Best Things to Do Near Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center is not only the pride of Abu Dhabi but is the epitome of marvelous history and architectural design of United Arab Emirates. Tourism is attracted due to its large domes, beautiful mosaic work and a large courtyard, and it annually hosts millions of tourists. Being the largest mosque in the country it is both a place of worship, a cultural institution as well as a key tourist attraction site. Regardless of whether you are amazed by its appearance during the daylight or impressed by its night view, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the places to visit.

But the magnetism of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque starts from here. The area around it is also packed with activities that depict the colorful culture, history, and daily life of the Emirati people. You can visit heritage sites or luxury hotels, beautiful waterfronts, and even world class museums close to the mosque. Each of them provides a specific view of the rich and diverse life of the emirate, so the guests will be able to plunge into the experience of the past and the present.

When you discover what to do around the center, you will be surprised to find that Abu Dhabi is a traditional city that has embraced modernity. If you want to know the customs and traditions of the population, taste the delicious food or spend time on strolls through beautiful landscapes this area will not disappoint a tourist. Well, then, get ready for an amazing experience, which will enhance your trip to this remarkable site!

Here is the Best Things to Do near Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center

1. Explore the Heritage Village

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center

A short drive from the mosque, the Heritage Village gives a snap shot of the old way of life in the UAE. This open-air museum comprises of reconstructed buildings, artisans’ demonstrations and crafts of the nation’s traditions. It is possible to walk through the exhibits, taste Arabic coffee, and buy local handicrafts as memorials. It is the best place to learn more about the history of the UAE and its culture. Also, you can visit the craft fairs where craftsmen perform their work and you can see pottery, weaving and other similar performances. These are not only informative engagements that enlighten you on Emirati traditions but also allow you to value the work that has been inherited from one generation to the next.

In particular, for families, the Heritage Village is sometimes organized cultural programs or fairs, where children and adults can participate in various interesting activities. Such activities might be in form of music and dances, drama and tale telling sessions, among others making the event a fun one for anyone including children. If you are in search of history or are looking for a romantic and quaint place to spend your time the Heritage Village will not disappoint.

2. Go to the hotel of Emirates Palace

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Beside the impressive Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque there is another fantastic building, which is the Emirates Palace Hotel – one of the most luxurious buildings in the world. Even if you do not plan to spend the night you can grab a bite in one of it’s impressive restaurants or simply walk around and marvel at the beautiful gardens and the overall architecture. Oh and of course, do not miss the gold cappuccino which is perfect for Instagram worthy pictures! If you want to get even more information about the hotel, its construction, as well as the opulent lifestyle it embodies, then it’s possible to take a guided tour around the hotel.

In the same way, the Emirates Palace has its own theatre and hall that offers the guests possibility to attend various cultural events, art exhibitions and music performances. Luxury, culture and hospitality are the major attributes of the Emirates Palace Hotel that is worth taking a tour to Abu Dhabi.

3. Stroll Along the Corniche

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center

To enjoy a serene experience, one should go to the Corniche of Abu Dhabi which takes approximately 15 minutes from the mosque.This well lit asphalted waterfront for several kilometers is amazingly decorated for landscaping and is perfect for enjoying the view of the Arabian Gulf and the city skyline. You can even ride a bicycle, take a walk or even sit in the sandy beach and do nothing at all. It is a perfect spot for having a picnic, or watching the sunset. The Corniche is fringed with palm trees and gardens which makes it possible to have a background of some nice shots while performing some exercises.

Families can find play areas for children and because of this, families will find the Corniche ideal for outings. It is also possible to locate numerous numbers of cafés and restaurants by the water side where you can have your meals having sea view. Depending on what kind of vacationer you are, a thrill seeker or a beach bum, the Abu Dhabi Corniche has something for you.

4. Discover the Louvre Abu Dhabi

Discover the Louvre Abu Dhabi

People who would love to tour art and cultural sites should not miss Louvre Abu Dhabi which is approximately 20 minutes from the mosque. This gorgeous gallery houses a multicultural and multi-periodic exhibit of artworks and historical pieces. The Louvre has a lot of beautiful architecture and has numerous interesting exhibitions – this is an interesting place for both child and adult. The museum has a very special architectural appearance due to the dome that lets in sunlight making the viewing of the artifacts interesting.

Apart from its impressive collection of art masterpieces, LAD organizes temporary exhibitions, loaned from other museums and cultural events to offer people new perspectives on art and history. Open for people of all ages, educational programs and workshops are available for visitors, making the museum an important center of cultural interaction and thus a must see place during the visitors’ stay in Abu Dhabi.

5. Experience Qasr Al Watan

Experience Qasr Al Watan

There is another attraction not far from it – Qasr Al Watan, the Presidential Palace of the UAE. Situated just a few kilometers from the mosque, this cultural center lets people discover the history and government of the UAE. It is possible to visit the palace with a guided tour to explore its history and design and embrace the picturesque garden. The light and sound show in the evening is the best thing you can watch to end your day

When you visit the palace, you will find that it is adorned with beautiful details that represent the traditional Emirati architecture and design of the domes as well as the interior designs. The palace also hosts a number of displays about the history and culture of the UAE and the part played by leaders in the growth of the country, and as such is ideal for anyone wishing to know more about the traditions of the region.

6. Indulge in Local Cuisine

Indulge in Local Cuisine

It is recommended to explore the city for a day before going back to eat at one of the restaurants – Emirati cuisine is nearby. Variety of cuisines vary from traditional dishes Al Harees and Machboos to contemporary versions of Middle Eastern cuisine. To be as local as possible you can try Shawarma which is a type of street food with meat prepared with marinating and then placed in a pita bread with addition of fresh vegetables and a kind of sauce. Another lovely choice is Falafel, fried patties made of chickpeas served with a side of tahini sauce for an incredibly tasty, yet healthy snack.

You should also eat Baklava and Knafeh which are the sweet dishes among the middle eastern food. These desserts are well accompanied by a cup of the traditional Arabic coffee or sweet mint tea to complete the journey in style. For instance, you might be in an exquisite restaurant or a small café, yet taking meals on the Emirati tables is a must near the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center.

Conclusion

To the side of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center, one can be assured of an enchanting array of cultural attractions, natural scenery and luxury services that enrich your Abu Dhabi City Tour. Starting from visiting the Heritage Village to tasting the exotic food in the Emirates Palace Hotel every sightseeing attraction is an opportunity to discover more about the Emirati culture. Also, with spectacular Corniche coastline and the arts dispersed in the Louvre Abu Dhabi, each and everyone is bound to enjoy.

During your visit it is always useful to take a little extra time and explore these amazing attractions which not only enhance your visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque but also help you get to know better the broad opportunities of the city of Abu Dhabi. Whether you are a single traveler, with kinfolks or with friends, the experiences made in this lively city will never be forgotten. Therefore, leave the magnificent gates of the mosque and discover many sights in the depths of the UAE.

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