The Dubai you go to and see now is not what it always used to be. It has a very interesting cultural history and almost movie-worthy rich stories of how this place literally transformed from a desert to a city that includes some of the tallest skyscrapers in the world. However, the history of the city of Dubai is just as interesting as the present, and you have the opportunity to travel back in time and experience life in Dubai in the early era by visiting the Heritage and Diving Village in Dubai, a living museum. You can see the crafts of potters and weavers as well as learn about Dubai’s pearl diving industry. If you are planning to visit the Heritage and Diving Village, here are some things you should know.
Basic information about Heritage and Diving Village
Location of Heritage and Diving Village: Al-Shindgha Road, Bur Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Heritage Village Dubai Entry Fee: Tickets for Heritage Village, Dubai are priced at Rs 60 for adults and Rs 30 for children below 3 years of age.
Heritage Village Dubai Timings: Heritage Village opens at 8 am and Dubai Heritage Village Closing Timings: It is 9 o’clock at night. On Friday, timings are 3 pm to 9:30 pm.
Things to do in Dubai Heritage and Diving Village
Here are some of the best things that tourists can do in the Heritage and Diving Village:
1. Admire the art of weavers
At the Heritage and Diving Village, you can find many local artists who specialize in the art of weaving carpets, baskets and more. These are the people who were born in families that have been in the weaving industry for generations and have passed down the unique craftsmanship in the family. Therefore, the experience is completely authentic, and if you interact with the artisans, you will get to learn more about the history of the craft and you will be able to pick up some of these amazing products to take back home as souvenirs. Will buy also.
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2. Learn to make pottery
Another famous craft that can be found in Dubai’s Heritage and Diving Village is the art of pottery making. There are many local craftsmen who are experts in the art and practice their art in the village. There are workshops that anyone can participate in, and it is a super fun and entertaining activity for the whole family to enjoy. If you are especially visiting with children, they will enjoy learning about this craft and perhaps even learning how to mold the clay. Workshop times vary, so be sure to find out about them first if you’re interested in attending.
3. Take a look at the traditional culture and lifestyle of Dubai
At the Heritage & Diving Village, one can truly go back in history and experience what life used to be like for the locals and also get to experience a slice of the life of the real people of Dubai. Learn about age-old traditions that have been passed down through generations of families. This will truly be an experience you will remember for a long time, as it breaks away from the grandeur of city life and instead offers you a more traditional side of Dubai.
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4. Enjoy animal life at the Heritage and Diving Village
The Heritage and Diving Village has lots of animals that are cared for by the local people, like camels, horses, and there is even a small pond with ducks that you can feed. Interested children and adults can ride camels or horses if interested.
5. Learn about the pearl diving industry in Dubai
One of the best things you can do at Dubai’s Heritage and Diving Village is learn about the vast pearl diving industry, which has been a part of Dubai’s tradition for many years. The pearl industry is approximately seven thousand years old and is still prevalent in some places. The process involves a ship of 60 people, including a captain, divers, a seaman and other personnel, setting out on a month-long expedition in search of these precious stones.
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6. Enjoy some cultural performances
Another amazing thing to experience at the Heritage and Diving Village is the cultural performance of the people, which also includes some folk arts like dancing and singing. Women and men, as well as children, wear traditional costumes and present an entertaining show for the visitors which also includes some exotic performances like belly dance.
7. Shop for authentic souvenirs at Dubai’s Heritage and Diving Village
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While visiting a new place, everyone wants to buy some souvenirs that are unique and cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Unlike the city, which sells mostly commercial brands, this local authentic cultural center sells some authentic crafts and products that are handmade, and you won’t be able to find anything like them anywhere else. Buy clothes, utensils, baskets, as well as pearl jewelery here and not only will you bring a unique souvenir back home with you, but you will also be supporting the local businesses there.
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What to eat at the Heritage and Diving Village
There are many food stalls and restaurants in Heritage Village, Dubai. Some traditional dishes you can enjoy in the village:
1. Hummus
Hummus is a very popular dish in Dubai, made from chickpeas with olive oil and garlic, and is also usually served with kubus, the local bread, or pita bread.
2. Shawarma
Everyone knows that Dubai is famous for shawarmas, a traditional Arabic dish consisting of a roll filled with chicken, vegetables and garlic. The chicken can be replaced with meat of your choice, and seafood options are also available.
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3. Iranian Tea
This refreshing drink delights the taste buds and is a black tea that is usually eaten with biscuits or traditional Arabic sweets.
4. Seafood
Being a diving industry, there is sure to be a lot of seafood at the Heritage and Diving Village. These dishes are grilled and marinated with some local herbs and spices and leave an explosion of flavors in your mouth. Tasting the seafood here is definitely an experience not to be missed.
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The Heritage and Diving Village in Dubai is a wonderful place to visit and learn about various local crafts. So, plan a trip to Dubai and visit this museum!
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