Abu Dhabi website to stay up-to-date.
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2. Get a Glimpse into Abu Dhabi’s Past at Qasr Al Hosn
Qasr Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi’s oldest standing structure, has a rich history. Originally built as a watchtower in the 1790s, it later served as a royal residence and even housed the National Consultative Council, established by the UAE’s Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
After a decade of meticulous restoration work, it was transformed into a museum in 2018, offering visitors a captivating journey through time.
As you step inside, you’ll encounter two iconic buildings: the Inner Fort, dating back to 1795, and the Outer Palace, constructed between 1939-45. Gaze up, and you’ll spot the original watchtower, a sentinel over the small fishing village of Abu Dhabi in its early days.
Qasr Al Hosn offers an artistic experience, allowing you to lose yourself in the fascinating history of the UAE capital and explore artefacts and archives spanning 6,000 years. For children, it’s a place of adventure, with countless nooks and crannies to discover—an ideal setting for captivating stories and lasting memories.
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3. Connect with Artisans of Traditional Emirati Crafts at House of Artisans
Visit the House of Artisans at the Qasr Al Hosn complex to connect with the skilled craftsmen behind traditional Emirati crafts. Witness stunning artwork, engage with traditional artisans, and capture the intricate beauty through your lens.
Explore the ancient art of Sadu, a UNESCO-recognized Intangible Cultural Heritage, where Bedouin artisans skillfully weave intricate geometric designs using wool from sheep, camels, and goats to adorn tents and camel-riding accessories.
Delve into Khoos, a traditional weaving technique using date-palm leaves to craft functional items like baskets, and immerse yourself in the time-honoured Bait Al Gahwa (coffee) ceremony.
Experience the ritual of brewing the perfect cup of gahwa, relax on cushions in a cosy majlis, and sip from delicate finjan cups, cherishing centuries-old traditions.
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4. Explore Local Creativity at Al Qattara Arts Centre
Al Qattara Arts Centre, established in 2011, is a vibrant hub for Emirati and UAE-based artists to create, exhibit, and explore their craft. Alongside an impressive archaeological exhibit in its basement featuring antique findings, the centre offers a wide range of cultural and artistic programs for all ages.
With dedicated studios for art classes, including music, drawing, painting, and calligraphy, as well as fully-equipped spaces for pottery, digital arts, and photography, it’s a haven for creative expression.
The centre also serves as a venue for events and exhibitions that delve into the region’s rich cultural heritage, making it a dynamic cultural hotspot in Al Ain.
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5. Be a Part of a Vibrant Community at Manarat Al Saadiyat
Manarat Al Saadiyat is a vibrant cultural hub on Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, offering a diverse blend of art, culture, and entertainment. Hosting the annual Abu Dhabi Art Fair, it provides a platform for creativity with theatre workshops, art exhibitions, photography studios, and more.
Meaning ‘a place of enlightenment’ in Arabic, it’s a space where visitors can gather, explore exhibitions, engage in creative activities, savour delicious cuisine, and attend enlightening talks.
The centre features three galleries for temporary exhibits, an art studio, a 250-seat auditorium, outdoor event terraces, a café, a brasserie, and a gift shop, making it a must-visit destination for cultural enthusiasts.
6. Witness an Extensive Collection at Miraj Islamic Centre
Discover the treasures of the Miraj Islamic Centre, where an extensive collection of Islamic art awaits. Marvel at exquisite pieces from around the Muslim world, include meticulously hand-woven pictorial and bejewelled carpets, silk textiles and royal robes, jewellery, jewel-encrusted ceremonial objects, finely crafted weapons, marble pieces, Arabic calligraphy-engraved vases and miniature paintings.
Knowledgeable staff provide insights into the history and craftsmanship behind each exhibit. The centre also boasts a rooftop café with stunning views of the Emirates Palace and the Arabian Gulf.
Plus, enjoy a complimentary pick-up and drop-off service for groups of over 50 guests, complete with Arabic gahwa (cardamom coffee) and fresh dates.
7. View a Unique Collection of Vehicles at The Emirates National Auto Museum
The Emirates National Auto Museum is a must-visit in Abu Dhabi. Located in Al Dhafra, just a short 45-minute drive from the city, this pyramid-shaped museum houses an impressive collection of over 200 cars, all owned by His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan.
Even before you enter, you’ll be greeted by photo-worthy sights like a retired passenger jet and the world’s largest model jeep. Inside, the treasures continue with off-road vehicles, classic American cars, and the Sheikh’s dazzling Mercedes rainbow collection. If you’re a fan of BBC’s Top Gear, you might spot some familiar vehicles too.
8. Stroll Around the Al Jahili Fort
Since its opening in 2008, Al Jahili Fort, located about an hour and a half away from Abu Dhabi in Al Ain, has been a cultural hub celebrating Abu Dhabi’s philosophy, culture, and heritage.
This historic fort, one of the UAE’s largest, was constructed in the 1890s on the orders of Sheikh Zayed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, to serve as a residence for the Al Nahyan family. Restored in 1985 and later rehabilitated by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, it’s now a cultural centre and tourist attraction, surrounded by lush gardens.
The fort has earned accolades, including the Terra Award for Internal Design and Layout in 2016. Inside, you can explore a temporary exhibition gallery and a permanent exhibition dedicated to Sir Wilfred Thesiger, a renowned explorer and photographer known for his journeys across the Rub’ al Khali, the world’s largest sand desert, with his Emirati and Omani companions in the 1940s.
9. Be Mesmerised at The Founder’s Memorial
The Founder’s Memorial is a remarkable cultural attraction dedicated to the legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE’s founder and Father of the Nation.
Spanning 3.3 hectares of beautifully landscaped space, it offers lush indigenous gardens, a Sanctuary Garden, a Heritage Garden with desert plants, and an elevated walkway offering breathtaking views, the memorial is truly a sensory experience.
At its heart lies The Constellation, a monumental artwork featuring a three-dimensional portrait of Sheikh Zayed by artist Ralph Helmick. Housed in a 30-metre-high pavilion, this celestial masterpiece comprises 1,327 geometric shapes suspended on 1,110 cables, illuminating like stars at night, symbolising Sheikh Zayed’s enduring guidance.
The artwork’s use of abstract portraiture on this scale makes it one of the world’s largest art installations, reflecting the timeless vision of Sheikh Zayed that continues to lead the UAE towards progress and prosperity.
10. Watch Traditional Performing Arts
Discover the vibrant world of traditional performing arts in Abu Dhabi, where cultural heritage comes to life through captivating performances. Al-Ayyala, characterized by synchronized movements to the beat of drums and the use of bamboo canes, offers a mesmerizing spectacle.
Meanwhile, Wanna brings poetry to the stage, often reciting Nabati verses with beautiful melodies. Al-Azi, a moving poetic community performance, holds UNESCO recognition for its cultural significance.
Lastly, Al-Taghrooda, born from Bedouin traditions, weaves improvised poetry into narratives of social and cultural experiences, providing a unique window into the region’s rich storytelling heritage
