Why Heritage Travel is a Unique Way to Experience the UAE
Qasr Al Watan at night with its illuminated architecture and intricate design.

Across the United Arab Emirates (UAE), you’ll discover and experience plenty of exciting activities to keep you occupied. You might do a desert safari, exploring the stunning landscape in a dune buggy. You’ll likely take the family to one of many theme parks, finally crossing off “conquer record-breaking ride” on your bucket list.

But there is more to the UAE. Steeped in culture and history, this country is an ideal destination for heritage travel, which is an authentic exploration of a place’s cultural, historical, and natural heritage.

Start with the capital city.

An Iconic Landmark

One of the must-see cultural attractions in Abu Dhabi that’s perfect for heritage tourism is the Qasr Al Watan. The magnificent site is a working presidential palace that’s become an iconic landmark. Its impeccable design pays homage to Arabian artistry and heritage, preparing you for what you’re about to see indoors.

Qasr Al Watan, which translates to “Palace of the Nation,” is a cultural landmark that highlights the remarkable history of the UAE. But this Abu Dhabi attraction is also a shining example of Emirati craftsmanship. As you learn about the UAE’s past and present, you’ll also marvel at the intricacy and beauty of the palace. If you’re fascinated by architecture, the Palace of the Nation is certainly something you can’t miss.

Because the palace presents history and culture through an amazing light and sound show, the contemporary approach appeals to every tourist on a heritage travel tour.

Apart from this spectacular storytelling, other features to check out are the House of Knowledge, which is a repository of the region’s rich heritage, and the palace library, which houses some 50,000 books on the political, social, cultural, and literary history of the UAE. This must-see cultural spot has become an essential part of any school program as it combines learning about education and culture under one roof.

Although it is cosmopolitan and modern, Abu Dhabi retains its deep connection to its past through unique sites that enable visitors to gain an authentic understanding of the city.

Beyond the Cultural and Historical

Heritage travel goes beyond visits to cultural landmarks and historical sites. Festivals are another way to experience this type of travel, and in the UAE, there are plenty of heritage festivals to participate in.

●       Al Dhafra Festival

Al Dhafra Festival focuses on the essence of Bedouin life by demonstrating community and cultural practices that have defined it for generations. Hundreds from across the UAE come for this festival to exhibit and compete.

You’ll learn how palm frond weaving and embroidery are done. You’ll be amazed at the date palm and packaging contests. And you’ll find excitement in the Saluki dog races and camel races.

The festival also holds a camel beauty contest wherein thousands of purebred camels from the Arabian Peninsula participate. It is quite a sight to behold.

●       Sheik Zayed Heritage Festival

What could be a more appropriate festival than one that’s named after the founding father of the Emirates, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan?

The Sheik Zayed Festival celebrates the country’s culture and rich heritage through handicrafts and traditional performing arts. Much like the Al Dhafra Festival, this festival also features falconry, camel races, and competitions. A highlight is the magnificent parade of Arabian horses.

●       Traditional Handicrafts Festival

Held in the Souq Al Qattara in Al Ain, the Traditional Handicrafts Festival is a celebration of the artisans and craftsmanship of Emiratis.

he festival is not just an exhibition of local craft, but it also serves to promote and advance the customs and traditions of the UAE. The Traditional Handicrafts Festival also seeks to pass on the skills to the younger generation to ensure continuity of this very valuable aspect of the Emirati heritage.

Interactive events, educational workshops and musical performances are just some of the festival’s highlights.

●       Liwa Date Festival

You can’t experience the UAE without including dates in your heritage travel itinerary. The Liwa Date Festival is an essential experience. The date palm fruit is perhaps the UAE’s national treasure, symbolizing the generosity, stability, and hospitality of the country and its people.

Emirati households traditionally serve the delectable fruit with coffee. For generations, the date fruit has served the dietary needs of desert communities across the UAE. Other parts of the tree, from the trunk to the fronds, have provided materials for buildings, tools, and handicrafts.

The Liwa Date Festival highlights all the attributes of this local tree.

Among the highlights of this date palm celebration is the “Best Date Fruit” competition among Emirati farmers.

Although much of the UAE, Abu Dhabi in particular, is cosmopolitan and modern, it retains its deep connection to its past through unique sites that enable visitors to gain an authentic understanding of the country.  So on your next trip to the Emirates, add an element of heritage travel to your visit.