Run by the government, the Women’s Craft Centre is a terrific place to get authentic, locally made handicrafts in Abu Dhabi. The women who work at the centre use a variety of methods such as sewing, weaving, basketry and embroidery to make high quality handicrafts. The artefacts are on display so that visitors can admire the exceptional skill that goes into creating them and purchase goods that catch their eye. Visitors are free to take photographs of the displayed items but not the women who create them.
It is also possible to observe how the various handicrafts are made. Visitors can watch as the women work side by side creating baskets, bags, and even traditional costumes. One item that takes a lot of skill and precision is weaving wooden blocks for the teli. First strings with vivid colours such as silver and gold are woven onto a wooden block. These are then used to embroider the sleeves and collars of women’s traditional attire (called teli) that are worn only on special occasions. Another item that is highly popular is the sadu, which is made by weaving together wool and cotton in elaborate patterns. These are then used as tents by the wandering Bedouins.
Also on sale are baskets woven from palm fronds which are called khous, rugs, pottery items, and shawls, all of which can make terrific souvenirs. One can also sample the local cuisine here and female visitors can get henna patterns painted on their arms as well. The Women’s Craft Centre is located along Karama Street which is off the Airport Road. One has to purchase a ticket to get in. The centre is open from Sunday to Thursday from 7 am to 3 pm.
Abu Dhabi is one of the emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates. Over the past few years the oil rich state has slowly evolved as a top tourist destination in the Middle East. The rise in its popularity has been marked by an increase in the number of Abu Dhabi hotels . The Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara is situated in the Liwa Desert and is one of the best luxury hotels Abu Dhabi . It is a terrific place to stay when visiting this emirate.
