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POINT OF INTEREST

Qasr Al Watan

Al Ras Al Akhdar, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Qasr Al Watan, the United Arab Emirates Presidential Palace, is a spectacular tribute to the UAE's past and future. Completed in 2017, the palace was initially used for state purposes but opened to the public in 2019. These days, visitors can explore the opulent interiors of the palace, check out its massive library, and watch the Palace in Motion light show.

The palace is divided into multiple zones. One of its dazzling features is the central Great Hall, a massive dome-topped space decorated with ornate pietra dura accents. Qasr Al Watan is among Abu Dhabi's most popular attractions, and it is included as a stop on numerous city tours and day tours to Abu Dhabi from Dubai. Most tours also visit the Grand Mosque, and some stop at the Louvre Abu Dhabi, too.

  • Free on-site parking and paid valet parking is available.

  • Qasr al Watan is wheelchair—and stroller-accessible; strollers can be rented, and free loaner wheelchairs are available.

  • Visitors are expected to wear clothing that covers their knees and shoulders out of respect for local customs.

  • Food and drink are available from the on-site restaurant, Legma, but you are not allowed to bring beverages or food into the main part of the palace.

Qasr Al Watan is a popular stop on city tours, most of which include transportation. The palace is also well-connected to the rest of the city by public transportation. Bus Nos. 9, 34, and 69 stop out front. Taxis are more expensive, but they're easy to flag down. Ride-sharing apps such as Uber and Careem are also an option.

Qasr Al Watan is typically open daily from mid-morning until early evening, but hours are subject to change. Before you head out, check the website for updated timings and information about Palace in Motion show schedules.

One popular attraction in the palace is its collection of diplomatic gifts, presented in a designated hall. Learn about the stories behind gifts such as religious manuscripts, an intricately woven Turkmenistan carpet, a Kuwaiti rifle, German masks, and Japanese samurai armament. The collection also features a large selection of gold coins, medals, and wreathes from around the world.

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