ABU DHABI ESSENTIALS will take you on a journey across the emirate’s extensive cultural sites, including ancient ruins, UNESCO world heritage sites, internationally renowned as well as local museums, and unique exhibitions and art fairs.

 

1. QASR AL HOSN AND HOUSE OF ARTISANS

•  Explore the history of Abu Dhabi

•  Visit the oldest structure on the island, the historical watchtower

•  Experience the Fort exhibition, which takes you through the remarkable evolution of Abu Dhabi and its people

•  Visit the House of Artisans exhibition  and explore traditional Emirati crafts

•  Experience Bait Al Gahwa, a traditional sensorial coffee-making ceremony

 

2. CULTURAL FOUNDATION

Guests will experience a tour of the main exhibition, meet the Artists in Residence, and enjoy calligraphy workshops with Mohamed Mandi, the UAE’s renowned calligrapher.

 

3. LOUVRE ABU DHABI

Be amazed by Louvre Abu Dhabi’s collection – artworks spanning many civilisations, revealing fascinating stories of cultural connection. Ticket includes temporary exhibitions

 

4. SHEIKH ZAYED GRAND MOSQUE

The welcoming mosque’s open-door policy encourages visitors from around the world, from families to groups to solo travellers, to not only witness its beauty but also gain a deeper understanding of the emirate’s cultural beliefs in a space that encourages open dialogue.

 

5. QASR AL WATAN

•  Enjoy the Motion event, a spectacular light and sound show that celebrates the UAE’s working Presidential Palace, a majestic landmark that invites the world to discover the rich legacy of knowledge and tradition that has shaped the UAE’s journey

•  The show comprises three breathtaking acts that unfold in front of the main palace every 30 minutes after sundown

ABU DHABI ESSENTIALS will take you on a journey across the emirate’s extensive cultural sites, including ancient ruins, UNESCO world heritage sites, internationally renowned as well as local museums, and unique exhibitions and art fairs.

1. JEBEL HAFIT TOMBS

Discover archaeological and historical remains that recount the ancient way of life in this region

 

2. AL AIN OASIS

A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011, awarded for the preserving of a way of life that has existed from ancient times until today. Traditional Emirati lunch available at the Oasis.

 

3. AL AIN SAFARI

•  Enjoy a journey along a predetermined route around the safari area

•  End your evening with a Dinner with the Lions, enjoying a sumptuous meal on the edge of the park’s lion territory

 

4. AL AIN PALACE MUSEUM

Previous home of the Founding Father of the UAE.

 

Overnight

5. QASR AL HOSN AND HOUSE OF ARTISANS

•  Explore the history of Abu Dhabi

•  Visit the oldest structure on the island, the historical watchtower

•  Experience the Fort exhibition, which takes you through the remarkable evolution of Abu Dhabi and its people

•  Visit the House of Artisans exhibition and explore traditional Emirati crafts

•  Experience Bait Al Gahwa, a traditional sensorial coffee-making ceremony

 

6. CULTURAL FOUNDATION

Guests will experience a tour of the main exhibition, meet the Artists-in-Residence, and enjoy a calligraphy workshop with Mohamed Mandi, a UAE calligrapher.

 

7. LOUVRE ABU DHABI

Be amazed by Louvre Abu Dhabi’s collection – artworks spanning many civilisations, revealing fascinating stories of cultural connections. Ticket includes temporary exhibitions

 

8. EMIRATI HOUSE EXPERIENCE (WITH TOUR GUIDE MAITHA)

Visit a real Emirati house to learn more about Emirati culture, traditions, hospitality and much more.

This unique cultural gem located within Al Ain’s UNESCO World Heritage Site is the former home of the late Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan’s father-in-law. Offering valuable insights into the transformation of the nation’s social, historical and architectural traditions during the 1950s and 60s, it is celebrated as an important monument in Abu Dhabi’s recent history. In remembrance of UAE’s Founding Father, the House, which was among the very first landmarks to greet travelers to the emirate, has now been restored and transformed into a community centre with a permanent exhibition, traditional art learning centre and a café.