Learn about Emirati culture Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Tour
Open to everyone, these excellent tours of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque are run by Emiratis who are happy to answer any questions you like about Islam, Emirati culture and the history of the mosque itself. Very good-humoured, relaxed and informative.
Tours during Ramadan 10am and 11am, Sat-Thurs. For regular visiting hours and further information, www.visitabudhabi.ae.
Local artwork
Explore the work of established and up-and-coming Emirati artists at Abu Dhabi’s art galleries. We highly recommend Ghaf Art Gallery, where you should keep an eye out for work both created and curated by Sumayyah Al Suwaidi. You can also visit Salwa Zaidan Gallery for more interesting Middle Eastern artwork, including works by Fatema Al Mazrouie.
Ghaf Art Gallery (02 665 5332), Salwa Zaidan Gallery (02 666 9656).
Manarat Al Saadiyat
This interactive experience centre tells the story of Saadiyat Island’s history, and the plans for its development into a cultural hub for the Middle East. There are heaps of interactive displays to play with here – virtual books, touchscreen exhibitions and audio-visual displays. This is good if you’ve got kids with you.
Manarat Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island (800 8342).
Heritage Village
For those interested in Bedouin lifestyles, this is worth checking out. Investigate the re-creation of a souk, a traditional old mosque, a Bedouin encampment with a goat-hair tent and camels, and a barasti house. Workshops are held where you can watch craftsmen making pots, blowing glass, beating brass and weaving on traditional looms.
Near Marina Mall, Breakwater (02 681 4455).
Explore the lesser-visited city of Al Ain
Abu Dhabi’s second city and heritage heartland of Al Ain recently made it to the Unesco’s World Heritage List, so why not take a trip to see the traditional seat of the Sheikhs and explore the city? Emirates Adventures runs a tour that includes a visit to the Al Ain National Museum and Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum, the camel race track and the livestock market. The tour takes in a date palm grove with the ancient ‘falaj’, Jebel Hafeet and hot springs.
Book an Al Ain Oasis tour through www.eatours.ae.
