The Bedouin Village, also known as Heritage Village is a recreation of a traditional Emirati oasis village. Not only does it provide an insight into how desert dwellers adapted to harsh terrain and climatic conditions but gives a glimpse into an ancient lifestyle, its traditions and beliefs. Visiting the village also gives a good idea of how the Bedouins spent their lives engaging in different trades, agriculture and animal husbandry. Located on a spit along the Corniche, past the Marina Mall the village is very easy to access.
Built in the form of an open museum, the Bedouin Village showcases the pre oil boom
simple lifestyle of the desert people. A Bedouin encampment with goats hair tents and camp fires outside brewing coffee filling the air with its wonderful aroma, a ‘barasti’ house made with wood and leaves of palm trees with a wind tower, an old style mosque, camels and goats in thatched sheds, demonstrations of camel riding, falconry and riding displays by smart Arabian horses are some of the highlights. Crafts people in Bedouin dress demonstrate weaving on traditional looms, pottery, beating brass and glass blowing techniques and visitors do sometimes get to try their hand at these crafts and to make their own souvenir. No Emirati village will be complete without a souk. In the small replica here haggling skills can be tested bargaining over souvenirs, silver jewellery, spices, handmade soap and traditional costumes. Visitors can also get their hands and feet painted with intricate designs at the henna stalls. The museum building on the premises has an interesting collection of photos of Abu Dhabi before the oil boom in addition to displays of ancient holy Qurans, traditional jewellery, weaponry, coins, garments and diving equipment. A falaj irrigation system at work and replicas of pearling boats and dhows are also found here. A group of men and women in Bedouin costume entertain visitors with traditional songs to the accompaniment of drums. In keeping with the theme, an Arabic restaurant serves buffet lunches and other refreshments in traditional style. Just across the village is the beach where visitors can enjoy water sports and the contrasting Abu Dhabi skyline. Late afternoon is a good time to visit the village as more stalls are open at this time.
The Kingsgate Hotel Abu Dhabi is not only located within walking distance to shopping, business and entertainment destinations but also provides well appointed, comfortable guestrooms and a range of facilities and amenities to suit business and leisure travellers and families. As a prominent three star hotel in Abu Dhabi guests are assured of excellent service and a relaxing stay in a quiet area of the city. Take advantage of some of the best offers and promotions around to enjoy a stay at this popular hotel Abu Dhabi.
Umanga Kahandawaarachchi is a passionate travel writer who writes under the pen name, Maggie Tulliver. Her field of writing covers a wide array of content and articles related to travel and hospitality industry.
