Although it looks old and tired, this rebuilt city is one of the few places to gain insight into the pre-oil era of the United Arab Emirates. The walled structure incorporates all the elements of traditional Gulf life: a castle to chase away invaders from the sea, a souq to trade goats on friendly neighbor days and a Muslim church as a memorial to the central part played by Islam in daily life. Look at the barasti (Gulf’s traditional way of building houses with palm leaves and the name of the house itself), designed to hold high winds near the palm branches water) in the fields of Al Ain and Liwa Oasis today.
Most Emiratis are proud to have originated in the desert, and while migration life has largely disappeared in the UAE, many people still prefer to return to their roots by camping in goat hair tents similar to those shown in part of the Bedouin city. Camels continue to play their part in making the country known, many families have a few on desert farms and attend regular races. Not surprisingly, this is a section that always attracts a lot of interest in visiting Emiratis.
Take the time to watch the artists work on various projects in the area of refining, pottery and glass repair. For sculptors, you can see craftsmen clad in khanjar, a traditional curved sword, which remains an integral part of festive costumes throughout the region.
Finally you enter the museum of an old castle with its traditional cooling tower inside. There is a fine display of jewelry here and in the pearl industry, where Abu Dhabi was established before the prestigious pearls from Japan and the discovery of oil made from unwanted pearls. Behind this is a small piece of the sea with a few traditional boats sitting on the sand and a beautiful view of the city atmosphere.
ABOUT:
You may be familiar with the attractions and parks of Abu Dhabi. But have you ever noticed the features of the desert culture? Heritage Village is one of the must-visit places in Abu Dhabi for visitors to explore the cultural significance of the emirates.
A traditional souk and an ancient mosque will take you through a time capsule to pre-Abu Dhabi. It is one of the most interesting family sites in Abu Dhabi, especially for true heritage lovers to explore different art. Exhibitions of Arabian goats, camels, and Arabian horses also make this place a fun place for children. If you want to see the art of making traditional handicrafts, there are local artisans who specialize in weaving, pottery, metalworking, and more. You can also buy traditional products such as handmade soap, clothing, silver jewelry, and more. There are also stables where women can be adorned with traditional henna or mehndi with a perfect combination of Arabs.
ACTIVITIES:
There is a lot to do at the Heritage Village Museum for curious visitors. You can testify to the emirates’ journey from the Arab shell that went up to the big city in a very short time. One of the most popular events in the capital is the Heritage Village Heritage Festival organized by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi. While this is an occasional event, here is something else to do at Heritage Village, which is available all year round.
The Heritage Village Museum showcases Emirati culture with authentic jewelry, first-century weapons and historic tents. You can also look at the handwritten copies of the Quran shown. Have you ever wondered how the irrigation system worked in ancient times? The model of the irrigation system shows the effectiveness used in the UAE to irrigate palm forests. Adhering to the roots of the region, one of the attractions of Gugu Village is also the display of glass-blowing art, which was practiced in the region to make fragrant bottles. There are many opportunities to click on images that fit Insta including the amazing display of stupidity in this area that deserves to be proven. If you have ever wondered how many Emirate homes remain cool during the hot summer, do not miss the visit to the barracks (Barjeel) used in the ancient houses to blow the refreshing breezes in the desert settlements. Even in the heat of the day and no matter where the wind blows, this cooling tower blows fresh air into traditional Arab homes.
HERITAGE VILLAGE SHOPPING:
In addition to looking at the past in Heritage Village in Abu Dhabi, you can have a different experience of buying traditional monuments which is an order to the past of the region’s richness. Here are a few things you can bring back to make your trip memorable. If you are wondering about the entrance fee to Heritage Village Abu Dhabi, you will be happy to know that this is one of the free things you can do in Abu Dhabi, so you will not feel guilty about spending some money on a gift shop. You can buy some traditional art objects and works of art made with great traditional skills. A small spice shop in Heritage Village sells handmade soap and herbs. There is also a small traditional sock where you can test your communication skills. Socks include tables for silver jewelry, traditional clothing, fur magazines, bags, and henna among others. Visitors can also find local merchandise such as UAE keys. T-shirts and more.
HERITAGE VILLAGE BEACH:
You will be amazed to know that without desire, there is also a beautiful sea overlooking the blue waters of the Arabian Gulf. It is a must-visit place when visiting Heritage Village but read below to find out what to expect at sea. This small beach line is a great place to enjoy the view of the Abu Dhabi sky under the palm tree. Remember you are not allowed to bring beach clothes to swim in. Traditional ships and old boats also complement the cultural heritage of the ancient Arab harbor.
RESTAURANT:
If you feel dignified after all the walks, Al Asalah Restaurant is a great way to enjoy delicious Mediterranean food while arriving at the beautiful waterfalls. Other popular dining options can be found a short distance to Marina Mall or Corniche.
TICKET PRICE:
Tickets for Heritage Village Abu Dhabi are free so you can visit without burning a hole in your pocket.
LOCATION:
Heritage Village Abu Dhabi is located in Corniche near Marina Mall on Breakwater Road in Abu Dhabi. Parking is available at Heritage Village and you can also park at Marina Mall and choose a taxi or bus.
TIMING:
Village Abu Dhabi’s mid-day times range from Saturday to Thursday between 09:00 am and 04:00 pm. On Friday, opening hours at Heritage Village Abu Dhabi are 03:30 pm to 09:00 pm. The average time to explore all the attractions is about 90 minutes.
CONTACT NUMBER:
You can contact Heritage Village management for any queries at +971-2-681-4455.
That concludes our review of Gugu Village in Abu Dhabi. If you want to know more about the rich culture of the UAE, there are museums in Abu Dhabi that showcase the Bedouin lifestyle and heritage. And if you enjoy the arts and culture, the Louvre Abu Dhabi exhibition incorporates the art of jawbone in the capital. This Heritage Park in Abu Dhabi is not the only order in the rich past, there is also the annual Heritage Village festival in Al Wathba which is enjoyed by flowers.
