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Culture in Abu Dhabi runs from a 1760s fort to a Louvre that opened in 2017. Falconry and pearling songs are still practised a short drive from Saadiyat Island's newest museums, and you'll be welcomed almost everywhere with gahwa, spiced Arabic coffee.
This guide covers what shapes the city's culture, where to find it and how to take part. Emirati heritage is the natural place to start, or you can plan other cultural things to do in Abu Dhabi.
Ways to discover Abu Dhabi's culture
Cultural days planned for you
Culture you can hear, taste and hold
From fishing songs to hand-woven palm fronds, this is culture as locals live it. Choose where to begin.
Frequently asked questions
What is Emirati culture?
Emirati culture grew from the desert, the sea and Islam. Desert traditions inland, pearling and fishing on the coast. You'll still see it daily: falconry, Al Ayyala performances, majlis gatherings and gahwa, the spiced coffee served as a welcome. Several of these, including falconry and Al Ayyala, are on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
Does Abu Dhabi have good museums?
Yes — Saadiyat Island alone has the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum, Natural History Museum and teamLab Phenomena, with more opening in the district. Louvre Abu Dhabi tickets are AED 70 and under-18s go free. If you're visiting more than one, the Museum Pass covers three museums on a single ticket.
Where can I learn about the history of Abu Dhabi?
Qasr Al Hosn tells the story best — it's the city's oldest building, a watchtower turned fort turned museum, and the exhibits walk you from pearling village to capital. Zayed National Museum on Saadiyat Island covers the wider UAE story and the life of Sheikh Zayed. Both take about two hours each.
Where can I experience Emirati culture in Abu Dhabi?
Start at Qasr Al Hosn, the 18th-century fort where Abu Dhabi began. Entry to the House of Artisans next door is free, and you can watch weaving and try gahwa at Bait Al Gahwa. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque runs free guided tours, and the Cultural Foundation hosts exhibitions and performances year-round. For the older rhythms, head to Al Ain's oases and camel market, about 90 minutes away.
What traditional food should I try in Abu Dhabi?
Start with machboos, spiced rice with meat or fish, it's the everyday staple. Try harees during Ramadan, luqaimat (fried dough balls with date syrup) for something sweet, and gahwa with dates, which is how every welcome begins. You'll find them at Emirati restaurants like Al Fanar or Meylas rather than hotel buffets.