This special place is called the Heritage Village, run by the Emirates Heritage Club, and it offers a unique chance to experience what life in the UAE was like before oil was discovered.
A Step Back in Time
The Heritage Village is more than just a tourist attraction. It is a living museum, designed to show traditional desert life in the UAE. It reflects how people lived in the past—when the land was dry, the lifestyle was simple, and communities depended on the desert, the sea, and each other to survive.
Walking through the Heritage Village is like stepping back in time. You’ll see mud-brick houses, palm-thatched huts (arish), old wells, and even traditional Bedouin tents. Each structure is a reminder of how tough, yet resourceful, the early Emirati people were.
Created to Keep Culture Alive
The Emirates Heritage Club, which manages the village, was founded to protect and promote Emirati culture and heritage. Their goal is not just to display the past but to help people—locals and tourists—understand it. The Heritage Village opened in the 1990s, and since then, it has welcomed thousands of visitors every year.
For students, history lovers, and tourists, it’s an educational experience. But for older Emiratis, it’s a reminder of their roots, their struggles, and their identity.
What You Can See and Do
There’s plenty to explore at the Heritage Village. Here are some of the highlights:
1. Traditional Houses
You can walk inside houses made from materials like palm fronds, stones, and mud bricks. These were the homes of fishermen, pearl divers, and desert dwellers. The houses are kept cool using traditional methods, without air conditioning.
2. Bedouin Tents
Set up under the shade of date palms, the tents show how nomadic tribes lived in the desert. You might even find a camel resting nearby, just like in the old days.
3. Craft Workshops
One of the most exciting parts of the village is the chance to watch craftsmen and women at work. Visitors can see pottery making, weaving, metalwork, and more. Many artisans use the same tools and methods their ancestors did. You can also buy handmade souvenirs, which makes for a great way to support local craft.
4. Falconry Displays
The UAE has a long history of falconry, and the Heritage Village often hosts falconry demonstrations. You can see these majestic birds up close and learn about their important role in Emirati tradition.
5. Museum and Exhibits
There’s a small museum inside the village, filled with old photographs, tools, weapons, and clothing from different parts of the UAE. It helps visitors understand the changes that have happened in the country over the years.
6. Spice and Souk Area
A walk through the village’s mini souk (market) is a treat for the senses. You can smell fresh herbs, see colorful fabrics, and bargain for traditional items like daggers, carpets, and incense burners.
7. Traditional Food
No visit is complete without tasting some authentic Emirati dishes. Local food stalls serve meals like machboos (rice with meat), harees (wheat and meat stew), and luqaimat (sweet dumplings). The food is cooked using traditional recipes passed down through generations.
More Than Just History
The Heritage Village isn’t just about the past—it’s also about connecting people. It’s a place where visitors can talk to locals, hear stories from older generations, and take part in cultural events.
Every year, the Emirates Heritage Club hosts festivals and events at the village. These include poetry readings, folk dances, camel races, and traditional music performances. Schools often organize trips to the village, helping the younger generation understand their culture in a fun, hands-on way.
Easy to Reach, Hard to Forget
Located on the Breakwater near Marina Mall, the Heritage Village is very easy to reach from anywhere in Abu Dhabi. Entry is free, and the village is open six days a week, except Sundays. Most visitors spend 2–3 hours exploring the site, though it’s easy to stay longer if you get caught up in the charm of the place.
The location also offers great views of the city skyline, perfect for photos that show the contrast between the old and the new.
Why It Matters
In today’s fast-moving world, places like the Heritage Village remind us of the importance of preserving culture and identity. As the UAE continues to grow, it’s vital to keep the stories of the past alive. The Heritage Village does just that—through its buildings, its people, and its mission.
Whether you’re a resident wanting to reconnect with your roots, or a tourist curious about Emirati traditions, the Heritage Village offers an experience that’s authentic, educational, and heartwarming.
So next time you’re in Abu Dhabi, take a break from the malls and skyscrapers. Visit the Heritage Village, and discover the soul of the desert that built this incredible nation.
Also read: Saadiyat’s New Maritime Museum Will Take You Back in Time
