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Abu Dhabi stands out in the region as one of the most important social, cultural, and historical capitals. For this reason, it attracts a lot of prominent artists and performers who show no sign of slowing down when it comes to sharing their talents. You’d be hard-pressed not to find some song or artistic performance that isn’t directly related to Abu Dhabi in some way or another as this emirate is full of rich culture and history! If you’re feeling inspired by what you see, we recommend you book a trip to Abu Dhabi soon because it has so much on offer: the Emirates Palace is an architectural marvel, and Qasr Al Hosn is just one example of its architectural beauty. This building not only adds value to Abu Dhabi’s art scene but also tells an interesting story about its history dating back many centuries. It can be visited for free all year round!

Constructed in the early 1700s, this commanding structure helped to protect island settlements and ensure their prosperity. After undergoing a major 11-year-old restoration effort it was turned into a museum in 2018, thus becoming a valuable national monument that celebrates Abu Dhabi’s rapid metaphysical growth from a town that relied on fishing and pearl hunting to the state-of-the-art global metropolis it is today. Iconic watchtowers such as these were once quite common around coastal areas of Al Ain, but few have survived over time, making this particular one all the more important as an enricher to our nation’s historical landmarks.

Qasr Al Hosn is the historical evolution and symbol of Abu Dhabi. In a country that’s never yet turned down an invitation to reinvent itself (this time, courtesy of its Executive Council), it comes as no surprise that they’ve managed to turn something as simple and as beautiful as history into a wonderful attraction representing the most exquisite of luxuries. The walls which surround Qasr Al Hosn were designed in 1867 by Charles Garnier, the same architect behind Paris’ Opéra Garnier. The panels did not start being built until 1911 when 40 Indian workers came to build them for Al Rasheed’s family; these walls worked to maintain peace and order in the tribal environment of Abu Dhabi – much like the French walls did.

Interesting facts:

1. The House of Artisans and Cultural Foundation is situated in the Qasr Al Hosn which is a residential neighborhood of old Abu Dhabi.

2. The museum exhibits artifacts, pictures, and other materials that date back to as far as 6000 BC.

3. It also covers a range of weapons that were used in the past. The House of Artisans focuses on traditional Emirati crafts as well as its heritage.

4. Household items called Sattaka are made from date palm trees. This is an art that has been around for generations. Emiratis have been using this skill to make various products like baskets, mats, and hand-held fans out of the branches, leaves, and fronds of these trees.

5. By using cotton and silk, one can embroider designs on their traditional clothing.

6. “Colonnades” or small arched openings have “arabesque” designs that go down the “long sleeves”.

7. There are so many steps involved in this process and it is a tradition that is passed down through different  generations as well.

8. This is a form of weaving wherein Bedouin women employed animal wool to create bold geometric patterns that they could use as garments.

9. Aside from garments, these women also made baby nests (called bait al-sha’ar) which were used to protect their families during camp in the hot sun, and they would also use it to make camel straps and saddles.

Qasr Al Hosn Festival

Every year, thousands of tourists go to Abu Dhabi for the Qasr Al Hosn Festival. It has been held in the Qasr Al Hosn Square over a period of 250 years and celebrates the influence that Abu Dhabi has had on a global scale, as well as its culture and traditions. The festival’s performers honor those roots by giving audience members a sneak peek into what makes Abu Dhabi so unique.

Qasr Al Hosn Timings:

Saturday to Thursday :- “9 am to 7 pm”

Friday :- “12 pm to 10 pm”

Tips to visit Qasr al Hosn

• There are lots of kinds of audio and interactive experiences that you can enjoy using the Abu Dhabi Culture app!

• Complimentary Wi-Fi is provided to all visitors across the Al Hosn cultural site.

• The UAE’s landmarks, such as Etisalat Headquarters and the World Trade Centre are nearby.

• Qasr Al Hosn is accessible from Abu Dhabi International Airport in just 15 minutes!

Have you seen the beautiful Qasr Al Hosn, but don’t know much about it? If that’s the case, then you must read this blog post today. Here, we’ll be taking a look at ten things you need to know about Qasr Al Hosn and some of the must-do things you need to complete when you’re there. In addition, we’ve also provided you with some pictures to show you what you’re missing out on. If you want to learn more about this historic monument, then take a look at this post today.