Qasr Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi - Timings, Tips & Things To Do

Q: What is the meaning of the Qasr al-Hosn?

Qasr Al Hosn is a cultural site located in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. It was originally built as a watchtower during the 1790s by Sheikh Shakhbut bin Dhiyab Al Nahyam as a means of protecting his people from enemy attacks. Over the years, it has been expanded and transformed into a palace. Qasr Al Hosn means &ldquo;Palace Fort&rdquo; in Arabic, where &ldquo;Qasr&rdquo; means palace and &ldquo;Hosn&rdquo; means Fort. The structure is made up of coral stone, sea, stones, mangroves, and other traditional materials. Today, Qasr Al Hosn is a museum showcasing the history of Abu Dhabi and its people.

Q: What was the original function of Qasr al-Hosn?

Qasr al-Hosn was the first permanent structure in Abu Dhabi and was used to monitor the coastal trade. Over time, the fort was expanded and became the residence of the ruling family. It also housed the National Consultative Council, which was founded by the late Sheikh Shakhbut bin Dhiyab Al Nahyam, the founder of UAE. It has also functioned as a court, seat of government, and even a prison at various points in its history. This fort offers visitors an opportunity to learn about traditional Emirati life while marveling at its impressive architectural design.

Qasr Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi: Overview

One of the oldest historical landmarks in Abu Dhabi is Qasr Al Hosn. It is one of the oldest stone buildings in the city, built in the 1790s, and was once home to the ruling family. Later it was given to the National Consultative Council. The great stone building was designed by Mohammed Al Bastaki, it was originally a watchtower that overlooked the coastal trade routes and protected the growing settlement established on the island. One of the highlights of the fort is a display of traditional Emirati garments, jewelry, and household items, allowing visitors to learn about the changing styles and customers of the region over the centuries. If you want to visit Qasr Al Hosn, you can purchase tickets online or at the entry gate.

In addition to the exhibits and display, Qasr Al Hosn regularly hosts cultural events and performances, including traditional music, dance, and theater. Qasr al Hosn Abu Dhabi's timings are from 9 am to 10 pm. Visitors can explore the fort’s rich history through guided tours, exhibitions, and interactive displays. The exhibits offer a glimpse into the culture and political heritage of Abu Dhabi, with artifacts and displays showcasing the region’s traditional agriculture, fishing, pearl diving, and trade. Qasr Al Hosn is one of the best places to visit in abu dhabi for anyone interested in exploring the history and culture of Abu Dhabi.

How To Reach Qasr Al Hosn

Qasr Al Hosn is one of the most iconic landmarks in Abu Dhabi, UAE. It boasts a rich history that dates back to the 1700s and has been preserved in its original form. It is situated in the center of Abu Dhabi close to the Corniche.

By Road: Qasr Al Hosn is easily accessible by car. If you have a GPS device or a map you can easily reach it. You can park your car at the designated parking area. You can even take a private taxi to reach Qasr Al Hosn.
By Bus: The nearest bus stop to Qasr Al Hosn is Al Hosn Palace Main Entrance. From there you can reach it just by walking. You can take a bus from any part of Abu Dhabi.
By metro: Al Nahayan station is the nearest metro station to Qasr Al Hosn. From there you can take a bus or taxi to reach the palace.
By Air: From anywhere in the world you can take a flight to Abu Dhabi Airport i.e., Al Ain International Airport. From the airport, you can take a taxi to Qasr Al Hosn.

Best Time To Visit Qasr Al Hosn

The historical place Qasr Al Hosn dates back to the 18th century. It has been an important symbol of the city’s heritage and culture. The best time to visit Qasr Al Hosn is during the winter season i.e, between November to February. During this time the weather is mild and pleasant making it more comfortable to explore the places around. Additionally, the winter season is typically the peak tourist season in Abu Dhabi, which may result in longer waiting times. Furthermore, if you are planning to make a visit in summer i.e., from March to June it is advisable to visit during the afternoon time. As in the summer season, it is very cold during the morning and evening. The afternoon breeze and late daylight hours of summer provide the perfect opportunity to take a walk around the palace grounds and enjoy its serene atmosphere.

Tips To Visit Qasr Al Hosn

Exploring the Fort: Qasr Al Hosn showcases the history of the city and its people. The house of the Artisans sells a variety of tasteful toys and gifts, available there.
Comfortable wearing: As you will move around the Fort, it is advisable to wear comfortable clothes and footwear.
Tour Guide: Exploring the place by yourself and exploring the place with a tour guide makes a huge difference. With a tour guide, you can know about the place in detail.
Attend Workshop: Qasr Al Hosn hosts workshops that allow visitors to learn traditional Emirati crafts such as embroidery, calligraphy, and weaving. More details about the workshops can be found on the Qasr Al Hosn official website.
Plan your visit: Pre-planning everything we do is a good habit. Plan your trip according to the timings, season, and festive season.
Bring cash: It is recommended to bring cash as some vendors may not accept credit cards. There is no cafeteria at Qasr Al Hosn, although Arabic coffee and dates are available at the neighboring house of the Artisans.

Things To Do at Qasr Al Hosn

Plan a tour of Qasr Al Hosn Fort, the ancient stone monument in Abu Dhabi that was the home of the sovereign family. It has been restored and is now open to the public as a museum.
If you are in Qasr Al Hosn Fort you must go through the exhibitions which showcase the history of Abu Dhabi explore with Abu Dhabi Tours.
Qasr Al Hosn is situated in Abu Dhabi's cultural district, which also contains the Cultural Foundation, the House of Artisans, and the Etihad Modern Art Gallery. Visitors can explore these places and know more about the city's history.
Witness cultural events such as the annual Qasr Al Hosn festival, which includes live music and dance performances presenting the UAE’s cultural view.

Quick INFO

Qasr Al Hosn Timings:

Monday

09:00 AM - 08:00 PM
Tuesday

09:00 AM - 08:00 PM
Wednesday

09:00 AM - 08:00 PM
Thursday

09:00 AM - 08:00 PM
Friday

09:00 AM - 08:00 PM
Saturday

09:00 AM - 08:00 PM
Sunday

09:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Time Required to Visit Qasr Al Hosn:

Qasr Al Hosn location Map

Google Map Embed

Get In Touch With Our Travel Expert

Nearby Places in Abu Dhabi

Warner Bros World

Sheikh Zayed Mosque Abu Dhabi

Ferrari World

Etihad Towers Abu Dhabi

Louvre Museum Abu Dhabi

Emirates Palace

Yas Island Abu Dhabi

Yas Water World Abu Dhabi

KidZania Abu Dhabi

Al Ain National Museum

FAQs About Qasr Al Hosn

What is the meaning of the Qasr al-Hosn?

Qasr Al Hosn is a cultural site located in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. It was originally built as a watchtower during the 1790s by Sheikh Shakhbut bin Dhiyab Al Nahyam as a means of protecting his people from enemy attacks. Over the years, it has been expanded and transformed into a palace. Qasr Al Hosn means “Palace Fort” in Arabic, where “Qasr” means palace and “Hosn” means Fort. The structure is made up of coral stone, sea, stones, mangroves, and other traditional materials. Today, Qasr Al Hosn is a museum showcasing the history of Abu Dhabi and its people.

What was the original function of Qasr al-Hosn?

Qasr al-Hosn was the first permanent structure in Abu Dhabi and was used to monitor the coastal trade. Over time, the fort was expanded and became the residence of the ruling family. It also housed the National Consultative Council, which was founded by the late Sheikh Shakhbut bin Dhiyab Al Nahyam, the founder of UAE. It has also functioned as a court, seat of government, and even a prison at various points in its history. This fort offers visitors an opportunity to learn about traditional Emirati life while marveling at its impressive architectural design.

What was Qasr al-Hosn used for with time?

WhenQasr al-Hosn was built in the 1790s it was used as a watchtower to protect the only freshwater well on Abu Dhabi island and was used to monitor the coastal trade routes. Over time it became the house of the ruling family. It also housed the National Consultative Council, which was founded by the late Sheikh Shakhbut bin Dhiyab Al Nahyam, the founder of UAE. Qasr Al-Hosn was renovated and expanded to become the symbol of power and wealth for the emirate. Today, it serves as a cultural center with exhibitions showcasing Abu Dhabi’s history and heritage.

What are the timing and entry fees for Qasr al-Hosn?

The Qasr al-Hosn is open for tourists from Sunday to Thursday, from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm, and on Fridays and Saturdays from 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm. The entry fee for adults is AED 30, while children under the age of 6 and people with disabilities can enter for free.

Qasr Al Hosn