Joanna James
If you are getting cold feet before your trip because the voice in your head goes like 'you can't favour every whim and folly', you can give that voice a rest – there's a lot in Abu Dhabi that comes free.
To get a close up of the old way that Arabs conducted their day-to-day lives, consider visiting the Heritage Village. Though you don't have to bear an entrance fee, the experience you are going to get is priceless. The old stone houses, palm trees and Bedouin tents which make the village a portray of Bedouin life are deserving of your admiration. And while you are at it, you can pace up to the traditional souk – handmade items are the most fast-moving there – and the museum.
Another activity that is free of price tags is to visit the oldest building in Abu Dhabi. Initially a watch tower, Qasr Al Hosn is now undergoing renovation in order to be transformed into a tourist attraction. The element of the fascination lies in the old ventilation system, which served the purpose of an air-conditioner in the old days. The historical and the cultural importance of Qasr Al Hosn make it a must-visit.
You might not think a place of worship can inspire awe in people, but you'll find that notion to be untrue once you visit the mosque. The marble domes and minarets thrive to fascinate those who compliment the place with their presence – not only that, the mosque is also the largest mosque in the country which can accommodate 40,000 worshipers at any given time.
If you are lodged at one of the Abu Dhabi beach resorts (possibly the likes of Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Yamm Villa Resort) there might be tailored tours to the dunes – if not you can go to the Empty Quarter. The best activity you don't have to pay for, and this is one place in Abu Dhabi where you can bring out the adventurer in you. After you are done with exhausting all the energy you have, you can lie under the starry sky and enjoy an amazing camping night.
Next to Al Ain National Museum is a lush green oasis that has been cultivated for over 3000 years. A huge expanse of 3000 acres, the land is still occupied by farmers and has an old irrigation system that still nourishes the farmland. With every inch made alive by greenery, Al Ain Oasis is a welcome sight in the harsh desert land.
Fan of arts and crafts? Head over to Abu Dhabi Women's Association to see local artistry on display. This is a great opportunity for you to buy local hand-made items and also to make a study of it. There might be things that you won't usually be able to buy in other countries – for example; there are various types of Arabian oils that you can buy not to mention the incense that will turn your house into a spiritual haven.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
