Qasr Al Watan is one of the newest tourist attractions in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. It opened its doors to the public in March 2019, and it has quickly become a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The palace is a stunning example of Arabian architecture and craftsmanship, and it offers an immersive cultural experience that visitors won't forget anytime soon.
The Wilson Associates design firm was responsible for designing the interiors of Qasr Al Watan, and they did an exceptional job. In this article, we will take a closer look at the palace and examine the work that Wilson Associates did.
Qasr Al Watan is located inside the Presidential Palace complex in Abu Dhabi. It was built to showcase the country's rich cultural heritage and to provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the country's history and values. The palace is made up of several buildings, including the Great Hall, the House of Knowledge, and the House of Artisans.
The Great Hall is the centerpiece of the palace, and it's where visitors can view the stunning Arabic calligraphy that adorns the walls and domes. The calligraphy is a tribute to the country's language, which is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. The hall also houses an impressive collection of artifacts and manuscripts that date back centuries.
The House of Knowledge is a place where visitors can learn about the country's political system, social structure, and cultural beliefs. The house has several interactive exhibits that allow visitors to explore the country's history and values in a fun and engaging way.
The House of Artisans is where visitors can see traditional crafts being made by skilled artisans. The house features workshops where visitors can watch craftsmen and women making products such as textiles, ceramics, and glassware. Visitors can also purchase these products at the souvenir shop.
Wilson Associates is a global interior design firm that was founded in 1971. The firm specializes in hospitality and luxury residential design, and they have worked on projects all over the world. The team at Wilson Associates was responsible for designing the interiors of Qasr Al Watan, and they did an exceptional job.
The team worked closely with the government of Abu Dhabi to ensure that the interiors of the palace reflected the country's cultural heritage and values. They used authentic materials and designs that were inspired by traditional Arabic architecture and craftsmanship.
One of the most impressive aspects of the design is the use of light. The team used natural light to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere throughout the palace. They also used artificial lighting to highlight the intricate details of the calligraphy and artwork.
Another impressive feature of the design is the use of colors. The team used a muted color palette that was inspired by the natural landscape of Abu Dhabi. The colors are soft and soothing, which creates a calming atmosphere that encourages visitors to take their time and enjoy the experience.
Qasr Al Watan is open from 10 am to 8 pm every day except for Mondays.
Tickets to Qasr Al Watan cost AED 60 for adults and AED 30 for children between the ages of 4 and 17.
Yes, photography is allowed inside the palace. However, visitors are not allowed to use flashes or tripods.
Yes, guided tours of the palace are available. Visitors can choose from different types of tours, including audio tours and guided tours led by a professional guide.
Yes, visitors can purchase souvenirs at the palace. The souvenir shop sells a variety of products, including traditional Arabic crafts and other gift items.