Sightseeing in Abu Dhabi, UAE

One of the important landmarks of Abu Dhabi, the Al-Hosn Palace, is located on Khalid bin Walid Street. Also known as the White Fort or the Old Fort, the palace is more than 200 years old. The oldest building in the city, the palace was built in the 19^th century AD as the residence of the former ruling family of Abu Dhabi. The renovated interiors of the palace have transformed it into a modern palace. The most noteworthy sections of the palace are its courtyard and the tile work over the main gate. The Al-Hosn Palace now houses the Cultural Foundation, which run the Documentation and research Center there. Several interesting exhibits displaying traditional artifacts and historical photographs are showcased here. The most noteworthy sections amongst these are the natural history section featuring animal life from the desert, historical section with displays of the history of Abu Dhabi as well as the pottery and other artifacts section. The tower contains a display of weapons used throughout history in Abu Dhabi.

Heritage Village

The Heritage Village is spread over 1600 sq m area commanding a superb view of the Corniche in Abu Dhabi. Relatively new heritage village, it is managed by the emirates Heritage Club. To learn about the gradual development of Abu Dhabi from a simple fishing village into a modern metropolis, Heritage Village is the right place to be. Here you will come across the palm huts, mud houses, traditional fishing villages, typical souqs and photographic exhibition. The maritime traditions are the highlight of this place. Heritage Village also has a special collection of Holy Quran. You can get your hands on local handicraft products from a craft shop here.

Bedouin Village

For a journey back into the time rich in tradition, Bedouin Village is the right place to visit. It is located on Mussafah Road right behind the Abu Dhabi International Exhibition Center. It is a very successful attempt to genuinely display the typical Bedouin lifestyle. It is the place to learn how the Arabs lived traditionally much before the discovery of oil that changed the skyline of the United Arab Emirates. The elaborate replicas of ancient mud-brick houses, shops lined in a typical souq and traditional mosques indicate about the history of Abu Dhabi. Get a real life experience with a ride on the camel back and enjoy the demonstration of the longstanding sport of falconry at the Bedouin Village.

The Cultural Foundation

Situated beside Al-Hosn Palace in Khalidiya Street, the Cultural Foundation is housed in a beautiful contemporary building with typical Islamic architectural features such as arched columns, carved doorways, fancy courtyards and luxuriant gardens. It comprises of the National Archives, National Library and Institute of Culture and Art. The foundation also has the coffee shop, cinema, exhibition center, lecture rooms, meeting rooms and theatre within the complex. It organizes art exhibitions, cultural events patronizing local and international artists, film festivals, theater plays and various workshops on regular basis.

The Corniche

The Corniche of Abu Dhabi is an inshore boulevard that extends from the Sheraton hotel to the Hilton Hotel covering almost 6 km or 4 miles. With a backdrop of modern high-rises overlooking the sea, it is one of the most splendid places in Abu Dhabi. The long stretch is lined with several well-kept gardens and fountains and is a toast for the eyes. Some of the most beautiful beaches of Abu Dhabi are located along the Corniche.

Women's Handicraft Centre

To get a hand on local handicraft pieces, you must visit the women’s Handicraft Center. Run by Abu Dhabi Women’s Association, it is a forum where encouragement is given to the local women to display their art and craft such as basketry, embroidery, pottery making, sewing, weaving etc. It is also the place to learn a few skills and appreciate the traditional handicraft and artistic skills of this region. You will be fascinated by the local costume, pottery and perfumed oils on display. Some items are also on sale like baskets, coffee pots, rugs and shawls. So if you fancy something to carry as a souvenir, you will find one here. There is a small kitchen area as well where one can enjoy the taste of local cuisine.

Bateen Shipyard

Close to the InterContinental Hotel towards the west of Abu Dhabi Island is the Bateen Shipyard. It is worth visiting this place to get an insight into art of boat building. The huge planks of teak are piled here to be shaped into the willowy sailing dhows. The shape of the dhows has undergone very little change over the centuries. Most of the boats built or mended here are sleek racing rather than traditional trading dhows, with some even have carbon fiber masts.

Landmark Buildings

Abu Dhabi is known for its skyscrapers and several high-rise buildings. Just to have a glimpse of them is an experience in itself. Most of head quarters of oil companies in Abu Dhabi are a treat to watch, as they are marvelous structures built of concrete, steel and glass. The Abu Dhabi Company for Onshore Oil Operations (ADCO) has an astonishing building located on the Corniche towards the end of Khaleej Al Arabi Street (30^th St). The Abu Dhabi Marine Operating Company (ADMA-OPCO) has their new headquarters on the Corniche across the road from the Al Ain Palace hotel at the top end of 6^th Street.

The Abu Dhabi Gas Liquefaction and Company (ADGAS) is housed in the same building but have a separate entrance. The headquarters of the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) are located on Khalidiya just beyond the Hilton Hotel. The Etisalat building’s are adorned with a white globe on the top and can be identified from a distance. Baynunah Tower is the tallest building in Abu Dhabi and is located on the Corniche towards the west of the Clock Tower roundabout.     

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