The Al Qattara Arts Centre was established in 2011 and represents the artistic and cultural heritage of Al Ain. It serves as a creative space where people not only appreciate art by visualising it but also engage in its creation through various studios and workshops.
It is one of the central hubs of Al Ain, where impressive archaeological and heritage exhibits are present, making it a key cultural destination in the Middle East region.
- Key highlights
- Nearby Attraction
- Historical Objects
- Workshops and Activities
- Workshop Timings and Fee Structure
- How to Book a Visit
- FAQS
All About Al Qattara Arts Centre, Al-Ain
When it comes to Al Ain, you can find multiple places to visit. Be it cultural or historical; you can find souks, art centers and more. Al Qattara Arts Centre is also one of the best places to visit in Al Ain.
Key Highlights
Location
- Al Qattara Arts Center, 124th Street, Al Qattarah, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Contact Information
- Telephone: +971 3 711 8225 | +971 3 711 8226
- Email: qac@dctabudhabi.ae
Timings
- Daily: 09:00 am to 08:00 pm
Nearby Attraction
Well, multiple unique attractions contribute to the Al Qattara Arts Centre, which is a central hub for residents and visitors in Al Ain.
- Qasr Al Muwaiji – 10 minutes away
- Hili Archaeological Park – 10 minutes away
- Al Ain Oasis – 12 minutes away
- Al Ain Mall – 13 minutes away
Historical Objects
By this time, we all know Al Qattara Arts Centre is a historical cultural site of the Middle East region. That’s why it is an integral part of Abu Dhabi culture.
Here are some historical events of the arts centre, that make it worth a visit:
Archaeological Discoveries During Construction
When Al Qattara Arts Centre was under construction, archaeological excavations discovered a five-metre sequence of archaeological layers that span from the Late Islamic period to the Iron Age. This significant discovery has increased the importance of this site as it has become a go-to place for individuals who love to discover historical art.
Exhibition of Significant Artefacts
The most significant artefact is a lion figurine dating to the Iron Age II period (1100-600 BCE), which is now displayed at the Al Qattara Arts Centre and is considered one of the finest decorated Iron Age ceramic pieces found in the UAE.
Al Qattara Archaeological Basement
The Iron Age industrial installations that represent the earliest phase of the discovered sequence are now displayed in the Al Qattara Archaeological Basement. This permanent exhibition has given significant value to archaeology in Al Ain’s Al Qattara Arts Centre.
Workshops and Activities
As it is one of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi, you must not miss out on workshops and activities at Al Qattara Arts Centre. Here are some activities to perform and workshops to attend:
Artistic Workshops and Courses
- Al Qattara Arts Centre provides monthly courses:
- From Sunday to Thursday (09:00 am to 04:00 pm).
- Local artists volunteer to teach the basics of painting, which allows students to create art using materials available at home.
- Workshops like Oil Painting Techniques by skillful and master artists have been practised at Al Qattara Arts Centre to teach important lessons of light and shadow, colour theory, creating form and space, and paint application.
Art Studios and Facilities
- Dry Studio: A space for learning music and handicrafts.
- Wet Studio: A space for knowing drawing and painting.
- Pottery Studio: A space for ceramic arts.
- Calligraphy Studio: A space that focuses on the art of beautiful handwriting and script.
Music and Singing Lessons
- Introduction to Singing: This course provides the learning of five basic components of singing: pitch, breathing, rhythm, diction, and voice.
- Music Theory and History Course: It helps students develop observational skills with a deeper understanding of musical styles and structures.
- One-to-One Piano Courses: A personalised piano course with lessons is available for players of all ages and skill levels.
Workshop Timings and Fee Structure
Al Qattara Arts Centre offers lots of workshops for kids and adults. These workshops are among the top things you can do in Abu Dhabi. Listed below is the fee structure for different workshops:
Oil Painting Techniques
- Fees (Adults): AED 350
- Timings: Sunday to Friday (5:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
Calligraphy
- Fees Adults: AED 350
- Fees (Kids): AED 300
- Timings: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
Arabic Charcoal & Pencil Drawing Techniques
- Fees (Adults): AED 300
- Timings: Monday, Wednesdays, Thursday and Saturday (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
Artistic Colouring Techniques
- Fees (Kids): AED 300
- Timings: Sunday to Wednesday (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
Wheel-Thrown Pottery & Mosaic Art
- Fees (Adults): AED 350
- Fees (Kids): AED 300
- Timings: Monday and Thursday (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
Wheel-Thrown Pottery
- Fees(Adults): AED 350
- Fees (Kids): AED 300
- Timings: Tuesday and Saturdays (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
Basics of Oud Playing
- Fees (Adults & Kids): AED 350
- Timings: Monday & Wednesday (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
Piano
- Fees (Adults & Kids): AED 800
- Timings: Monday – Friday (3:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
Gulf Rhythms with OUD
Group Classes
- Price: AED 350
- Timings: Sunday only (5:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
Individual Classes
- Fees: AED 700
- Timings: Thursday to Saturday (5:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
How to Book a Visit
To book a visit to any cultural site like Al Qattara Arts Centre, follow these simple steps:
- Visit the Abu Dhabi Culture website.
- Go to the “Book a Visit” section.
- Select whether you are an Individual, Academic Institute, Corporation Private Company, or NGO.
- Enter your First Name and last Name, and select your Gender.
- Provide your Phone Number and Email Address.
- Choose the location type you plan to visit (National Library, Museum, Arts Community Centers or Historic Sites).
- Select the exact site, such as Al Qattara Arts Centre.
- Enter the Date of Your Visit and an Alternate Date.
- Specify your Arrival Time and the Purpose of the Visit.
- Mention your ‘Age Group’.
- Indicate if anyone in your group has special needs or requirements.
- Answer how you ‘heard about the place’.
- Agree to the terms and conditions to proceed with the booking.
- Submit the form, and Abu Dhabi Culture will get back to you with the details of your visit.
Contact Information for Abu Dhabi Culture
- Phone (UAE): +971 2 444 044
- Phone (Overseas): +971 2 599 5720
- Email: info@dctabudhabi.ae
FAQS
The Centre is open daily from 09:00 am to 08:00 pm. However, we recommended to check for specific event or workshop timings.
Visitors can enjoy art classes in drawing, painting, pottery, calligraphy, and music. The Centre also offers workshops like oil painting techniques and hosts exhibitions and events to show Emirati culture and artistic heritage.
To sum up, Al Qattara Arts Centre in Al Ain is a go-to place to discover Emirati culture. The Centre’s workshops and activities are designed for people of all ages from diverse backgrounds worldwide. Also, you can visit Souq Al Qattara, which is near to this location.
If you are visiting other emirates, here’s a guide to places you can visit in Dubai.
