Abu Dhabi: His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, inaugurated Qasr Al Watan in the Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi.
It opens to the public from noon on Monday, March 11.
Qasr Al Watan, or "Palace of the Nation", is an exquisitely crafted tribute to the region’s Arabian heritage and artistry. It is considered a new monument to cultural knowledge and communication between peoples of the world.
Visitors will have the opportunity to gain deeper understanding of the UAE’s values and traditions. Its architectural and interior design is echoed by the significance of the exhibits housed within its walls.
The new destination will give visitors a glimpse into the UAE’s rich cultural legacy and gain insights into the palace’s scientific, cultural and intellectual content.
Visitors touring the site will see a library that is home to vast collection of books and resources on the UAE's political, social and cultural history.
Inside, guests can also experience interactive cultural exhibitions.
The west wing houses exhibits that will allow guests to learn about the formation of the UAE and its governance. Visitors can also have access to halls typically reserved for state visits and meeting global leaders.
The east wing, called the House of Knowledge, visitors can explore a vast collection of artefacts and rare manuscripts highlighting the Arab world’s contributions to fields including science, arts, humanities and literature.
The Presidential Palace, home to the formal offices of the President, Vice President and Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, is the current meeting place for the UAE Cabinet and Federal Supreme Council — the highest constitutional authority in the UAE.
The decision to open the Presidential Palace was made by President His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, in order to celebrate local heritage.
Daily timings
After the public opening on Monday, the building will open daily between 10am and 8pm.
