Qasr Al Watan

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What people say

"Qasr Al Watan, completed in 2017, stands as a monumental testament to the cultural heritage and architectural prowess of the United Arab Emirates. The palace was officially opened to the public on March 11, 2019, by Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, marking its transformation from a venue primarily for hosting foreign dignitaries and governmental meetings into a public cultural landmark. Even after its opening, Qasr Al Watan continues to serve its original official functions, hosting important state affairs. With its stunning façade crafted from white granite and limestone, the palace features intricate designs and elaborate decorations. The most striking element is the magnificent dome, measuring 37 meters in diameter, which crowns the central chamber known as "The Great Hall." This space is adorned with a breathtaking chandelier composed of 350,000 pieces of crystal, adding to the grandeur of the interior. The palace is divided into two main wings. The eastern wing houses the "House of Knowledge," which stores significant artifacts, including gifts from visiting officials and religious texts such as the Quran and the Bible. This wing also features a library boasting over 50,000 books that chronicle the cultural, social, and political history of the UAE. In contrast, the western wing is dedicated to official functions, including the "Spirit of Collaboration" room, which hosts meetings for the UAE Cabinet and the Federal Supreme Council. This wing also accommodates banquet facilities and exhibits diplomatic gifts, reinforcing the palace's role as a center for both governance and cultural exchange. Since its opening, Qasr Al Watan has been recognized internationally, being named one of the top landmarks of art and culture in the world and nominated for prestigious awards as a cultural tourist attraction in the Middle East."
"Explore the grandeur of Qasr Al Watan, the Palace of the Nation, in the heart of Abu Dhabi. This stunning architectural gem showcases the UAE’s rich heritage and culture. Inside, you'll find halls adorned with intricate mosaics, chandeliers, and artwork, offering a glimpse into the nation’s governance. Discover galleries with rare artifacts, historical documents, and interactive exhibits tracing the UAE's journey from its Bedouin roots to modern prominence. Don’t miss the "Palace in Motion" show, a visual and musical spectacle that brings the palace’s facade to life with the story of the UAE’s past, present, and future."
"✏️Qasr al Watan is the Presidential Palace of the UAE and it is representative for the Arabian culture and architecture. 🕒Opening hours: check the link below for the exact opening hours. 💲Prices: Adult: AED 65 Child: AED 30 You can buy tickets online at the link below. The tickets might have a higher price when bought directly at the palace."
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Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, is a place where modern marvels and rich history coexist. With its gleaming skyscrapers, luxury malls, cultural treasures, and sun-drenched beaches, it’s easy to be dazzled by the present. But beneath this glamorous surface lies a story of transformation that has shaped the emirate into what it is today. Imagine this: over 100,000 years ago, early settlers made their home here, leaving behind traces of their ancient existence. Fast forward to 1761, when the Bani Yas tribe stumbled upon fresh water on what was then a remote island—Abu Dhabi. This discovery wasn’t just a stroke of luck; it was the beginning of a thriving civilization, built on the foundations of pearl diving and fishing. The Al Nahyan family, descendants of the Bani Yas tribe, charted an incredible journey from the Liwa Oasis to the historic Qasr Al Hosn in 1793, establishing their rule and laying the groundwork for the future. As the centuries passed, the landscape of Abu Dhabi changed dramatically, especially with the advent of the oil and gas industry. In 1958, the discovery of oil beneath the Gulf’s pearling beds marked a turning point, leading to the first-ever crude oil export in 1962 and sparking the transformation of the emirate. The year 1971 was another defining moment. Under the visionary leadership of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi played a pivotal role in the formation of the United Arab Emirates, setting the stage for the modern, dynamic city we know today. For those curious to explore Abu Dhabi’s rich past, these historical sites and experiences are your gateway to the stories that shaped this remarkable city.
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