The United Arab Emirates has more to offer than just tall buildings, modern skyscrapers, and the magical desert safaris. The region steams with culture and it boasts of experiences and stories that transcend both the people and time. A wonderful array of accommodations awaits tourists as well. From glamping spots to beachfront hotels, accommodation options are plenty. It is for these reasons that the UAE is a top travel destination in the world. If you are into history and you are headed for the UAE, it will be exciting to sample some of the popular historic attractions in the region. To help you out, below is a look at some of the historic places in the United Arab Emirates, that will give you the greatest satisfaction when you visit.
1. Heritage Village (from USD 52.0)
Heritage Village in Abu Dhabi is one of the leading attractions for those who want to experience luxury and culture without leaving the precincts and the comfort of the beach. In this village, you will come face to face with various aspects of the traditional desert life. There are various authentic exhibits that tell the story of the different times the UAE has gone through, including the progress it had made from the rudimentary cultures to the center of cultural excellence that we now see today. Some of the highlights of the village include a desert camp with a mosque, a replica of a fishing village, and a workshop showcasing the construction of the old villages of the United Arab Emirates. Also worth noting is the museum where you will find a plethora of exhibits from the past.
Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Heritage Village, and Souk
Duration 4 hours
2. Qasr al-Hosn Fort
Also known as the White Fort, Qasr al-Hosn Fort is the oldest stone building in Abu Dhabi. It is believed that the original fort was constructed in 1761 and it served as a watchtower, the only fresh water well that was present in Abu Dhabi at that time. The tower was later to be expanded by Shakhbut bin Dhiyab Al Nahyan who made it the official residence of the ruling Sheikh. What you find now is not just the history associated with the old building, but also a glimpse into the sheik’s way of life, including the items they used for living as well as for ruling.
Qasr Al Hosn Ticket
Duration 1hrsDuration
3. Al Jazeera Al Hamra/Red Island
Since the United Arab Emirates is in proximity to the Gulf, the residents, back in the day were compelled to live in coastal villages. Al Jazeera Al Hamra is also known as the Red Island, and it is one of the best places to visit if you want to get the authentic feel of how life was in the coastal villages. It is a historic beauty with mosques, traditional schools, mosques and souqs that depicts the real story about the traditional Emirati way of life.
Al Jazeera Al Hamra/Red Island
Address: Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates
Website: Al Jazeera Al Hamra/Red Island
Opening hours: Always open
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
Spacious 1-Bedroom loft with stunning view
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Serene 1 Bedroom Apartment at Al Reem Island
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Furnished & Serviced Studio 02
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Fabulous 2 BR Full Sea & Mangrove Views Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
AMAZING ROOM W SEA VIEW/ MONTHLY
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
4. Al Maqtaa Fort
Al Maqtaa Fort is located next to the Al Maqta Bridge. The fort was constructed some 200 years ago, making it an enviable historic site in the city of Abu Dhabi. It was used to guard a small fishing village on the elongated island. The fort features a two-story tower on the northern and the eastern sides, and it demonstrates how well the communities back in the day strategized to keep their enemies away. It is, however, currently closed from the public.
Al Maqtaa Fort
Address: Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Website: Al Maqtaa Fort
Opening hours: Always open
5. Ajman’s Dhow Yard
Before modern civilization, the seas were conquered by wooden dhows, and Arabs were the best-known sailors of ancient times. At Ajman’s Dhow Yard, you will see some of the wooden dhows that sailed the Arabian Gulf for centuries. The yard remains one of the largest dhow building centers in the world, and a visit to this place will make you appreciate the dhow-building mastery the Arabs had back in the days. You will also appreciate the rudimentary yet effective boat building tools and techniques from one generation to another.
Ajman’s Dhow Yard Tour
Address: Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Website: Ajman’s Dhow Yard
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)
6. Dibba Village
Dibba Village is a vast natural harbor that was used since the second millennium for trade and settlements. It is a prolific historical center, with lots of pieces of evidence about the ancient ways of life. Being an ancient trading center, there is a fusion of artifacts, including those from Oman, Persia, India, and China. It is a great place to visit to get a glimpse of how “international trade” was done in the olden days.
Dibba Village
Address: Dibba, Arabian Peninsula, UAE
Website: Dibba Village
Opening hours: Always open
7. Qasr Al Muwaiji (from USD 209.0)
If you have ever wanted to set foot in one the birthplace of royalties, then visiting Qasr Al Muwaiji will gift you such a chance. This was the birthplace of Sheikh Zayed bin Khalifa, and it remains one of the most impressive structures you will ever find in any desert in the world. The complex features a square enclosure, with a grand entrance and towering watchtowers in all the corners. Currently, this architectural gem is the home to a myriad of traditional and historical experiences of both the royals who once called it home, as well as the communities that lived in the region at the time. In addition to learning more about the traditions and culture, visitors are also given a comprehensive breakdown of the members of the Abu Dhabi ruling family associated with the Qasr Al Muwaiji.
From Dubai: Al Ain Garden City Full-Day Sightseeing Tour
Duration 8.0 hour
8. Fujairah (from USD 216.0)
Fujairah is located deep in the desert, and it is a re-creation of an old mountain hamlet featuring dwellings made from mud, stone, reeds, and palm leaves. The houses may be simple, but a step through their doors will give you a glimpse of the incredible, but also unique desert life of the bygone days. You will see ancient mosques, watchtowers, traditional attires, handicrafts and weaponry that tell the story of how life was during the mid-19th century. You will also have a chance to see, and possibly scale the Hatta Fort where you will discover more history about the region.
Fujairah Private day trip from Dubai with Lunch
Duration 8 hours
9. Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization
Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization is where you will catch up with history that dates back to more than 5000 years ago. It is a complex of museums and mosques that tell the incredible story of the Islamic culture with various artifacts collected from different places around the world. The notable items you will find and admire in this place include metalwork, ancient scientific instruments, glass, coins, carvings and calligraphy among others.
City Sightseeing Sharjah Hop-On Hop-Off Night Tour
Soak in the history and culture of the UAE
The above are just but a few of the historic places you can visit in the United Arab Emirates. The fact, however, is that there are plenty more sites you can visit, including famous buildings and shopping malls. It all depends on your itinerary. Ideally, you should have ample time so that you soak in each site, absorbing the history and the culture to the maximum.