Mohammed bin Rashid and Mohamed bin Zayed inaugurate palace
ABU DHABI 11 March 2019: Qasr Al Watan – the nation’s newest cultural landmark housed within the Presidential Palace compound in Abu Dhabi – was opened by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces.
Sheikh Mohammed stressed that the United Arab Emirates’ cultural legacy is a precious asset that must be treasured by both present and future generations, and is driving the leadership’s aspirations for a nation built upon the values of tolerance and coexistence. He mentioned that the preservation of the UAE’s cultural and intellectual legacy is integral to its progressive journey thus far, and that the opening of Qasr Al Watan reflects the leadership’s dedication to fostering a strong connection between the community and their heritage.
Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed reaffirmed the leadership’s dedication to preserving the nation’s cultural and intellectual legacy, underscoring its ability to empower and inspire future generations by instilling a deep sense of national pride. He emphasised the importance of continuing the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan who sought to preserve the heritage of the UAE while encouraging cultural dialogue and openness.
Their Highnesses toured Qasr Al Watan and its iconic wings, and were introduced to exhibits that reflect the country’s governing values and traditions, in addition to highlighting Arab contributions to various fields of knowledge.
Palace in Motion
The tour concluded with the ‘Palace in Motion’ – a remarkable light and sound show projected onto the façade of the iconic building. A story told in three acts; the show draws a link between the aspirations of Qasr Al Watan and the vision of the nation, reflecting on the UAE’s journey of the past, present and future.
When it opens to the public today, Qasr Al Watan visitors will gain a deeper understanding of the UAE’s governing traditions and values, as they are invited to explore a well-preserved legacy of knowledge and tradition that has shaped the nation’s journey.
Visitors will be able to enjoy an enriching journey throughout their tour at the Palace, beginning at The Great Hall – the heart of the building. In the west wing of the Palace, they will learn about the formation of the UAE and its system of governance, and have access to halls typically reserved for official state guests such as the Spirit of Collaboration, a chamber where Federal Supreme Council and UAE Cabinet meetings as well as official summits are held. Visitors can also explore a collection of diplomatic gifts received from visiting Heads of State and foreign dignitaries, displayed to the public for the first time.
Al Barza
At Al Barza, visitors will learn about the traditional role of a Majlis- a space for cultural, political and social gatherings – through an engaging multimedia show which sheds light on the continuation of a tradition historically followed by Emirati leaders to govern with the consensus of their people.
Continuing their journey to the House of Knowledge in the east wing of the Palace, visitors will have access to two rooms featuring rare artefacts, books, manuscripts and antiquities from the Arab world. Visitors will also be able to view key artefacts and historic maps that represent some of the earliest Arab contributions to human knowledge during the period of enlightenment referred to as the Arab Golden Age.
The Palace also houses the Qasr Al Watan Library where scholars can explore a vast collection of over 50,000 books and resources about the UAE and learn about the nation’s progressive journey.
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