Qasr Al Watan

A working palace open to the public.

Wonder No. 20 · Abu Dhabi · Heritage

Qasr Al Watan is part of the presidential palace compound in Abu Dhabi and opened to the public in 2019. Its halls of white granite and limestone, painted domes and intricate ceilings rival the Grand Mosque for sheer detail.

Exhibitions inside explain how the country is governed and display gifts given to the UAE by other nations, and in the evenings a light and sound show is projected onto the palace facade.

Why it is a wonderIt is a rare chance to walk inside a working palace, and the Great Hall dome is unforgettable.
Best timeAny time of year. Mostly indoors.
Time needed2 to 3 hours
Getting thereOn the Ras Al Akhdar peninsula, central Abu Dhabi.

Tips for your visit

  • Book tickets online and check the schedule for the evening show.
  • Pair it with the Grand Mosque on the same day. They are about 20 minutes apart.

Opening hours, prices and booking rules change. Check the official site before you go: Qasr Al Watan.

Last checked November 2026. Spotted something out of date? Let us know.