Qasr Al Watan Library
One of the biggest public libraries under the auspices of the Abu Dhabi Culture and Tourism Department, is an excellent space for research and introspection inside Qasr Al Watan.
Abu Dhabi Cultural Attractions
If the symmetry of arabesque patterns and discussions of marble book matching can make your heart quicken, you’re in for a treat when you visit Abu Dhabi. Many artistic and historical places in Abu Dhabi will satisfy your appetite for all things cultural.
Put Qasr Al Watan at the top of your list of cultural attractions in Abu Dhabi to visit. This working presidential palace – the “Palace of the Nation” – located in the United Arab Emirates’s Presidential Palace compound in Al Ras Al Akhdar is full of cultural treasures and significance.
One of the biggest public libraries under the auspices of the Abu Dhabi Culture and Tourism Department, is an excellent space for research and introspection inside Qasr Al Watan.
The library foyer is an impressively lofty atrium with chandeliers and book-filled shelves reaching the upper-story balconies. With over 50,000 titles curated over 35 years, the library spans across 12 wings, each showcasing a themed collection and study rooms.
Meander through the halls to take in the library’s precious collections, maybe even taking the time to stay at a quiet book to read. Around 80% of the books in the library are in Arabic, and there is a separate room with approximately 1,800 rare titles and manuscripts.
The House of Knowledge is in the palace’s eastern wing, beside the Qasr Al Watan Library. While the library exhibits the depth and breadth of human knowledge, the House of Knowledge focuses on and highlights the contributions of the Arab world to human civilization.
The House of Knowledge is the perfect place to learn about the contributions of Arab civilization to the world. The exhibits include a fascinating display of artifacts and manuscripts from the Arab world and beyond.
Among the treasures on display are ancient astronomical instruments, medical texts, and maps that illustrate the Arab world's role in the development of science and exploration.
Take a moment to appreciate the magnificent gilt calligraphy sculpture outside the House of Knowledge, a masterpiece by Mattar bin Lahej inspired by the timeless words of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
The Presidential Banquet is a place of diplomacy and hospitality. It’s where world leaders sit down to enjoy
Emirati cuisine and experience the country’s customs and diplomatic protocols.
Explore the predominantly blue room with its gilded arches, carpeted floors, and a dazzling display of precious silver, crystal, and China. Imagine the pomp, ceremony, and grandeur of state functions hosted and held in this banquet hall.
The Spirit of Collaboration is a summit room. It’s where UAE leaders meet to make and decide on UAE policy and future direction. The venue has also hosted a range of prestigious events in the UAE.
Members of the following bodies regularly meet here:
The Spirit of Collaboration is circular to symbolize cooperation, collaboration, and equality. On your visit, go to the central area and look up to appreciate the intricate patterns that adorn the ceiling, and the 12-tonne chandelier made of 350,000 pieces of crystal.
Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Abu Dhabi counterpart of Le Louvre in Paris, is another must-visit cultural attraction. This universal museum in Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi approaches human progress from the perspective of a common and shared journey.
The museum's remarkable architecture reflects its inclusive spirit. Designed by Jean Nouvel, it seamlessly melds French design with Arabic heritage.
The centerpiece of the structure, the silver-gray dome roof, takes its shape from the cupola. It uses eight layers of geometric stars (different sizes and angles) to filter sunlight so it falls in a dappled pattern on the museum walls and floors.
Abu Dhabi, the UAE capital and the seat of political power in the country, is also home to many must-see cultural attractions.
Qasr Al Watan is one of the leading cultural spots in Abu Dhabi. Purchase your Qasr Al Watan ticket now to see the palace’s stunning architecture firsthand and visit the Qasr Al Watan Library, House of Knowledge, Presidential Banquet, and Spirit of Collaboration.
Free shuttle buses from Abu Dhabi and Dubai to Qasr Al Watan. Click here for more information.
The Saadiyat Cultural District in Saadiyat Island is a place designated for cultural attractions. Louvre Abu Dhabi is in the Saadiyat Cultural District.
Other attractions are Berklee Abu Dhabi and Manarat Al Saadiyat.
There are also museums under construction, including Zayed National Museum, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, and Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi.
Abu Dhabi, the UAE capital and the seat of political power in the country, is also home to many must-see cultural attractions.
Qasr Al Watan is one of the leading cultural spots in Abu Dhabi. Purchase your Qasr Al Watan ticket now to see the palace’s stunning architecture firsthand and visit the Qasr Al Watan Library, House of Knowledge, Presidential Banquet, and Spirit of Collaboration.
Free shuttle buses from Abu Dhabi and Dubai to Qasr Al Watan. Click here for more information.
Sir Bani Yas Island is a UAE nature reserve with a wildlife sanctuary, one of the foremost natural attractions in Abu Dhabi. It is also a cultural heritage site, with archaeological finds like:
Abu Dhabi, the UAE capital and the seat of political power in the country, is also home to many must-see cultural attractions.
Qasr Al Watan is one of the leading cultural spots in Abu Dhabi. Purchase your Qasr Al Watan ticket now to see the palace’s stunning architecture firsthand and visit the Qasr Al Watan Library, House of Knowledge, Presidential Banquet, and Spirit of Collaboration.
Free shuttle buses from Abu Dhabi and Dubai to Qasr Al Watan. Click here for more information.
For assistance, you can call our Contact Centre on (+971) 600 544 442 or email us. The opening hours for the Contact Centre are: Mondays from 10am to 6pm, Tuesdays to Thursdays from 9am to 7pm, and Fridays to Sundays from 9am to 8pm GST (Gulf Standard Time).
