Emirati culture is part of daily life in Abu Dhabi. Here, you can watch it, taste it and join in. Falconry, camel racing, pearling songs, the majlis and gahwa all grew from life between the desert and the sea, and several are recognised by UNESCO as world heritage.
Here are Abu Dhabi's protected traditions and where you can try them for yourself.
Falconry began as desert survival and is now a licensed, UNESCO-inscribed sport. Today, you can tour the world's largest falcon hospital and watch birds being treated. On winter mornings at Al Wathba, robot jockeys race camels that change hands for millions of dirhams; entry's free, just arrive early. Salukis and Arabian horses, the desert's other athletes, are still bred and raced here too.
The majlis is the sitting room where Emirati families gather and welcome guests with gahwa, lightly spiced Arabic coffee, served at the beginning. Both are recognised by UNESCO, and you can join the ritual daily at Bait Al Gahwa: coffee poured from a dallah pot, guest served first, and a gentle shake of the cup when you've had enough.
Islam shapes daily life here and you'll hear the call to prayer five times a day. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the few in the region open to non-Muslims, with free guided tours daily. Visiting during Ramadan? Good timing: the city slows by day and comes completely alive after dark.
What traditions is Abu Dhabi known for?
Falconry, camel racing, pearling and dhow sailing, the majlis with its gahwa, and crafts like Sadu weaving — traditions born from desert and sea life, several recognised by UNESCO. The best single place to meet them is Qasr Al Hosn and the House of Artisans.
Where can I see camel racing or falconry?
Camel racing runs winter mornings at Al Wathba racetrack, free to attend. Falconry demonstrations happen at Heritage Village, and the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital runs daily tours.
Is Al Ain worth visiting for Emirati culture?
Yes — it's the UAE's oldest continuously inhabited place, with a working camel market, UNESCO-listed oases and forts, about 90 minutes from Abu Dhabi.
Can visitors take part in Emirati traditions, or only watch?
You can join in. Try gahwa at Bait Al Gahwa, open an oyster on the Pearl Journey, take a weaving workshop at House of Artisans, or ride at a stable. Camel races and falconry demonstrations are watch-only, but they're free or cheap to attend.
What is a majlis?
The sitting room where Emirati families gather and guests are welcomed, always with gahwa poured from a dallah pot. Bait Al Gahwa demonstrates the ritual daily.
Can I visit Abu Dhabi during Ramadan?
Yes, and it's a good time to come. The city slows by day and comes alive after dark, with iftar tents, night markets and late hours everywhere. Most restaurants stay open, and visitors aren't expected to fast — just avoid eating and drinking in public during daylight out of courtesy.
