Uncover the rich history of the UAE by visiting Heritage Sites in the UAE, where ancient architecture and cultural landmarks tell the story of the nation’s past. The United Arab Emirates is famous not just for swooping off feet with its glamorous architecture and modernism, but also boasts multiple heritage sites- ancient settlements, age-old mosques, and many more. In addition, the best part is most of these are UNESCO-recognized.
Top 10 Heritage Sites in the UAE
Most tourist sites here carry cultural, natural, and historic value. Moreover, special care is taken so that the future generation can draw some value out of it. Our exclusive list includes all the top-rated UN-recognized heritage sites. Let’s take a look at it.
1. Al Ain
Al Ain- also called the ‘Garden City’ is in Abu Dhabi. It is the administrative division and is all about greenery everywhere as far as your eyes will travel. Recognized as the desert oasis, here you will find multiple cultural sites. The best way to explore this beautiful city is to opt for a al ain city tour that will cover majority of the tourist destinations.
Address- Al Ain, Abu Dhabi
Timing- 09:00 am to 07:00 pm (Open daily)
- Hafit- Jebel Hafit received recognition for its dream-like sunrise and sunset views and the breathtaking views of Al Ain Oasis city. Perched on the Oman borders, it is a significant tourist spot due to the fossil discoveries. In addition, the Jebel Hafeet Tombs hold a massive significance and can be enjoyed from the foothills of the Jebel Hafeet mountains.
- Hili- A couple of km away from Al Ain is the Hili Archaeological Park. The sole purpose of structuring the park is to draw attention towards the Al Ain’s old monuments. Anyone can access the park and find evidence from Bronze and Iron Age villages, burial grounds, agricultural infrastructure, and more.
Address- Mohammed Bin Khalifa Street, Al Ain
Timing- 09:30 am to 06:30 pm
- Bida Bint Saud- Another addition to the UAE heritage site is the Bida Bint Saud. It is a mountain site scattered with stone tombs that are almost 5000 years old. In addition, one that draws the maximum attention is the Falaj irrigation system (3000 years old) and more.
2. Umm An-Nar
An ancient island in Abu Dhabi, Umm An-Nar is a crucial archaeological site. This priceless landmark gained popularity as it is a hub of significant finds from the Bronze Age era and their inhabitants. From the lifestyle of the people to the cultural evidence, Umm An-Nar holds universal importance in UAE’s unheard past.
3. Sir Bu Nu’ayr
Sir Bu Nu’ayr lies in the off-coast region of Abu Dhabi and is a part of the Emirates of Sharjah. It is an environmentally protected area and has true potential as a UNESCO-stamped World Heritage Site. It is more like a wetland, giving it a natural significance. Therefore, it is protected by the Sharjah Environment and Protected Areas Authority.
4. Khor Dubai
Khor Dubai holds a cultural significance in the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites. It is well described as the natural saltwater creek, tidal inlet, and Dubai’s waterway. The region is scattered with late 19th and early 20th-century buildings. It is a perfect spot to discover the evolution of Dubai from a meager pearl diving village to an uber-modern and economically advanced city. Khor Dubai’s prime attraction is the age-old mud-brick wind towers.
5. Ed-Dur Site
Among the other heritage sites in the country, Ed-Dur is one of the largest near Al Beidha Lake and falls under the Umm Al Quwain region. Ed-Dur was an important human dwelling zone for the Bronze Age, Stone Age, Iron Age, and Pre-Islamic period. One of the bizarre facts is the site is naturally covered with towering dunes, which safeguards the area from northern offshore winds.
6. Al Bidya Mosque
The famous Al Bidya Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in the Emirates and is in Fujairah. It belongs to the 15th century and introduces visitors to the region’s cultural values. Al Bidya is a time capsule that tells tales of historical civilization. In addition, the outstanding engineering of that era, its aesthetics, and its location made the Al Bidya Mosque a prominent tourist attraction, especially for history buffs.
Address- Fujairah, United Arab Emirates
Timing- 9 am to 5 pm (daily)
7. Abu Dhabi Sabkha
Unlike most world heritage sites of the UAE, Sabkha holds a natural significance. In other words, Sabkha is a salt-encrusted desert that lies in the southern part of the Arabian Gulf. This part has zero vegetation due to the high amount of salt content in the land. In addition, the groundwater level is below normal.
8. Dhayah
An unheard heritage site on the Emirate’s list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites is Dhayah. It boasts a fascinating cultural landscape (mostly traditional settlements). Proofs of historical interaction by the past dwellers, mangroves, and lagoons have been spotted here. Moreover, Dhayah has been officially marked as the ‘Protected Archaeological Zones.’
9. Sharjah- Gate to the Trucial States
Although Sharjah is less frequently visited, the city holds a major significance in the history of the Emirates. Earlier, it was the gateway to the Trucial States. In addition, the city was essential to support the country’s pearl trade. The old ports, buildings, and air stations have now been turned into Mahatta Museum.
Final Words
There are multiple world heritage sites in the UAE. However, the UNESCO-recognized sites captured the attention of the tourists for a reason. As a result, they became the must-visit spots. Therefore, backpackers, luxury holiday lovers, and everyone else will find something to love and cherish in the Emirates. Don’t forget to include one of these heritage sites on your Emirate holiday list.
