"What’s this place all about? Abu Dhabi Heritage Village, run by the Emirates Heritage Club, takes the form of a reconstructed traditional village. A timeless oasis in a post-modern city with an ever-growing skyline, the traditional buildings and landscape here provide an immersive experience that recalls the region’s heritage and desert lifestyle. Ye shall know them by their permanent collection: How was it? Different elements come to life at this pop-up village—from pre-modern Abu Dhabi domiciles, to a historic fishing village and Bedouin camp, to a souk, to a traditional mosque. Artifacts and replicas are placed throughout. How were the exhibits? Public workshops showcase some of the region’s traditional handicrafts like pottery, loom weaving, glass blowing, and metalwork. Cultural festivals also rotate through here. What did you make of the crowd? Mornings can be calm, but by afternoon the Heritage Village can often be overloaded with bussed-in tourists and local school field trips. The crowds are a reliable mix of visitors and Emiratis, all here to get a glimpse of the country’s distant and recent past. On the practical tip, how were the facilities? A lot of the navigating takes place outside; although the layout is intuitive, keep the notoriously hot weather in mind when planning your timing. Still, shaded areas and benches offer opportune moments of respite. Gift shop: obligatory, inspiring—or skip it? A small souk hawks handicrafts like handmade soaps, as well as local spices, traditional attire, and kitschy souvenirs. Any advice for the time- or attention-challenged? Heritage Village is a good museum to swing by for a crash course in the region’s long history and traditional way of life." - Jenna Scatena
