Complete guide to the Hatta Heritage Village
Historic sites are more than just an essential introduction to a country and its ethnic heritage and ancestry. When you learn about the history and heritage of a place, you get a good idea of the local values and culture. Therefore, historical sites are conserved with diligence around the world. The government of Dubai also takes pride in restoring and maintaining places of historical significance. Hatta Heritage Village is one such site that gives you a glimpse of Emirati traditions and culture. Not to forget, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Dubai.
Disclaimer: As of May 2024, the Hatta Heritage Village is temporarily closed. It’s recommended to check with the venue directly before planning your visit to ensure it’s reopened.
All about the Hatta Heritage Village
While you may not be able to cover them all in a day, the long list of activities to explore in Hatta is surely exciting. Apart from enjoying the gorgeous views, visiting Hatta Heritage Village is one activity that you must add to your bucket list.
Restored in 2001 by the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (DCAA), Hatta Heritage Village is one of the oldest villages in Dubai. Visitors can learn a great deal about the way of life during that time and get a glimpse into the clothing, furnishing, weaponry, artefacts and more from the bygone era. They can also see the ancient agricultural, economic and defence systems.
What does the Hatta Heritage Village UAE offer?
If you are keen to know what an Emirati village was like years ago, a trip to Hatta Heritage Village can answer all your questions.
The village is home to centuries-old forts, towers and citadels. There are 30 structures of different sizes at the site. These ruins reflect an age gone by, one that people interested in history will certainly love.
One of the main attractions is the house of the local ruler of the time “Bait Al Wali.” Walk inside and you will see the bedrooms, children’s rooms, kitchen and courtyards.
The well-maintained heritage site is also home to a mosque and two watchtowers. One tower overlooks the southern side and the other one faces the eastern side. The doors stand 2.5 metres tall. Hence, to go inside, you have to use a rope. However, climbing up does give you a unique vantage point to look at the whole area. There is a cemetery inside the complex as well.
The museum in the village displays traditional Emirati utensils, dresses, weapons, musical instruments, handicrafts and artwork. There are life-size figurines of the tribesmen as well.
Interestingly, when reconstructed in 2001, the authorities made sure that the material used for repair was almost the same as the material used to build these structures all those centuries ago. This was an effort to ensure that the essence of the place was retained.
Not far from the village is the Al Sharia Site, a palm tree farm. Here, you will see the age-old falaj network, an underground irrigation system developed so locals could continue farming even when rainfall was scarce. It provides unique insight into how locals grew crops and trees which were essential for their survival.
The resting space in the outdoors is called Al Barza. This is where you can have some Arabic coffee and dates. There is a gift shop here as well so you can buy something to remember this trip.
Tips for your Tour
Carrying your passport or ID proof is essential while crossing over to Oman. You should also bear in mind that there are no cafes or restaurants in the area. So bring your own food. Since there will be a lot of walking, don’t forget to wear comfortable clothes and footwear.
The best time to visit the Heritage Village in Hatta is from September to March. You can also visit during the summer months, but the heat might be an issue. Furthermore, it’s always best to visit the place early in the morning or in the late evening to avoid the harsh sunlight that the mountainous region receives. Ideally, it will take around two hours to complete the village tour.
FAQs
What is the Hatta Heritage Village Location?
The Hatta Heritage Village location is around 134 kilometres from Dubai along the Hajar Mountains area.
What are the Hatta Heritage Village Timings?
Hatta Heritage Village Timings are as follows:
- Saturday to Thursday: 07:30 am to 08:30 pm
- Friday: 02:30 pm to 08:30 pm
* Village opening hours may vary during summer months.
How much is the Ticket Price?
Entry is free. Hence, you don’t have to pay or buy a Hatta Heritage Village ticket.
What is the Hatta Heritage Village Contact Number?
Hatta Heritage Village’s contact number is +971-4-852-1374.
Can I take guided tours of the village?
Yes, guided tours are available both in English and Arabic.
Can I attend the events at the village?
Yes, you can attend Hatta Heritage Village events all year round. These include Flag Day, UAE National Day and the Dubai Shopping Festival.
What other activities are on offer in Hatta?
You could try out camping in Hatta. It’s a unique and novel experience. Hatta Pools are also very popular. If you enjoy water sports, kayaking in Hatta is also an option.
This wraps up our review of the Heritage Village in Hatta. For those planning a tour of the city, a trip to Dubai’s historical places is a must simply because it gives you an insight into the Emirati culture. The new-age Dubai is super exciting. However, old historical places also retain a certain charm. If you enjoy visiting such places, the Al Fahidi historical district merits a tour as well. This will give your tour a nice balance between the old and the new Dubai.
Planning a Dubai tour? Visit MyBayut to learn more about all the historical places in Dubai and the UAE.
