Set among landscaped gardens in the 380,000-sq-meter Presidential Palace complex that houses the offices of the president, vice president and crown prince of Abu Dhabi, Qasr Al Watan (the Palace of the Nation) was opened to the public for tours in 2019 to shine a spotlight on the achievements of the UAE. This working palace hosts heads of state and dignitaries and is the official venue for summits.
Inside the Palace
A contemporary interpretation of architectural traditions from the Gulf region, Qasr Al Watan is a breathtaking sight with its regal domes, white granite and limestone facade, hand-carved maple wood doors and elaborate arcades that offer respite from the sun.
Crowned by a massive 60m high central dome with a diameter of 37m and stained-glass windows, the Great Hall is the epitome of splendor. A visual feast, it features traditional design elements such as grand arches, detailed tilework, ornate domes, interwoven geometric patterns, vegetal and floral motifs, stylized lettering and crystal chandeliers. The color palette of gold, white and blue that dominates the interior draws from the landscape comprised of the desert, sky and sea, while the white exterior of the palace signifies peace and purity.
Geometric patterns adorn the floors, and the walls are decorated with latticed mashrabiya designs. Notice the recurrence of the eight-pointed star in the design – comprised of two overlapping squares, it holds great significance in the Arab world. Step into each of the four mirrored geometric cubes inside the Great Hall to learn more about the design elements, diversity of patterns and detailed craftsmanship involved.
The Great Hall provides access to various other rooms, some of which house exhibitions that highlight the country’s diplomatic relationships and historical achievements.
Statecraft in Practice
A magnificent 12-tonne chandelier with 350,000 crystals hangs from the gold-leaf-lined dome above a circular table in the Spirit of Collaboration room, which serves as the official venue for summits involving the Federal Supreme Council, the Arab League and the Gulf Cooperation Council.
In the Presidential Banquet that hosts state dinners in honor of visiting dignitaries, take a peek at sumptuous custom-made silverware and perfectly set tables. Other rooms include the Official Meeting Room, used during official state visits, and Al Barza, the majlis (reception room) at Qasr Al Watan.
Diplomatic Gifts
The Presidential Gifts room displays a collection of diplomatic gifts presented to the UAE by visiting heads of state. Highlights include a handmade carpet from Turkmenistan, a porcelain tulip vase from the Netherlands and several ceremonial swords and daggers from countries such as Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Oman.
Knowledge & Scholarship
The House of Knowledge is the most interesting area at Qasr Al Watan. It showcases artifacts and manuscripts that highlight the contributions of Arab scholars to the development of various fields like astronomy, science, art, mathematics, literature, exploration, cartography and medicine from the 8th century to the 13th century, a period known as the Arab Golden Age.
The Qasr Al Watan Library houses a collection of over 50,000 books, including rare editions and manuscripts that advance the preservation of Arab culture and intellectual heritage.
A Visual Extravaganza
After sunset, an immersive light-and-sound show called Palace in Motion transforms the palace facade to tell the story of the UAE’s inspiring journey. The show is included in your ticket on the day of your visit. Though it’s only 15 minutes, it's worth returning to the palace grounds to catch it later in the day.
