Zelige multi-coloured geometric mosaic of tiles in a typical arabic style. Found on the walls of a fountain at a mosque in the United Arab Emirates

Abu Dhabi for Culture Vultures

Discovering the Emirate’s Rich Cultural Heritage

Between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the United Arab Emirates has some of the most extravagant cities in the world. But in the shadow of the world’s tallest buildings, visitors can experience the rich history and heritage of the region.

Traditional Arabic architecture, ancient burial grounds, Bedouin camping in the desert—these stand out as just a few of the cultural gems the Emirates has to offer. Explore the best of United Arab Emirates architecture, arts, music, and beyond in this UAE for Culture Vultures Guide.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi showcases an impressive example of Arabic architecture. Syrian architect, Yousef Abdelky designed the mosque using inspirations from Persian, Mughal, and Indo-Islamic architecture. It represents the Emirate’s largest mosque and holds up to 40,000 people.

Sheikh Zayed looks like an Arabian Taj Mahal with its white marble domes and archways. Inside, imported chandeliers from Germany drip in Swarovski crystals. The main prayer room features the world’s largest rug and shines with marble inland with mother of pearl.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque welcomes visitors to explore the 30 acres. It also operates as a religious, cultural, and educational center in Abu Dhabi.

Location: Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street، – 5th St – Abu Dhabi

Louvre Abu Dhabi

Experience art over time, from the past into the future. The Louvre Abu Dhabi tells the chronological history of the arts with over 600 pieces from around the world.

Begin in the early galleries (1-3), exploring art from the first villages to the great civilizations of Egypt, Persia, and beyond. Continue to the Wing 2 galleries (4-6) to observe how the international trade routes and religions impact art. The next galleries (3-9) show globalization and art progression into the 18th century. Finally, Wing 4 reveals the art of the modern world. New exhibitions appear on rotation, including foresight into the future of art.

Location: Saadiyat Island – Abu Dhabi

Presidential Palace – Qasr Al Watan

Culture vultures looking for a chance to learn about the Emirate’s rich history shouldn’t miss out on the House of Knowledge in the Presidential Palace. Located in the East Wing, the collection of artefacts and antiquities documents the Islamic Golden Age, which inspired the European Renaissance.

Manuscripts stand out as some of the earliest Arab contributions to science, literature, and art. The lending library of over 50,000 books illuminates the political, social, and cultural history of the region. Notice each color of the mosaic hallways, which represent blue for the Arabian Gulf waters, yellow for the Arabian sands, and white for purity and peace.

Location: Al Ras Al Akhdar – Abu Dhabi

The majestic UAE Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi, overlooking the Persian Gulf, United Arab Emirates

Al Mina Fish Market

Taste Abu Dhabi cultural heritage at one of the world’s largest and oldest fish markets. Foodies and true culture vultures will love this authentic (and bustling) experience.

Fishermen unload their catch of the day every morning. Bargain like a local and enjoy low prices on freshly caught crab, lobster, tiger prawns, and sharks. Or, grab a snack at the food stalls, like quick bites or refreshing avocado or mango juice. Feast on freshly cooked fish at the many restaurants on site.

Location: Dhow Harbor – Al Masadir St – Zayed Port – Abu Dhabi

Liwa Route of Forts

The Liwa Oasis forts route offers a beautiful experience telling the story of nomadic tribes and fisherman of the region. The large 113 kilometer oasis sits in the western region of Abu Dhabi with 50 villages surrounded by palm trees and crops. The northern part of Liwa contains five historic fortresses perched over the sands restored by the Ministry of Culture of Abu Dhabi.

Location: Liwa Oasis

Al Ain Oasis and Forts

Meaning “The Spring”, Al Ain is an impressive oasis of working farms and pathways shaded by date palms spanning 3,000 acres. For over 4,000 years, caravans would stop here along their way from the coast to Oman. Today, it represents one of the oldest continually inhabited settlements in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In Al Ain, visitors can stroll historic structures and lush greenery at the Al Hili Oasis, Al Jimi Oasis, Al Qattara, or Al Ain Oasis. Also on site: The Al Ain Palace Museum, a Bedoiun-style castle built in 1937, previously inhabited by former UAE president, Sheikh Zayed. At Qasr Al Muwaiji, birthplace of Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, current president of the UAE, visitors can take a stroll through the history of the UAE.

Location: Al Ain

Hili Archaeological Park

UNESCO World Heritage Sites abound in this ancient region. The Hili Archaeological Park contains the earliest evidence of an agricultural village in the United Arab Emirates. In addition, archaeologists uncovered Bronze Age (3000 BCE-1300 BCE) and Iron Age (1300 BCE-300 BCE) villages, burial grounds, and agricultural infrastructures. They even found fingerprints dating back 3,000 years!

Location: Al Hili – Al Ain

Jebel Hafit Tombs

Venturing outside of the city to the east will bring you through the enchanting desert terrain and an ancient burial site. The Jebel Hafit Beehive Tombs date back to around 3000 BC. The cemetery site sits at the foot of the country’s tallest mountain peak, Jebel Hafit, making this UNESCO World Heritage site well-worth the trip. The tombs look like small stone igloos, and some still contain skeletal remains!

Location: Jebel Hafit – Al Ain

Qasr Al Hosn and the House of Artisans

Discover the story of the Emirates in one of the country’s most significant landmarks. Built in the 1790s, Qasr Al Hosn first served as a fortress during the early settlement of Abu Dhabi. It then provided the seat of government until the 1960s.

After a series of renovations, Qasr Al Hosn has been joined by the House of Artisans, a museum dedicated to the local history and culture. Today guests can tour the art installations, hear musical performances, and participate in workshops. And if you visit during December, don’t miss the Al Hosn Festival, presenting art, design, and performances alongside traditional crafts.

Location: Next to Al Hosn Palace – Abu Dhabi

In the city Abu Dhabi there's more to see than just the Grand Mosque. The Qasr Al Hosn is a good example for another impressive sight in the city.

Close up of a peregrine falcon at veterinarian's office.

Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital

For thousands of years, local Bedouins have relied on falcons for their wits and fast flying abilities, ideal for hunting live prey like rabbits, game birds, and even small gazelles. The falcon represents the country’s national bird, a symbol of pride and courage in the region.

The Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital receives over 11,000 falcons annually for examinations and treatment. See the beautiful bird up close. The public facility welcomes tourist visits and interns interested in learning more about this iconic symbol of the UAE.

Location: Near the Abu Dhabi International Airport – Sweihan Rd St

UAE for Culture Vultures – Extended Trip

If you have an extra day or two and want to explore outside of the city, extend your itinerary with these interesting UAE cultural sites, all within a couple hours of Abu Dhabi.

Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve

Experience the natural beauty of the Emirates at the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. Go into the heart of the dramatic dunes and desert terrain to explore the surprisingly flourishing wildlife. Only select operators have permission to conduct tours, with the most popular options including camel treks, falconry experiences, horse riding, archery, and wildlife safari drives.

At night, the desert comes to life. Experience the romance of the desert during an overnight camping trip under the stars and a traditional Arabian dinner. The park also hosts Bedouin style dinners in the dunes under tents, complete with grilled meats, fresh salads, sweets, and belly dancing.

Location: Sharjah

Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood

When most think of Dubai, they may imagine soaring, futuristic skyscrapers. But to catch a glimpse of the Emirates of yesteryear, head to the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood. The district dates back to the 1890s, characterized by traditional, sand-colored buildings made of stone, gypsum, teak, sandalwood, fronds, and palm wood. Walk through winding pathways and alleyways into public squares to feel transported back in time.

While in the neighborhood, stop by the many cultural heritage attractions supporting local artists and retelling the story of Al Fahidi. Don’t miss Alserkal Cultural Foundation, the Coffee Museum, Shaikh Muhammad Center for Cultural Understanding, XVA Gallery, and the Mawaheb Gallery. Then experience the old heritage of Dubai at the Arabian Tea House Cafe.

Location: Bur Dubai Al Fahidi – Dubai

This page references to other third party brands and/or websites. KAYAK has no control over any third party websites, and KAYAK is not responsible for, nor does KAYAK endorse, sponsor, or have any affiliation with any third party brands/websites. You acknowledge and agree that you will be bound by the terms of service or terms of use of the respective third party websites when redirected to the third party websites.