Qasr Al Hosn
Intrepid travellers can
explore the historic Qasr Al Hosn fort, the nation’s living memorial and the narrator of Abu Dhabi’s history. Located in the heart
of the city, the building incorporates the oldest structure on Abu Dhabi Island, a coral and sea stone watchtower built in the late 18th century. It is also home to the
House of Artisans, which celebrates Emirati heritage and the UAE’s enduring tradition of craftmanship.
Louvre Abu Dhabi
One of Abu Dhabi’s most iconic landmarks, Louvre Abu Dhabi is the region’s first universal museum, exploring the links between global civilisations
through time and revealing stories of cultural connections.
Its galleries feature works of global historical and cultural significance spanning human history, and for families, there’s also a dedicated Children’s Museum. The building is a work of art in itself – the
soaring dome roof was inspired by traditional thatched palm leaves and is constructed from 7,850 individual stars repeated at different sizes and angles, forming a “rain of light” effect when the sun shines through.
Al
Ain
Just over an hour’s drive from the heart of Abu Dhabi, this region is home to some of the world’s oldest villages and has been designated a UNESCO
World Heritage Site. Travellers can stroll the shaded pathways of Al Ain Oasis, home to over 147,000 date palms and fruit trees across 1,200 hectares and fed by a 3,000-year-old irrigation system. Or visit
Qaryat
al Torath Heritage Village, featuring 32 souk (market) stalls offering a variety of traditional Emirati handicrafts
and foods. Visitors can watch Bedouin women create beautiful craft pieces while also exploring traditional clothing, spices, perfumes, date palm products and accessories. Those looking for some outdoor adventure should head to
Jebel Hafit Desert Park, where hiking, biking, and desert glamping are on offer.
Liwa Nights
Cultural enthusiasts can
experience true Bedouin culture by staying at Liwa Nights, a unique desert glamping retreat located in the other-worldly Empty
Quarter. The surrounding epic landscape has formed the backdrop to many series and films, including Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
Oasis visitors can also try out quad biking, take a safari tour or ride a camel over the dunes, before spending the evening stargazing under the stunningly clear night sky.
Falconry
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara
This traditional Emirati sport has been practiced for more then 2,000 years, with skills being passed down through generations. Cultural enthusiasts can experience this tradition on most desert safaris, but for another way to meet these beautiful birds of prey, visitors can opt to visit the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, the world’s largest and most advanced falcon hospital. Its highlights include a falcon display museum as well as a facility home to free-flying falcons. Guided tours of this award-winning specialist hospital are available and highly recommended. Travellers can visit the luxurious wards where the birds are kept, explore the museum that gives insights into the noble desert sport of falconry, and even try their hand at the sport in the hospital’s lush gardens.
