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Qasr Al Watan: A Glimpse into the UAE’s Heritage and Governance
Qasr Al Watan, the Presidential Palace of the United Arab Emirates, stands as a monumental testament to the nation's rich heritage, governance, and craftsmanship. Located in the Al Ras Al Akhdar district of Abu Dhabi, this architectural marvel was opened to the public in March 2019 by Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum . While it continues to serve as the official residence of the UAE President and hosts state functions, Qasr Al Watan has been thoughtfully designed to offer visitors an immersive experience into the country's history and governance.
Architectural Grandeur: The Great Hall and Its Symbolism
Upon entering Qasr Al Watan, visitors are greeted by The Great Hall, a breathtaking space that showcases traditional Arabian craftsmanship and artistry. The central dome, with a diameter of 37 meters and soaring to 60 meters, is one of Abu Dhabi's most imposing sights . The hall's design incorporates the palace's signature colors—blue representing the Arabian Gulf, white symbolizing purity, and yellow inspired by the desert sands. Geometric shapes, mirrored cubes, curved glass panels, and Arabesque patterns come together to create a harmonious and visually captivating environment.
The House of Knowledge and Qasr Al Watan Library
Qasr Al Watan places a strong emphasis on learning and knowledge sharing. The House of Knowledge houses a vast collection of books, manuscripts, and artifacts that document the nation's history and cultural heritage . Adjacent to this is the Qasr Al Watan Library, which boasts more than 40,000 titles focusing on archaeology, history, culture, literature, and the arts. A digital collection of over 16 million items is also available, offering scholars and visitors alike a comprehensive resource on the UAE's journey and contributions to various fields.
Spirit of Collaboration: A Hub for Diplomacy
The Spirit of Collaboration is a vast, circular room within Qasr Al Watan where entities such as the Federal Supreme Council, the Arab League, and the Gulf Cooperation Council convene to discuss and shape the region's future . The room's design features imposing gold doors, a lofty dome in blue, white, and gold, and a chandelier crafted from 350,000 dazzling pieces of crystal. This space symbolizes the UAE's commitment to unity, diplomacy, and collaboration, reflecting the vision of the nation's Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
Visitor Information: Planning Your Experience
Qasr Al Watan is open daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with the last admission one hour before closing . Tickets are priced at AED 65 for adults and AED 30 for children. Visitors can explore various zones, including the Palace in Motion light show, which is a 15-minute sound and light spectacle projected over the palace, showcasing the UAE's past, present, and future . The palace is accessible by car, taxi, or public transportation, with ample parking available on-site. For a more enriching experience, audio-guided tours are available in multiple languages, allowing guests to explore the palace at their own pace.
