It opens to the public today, Monday March 11…

Qasr Al Watan, also known as Palace of the Nation, which is inside the Presidential Palace compound in Abu Dhabi is set to open its doors to the public for the first time from Monday March 11.

Ahead of the opening HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai has released the first images of what it looks like inside – and it’s as stunning as you’d imagine.

“Mohammed bin Zayed and I inaugurated Qasr Al Watan -Palace of the Nation- in the Presidential Palace compound in Abu Dhabi,” the Dubai ruler said on Twitter. “The new cultural landmark reflects our heritage and identity, opening its doors to our people, residents and visitors starting tomorrow”, the Tweet concluded.

Inside Qasr Al Watan, members of the public will be able to visit the Qasr Al Watan library, which houses a vast collection of books about the UAE, see the House of Knowledge, which highlights Arab contributions to various fields and check out some interesting cultural exhibitions.

Guests will also get to learn about the rules and institutions of the country as well as create traditional calligraphy on interactive screens, and see examples of Arabian art.

His Highness said that the UAE’s cultural heritage represents a real wealth for future generations and a source of inspiration for the nation. The opening of Qasr Al Watan reflects the country’s keenness to provide people opportunities to learn about various aspects of its heritage and the human values that it represents.

Ticket & timing information

Qasr Al Watan will be open daily from 10am to 8pm.

A palace and garden ticket, which will give you access to all public spaces inside and out will cost you Dhs60 for adults and Dhs30 for children from four to 17  years. Under 4’s can enter for free.

A garden ticket alone will grant you access to the grounds and visitors centre and will cost you Dhs25 for adults and Dhs12 for children.

A guided tour will cost you an additional Dhs30 per visitor and are available in English or Arabic. They run every 30 minutes, take around an hour and a half, and will accommodate up to 20 people per tour.

If you want a private tour for a small group (of up to 20), or yourself, these are available as well for Dhs600.

You can purchase your tickets here

Qasr Al Watan, Al Ras Al Akhdar – Abu Dhabieveryday 10am to 8pm, Palace and Garden ticket Dhs60 adults, Dhs30 children (four to 17  years), Garden ticket Dhs25 adults, Dhs12 for children, under 4’s free. Tel: (+971) 600 544 442  qasralwatan.ae

— For the best of Dubai straight to your inbox, sign up for our newsletter.