House of Artisans Abu Dhabi
Discover traditional Emirati crafts, witness live demonstrations, and experience the authentic Arabic coffee ceremony at this cultural gem. [^R1...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free workshops for families
House of Artisans Abu Dhabi
Best Time
Free workshops for families

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover traditional Emirati crafts, witness live demonstrations, and experience the authentic Arabic coffee ceremony at this cultural gem.
"A pleasant and educational visit to learn about heritage and traditional Emirati handicrafts.
"☕ Attend the Gahwa Ceremony
Don't miss the free Arabic coffee ceremony; it's a cultural highlight and a great way to learn.
📸 Photo Etiquette
Ask permission before taking photos of artisans; some may not be comfortable.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Live Craft Demonstrations
Main exhibition area
Witness Emirati ladies practicing traditional weaving techniques like Talli, Khoos, and Al Sadi.

Authentic Arabic Coffee Ceremony
Designated coffee area
Experience the cultural importance of Gahwa (Arabic coffee) with a live brewing demonstration and tasting.

Exhibition of Emirati Gowns & Artifacts
Exhibition hall
Admire beautifully crafted Emirati gowns, traditional fishing nets, and multimedia displays.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace Emirati Heritage
Free Entry & Engaging Workshops
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☕ Attend the Gahwa Ceremony
Don't miss the free Arabic coffee ceremony; it's a cultural highlight and a great way to learn.
📸 Photo Etiquette
Ask permission before taking photos of artisans; some may not be comfortable.
📅 Check Workshop Schedule
Look for free hands-on art workshops, especially popular for families on weekends.
📍 Hidden Gem Discovery
Explore this less-crowded spot for authentic Emirati culture away from the main tourist path.
Tips
from all over the internet
☕ Attend the Gahwa Ceremony
Don't miss the free Arabic coffee ceremony; it's a cultural highlight and a great way to learn.
📸 Photo Etiquette
Ask permission before taking photos of artisans; some may not be comfortable.
📅 Check Workshop Schedule
Look for free hands-on art workshops, especially popular for families on weekends.
📍 Hidden Gem Discovery
Explore this less-crowded spot for authentic Emirati culture away from the main tourist path.
🛍️ Unique Souvenirs
Find interesting handmade souvenirs and local crafts to take home.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the House of Artisans for its authentic portrayal of Emirati heritage, particularly the live craft demonstrations and the engaging Arabic coffee ceremony. The free entry and educational value are frequently highlighted as major positives. Some guests noted that while the artisans are skilled, interactions could sometimes be less welcoming, though this was not a universal experience.
"What a pleasant and educational visit it was.
Receptionists were super positive, one of them showed me around and told everything she knows about Talli, Khoos and Al Sadi.
Here you will see and learn about Talli, Khoos and Al Sadi are different weaving techniques you can see in real time as Emirati ladies do it infron of your eyes, local coffee brewing teaching session is each 30min.
Great exhibition with all the Emirati ladies gowns, sea fishers nets and multimedia video tale.
Worth the visit if you like historic crafts and authentic weaving techniques."
Rihards Vijums
"It is well worth a visit for coffee ceremony alone if nothing else, the gentleman that prepared the coffee informed us on its cultural importance in the Gulf, and then allowed us to enjoy our lovely cups of saffron infused coffee in peace. You can also find some older ladies crafting traditional artworks in the same spot which is always interesting. Certainly worth a quick visit."
Mustafa Serdar Karakaya
"Amazing experience of understanding Arabic culture and handicraft arts. Gahwa ceremony is must to attend. Ramadan timings are 10 am to 3pm then 7 pm to 12 midnight. Entry is free.
Staff is very supportive."
S O Jaisinghani
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The House of Artisans is located within the Qasr Al Hosn complex. You can reach Qasr Al Hosn by taxi or ride-sharing services. Public bus routes also serve the area.
Yes, there is parking available at the Qasr Al Hosn site. It's advisable to check the official Qasr Al Hosn website for the most up-to-date parking information.
Absolutely! The House of Artisans is part of the Qasr Al Hosn historical site, and it's also close to other Abu Dhabi landmarks like the Cultural Foundation and the Corniche.
Opening hours can vary, especially during Ramadan. It's best to check the official Qasr Al Hosn website or social media for the most current timings.
While specific accessibility details should be confirmed, historical sites often have some limitations. It's recommended to contact the venue directly for detailed information on accessibility.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the House of Artisans is free. This makes it a very accessible and popular spot for experiencing Emirati culture.
Since entry is free, advance booking is generally not required for general admission. However, for specific workshops, it's wise to check if pre-registration is needed.
Yes, the House of Artisans often hosts free hands-on art workshops, particularly on weekends, which are great for families.
Engage with the artisans, attend the Arabic coffee ceremony, and explore the exhibitions to fully appreciate the traditional crafts and culture.
Photography is generally allowed, but it's crucial to be respectful. Always ask for permission before photographing the artisans directly, as some may prefer not to be photographed.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can witness live demonstrations of Talli (embroidery), Khoos (palm frond weaving), and Al Sadi (a traditional weaving technique).
The Gahwa ceremony is a significant cultural tradition. You'll learn about its preparation and cultural importance, often with a tasting of saffron-infused coffee.
The House of Artisans features exhibitions of traditional Emirati women's gowns, fishing nets, and multimedia displays that tell stories of heritage.
Yes, it's a family-friendly spot, especially with the free art workshops often available on weekends. It's a great way for kids to learn about local crafts.
While the focus is on demonstration and education, you might find opportunities to purchase unique handmade items or souvenirs.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The House of Artisans itself focuses on crafts and coffee. However, being part of the Qasr Al Hosn complex, there are usually cafes and dining options nearby or within the cultural precinct.
The traditional coffee served is Gahwa, an Arabic coffee often infused with cardamom and sometimes saffron, served in small cups.
While not the primary focus, the coffee ceremony might be accompanied by small traditional snacks. For a full meal, explore dining options around Qasr Al Hosn.
Abu Dhabi has a wide range of dining options. You'll likely find vegetarian and vegan choices in the cafes and restaurants surrounding the Qasr Al Hosn area.
Typically, you'll be offered coffee and should accept it with your right hand. It's customary to drink a few small cups. The host will indicate when you've had enough.
📸 📸 Photography
The live craft demonstrations, the coffee ceremony setup, and the displays of traditional Emirati gowns offer great photographic opportunities.
Yes, close-up shots of the intricate Talli work, Khoos weaving, and other crafts are encouraged to appreciate the detail.
The main restriction is on photographing the artisans without their explicit consent. Be mindful and respectful of their space and privacy.
The venue is generally well-lit, with a mix of natural and artificial light. The ambiance is often warm and inviting, suitable for photography.
It's generally best to avoid flash photography, especially when photographing people or delicate crafts, to prevent disruption and potential damage.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond workshops, the live craft demonstrations and the coffee ceremony are also visually stimulating for children. The vibrant colors and the process of making coffee can hold their attention. It’s an accessible and enriching experience that offers a break from more traditional tourist attractions.
💰 Budget Travelers
Furthermore, the venue often offers free workshops, adding significant value to a visit without any cost. The authentic Arabic coffee ceremony, while a cultural experience, is also typically offered without charge, making it a rich cultural immersion that doesn't break the bank.
🏛️ Culture Enthusiasts
The Gahwa ceremony provides a direct experience of Emirati hospitality and the cultural significance of coffee. The exhibitions showcasing traditional gowns and artifacts further enrich the understanding of local customs and history.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Traditional Emirati Crafts
Beyond Talli and Khoos, you can also learn about Al Sadi, another significant weaving technique. The artisans often demonstrate these skills live, offering a unique opportunity to interact with the craftspeople and understand the dedication and precision required. The exhibitions also feature stunning examples of these crafts, including elaborate Emirati gowns and traditional household items, providing a comprehensive look at their heritage.
These demonstrations and exhibitions serve as a vital educational tool, connecting younger generations and international visitors to the UAE's cultural legacy. It's a chance to appreciate the artistry that predates modern conveniences and understand the stories and traditions embedded within each piece.
The Significance of Gahwa (Arabic Coffee)
During the ceremony, you'll learn about the cultural importance of Gahwa, which is offered to guests as a symbol of welcome, respect, and generosity. The coffee is served in small, handleless cups called 'finjan'. It's customary to accept the coffee with your right hand and drink a few cups, with the host continuing to refill until the guest signals they have had enough. This ritual fosters connection and conversation, embodying the spirit of Emirati social customs.
Experiencing the Gahwa ceremony offers a sensory journey into Emirati tradition. The aroma of the freshly brewed coffee, the taste of the unique spices, and the accompanying explanations of its heritage create a memorable and authentic cultural immersion. It's a highlight that many visitors find particularly engaging and educational.
Family-Friendly Activities and Workshops
These workshops can range from simple craft-making sessions to more involved art projects, all designed to be accessible and enjoyable for various age groups. It's a wonderful opportunity for children to get hands-on experience with traditional art forms in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
Beyond the workshops, the live demonstrations of traditional crafts and the coffee ceremony also captivate younger audiences. The vibrant colors of the textiles and the interactive nature of the coffee preparation can be very engaging. It’s a great way to introduce children to Emirati culture in a setting that feels more like play than a formal lesson.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit