How to live like a local in Abu Dhabi? - A brief guide
The capital of the United Arab Emirates Abu Dhabi’s history dates to the 18th century with settlements of the nomadic Bani Yas Tribe. The discovery of oil in 1958 propelled the transformation of Abu Dhabi city under the guidance of Sheikh Zayed. Today it is a massive and well-developed Metropolis with many modern buildings and attractions such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Ferrari World etc. If you are visiting this vibrant city, discover how to enjoy it to the fullest just like a local.
Image via Anantara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi
Introduction
Abu Dhabi’s rich history consists of nomadic settlers well attuned to the desert that later became a fishing village due to the many islands surrounding Abu Dhabi. These villagers went about their business with contentment until the discovery of oil in the 20th century. The city still carries vestiges of the ancient charm of the land in the old souks, the many clusters of date palms, and the traditional Emirati boats called the dhows being visible in different parts of Abu Dhabi.
It is not surprising that visitors using 5-star hotels in Abu Dhabi are fascinated by the contrast between modern Abu Dhabi with the quintessential ancient look and feel of the city. To truly appreciate this metropolis like a local, have a glimpse of both.
Explore the Souks
The different souks in Abu Dhabi spell out the innate character of the city in the ancient era. Be it the fish souk, green grocery souk, gold souk, carpet souk, camel souk etc. found in and around the city, you notice a hive of activity, the intriguing haggling and the vibrant setting adding to your fascination. These visits not only offer rare insights but also a chance to pick up souvenirs and even indulge in shopping just as the locals would do.
Mina Souk – Mina Market has a fish market and a greengrocery market across from each other. At the fish market, the fishermen arrange their catch and do a day of haggling while the more colourful greengrocery section has tempting fruits and vegetables as well as loads of dried fruit, nuts, and varieties of dates. The dates come as fresh dates, dried ones and some come with tempting fillings.
Madinat Zayed Gold Souk – An array of gold shops within an arcade loaded with gold jewellery studded with precious gemstones. Although visitors are often awed by the range of gold stocked here and some of them even buy a few items as done by guests from properties like Anantara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi. These visitors even enjoy a bit of haggling to get a good price.
Visit the Corniche
A beautiful 8 km stretch of pristine beach which has earned Blue Flag status, the Corniche offers joy for visitors just as much as for locals. With defined areas for water sports etc. some areas are reserved for families. It has many facilities like cycling paths with a boardwalk which runs parallel so that cyclists have no obstruction in their riding pleasure. This is a fine area to admire the ocean, relax and witness the change in the skyline as dusk sets in and the lights of the teetering skyscrapers transform the skyline. An utterly relaxing endeavour enjoyed by many locals. If you are feeling peckish do as the locals do and enjoy the bites from one of the cafes or a cooling ice cream from the ice cream parlours close to the corniche.
Soak in the serene ambience of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
A mosque of grandeur and a world-renowned religious icon Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a piece of architectural masterpiece that brings together people from different parts of the world, and differing walks of life to revere, admire and be inspired by this serene mosque which was opened to the public in 2007..
The architectural wonders of this masterpiece such as the structure, design and stunning minarets represent 4 varieties such as Islamic, Ottoman, Moghul, and Moorish Architecture. The intricate work in the various inner chambers and halls, the beautiful chandeliers and the world’s largest carpet in the main prayer hall, a creation by over 1000 Iranian artisans demonstrate the value placed on the culture and coming together of so many. A visit here creates a profound feeling for visitors just as much as it is for locals.
Have a Bedouin Desert Experience
Get a flavour of typical Emirati heritage by having a desert experience in Bedouin style. The excitement of seeing the golden dunes, desert activities such as dune bashing, camel rides, and a memorable buffet under the stars make you feel so much like a local and feel close to the throbbing beat of the desert.