Mina Zayed

In one of Abu Dhabi's oldest central neighbourhoods, wooden dhows and traditional markets exist in harmony with steel-and-glass skyscrapers.

Take a trip to Abu Dhabi's past

Tucked along the port, Mina Zayed is a precious window into Abu Dhabi’s past. It’s a place shaped by trade, fishing and everyday rituals, where tradition isn’t a performance but the beating heart of the neighbourhood. You’ll see it in the dhow harbour, where wooden boats still line the water and fishers mend their nets. You’ll feel it in the Mina Market, as local shoppers move between crates of fresh seafood and baskets of dates, just as they have for decades.

There’s history here, but it’s hardly frozen in time. At Zayed Port Heritage Village, the past is preserved and shared through colourful recreations of Emirati life back in the ‘60s, when Abu Dhabi was just a sparsely populated fishing village. The Souq Al Mina marketplace adds its own texture, with antiques, tailors, old-school cafés and vintage shops that reward a slow browse.

Back in the present day, contemporary exhibition space 421 Arts Campus and The Club Abu Dhabi, an award-winning private members’ resort, reflect the evolving identity of Mina Zayed. But the neighbourhood never loses sight of its maritime roots. On the water, kayakers, paddleboarders and rowers share the Arabian Gulf with cruising dhows – an unmistakable reminder of where Abu Dhabi came from, and where it’s going.

Coastal experiences in Mina Zayed

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Getting to Mina Zayed

Mina Zayed is extremely easy to reach from central Abu Dhabi, with several public transport and taxi options available. Public buses – specifically routes 5, 7, 8, 9 and 11 – serve the Al Mina and Zayed Port area, with stops close to both Souq Al Mina and the Mina Zayed Markets. These routes run frequently (take a look at the timetable) and link with nearby districts like Al Zahiyah.

For a more direct route, taxis and ride-hailing apps are widely available across the city. The journey from central Abu Dhabi typically takes just 5 to 10 minutes, so you'll be here in a flash.

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FAQs about Mina Zayed

Mina Zayed is best known as one of Abu Dhabi’s oldest and most culturally rich districts. It’s famous for its working dhow harbour, traditional markets and strong connection to the city’s maritime and trading roots. The area is also home to landmarks like Zayed Port Heritage Village, Souq Al Mina and the creative hub 421 Arts Campus, creating a unique mix of heritage and contemporary culture.

Yes, the Mina Zayed Fish Market is still open and remains one of the most popular and authentic spots in the city to buy fresh seafood.

It continues to operate alongside the area's other long-standing markets, including the fruit and vegetable souq, plant souq and meat market.

Visitors can browse the bustling Mina Markets, explore local culture at Zayed Port Heritage Village, shop for antiques and textiles at Souq Al Mina and catch exhibitions or creative programming at 421 Arts Campus. For a more laid-back experience, stroll along the harbour and watch traditional wooden dhows dock and unload – one of the city’s most iconic sights.

Mina Zayed is just a 5- to 10-minute drive from downtown Abu Dhabi. Several public bus routes including 5, 7, 8, 9 and 11, stop near Souq Al Mina and the main market area. Taxis and ride-hailing apps offer a quick and direct option, especially from nearby districts like Al Zahiyah.