The majority of local arts and crafts are the work of women. The women of the city are skilled in the crafts and have been so for generations. They have mastered weaving and embroidery and passed on their knowledge and expertise from one generation to another. The famous Teli, the strikingly embroidered sleeves on the festive robes of Abu Dhabi women are woven in gold, silver and multi hued thread on traditional wooden equipment
Another famed craft of the region is the making of the Sado. Cotton and wool strands are woven into material of elaborate designs and patterns. These textiles are used as the cover of vibrant tents that the Bedouins use to reside within in the deserts. Khous baskets are also a popular handicraft. Made of palm fronds they are used in abundance by the locals and are found in almost every household. This alluring emirate provides many more local products for its guests including distinctive pottery work, exquisite shawls, a multitude of woven textiles and exotic Middle Eastern carpets.
If you want to take a closer look at how these products are made, then visit the Women’s Craft Centre at Makotum Street. The centre managed and administered by the Abu Dhabi Women’s Association displays an array of local arts and crafts while giving step by step demonstrations on how they are made. The Cultural Foundation of Abu Dhabi also houses an outlet for Emirati handicrafts and is overlooked by the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage. This store like space gives visitors the chance to watch traditional crafts being handmade.
Visit the centres and get henna tattoos or take a tour of the famous Abu Dhabi Heritage Village while staying at any hotel Abu Dhabi UAE is home to. One of the most sought after accommodation options include Grand Millennium Al Wahda, a luxury Abu Dhabi hotel that is determined to make your stay a truly exceptional one. Complete with superior comfort and world class amenities they will let you experience the city at its best.
