The Qasr al-Hosn is located at the centre of Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE. It is also known as the “The Palace Fort” and is the oldest building in the city. The fort was constructed as a watchtower, at (Bani Yas tribe leader) Sheik Dhiyab bin Isa’s directive when fresh water was found in Abu Dhabi in 1761.
In 1793 it became the ancestral home of the ruling Al Nahyan family. After many renovations through the years, the fort ceased to be the Ruler’s residence in 1966. The largest renovation of the fort took place under the guidance of the “Father of the Nation”, the late Shiekh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan who transformed it into a museum and repository of collections relating to Abu Dhabi and the UAE. The Qasr al-Hosn prides itself on being Abu Dhabi’s symbolic birthplace. A tour through the fort showcases a number of historic photographs and oral testimonies which are crucial to understanding the city’s history as well as its people.
To get the best out of your holiday in Abu Dhabi, ensure you stay within close proximity to the attractions the city is renowned for. The Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara is a favourite among travellers. If it is your first time in Abu Dhabi, excursions such as the following are a must – camel trekking, Liwa Tour, archery, desert walks, falconry show, dune bashing, fat biking and land sailing.
The Qasr al-Hosn Festival which has successfully been celebrated for three years, every February, offers dedicated tours of the palace/fort coupled with public access to the inner chambers and insights into the history of this architectural wonder. The festival is held in celebration of fascinating fort being a timeless symbol of Emirati history, culture and heritage.
The city of Abu Dhabi spans around the Qasr al-Hosn, offering a plethora of attractions that highlight the heritage if UAE and also a variety of shopping and dining options that are sure to please even the most discerning traveller.
Nigel Walters is a travel writer, who writes under the pen name, Fritzjames Stephen. His content is based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life.