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Women's Handicrafts in Abu Dhabi Tour
Take a closer look at the crafts that have been a part of Emirati culture for centuries. In Abu Dhabi, you'll find special spots to watch crafts being made and even purchase some for yourself to keep as momentos or give to family as gifts.
Stay in Abu Dhabi city for your day and visit iconic locations like Qasr Al Hosn, the House of Artisans and so much more with short car journeys in between.
Highlights
Car
4 Hours
Highlights
Car
4 Hours
Day 1 highlights
Start your handicraft tour at Qasr Al Hosn, the oldest and most significant building in Abu Dhabi. There, you'll find House of Artisans, a centre to see live craftwork and chances to get involved yourself and create!
Be sure to visit the Cultural Foundation, a hub for artistic exhibitions and performances. Visitors can sign up for a variety of art workshops made for children and adults. Keep the kids busy at the Children's Library a myriad of books to explore or let them learn and engage in multiple fun activities.
Finally, head to The Souk at the World Trade Centre for a walk around traditional stores and have lunch or dinner at one of their restaurants.
Number of stations 1
Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi
Recommended Time: 1 hour
In a city like Abu Dhabi, where things are constantly evolving, there are some parts where time almost stands still. Qasr Al Hosn is one of them. The city's oldest stone building is a commanding figure surrounded by the emirate's skyline - a beautiful contrast between old and new.
Qasr Al Hosn in Abu Dhabi was built in the 1790s and was once home to the ruling family. The building also housed the National Consultative Council, founded by the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Founder of the UAE. Transformed into a museum in 2018 after a decade's worth of intensive conservation and very delicate restorative work, walking into the Al Hosn fort is like stepping into a time capsule. Qasr Al Hosn is located on Sheikh Rasid Bin Saaed Al Maktoum Street, roughly 30 minutes from Zayed International Airport.
On entering, the first iconic buildings that you will see are the Inner Fort, constructed in 1795, and the Outer Palace, built between 1939-45. Slowly, look up and lay your eyes on the original watchtower. When Abu Dhabi was a small fishing village, Qasr Al Hosn overlooked the coastal trade routes and protected the growing community on the island. Walking through every area of Qasr Al Hosn is a delightful experience that makes you want to linger longer.
Soak up the fascinating history of the UAE's capital or spend your day admiring the artefacts and archival materials from 6,000 years ago. Children will also enjoy their time exploring the nooks and crannies of this historical landmark, which is sure to give them a sense of adventure and excellent material for storytime!
Today, the Al Hosn palace has become the nation's living memorial of a time long gone and a visual reflection of Abu Dhabi's history.
House of Artisans
Number of stations 2
Qasr Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi
House of Artisans is dedicated to preserving the UAE's traditional crafts through workshops, demonstrations and hands-on experiences.
It's the kind of place that slows you down in the best way. Watch artisans weave palm leaves into baskets and floor mats (Khoos), craft bags and rugs from camel wool or goat hair (Al Sadu), or stitch intricate embroidery into traditional garments (Talli). These skills have been passed down through generations and are still very much alive here.
Join a workshop, ask questions or simply watch their craft. There are pieces to take home as souvenirs too.
Cultural Foundation
Number of stations 3
Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi
In 1971 the UAE was born, and with it, a new cultural vision. From the very beginning, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan – the founder of the UAE, endearingly named Father of the Nation – wanted to engage the country in cross-cultural dialogue with the wider international community.
World Trade Centre Mall
Number of stations 4
Tourist Club Area, Abu Dhabi
1hrs
Once an old Central Market, the World Trade Center Mall is now a fully integrated, mixed-use destination that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. This vibrant hub offers a unique shopping experience in Abu Dhabi, combining the charm of a traditional souk with the convenience of a contemporary mall as well as offices and residences.
Qasr Al Hosn
Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi
Recommended Time: 1 hour
In a city like Abu Dhabi, where things are constantly evolving, there are some parts where time almost stands still. Qasr Al Hosn is one of them. The city's oldest stone building is a commanding figure surrounded by the emirate's skyline - a beautiful contrast between old and new.
Qasr Al Hosn in Abu Dhabi was built in the 1790s and was once home to the ruling family. The building also housed the National Consultative Council, founded by the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Founder of the UAE. Transformed into a museum in 2018 after a decade's worth of intensive conservation and very delicate restorative work, walking into the Al Hosn fort is like stepping into a time capsule. Qasr Al Hosn is located on Sheikh Rasid Bin Saaed Al Maktoum Street, roughly 30 minutes from Zayed International Airport.
On entering, the first iconic buildings that you will see are the Inner Fort, constructed in 1795, and the Outer Palace, built between 1939-45. Slowly, look up and lay your eyes on the original watchtower. When Abu Dhabi was a small fishing village, Qasr Al Hosn overlooked the coastal trade routes and protected the growing community on the island. Walking through every area of Qasr Al Hosn is a delightful experience that makes you want to linger longer.
Soak up the fascinating history of the UAE's capital or spend your day admiring the artefacts and archival materials from 6,000 years ago. Children will also enjoy their time exploring the nooks and crannies of this historical landmark, which is sure to give them a sense of adventure and excellent material for storytime!
Today, the Al Hosn palace has become the nation's living memorial of a time long gone and a visual reflection of Abu Dhabi's history.
