Abu Dhabi is a city rich in history and culture, with a number of iconic landmarks and heritage sites to explore. Whether you are a new resident in the country or a long-term resident looking to dive deeper into the museums and heritage sites of Abu Dhabi, there are plenty of options available to you. If you are commuting from other emirates, you can enjoy a long drive to Abu Dhabi or travel in inter-emirate public buses. There is also a free shuttle bus within Abu Dhabi that can help you get around the emirate hassle-free.
To stay up to date with the latest news and updates on cultural tours in Abu Dhabi, you can follow KT on WhatsApp Channels. Booking a tour with a cultural guide is a great way to explore the cultural heritage of Abu Dhabi. Some tours are free, while others may have a low cost of Dh30. It is important to have the required documents, such as your Emirates ID and People of Determination card if applicable, in order to visit these cultural sites.
Some of the cultural sites you can visit in Abu Dhabi include Al Ain Oasis, Qasr Al Muwaiji, House of artisans, Qasr Al Hosn, and Al Jahili Fort. Each of these sites has its own unique history and significance. For example, Al Ain Oasis has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011 and offers a traditional Emirati dining experience. Qasr Al Muwaiji was once the home of late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, while Qasr Al Hosn is the oldest building in Abu Dhabi.
Visitors to these cultural sites must arrive according to the time slot booked, as the Cultural Guide will only wait for 15 minutes after the specified time. It is also important to note that some sites may have restrictions on pets, food, and strollers, so it is best to check the rules before visiting. For example, photos are permitted in exhibitions at the Al Jahili Fort, but wheeled baby strollers are not allowed in exhibitions.
In addition to exploring the cultural sites of Abu Dhabi, visitors can also participate in special sessions such as Bait Al Gahwa (Arabic coffee preparation and presentation). Session timings may vary, so it is advisable to check the schedule in advance. If the session timings do not match with your tour timing, you can always come back on another day to access the Bait Al Gahwa sessions at Qasr Al Hosn. Overall, exploring the cultural heritage of Abu Dhabi is a great way to learn more about the history and traditions of the UAE.
