Marine

Discover Abu Dhabi’s busy coastal life, experiencing all the sights, sounds and smells of the sea. Watch boat builders at work, see turtles and learn how to make a traditional fishing net.

The Marine is a waterside haven where we can recollect how our ancestors harvested the sea for food and riches.

Visit the Fishing Village, where you can absorb the skills, knowledge and incredible stories of seafaring fisherman.

Experience Sailing & Boat making, an introduction to the dhow, the shasha and the tools that help traverse the sea or take part in a seaside treasure hunt and try your luck prying open an oyster in the ancient tradition of pearling in this area.

The Marine zone has plenty to satisfy your curiosity.

Stunning Vistas

Stepping from the open walkways of the Cultural Foundation Building, you will find yourself at the shores of the Marine.

You are treated to a stunning vista of a full view of the entire Qasr Al Hosn Festival from the Marine point.

Beyond the Marine, you can view the striking golden sands of the Desert and the vibrant town-like atmosphere of Abu Dhabi Island, framed by the backdrop of Qasr Al Hosn itself.

Fishing Village

Live the authentic experience of Emirati fishermen - make fish nets and traps and learn about the different fish breeds they sought. Preserve the fish with salting and sample some yourself to take home. Alternatively, see the endangered turtle aquarium hosted by the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi.

Activities

• Fishnet Making
• Fish Trap Making
• Fish Salting / selling
• Net Casting
• Local Fish Info
• Turtles
• Story Telling

Sailing & Boat Making

It took skills in sourcing and crafting materials, as well as a kinship with the sea, to learn how to travel across it. Discover how the different types of boat, like the dhow and the small shasha were built. Learn how to harness the wind’s power with sail making, and how to make the paddles of smaller rowing boats.

Activities

• Sail Making
• Shasha Boat
• Dhow Building

Pearling

As such a rich component of Emirati history, pearl diving is essential to the UAE's heritage. You can take a journey through time in the pearling exhibition, hear the spirited sea chanting of pearl divers and maybe even pluck yourself a pearl from the innards of an oyster, thanks to the culturing techniques provided by the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi.

Activities

• Pearling Exhibition
• Oyster Opening
• Sea Chanting