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Peek Into The Palace

Not sure if you’ve heard, but the Presidential Palace, aka Qasr Al Watan, next to Emirates Palace has finally opened to the public, and it’s worth a visit.

Previously cloistered away behind tall gates where the Corniche meets the sea, the Presidential Palace has long been a curiosity to residents and visitors. It’s a mystery no more! Explore the newest landmark to grace the azure shores of Abu Dhabi: Qasr Al Watan. Beyond the illustrious domes and towering gates, visitors will find a palace that brims with knowledge.

Within the glistening marble walls, guests will be treated to an extensive collection of antiquities in addition to the glamorous interior. The palace’s multi-story library is worth a visit alone as it’s packed with first-of-its-kind insight into the Arab culture and heritage.

Qasr Al Watan is more than just a palace, it is an enriching journey into contemporary UAE life in a modern setting that reveals and reflects on governance, knowledge, and craftsmanship of the nation. The palace offers visitors the unique opportunity to marvel at its majestic hallways and domes as well as explore exhibitions that celebrate the region’s rich Arabic heritage and learn more about the rulers and governing institutions that shaped this great nation. Most importantly, a visit will help guests gain a deeper appreciation of the innovations that will drive the country’s future and scratch beyond the nation’s glitzy surface to see the real heart of Abu Dhabi. Don’t miss the book shop! It’s full of one-of-a-kind souvenirs and stunning homewares.

For more information or to book a tour, visit Qasralwatan.ae

Qasr Al Watan in Numbers

  • Qasr Al Watan is part of the 380,000-square-metre Presidential Palace compound
  • The Palace took 150 million-man hours to build
  • 5,000 geometric and floral patterns were used throughout the Palace
  • The doors of the Palace are made of solid maple, and each door took 350 hours to make
  • 149,000 unique pieces of silver, crystal and china were made for the Palace
  • “Al Barza” is the largest room in the Palace and can hold up to 300 guests. It’s a majlis whose name denotes a sheikh’s presence
  • The Library is vast and includes around 50,000 books and a total of 483,937 titles
  • Don’t forget to look up. There are countless stunning domes around the Palace

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