Besides building iconic buildings like Burj Khalifa, Dubai Frame, and Emirate Towers, Dubai knows how to preserve the nation’s heritage sites that represent UAE’s rich history and culture. International tourists and future generations will get a good sense of local customs and community when the history of the bygone era is carefully protected. Hatta Village is one such place that will make you go back in time and discover the lifestyle of the Bedouin people before the transformation of the UAE.
The Dubai Heritage Village, Hatta, is located 130 km from Dubai, in the South-East region. The breathtaking mountain ranges and deep green valleys offer a great escape from the hustle and bustle of ultra-modern city life. The weather in Hatta Heritage Village is also pleasing and cool in contrast to Dubai’s hot and dusty weather.
Hatta Heritage Village History:
Dubai Culture and Arts Authority has precisely rebuilt the Hatta Heritage Village to give an insight into Arab culture. It is predicted that the ancient village is more than 3000 years old and showcases different facets of the Emirati people. The beautiful Hajar Mountains set a breath-taking backdrop while the village tour exhibits artifacts, weapons, antiques, clothes, and furniture used in the past. Visitors will also learn about the community’s defense and economic and agricultural functions.
The village houses more than 30 ancient structures, including forts, towers, and citadels that are restored to their original form. History-lovers will be fascinated with the collections of ruins that give a glimpse of rural life dating back centuries.
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Bait Al Wadi, one of the village’s largest houses, is the home of the local ruler of that time. As you walk inside the house, you’ll see the bedroom, kitchen, and courtyards designed in traditional style. Two watchtowers and a mosque embrace this heritage site elegantly. While one tower faces the south, the other faces the north. One has to use a rope to climb up to the door that is 2.5 meters high. However, you will get a spectacular view of the town from the top. The complex also houses a cemetery.
You will also come across locals who still inherit their ancestors’ occupations like pottery, weaponry, and jewelry making. It is more interesting to watch the villagers celebrating age-old rituals at weddings, festivals, and games and singing their folk songs. You can also visit the museum displaying traditional utensils, weapons, jewelry, handicrafts, artworks, and musical instruments. Visitors can see life-size dummies of ancient community people in the museum.
Hatta Heritage Village Farms:
Locally far from the village, there is a Palm tree Farm often referred to as the AL Sharia site by locals. Take a walk under the palm trees, and you will be amazed to see a falaj(a Water channel), which runs underground for several kilometers before it makes its way to the ground. The age-old irrigation system was developed to provide water supply for farming even in dry weather conditions. Farming is the main activity in Hatta, and it occupies 140 sq km in more than 500 farms giving a unique insight to the visitors. Palm trees and Date tree farms provide a visual treat to the visitors.
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Activities to do at the Hatta Heritage Village Location:
- Hike up the Hajar mountains and get picturesque views of the ancient village. Hiking down the wadis of the Hatta village will give you an unreal experience.
- One of the beautiful places to enjoy a romantic date with your partner is Hatta Hill Park. The municipality creates Hatta Hill park for leisure and recreational activities. Savor your favorite barbeque dishes while enjoying magnificent views of the mountains and valleys.
- Dive into the emerald waters of Hatta Rock pools, surrounded by the mountains, a perfect spot for those tourists who enjoy swimming and water activities. Green Hatta Rock Pools is a must-try for an unforgettable experience.
- Hatta Wadi Hub is another exciting destination where you can enjoy various adventurous activities. You can enjoy multiple thrilling activities from mountain biking, human slingshot, downhill karting, archery, axe throwing to zip lining. You will enjoy these activities with your friends and family.
- Prepare yourself for the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of getting personal with the honey bees at the Hatta Honey Bee Garden. But before heading to the place, ensure you are all covered up.
- Relish the authentic flavor of traditional Arab food, served fresh to your table. Food-lovers can not miss the chance to savor their taste buds with local cuisine at the Hatta village.
Hatta Honey Bee Garden
Important Tips before you visit Hatta Heritage Village:
- As the rocky mountains and valleys involve hiking and walking for a considerable time, you must wear comfortable shoes. Also, carry sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun rays.
- Try to make your visit in the early hours of the day as it gets crowded in the afternoon.
- With no facilities of cafes and restaurants inside the village, we advise you to pack a light snack and enough water on your visit to the Hatta Village.
- Pack light jackets or warm clothing, as it may get chilly during nighttime and early mornings.
- Visitors are advised to keep their Passports and ID proofs with them, as they will need to cross the Oman border.
- Avoid driving on the mountains at night to enjoy a safe and fun-filled trip. If possible, get accompanied by a local who knows the area well.
Dubai Heritage Village, also known as Hatta Village, offers a unique amalgamation of breath-taking landscape and traditional village lifestyle. The place takes you back in time with well-protected forts, mosques, antiques, kitchen utensils, and age-old rituals that still live within the village community. Besides introducing the visitors to the traditional life of the ancient tribespeople, the Hatta village is best known for offering spectacular views of the mountains and exciting adventure opportunities. So, pack your bags and head to Hatta Village Dubai for a different travel experience.
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