How to Get a Typical Cultural Experiences While in Abu Dhabi

Tipped to be one of the most intriguing holiday destinations in the Middle East Abu Dhabi is a popular vacation hub which is also a cultural Mecca worthy of deeper exploration. Although the country's retail possibilities and high end lifestyle are well documented enjoying an authentic cultural experience in Abu Dhabi may seem a novelty to most tourists who miss the city's more historic quarters. Here are some guidelines on how to experience traditional cultural elements when in Abu Dhabi.

Step 1: Travel Through Time at the Abu Dhabi Heritage Village

Often regarded as one of the must-visit highlights on any tour of Abu Dhabi, an afternoon at the Abu Dhabi Heritage Village offers visitors a glimpse of life in the Middle Eastern city in various stages of history. Taking tourists on a trip back in time the Abu Dhabi Heritage Village is the first point of contact for those in search of a truly traditional cultural experience in the dynamic Emirati city. Exploring local life before the discovery of oil transformed the city and the country at large the Abu Dhabi Heritage Village is in fact a makeshift village that has been reconstructed to resemble a conventional community dwelling of the past. Hotspots include the various craft workshops where pottery, brass work, swords smiths and other trades of yore are put on display while traditional homes, souqs selling aromatic spices and a museum with pearl showcases are also part of the venue in addition to a Bedouin camp complete with camels.

Step 2: Explore the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

The religious heritage of Abu Dhabi is another cultural aspect visitors must discover with a visit to the iconic and truly breathtaking Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Revered as one of the holiest institutions in the country the locale also holds the distinct honor of being among the world's largest and most stunning mosques. The brainchild of Sheik Zayed whose ultimate goal was to unify the Arab and the western world the mosque houses an impressive 81 plus domes, two dozen chandeliers and a thousand pillars. The luxurious and resplendent mosque is renowned for its exquisite interiors adorned with traditional Arabic motifs. Visitors can enjoy free guided tours of the venue although tourists must be modestly dressed to enter the premises.

Step 3: Mingle With the Locals at the Corniche

Often regarded as one of the most invigorating cultural experiences visitors can encounter on a vacation in Abu Dhabi. The Abu Dhabi Corniche is no ordinary recreational hub in the city as the 8km long stretch of beach bordering strip is not only the best place to mingle with local communities but also the best place to enjoy a relaxing afternoon or a dip in the Corniche Beach. A favorite haunt for joggers, cyclists, readers and even bar hoppers as the locale is lined with fantastic local eateries and pubs as well. Taking a photo in front of the Volcano Fountain is a veritable rite of passage for first time visitors to the Corniche while the park's free access also makes it the best place to people watch and interact with the locals.

Step 4: Visit the Manarat Al Saadiyat

Occupying pride of place at the centre of the Saadiyat Cultural District the Manarat al Saadiyat is not only a treasure trove for modern art fanatics but also a cultural centre of truly grand proportions. Tipped to house Abu Dhabi's very own Louvre Museum and the most expansive Guggenheim museum on the planet the cultural district hosts regular exhibitions and engaging cultural educational initiatives that are accessible to visitors as well.

Step 5: Enjoy a Desert Safari

A cultural experience one would never forget signing up for a desert safari in Abu Dhabi is a must for first time visitors. Exploring the vast expanses of desert in the Empty Quarter on a 4x4 vehicle a desert safari tour also includes camping out in a Bedouin style campsite as well as a taste of nomadic delicacies. Visitors based in an Abu Dhabi resort such as the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara can a book a desert safari or dune bashing tour through the hotel.