Qasr Al Hosn - Abu Dhabi

Overview

Abu Dhabi, the esteemed capital of the United Arab Emirates, sprawls as a vast metropolis adorned with luxurious residential abodes, grand mosques, high-end hotels, and opulent shopping emporiums. Amidst this opulence, Abu Dhabi has adeptly retained its historical and cultural heritage, exemplified by the venerable Qasr Al Hosn.

In stark contrast to the contemporary skyscrapers and modern monuments that now grace the city's skyline, Qasr Al Hosn stands as a humble stone edifice, revered as the oldest structure in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. It embraces a watchtower, marking the inaugural permanent construction in this locale. Within its walls, you will encounter two distinguished buildings: the Outer Palace and the Inner Fort. This site served as the residence of the ruling family for many years, and it remains the ancestral home of the present ruler, as well as a governmental seat, a national archive, and a consultative council.

To explore the history of Abu Dhabi in its purest form, a visit to Qasr Al Hosn is indispensable. While the architectural uniqueness of the structure distinguishes it from the city's contemporary landscape, there is more to its allure. Following a painstaking 11-year process of conservation and restoration, Qasr Al Hosn was unveiled as a history museum in 2018.

The Qasr Al Hosn Museum functions as a historical time capsule, narrating the remarkable journey of Abu Dhabi from a humble 18th-century fishing village to the global cosmopolitan hub it represents today. The museum showcases a rich array of artifacts, manuscripts, archival treasures, and materials dating back to 6000 BC.

No Abu Dhabi sojourn is complete without a pilgrimage to Qasr Al Hosn. For understanding the city's illustrious past is as imperative as relishing its contemporary attractions and modern marvels.

Highlights

• See Abu Dhabi’s oldest heritage site which once served as a residence to the ruling Nahyan family and later as the seat of government.
• Dating back to 18th century, Qasr Al Hosn serves as a physical timeline which narrates the tale of Abu Dhabi’s transition from a pearling and fishing settlement to a world-class city.
• Find here exhibits that date back to as early as 6000 BC.
• Get a detailed account of the impressive Emirati past, traditions and ancient royal lifestyle as you wander through its well preserved hallways and rooms.
• Chance to stand under the complex’s oldest structure, a watch tower.
• Experience the tangible and intangible Emirati Heritage at the House of Artisans.
• Gain access to its renovated Cultural Foundation which is also the region’s first multipurpose community centre.
• At Bait Al Gahwa, learn about the secrets of Arabic coffee and its importance in the Emirati culture and hospitality.

Important Information

• Please be advised that a valid ID must be presented upon entry to Qasr Al Hosn.
• In compliance with our regulations, certain items are prohibited on the premises, including but not limited to food, beverages, cameras, video and audio recording equipment, seating, selfie sticks, and items deemed unlawful, hazardous, dangerous, or potential weapons.
• Kindly note that Qasr Al Hosn shall not assume responsibility or liability for any incidents, damages, or physical injuries sustained by visitors while on the premises or during any scheduled events at Qasr Al Hosn.

Child Policy

• Children below and age 17 years entry will be free of cost.
• Children aged 18 years and above will be considered as adult and charged adult rate

Inclusions

✔ A historically significant fort, Qasr Al Hosn in Abu Dhabi, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region.

✔ A live museum, that is, the House of Artisans, features various handicrafts and traditional crafts, providing insights into Emirati craftsmanship.

✔ The Cultural Foundation hosts special events, workshops, ceremonies, and shows, offering unique cultural experiences (subject to availability).

✔ Free Wi-Fi is available throughout Qasr Al Hosn, ensuring convenient connectivity for visitors.

✔ Visitors can enjoy traditional Emirati coffee at Bait Al Gahwa, immersing themselves in the local culture.

Exclusions

❌ Pickup & Drop off

❌ All personal expenses spend for shopping, drinks and dining etc on-site or during the tour.

Cancellation Policy

• Non-refundable Activities: Activities marked as non-refundable will not be refunded under any circumstances.
• Cancellation policy: Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the activity start time are not eligible for a refund.
• Refund method: Incase of refund, the refund will be processed to the same card used for the payment
• Processing time: Refunds may take 10-15 working days to process.
• Quality and satisfaction: Refunds will not be issued for issues related to the quality or satisfaction of the activity.

Timings

Saturday to Thursday : 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Friday : 12:00 PM - 7:00 PM