Discover the essence of tradition…
Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, is a hub of art, culture, and heritage. From the world-famous Louvre Abu Dhabi to the numerous independent galleries, there is no shortage of artistic expression in the city. But what sets Abu Dhabi apart is its dedication to preserving the country’s rich history. With several museums and experiences that showcase the UAE’s strong heritage, visitors can delve into centuries worth of fascinating history, dating back to the time of nomadic Arab tribes. Come and explore the treasures of Abu Dhabi’s past.
Discovering the legacy of the UAE can be an exciting experience! Here are six fun ways to explore and learn more about this fascinating country.
Brew an authentic Arabic coffee
Discover the rich tradition of Gahwa, also known as Arabic coffee, which has been an integral part of Arab culture for centuries. This unique beverage is steeped in history and is steeped with distinctive techniques, including roasting, cooling, grounding, and brewing. Traditionally prepared in front of guests, it is considered a symbol of generosity. Experience the full process of preparing and serving Gahwa, from the initial stages of roasting to the final presentation, at Qasr Al Hosn.
Stand out from the crowd and try your hand at playing the Oud
The Oud is a fascinating string instrument that holds a significant place in Middle Eastern music. Its unique pear shape and distinctive notes make it stand out from other instruments in Western music. Despite being a little challenging to learn, playing the Oud can be a lot of fun. If you’re interested in learning this beautiful instrument, the Musicians Musical Institute in Abu Dhabi is an excellent place to start. They are passionate about sharing their love for music with others and offer both in-person and online Oud lessons. You can book a single class for Dhs225 or sign up for eight sessions for Dhs1,725. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn this exceptional instrument and explore the world of Middle Eastern music!
Master the art of Arabic calligraphy
Calligraphy is a great hobby to take on and the art form itself is an expression of beauty. Arabic calligraphy is no different, adorning a number of mosques with eye-catching quotes from the Quran. With its symmetry and structure, calligraphy is known to relieve stress, improve concentration and stimulate creativity. Learn the art with a private calligraphy class in the comfort of your own home with skilldeer. The 90-minute classes are great for those just starting out or have a little experience and you can take either three, six or 12 sessions depending on your learning goals. Prices start from Dhs615, plus Dhs70 for your calligraphy kit.
Soak in the UAE’s history Hidden
Located in the heart of Abu Dhabi’s bustling city center, Qasr Al Hosn is one of the oldest heritage sites in the city. Comprising of two iconic buildings – the Inner Fort, originally constructed in 1795, and the Outer Palace, built between 1939 and 1945 – this historic site has been carefully restored and preserved over the last 11 years. Today, Qasr Al Hosn has been transformed into a museum that showcases the fascinating development of Abu Dhabi, from its humble beginnings as a fishing and pearling settlement in the 18th century to the vibrant metropolis it is today. Visitors can expect to see a wide range of artefacts and materials dating back as far as 6,000 BC, providing a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit this incredible site and learn more about the history of Abu Dhabi. Tickets are available for just Dhs30.
Learn the alif, baa, taa’s of Arabic
Arabic is considered one of the most beautiful languages in the world. Whether you’ve lived in UAE all your life, or if you’ve just arrived, you’ll find that learning the language besides being very gratifying, come with other perks. Besides the most common words like marhaba, shukran, and yalla, kickstart the learning process and book an express group course at Eton Institute. The 15-session course will allow you to understand everyday greetings, expressions and basic phrases. Courses start from Dhs1,890.
Ras Al Khaimah: Take a deep dive and learn about pearl diving
Discover the fascinating history of the UAE’s pearl diving past at Suwaidi Pearl Farm, located in the charming fishing village of Al Rams in Ras Al Khaimah. Established by Abdulla Al Suwaidi, whose grandfather was a renowned pearl diver in the UAE, the farm offers an immersive experience into this traditional practice. For those seeking a deeper understanding, you can spend a day with a traditional pearl diver and learn the techniques and skills involved. Prices for tours start at Dhs250 per person, offering a unique glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Images: Getty Images
