Joanna James
Abu Dhabi has several cultural traditions and a rich heritage, so many visitors cannot resist bringing home a few souvenirs. Moreover, the city has many shopping malls, souks and marketplaces where you’ll find some of the best items from Emirati tradition. Here are some of the top souvenirs you can get to bring back a piece of this vibrant city with you.
The UAE is famous for its carpets that feature vibrant colours and mesmerising patterns. A traditional Arabic carpet is an ideal souvenir to change up your living space while constantly reminding you of the memorable vacation you enjoyed in the city. You can find carpets in all shapes, sizes and patterns in the city, at shops like the Carpet Souk, which sells plenty of royal-looking carpets. When shopping for these vibrant souvenirs, remember to consider the material, colour scheme and size so that they match the space you need it for.
Another great souvenir to bring back with you from Abu Dhabi is an Arabic perfume that carries the aromatic essence of oud. This ingredient is created using resin derived from the Agarwood tree and is the most desired ingredient for perfumes in the UAE. There are various types of oud and you can buy perfumes that have them or purchase the ingredient as blocks or chips to mix with a fragrance separately.
If you prefer to get edible souvenirs to share with your friends and family back home, then the dates from Abu Dhabi are your best pick. Dates are very significant in Arabian culture and are a vital nutritional source. The city has a wide range of dates you can choose from, with each type having its own flavour and nutrition. These include natural dates, chocolate-covered dates, almond-stuffed dates and dates covered in camel milk. You’ll find other date-flavoured treats too like date jams, juices and syrups.
One way you can help sustain the Arabic tradition of weaving is by purchasing a few handcrafted items at The Sougha. This initiative was started by the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise and Development which aims to keep the culture of weaving alive and to support the local artisans who practise this tradition. If you decide to explore the city away from your island resort in Abu Dhabi, you can head to the Central Market Souk and visit the special stall that sells these intricate, handwoven items. You’ll find a range of souvenirs like pillow covers, bags, bracelets, purses, table runners, wall hangings and more.
If you have a close friend or family member who loves jewellery, you can bring them the ideal gift from the city’s many shops and souks. Goldwork in Abu Dhabi comes in all forms and designs from elaborate wedding jewellery to classic accessories. Some resorts and hotels like Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Yamm Villa Resort include an in-house souk or shop where you can find some of the most intricate, vibrant jewellery items in the city.
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.
