Heritage village showcases traditional shows during Eid

Abu Dhabi: Around 10,000 people visited heritage village in Abu Dhabi during Eid holidays, an official said.

Located on the breakwater near the marina, the village opens its doors for visitors to witness traditional performances, listen to music and taste authentic cuisine.

"Around 10,000 People visited the village looking for more knowledge about the local culture, traditions, heritage and the identity of the place" Mohammad Al Marzouqi, Coordinator of the Etihad festival organised by the Heritage Club told Gulf News.

The festival started on December 2 to celebrate National Day and the Eid holidays with many traditional events such as Ayala and Harbia performances and handicrafts, plus the usual village activities; pottery making and Bisht sewing.

A traditional games festival was also hosted in the village to showcase a number of traditional games children played 50 years ago.

"Tourist visiting the village are interested more to learn and experience the culture; they can test the Emirati food cooked by Emirati women in the village and ride camels and horses the way our grandfathers used to do. And watch making hand crafts which are authentic arts." Al Marzouqi said.

During Eid holidays the village fills up in the evenings as a children's play "Yalla Ynam Murgan" (let Murgan sleep) is staged.