Amidst its glittering towers and world-class infrastructure, Abu Dhabi continues to hold its roots close. For all the innovation and growth, the capital remains deeply committed to honouring its past. Heritage here isn’t locked away in dusty archives—it’s alive, evolving, and proudly celebrated. From quiet museums that whisper stories of old to grand exhibitions that animate age-old traditions, the city offers countless ways to explore and embrace Emirati culture.
Two pillars of this cultural landscape—the Maqta Museum and the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition—serve as powerful reminders of how history and heritage remain central to the UAE’s identity. Alongside them, several other landmarks and initiatives work tirelessly to preserve and share the rich legacy of the region.
Why Preserving Culture Still Matters in a Modern City
In fast-paced societies, traditions can easily get lost in the race toward the future. But Abu Dhabi understands that you can’t build forward without a firm footing in the past. Celebrating heritage is more than an exercise in nostalgia—it’s about teaching the values, resilience, and artistry that shaped the Emirati way of life.
For younger generations, these experiences serve as an anchor in a rapidly changing world. And for visitors and residents alike, they offer meaningful insight into what makes the UAE’s cultural fabric so unique.
Maqta Museum: Where History Sits by the Bridge
Located near the historic Maqta Bridge, the Maqta Museum is a beautifully preserved space that invites quiet exploration. Once a watchtower that guarded access to Abu Dhabi Island, it has now been transformed into a cultural hub that offers a window into early life in the capital.
Inside, you’ll find displays of traditional tools, clothing, jewellery, and trade items. These aren’t just relics—they’re stories. Each piece reveals how the early Emiratis lived, worked, and adapted to life in the desert and by the sea. The museum’s scale allows for an intimate, unhurried experience that resonates long after you leave.
It’s not uncommon to find student groups taking notes, artists sketching exhibits, or local families reconnecting with their history. The Maqta Museum proves that you don’t need grandeur to create impact—just authenticity and care.
The Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition: A Living Tribute to Tradition
On the other end of the spectrum is a national event that bursts with colour, sound, and energy. The Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX), held annually at ADNEC, is one of the largest cultural festivals in the region. Scheduled this year from 30 August to 7 September, it brings together heritage enthusiasts, craftspeople, conservationists, and the general public for a vibrant celebration of all things Emirati.
From live falconry demonstrations and Arabian horse parades to exhibitions of calligraphy, weaponry, and traditional gear, ADIHEX captures the essence of desert life. Visitors can learn about ancient hunting techniques, browse handcrafted saddles and tents, and even attend auctions for falcons and horses.
But this isn’t just a nostalgic gathering—it’s a dynamic, forward-thinking event. Modern conservation methods, sustainable practices, and youth workshops are woven into the programme, ensuring that the knowledge passed down through generations is preserved in meaningful, relevant ways.
Other Cultural Places to Visit in Abu Dhabi
While Maqta Museum and ADIHEX are standout experiences, Abu Dhabi’s commitment to heritage goes far beyond these two. Here are a few more places that enrich the city’s cultural landscape:
Qasr Al Hosn
Often referred to as the “heart of Abu Dhabi,” Qasr Al Hosn is the oldest stone building in the city. Once the seat of government and home to the ruling Al Nahyan family, the fort has now been restored and turned into a national archive and museum. It tells the story of Abu Dhabi through royal artefacts, documents, oral histories, and immersive installations.
Outside the fort, the House of Artisans offers traditional craft demonstrations—from Al Sadu weaving and Khoos (palm frond) work to perfumery and boat building.
Heritage Village
Situated near Marina Mall, the Heritage Village is a reconstruction of a traditional Emirati oasis village. It offers hands-on experiences for those wanting to see how people lived before the discovery of oil. There are mud-brick homes, a working falaj irrigation system, and live demonstrations of pottery and metalwork. The on-site museum and souk complete the immersive journey.
Louvre Abu Dhabi’s Cultural District
While primarily known for its international art collection, Louvre Abu Dhabi plays a vital role in cultural preservation through its rotating exhibitions that connect local history with global narratives. It frequently features Emirati artists and hosts lectures and workshops on heritage-related topics.
Al Ain Oasis and Qasr Al Muwaiji
Just a short drive from Abu Dhabi city lies Al Ain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers some of the richest heritage experiences in the country. The Al Ain Oasis features a traditional falaj irrigation system still in use, while Qasr Al Muwaiji, the birthplace of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, showcases the leadership legacy of the Al Nahyan family.
Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa
This lesser-known cultural centre in Al Ain was once the home of Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa, a key figure in the early political and social development of the UAE. Today, it hosts exhibitions, performances, and community events aimed at promoting the arts and preserving architectural heritage.
A City That Lives Its Heritage
Abu Dhabi’s cultural ecosystem isn’t about grand gestures—it’s about daily efforts. From schoolchildren learning about falconry at ADIHEX to families exploring traditional textiles at Qasr Al Hosn, these experiences become part of the community’s fabric.
The government continues to invest in heritage conservation, not just through restoration, but through education and innovation. Digital archives, youth initiatives, and interactive exhibitions ensure that tradition is not only preserved but celebrated in ways that speak to modern audiences.
Final Thoughts: Carrying the Past into the Future
The UAE’s story is still being written—but its past remains a vital part of that narrative. Whether you’re walking through the intimate halls of Maqta Museum or cheering on a falcon in flight at the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition, you’re taking part in something bigger than a tourist activity—you’re participating in a legacy.
So, the next time you’re in Abu Dhabi, take a break from the malls and museums of modern art. Step into the spaces that remember. Explore the places that carry history in their walls, crafts in their corners, and stories in their soul.
After all, in a city that builds for the future, its heart still beats to the rhythm of the past.
