UAE Presidential Palace Building

Address: Qasr Al Watan, Abu Dhabi (Presidential Palace complex, near the Corniche)

Website: https://www.qasralwatan.ae/

Hours: Hours vary seasonally-check official site before visiting

Admission: General public admission usually charged (paid entry to palace and exhibitions); prices subject to change-check official site

The UAE Presidential Palace complex in Abu Dhabi, commonly identified with Qasr Al Watan, is a state palace and cultural venue in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. It features grand state rooms, ceremonial halls and landscaped grounds, and opened to the public in 2019 while continuing to host official functions.

Public areas include large ceremonial spaces, exhibition galleries and a library that presents the UAE’s history and governance. The architecture and finishes are highly ornate with extensive use of decorative ceilings, chandeliers and traditional motifs.

The palace complex is used for state business and hosting foreign delegations as well as for public cultural programs and exhibitions in the areas designated for visitors.

Qasr Al Watan sits in the capital city of Abu Dhabi on the Corniche side of the city, near other landmark hotels and government buildings.

• Public opening 2019: Opened for public visits in 2019 as part of a state complex that remains in use for official ceremonies and diplomatic functions.
• Access and photography: Photography and access are restricted in parts of the complex; ticketed entry is required for the public exhibition areas and grounds.

What to See#

• Great Hall: A vast ceremonial space with high ceilings and ornate chandeliers used for state receptions and official events, characterised by richly detailed interior finishes and scale.
• House of Knowledge (library): A public-facing library and cultural space that houses collections, exhibits and reading areas, designed to present UAE history and governance to visitors.

Qasr Al Watan is in Abu Dhabi, adjacent to the Emirates Palace hotel and a short drive from the Corniche. Taxis and rideshares are the most convenient option; check the palace website for parking and entry procedures and to reserve timed tickets.

• Dress modestly-Qasr Al Watan enforces a respectful dress code for visitors.
• Reserve timed entry online during weekends and holidays when visitor numbers rise.
• Allow extra time for the House of Knowledge exhibitions and the palace's library if interested in Emirati governance and craftsmanship.