Modern Abu Dhabi is defined by swanky high-rises that would sweep one off their feet, high-end entertainment zones, broad streets and multicultural dining experiences—a cocoon of luxury. Every indoor space here is temperature controlled, even the tiniest of the shops. Open souks (open air markets), a typical feature of the Middle east, have been improvised and lumped together inside posh structures, giving them the anonymity of modern times. So yes, I am right to be surprised to find a market that deviates from the usual. The Abu Dhabi Date Market or the Mina Date Market is a wholesale market for dates, fruits and vegetables near the fish market at Mina…