THE BEST OF MODERN ISLAMIC HERITAGE
Abu Dhabi's culture is firmly rooted in Arabia's Islamic traditions, creating a shining example of Islam's true commitment to tolerance and hospitality. The combination of international influences and a strong commitment to local heritage and culture has created an intriguing mix of new and old. Here are some of the most amazing cultural sites and iconic landmarks of Abu Dhabi.
SHEIKH ZAYED GRAND MOSQUEmarvel with
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque stands out as one of the world’s largest mosques, and the only one that captures unique interactions between Islam and world cultures. Sheikh Zayed's vision for the Grand Mosque was to incorporate architectural styles from different Muslim civilisations and celebrate cultural diversity by creating a haven that is truly diverse and inspirational in its foundation.
The mosque’s architects were British, Italian and Emirati, and design inspiration was borrowed parts of Turkey, Morocco, Pakistan, and Egypt among other
Islamic countries, revealing a glistening architectural marvel with an astonishing capacity of 40,000 worshippers and visitors. The open-door policy invites tourists and celebrants from all around the world who can witness the spectacular onion-top domes, the reflective pools that engulf the courtyard and the iconic prayer hall, which not only overflows with blissful sunlight, but also houses the world’s biggest chandelier and carpet, both meticulously handmade.
Be sure to spot the calligraphy encircling the hollows of the domes, etched with verses from the Quran and painted with gold leaves in An-Naskh lettering.
Etihad Towers
ETIHAD TOWERS
A dramatic architectural statement, this five tower complex invites residents and visitors to live, work, stay, shop and dine in one destination with panoramic city and Arabian Gulf views.
A benchmark for luxury experiences, the complex includes three residential towers and the 280 metre high, five-star Jumeirah at Etihad Towers hotel.
On Tower 2’s 74th floor, the Observation Deck at 300 offers unbeatable cityscape and island views.
The Avenue at Etihad Towers is one of the world’s most expensive and exclusive collections of boutique shops, with many having luxurious private rooms for private, VIP shopping.
EMIRATES PALACE
A lavish property is world renowned for its unparalleled Arab-esque essence, and award-winning 5-star hospitality and authentic local experiences. Located in the heart of Abu Dhabi, Emirates Palace is outstanding in both its design and offerings.
From a pristine private beach to landscaped pools and a private marina overlooking a natural bay, the iconic hotel is perfect for a once-in-a-lifetime holiday.
During daytime, the hotel’s golden exterior contrasts with its surrounding greenery, silvery water fountains and the blue sky.
At night, the hotel’s lighting changes subtly, featuring a majestic rainbow effect over the main dome. The main Palace building stretches over a kilometre from wing to wing. The hotel features 114 domes, with the central dome ground crafted meticulously with gold, mother of pearl and crystals. The Palace also boasts 1,002 chandeliers, the largest weighing 2.5 tonnes!
Emirates Palace
LOUVRE ABU DHABI
The iconic Louvre Abu Dhabi is the first universal museum in the Arab World that translates the spirit of openness of cultures. As one of the premier cultural institutions located in the heart of the Saadiyat Cultural District, the art-lovers dream displays the works of historical, cultural and sociological significance from ancient times to the contemporary era.
Designed by Pritzker-prize winning architect Jean Nouvel, the Louvre Abu Dhabi encompasses 9,200 sq. m of galleries including the Permanent Gallery and a Temporary Gallery that is enriched by loans from many notable French museums including Musee du Louvre, Musee d'Orsay, and Centre Pompidou.
Recreating parts of UAE’s integral cultural elements, Nouvel designed a falaj-inspired water system running through the museum, inspired by ancient Arabian engineering whilst the orderly lace dome borrows inspiration from the interlaced palm leaves traditionally used as roofing material in many parts of the country that results in an enchanting play of light. The juxtaposition of different civilisations in the same spaces, the Louvre Abu Dhabi illustrates similarities and exchanges from the shared human experience going beyond nationality, and history.
Louvre, Adu Dhabi
Al Ain Palace
AL AIN PALACE
Qasr al-Ain or "Al Ain Palace", is one of the best-reinstated forts in the Abu Dhabi emirate. The museum showcases the everyday life in a ruler's fort when the late Sheikh Zayed and his family resided in the palace prior to 1966. The Bedouin style architecture dates back to 1937 and was converted into a museum in 1998 as a main cultural and visitor attraction. The museum opened its doors to visitors in 2001, and continues to celebrate the rich history of the country and preserves its links to the present and the future.
The contrast of modern design elements with traditional Emirati influences can be seen throughout the property. The structure of the museum is a conglomeration of courtyards. Each of these areas was built and restored using locally sourced and environmentally friendly building materials including clay, adobe and plaster stones, as well as palm tree elements for roofing rooms, ceilings, doors, and windows. The most visited section is the room that was devoted to teaching the residents of the palace.
AL AIN CAMEL MARKET
Al Ain's famous camel market is a wonderful immersion in traditional Arab culture. From young Arabian camels that might grow up to be racers to impressive adult camels ideal for breeding, the market is a one-of-a-kind experience to get a closer look at the animal that enjoys a special place in the Emirati heritage. The market is located 15km away from downtown Al Ain and is a stark contrast from the big city, where trading takes place in the morning, but it’s usually possible to see the corralled animals all day long.
Visitors are welcome to take a look at the different camels, attend the mock races, take pictures with the camels and watch locals arrive in pickups laden with goats and sheep, ready to do some hard haggling. https://visitabudhabi.ae
Al Ain Camel Market