The eternal sand dunes, the scorching sun, a few meagre tents swaying to the breeze and a lone camel rider crossing the great desert in the evening light are no longer the pictures that come into one’s mind as you reflect on the Middle Eastern nations. With the revolutionary discovery of oil, the black gold that has seeped into these nations has transformed them into becoming some of the most powerful and beautiful cities in the world; and Abu Dhabi is no exception. Long gone are the simple days of the camel farmer trekking the expansive desert in search of water; the busy days of sky scrapers, state of the art shopping malls, business hubs and a never ending hum of activity are here to stay.
But not all of that ancient past is lost. The simple lives of their ancestors is the foundation of this new society in Abu Dhabi and it can be seen in the lives of the people, as well as in a small village behind the Abu Dhabi International Exhibition Centre on Mussafah Road. Built in such a way as to depict a traditional Bedouin Village this museum holds original as well as recreated artefacts relating to the pre-oil era of Abu Dhabi. Also called the ‘Heritage Village’, it is a symbol of cultural and historical importance and is ideal for those looking for an insight on the history of the region.
It is made up of elaborate replicas of buildings from the past. Mud-brick houses, mud house of the Sheik, wind towers as well as a replica of the ancient irrigation system used can be seen. Coins, garments, Holy Qurans, jewellery, weaponry and diving equipment of the past days are put on display for the public. Entrance is free and the Bedouin Village is an ideal location to experience the region’s rich history.
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