Located in the core of modern day Abu Dhabi lies a fitting tribute to its Bedouin past and illustrious cultural heritage. Rightfully dubbed Heritage Village, this decidedly unassuming attraction offers guests a journey though time to the nation’s rich legacy, to an era when the Bedouins roamed the desert landscapes and called this very city their home. Attracting many a visitor to its creatively constructed enclave this makeshift ancient village serves as an accurate replication of that bygone age with traditional buildings, practices and lifestyles exhibited and explored in all their simplistic charm. Pleasantly situated on an island and connected to the mainland by a number of bridges, the Village is quaintly lined with mud-brick households that were a common sight during the period now referred to as the “oil era”.
Guests can also experience the feel of a traditional thoroughfare at the marketplace specially built to demonstrate the features and practices of an ancient marketplace where residents and vendors haggled over goods that were the main commodities during the time. A mosque is also part of Heritage Village as the religious beliefs of those early inhabitants played a significant role in their day to day lives.
At the centre of the Village lies the Hill Gardens which contain four thousand year old tombs. As one of the most popular attractions at the venue the Hill Gardens serve as a focal point within this enclave that is considered by many as a precise reconstruction of a nomadic camp. Demonstrations on traditional practices and skills are also a highlight at the Village which also displays craftsmen and women engaging in weaving, metal work, spinning and pottery making activities. Guests are also welcome to try their hand at these ancient art forms while learning the intricate details of making household wares used by the community. Ancient irrigation systems and the fine art of falconry are also explored here while an open-air museum that showcases garments, coins, weapons, jewellery, Holy Qurans and diving equipment used by the Bedouins. Visitors can also sample an authentic Bedouin meal at the venue which also houses a souvenir store and a spice shop.
Tourists in search of the most advantageous Abu Dhabi hotel deals in the capital will be more than pleased with the luxurious Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi. Ideally located within walking distance of the city’s business district this stylish rest is also one of the few Abu Dhabi hotels that are situated along the trendy Corniche area.
