Eight great cultural attractions to see if you're new to Abu Dhabi

Al Ain Oasis
If you’re looking to enjoy a cultural experience that feels a world away from a busy city then this is the one to visit. The 3,000 acre oasis is jam-packed with 147,000 palm trees and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011. You can see how early inhabitants in the region created irrigation systems and a steady water supply to combat the intense heat of the desert. Plus, it makes for some amazing Instagram shots too.
Free entry. Sat-Thu 9am-4pm; Fri 2pm-4.30pm, Hessa Bint Mohammed Street, Al Ain, visitalain.ae.

Al Ain Palace Museum
This historical venue was the royal residence of UAE founding father Sheikh Zayed until 1966. The building, constructed in 1937, has loads of great things to see and offers some unrivalled insight into the childhood of the late Sheikh Zayed. The sprawling lands themselves are impressive and there are plenty of great photo opportunities too.
Free entry. Sat-Thu 8.30am-7.30pm; Fri 3pm-7.30pm. Hessa Bint Mohammed Street, Al Ain, visitalain.ae (03 711 8388).

Heritage Village
Step back in time at the Heritage Village and you can get a sense of what the UAE’s capital was like in the past. The traditional village includes a souk, mosque, artefacts and artisans creating traditional handicrafts and goods. The Emirates Heritage Club also run regular workshops where you can observe traditional crafts like palm weaving, pottery and more.
Free Entry. Sat-Thu 9am -4pm; Fri 3.30pm to 9pm. Corniche Breakwater, near Marina Mall, www.visitabudhabi.ae.

Qasr Al Hosn
As the oldest standing building Abu Dhabi, Qasr Al Hosn is a great place to visit to imagine the city long before the skyscrapers dominated the capital’s skyline. Built in 1790, the old stone fort was originally constructed to overlook the coastal trade routes and offer protection to the growing settlement on the island. Now, having completed successful restoration, you can see the original structure and visit a number of other cultural attractions at the site including the Cultural Foundation and Children’s Library.
Dhs30 adults, Dhs15 children. Sat-Thu 9am-7pm; Fri noon-10pm Corner of Zayed the First Street and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Street, www.qasralhosn.ae.

Qasr Al Muwaiji
Head to the Garden City of Al Ain and you can explore an impressive archaeological and historical structure and UNESCO World Heritage Site, at Qasr Al Muwaiji. The impressive structure is also birthplace of the country’s president, HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan in 1948. Visitors can explore a variety of historical and traditional experiences, including oral narrations of the significant moments of Sheikh Khalifa’s life from his early childhood, leadership and vast national achievements. The museum also features interactive activities and performances that celebrate the overall spirit of the significant cultural site as well as daily tours. It’s one to check out when in Al Ain.
Free entry. Tue-Thu, Sat-Sun 9am-7pm; Fri 3pm-7pm. Khalifa Bin Zayed Street, Al Ain, www.qasralmuwaiji.ae.

Qasr Al Watan
The stunning Qasr Al Watan, part of the Presidential Palace, has opened its doors to the public for daily tours. A total of 149,000 unique pieces of silver, crystal and china were used in the construction of the palace that was completed in 2017. Visitors are able to explore a host of facilities and attractions during their visit including the extensive gardens, great hall, library, visitors centre, courtyard and more. In the evening a sound and light show brings the building to life and celebrates the culture and heritage of the UAE. One thing is for sure, it’s absolutely stunning and it has to be seen to be believed.
Dhs60 adults, Dhs30 (kids aged four-17). Daily 10am-8pm. Qasr Al Watan, Presidential Palace, Ras Al Akhdar (600 544 442).

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Even if you’ve just landed in Abu Dhabi you’ve probably heard of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque already. The stunning landmark is the jewel in the city’s crown and is an attraction that you will visit time and again, especially when you have visitors in town. No matter how many times you visit it never fails to take your breath away as you notice more incredible details and handiwork. Just remember that it is a place of worship and you should behave and dress respectfully at all times.
Free entry. Sat-Thu 9am-10pm; Fri 4.30pm-10pm. Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Street, www.szgmc.gov.ae.

The Founder’s Memorial
It may be one of the newest cultural attractions in the city but The Founder’s Memorial in no less impressive. Launched the mark the 100th birthday of the late ruler HH Sheikh Zayed, the impressive grounds and centrepiece installation are a great visit any time of day but is especially impressive in the evening. As the sun sets over the city the installation, depicting the likeness of the UAE’s founding father with 1,327 geometric shapes illuminated by more than 2,000 lights, brightens up the night’s sky. Go and see it for yourself.
Free entry. Daily 9am-10pm. Corniche West, next to Emirates Palace, www.thefoundersmemorial.ae.