Historical Places in Abu Dhabi
Qasr Al Hosn is the oldest stone building and one of the first permanent structures of all historical places in Abu Dhabi whose history dates back to the 18th century. It was initially built as a watchtower in 1761 and was later expanded to become the residence of the ruling Sheikh. Today, Qasr Al Hosn hosts a permanent exhibition to depict the history of the city and its transition.
Location: Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum St(2nd St) - Al Hisn - W3 - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Timing: Monday to Thursday, Saturday and Sunday – 9 AM to 10 PM, Friday – 2 PM to 10 PM
Entry fee: AED 30- 50
Book Now: Qasr Al Hosn Tickets
If you are looking for Abu Dhabi historical sites to learn about the heritage of the city, visit The Founder’s Memorial. It is a national monument that commemorates the life and legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan who is known as the founding father of the UAE. The highlight of the memorial is its centrepiece, The Constellation, which is a three-dimensional structure with 1327 hanging geometric figures that portray Sheikh Zayed.
Location: Al Ras Al Akhdar - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Timing: 9 AM to 10 PM
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One of the historical places in Abu Dhabi that has huge religious importance, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the largest in the UAE. It boasts a regal architecture with 82 white domes, four minarets, 1048 columns, 24-carat gold plated chandeliers and the world’s largest loom carpet. You can take a guided tour of the library in the mosque to learn about Islam and its history.
Location: Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street، - 5th St - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Timing: Saturdays to Thursdays - 9 AM to 10 PM, Fridays - 9 AM – 12 PM, 3 PM – 10 PM
You Can Also Book: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Guided Tour
If you are looking for Abu Dhabi historical sites where you can learn about the traditional era as well as the modern culture of the city, visit Bait Mohammed Bin Khalifa. This historic house is now a vibrant community centre with a permanent exhibition and spaces to host activities and events. You can also find a cafe and an art teaching centre within the community house.
Location: 6PCW+5X - Al Mu'tarid - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Timing: 9 AM to 8 PM
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Walk through the history of Abu Dhabi as you visit one of the most interesting historical places in Abu Dhabi, the Heritage Village. It is a reconstructed traditional Arab village that acts as a time capsule and takes you back to how life was in previous eras. You can see traditional palm-leaf thatched houses, a well powered by oxen, falaj irrigation system and demonstrations of artisan skills like weaving, spinning and pottery.
Location: Near Marina Mall - Abu Dhabi Theatre Rd, Corniche - Breakwater Rd - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Timing: Saturday to Thursday – 9 AM to 3 PM, Friday – 9 AM to 12:30 PM
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Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital is the world’s first and largest hospital to be dedicated entirely to the falcon, which is the national bird of the UAE. You can witness about 6000 birds occupying 200 air-conditioned rooms in the hospital every year. Take a guided tour of this veterinary centre to learn about the falcons, their cultural significance in the country and the challenges to the bird population.
Location: Near the Abu Dhabi International Airport - Sweihan Rd - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Timing: Monday to Thursday– 9 AM to 2 PM, Friday – 9 AM to 12 PM
Entry fee: AED 60- 170
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Al Jahili Fort is one of the oldest Abu Dhabi historical sites that illustrate the importance of Al Ain Oasis to the nation. It is an old fort in UAE built in the 1890s by Zayed the First to protect the city’s palm groves and as the residence of the ruling Al Nahyan family. The fort is now a cultural centre with a permanent exhibition and temporary gallery space that have photographs by explorer Wilfred Thesiger.
Location: Mohammed Bin Khalifa Al Nahyan St - Al Jahili - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Timing: 9 AM to 7 PM
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Take a trip to Qasr Al Muwaiji mudbrick fort which is the birthplace of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the current ruler of Abu Dhabi. You can take part in the exhibition, go on guided tours and attend the workshops to learn more about the history of UAE. A quick walk through the courtyard and the Muwaiji Oasis is a bliss during winters as you can enjoy the cool breeze.
Location: Khalifa Bin Zayed St - Al Muwaij'i - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Timing: 9 AM to 7 PM
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Zayed Centre is one of the significant historical places in Abu Dhabi where you can learn about the life of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder of the UAE. The centre is designed like an Emirati village with camels and vintage artefacts like his vehicles and gifts. You can visit the photo gallery in the museum to find pictures of the late President and his personal memorabilia.
Location: Baynounah Street - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Timing: Monday to Thursday – 8 AM to 2:30 PM, Friday – 8 AM to 12 PM
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FAQ's of Historical Places in Abu Dhabi
What are some of the most visited historical places to visit in Abu Dhabi?
Some of the most visited historical places in Abu Dhabi are
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
- Heritage Village
- Qasr Al Hosn
- The Founder’s Memorial
- Urban Treasures
- Wahat Al Karama
- Al Jahili Fort
- Zayed Centre
- Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital
- Bait Mohammed Bin Khalifa
- Al Murabba Fort
- Qasr Al Muwaiji
Is there an entry fee for historical places in Abu Dhabi?
There is usually an entry fee for historical places in Abu Dhabi, such as museums, palaces, and other cultural attractions. However, there are a few sites like Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and The Founder’s Memorial that offer free entry as well. The fees vary depending on the attraction, with some offering free entry for children or students with valid identification.
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Which is the oldest historical place in Abu Dhabi?
Qasr Al Hosn is the oldest historical place and stone building in Abu Dhabi that dates back to the 18th century. It was built in 1761 and served as the residence of the ruling family as well as a defensive fortress. After several renovations, Qasr Al Hosn is currently a museum that showcases the history and culture of Abu Dhabi and the UAE.
Is there any dress code to be followed while visiting historical places in Abu Dhabi?
Yes, there is a dress code to be followed while visiting Abu Dhabi historical sites, particularly religious and cultural sites. Visitors are expected to dress modestly, covering their shoulders, chest, and knees. Women are required to wear a headscarf and should avoid tight-fitting and revealing clothes while men should not wear shorts or sleeveless shirts in religious places like Sheikh Zayed Mosque.
What are 3 facts about Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque?
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the largest mosques in the world and can accommodate over 40,000 worshippers at a time.
- The main prayer hall of the mosque houses the world's largest hand-knotted carpet, weighing over 47 tons and made of wool from New Zealand and Iran.
- The unique lighting system of the mosque is designed to illuminate its magnificent structure mimicking the different phases of the moon.
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