Heritage Village, Abu Dhabi: Cultural heritage site.
Visitor Fee
There is no entry fee to visit the Heritage Village, making it an affordable cultural experience for all visitors.
Transportation
Heritage Village is located on the Corniche Breakwater, near Marina Mall in Abu Dhabi. It is accessible by various modes of transportation:
- Car: The village is about a 20-minute drive from the city center. Ample parking is available nearby.
- Taxi and Ride-Hailing Services: Taxis and services like Uber and Careem can drop you off at the entrance.
- Public Transport: Public buses service the area, with stops near Marina Mall and Heritage Village.
Things to Do
- Traditional Souk: Explore the traditional souk, where you can buy handmade crafts, souvenirs, spices, and traditional garments.
- Bedouin Tents: Experience Bedouin life by visiting the authentic Bedouin tents set up within the village.
- Museum and Exhibits: Visit the small museum that showcases artifacts and exhibits about the UAE’s history, culture, and traditions.
- Craft Demonstrations: Watch live demonstrations of traditional crafts such as pottery, metalwork, weaving, and glassblowing.
- Heritage Buildings: Explore replicas of traditional buildings, including a fort, mosque, and a traditional Emirati house.
- Agricultural Area: Learn about traditional farming methods and see the agricultural practices used in the past.
- Camel Riding: Enjoy camel rides and take photos with these iconic desert animals.
- Dhow Yard: Visit the dhow yard to see traditional wooden boats and learn about the maritime history of the UAE.
- Beach and Gardens: Relax on the small beach area or stroll through the landscaped gardens within the village.
Why People Enjoy Coming Here
Visitors enjoy Heritage Village for its immersive experience into the traditional Emirati way of life. It offers a unique opportunity to learn about the history and culture of the UAE through interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and authentic settings. The village provides a fascinating contrast to the modernity of Abu Dhabi, allowing visitors to step back in time and appreciate the country's heritage.
How Old is This Place
Heritage Village was established in 1996 by the Emirates Heritage Club to showcase the traditional way of life before the oil boom. As of 2024, it is 28 years old.
List of Activities
- Shopping at the traditional souk
- Visiting Bedouin tents
- Exploring the museum and exhibits
- Watching craft demonstrations
- Touring heritage buildings
- Learning about traditional farming
- Enjoying camel rides
- Visiting the dhow yard
- Relaxing on the beach and in the gardens
Additional Nearby Attractions
- Marina Mall: A large shopping mall with numerous retail stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities.
- Abu Dhabi Corniche: A beautiful waterfront area with beaches, parks, and recreational activities.
- Emirates Palace: A luxurious hotel offering opulent accommodations, fine dining, and beautiful gardens.
- Qasr Al Watan: The Presidential Palace, open to the public for tours and cultural experiences.
- Louvre Abu Dhabi: A world-class museum with diverse art collections from around the globe.
- Qasr Al Hosn: The oldest stone building in Abu Dhabi, now a museum highlighting the city's history.
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: One of the largest and most beautiful mosques in the world, open for tours.
Heritage Village offers a rich cultural experience, allowing visitors to explore and appreciate the traditional heritage of the UAE. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of Abu Dhabi.