Abu Dhabi possesses a treasure trove of rich Culture And Heritage that has attracted millions of tourists to the destination time after time.
Abu Dhabi possesses a treasure trove of rich culture and art that has attracted millions of tourists to the destination time after time. From the globally acclaimed Louvre Abu Dhabi to the historic Al Ain Museum, Qasr al Hosn, Berklee Institute, and Al Jahili Fort, the UAE capital is replete with an illustrious history and cultural landmarks.
Amidst the changing scenario, the emirate is ensuring that most of its establishments are ‘Go Safe’ certified. The Go Safe Certification Programme is an initiative spearheaded by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, to standardise health and safety measures across 100 per cent of all retail, tourism, and commercial establishments in the emirate. Popular tourist attractions such as Louvre Abu Dhabi have also partnered with integrated healthcare service provider VPS Healthcare to ensure high standards of health and wellbeing of all visitors with measures including timed ticketing, temperature checks, and social distancing throughout the galleries and outdoor spaces.
FOSTERING CREATIVITY
Apart from the Go Safe certification, another unique initiative adopted by Abu Dhabi to promote culture and heritage in this ongoing phase is the launch of Creative Visa that aims to support individuals contributing to the cultural and creative industries in the emirate.
This visa is open to individuals functioning within the heritage, performing arts, visual arts, design and crafts, gaming and e-sports, media and publishing industries.
The initiative aims to increase opportunities for residency and employment in Abu Dhabi while simultaneously strengthening the thriving creative scene in the UAE.
Culture and art enthusiasts who are planning a trip to Abu Dhabi when international travel resumes might want to add the following museums, historical sites and cultural attractions to their itinerary:
LOUVRE ABU DHABI : The museum displays art, manuscripts and objects of historical, cultural and sociological significance. The display items are significant in world history and culture.
MANARAT AL SAADIYAT : This is a dedicated space for art, cultural activities and community events in the emirate. It encourages people to come together to share and create diverse creative artistic expressions.
BERKLEE INSTITUTE : This is the worlds pre-eminent institute of contemporary music, dance, and theatre.
QASR AL HOSN : Qasr Al Hosn is the oldest and most significant building in the emirate, and holds the city’s first permanent structure; the watchtower. It was converted into a museum in 2018, following more than 11 years of intensive conservation and restoration work. This national monument captures the development of Abu Dhabi into a modern, global metropolis.
QASR AL WATAN : Qasr Al Watan is a palace that offers an interactive experience in a contemporary setting and highlights the governance, knowledge, and craftsmanship of the people in the UAE.
ALAIN MUSEUM : Al Ain Museum, was founded in 1969 under the guidance of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The oldest museum in the UAE houses artefacts discovered in the many archaeological sites scattered throughout the region, including flint tools and arrowheads dating back to sixth millennium BC.
AL JAHILI FORT : This is one of the largest forts in the UAE. Built in the late 19th century, the fort is a symbol of power and was a royal summer residence. Also, a part of the UNESCO heritage list, the fort boasts stunning views.
QASR AL MUWAI : This majestic structure has watched over the oasis for around 100 years. Qasr Al Muwaiji and Al Muwaiji Oasis are key components of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and include several archaeological sites, historic buildings, forts and watchtowers.
In addition to the cultural and historic structures, visitors to Abu Dhabi must also check out Hudayriyat Leisure and Entertainment District, featuring a wide-range of indoor and outdoor activities for families, Cove Beach on Reem Island, which is a unique beach concept, Soul Beach on Saadiyat Island coastline and recently opened Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, a five-star hotel featuring 545 rooms.