Qasr Al Watan: A Landmark Destination for UAE’s 54th Eid Al Etihad Celebrations, Here’s All You Need to Know

Published on November 28, 2025

With the 54th Eid Al Etihad under the theme ‘United’ approaching, the UAE opens one of its most prized structures, Qasr Al Watan, as a tribute to the spirit of loyalty and national pride. This Eid celebrates ‘togetherness’ and ‘solidarity’ as well as the nation’s ‘collective’ emotions. Qasr Al Watan, the Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi, is the most appropriate location for the celebration as the building is a reflection of the UAE’s history, principles, and aspirations.

A Cultural Experience Like No Other

To commemorate the 54th Eid Al Etihad, Qasr Al Watan presents a captivating program that immerses visitors in the UAE’s remarkable cultural journey. The celebrations include a variety of traditional and modern experiences designed to showcase the nation’s history and future.

Highlights include musical performances, traditional Ayala dances, and the Falcon Experience, where visitors can engage with the UAE’s beloved national bird. A special touch of Emirati hospitality is also offered, featuring a traditional majlis setting with dates and Arabic coffee—an iconic symbol of UAE culture and warmth. This program provides a truly memorable and immersive way to celebrate the UAE’s history and achievements.

Discover the Majesty of Qasr Al Watan’s Architecture and Gardens

A visit to Qasr Al Watan is an experience that begins long before you step inside. The Palace’s architectural grandeur is a striking reflection of centuries of Arabian artistry and craftsmanship, making it a stunning sight for tourists. The beautifully landscaped gardens surrounding the Palace add to its elegance, offering serene spaces to explore and enjoy.

Visitors are invited to admire the intricate white façade, a testament to the UAE’s unique architectural style, and soak in the palpable sense of pride and national pride that fills the Palace grounds, especially during this major national celebration. Qasr Al Watan’s grandeur serves as the perfect backdrop to reflect the UAE’s progress and unity.

Explore the Rich Cultural Treasures Inside Qasr Al Watan

Step inside the Palace to explore its fascinating cultural treasures. The Qasr Al Watan Library is one of the Palace’s most important features, housing an extensive collection that documents the UAE’s political, social, and cultural journey. This space is a tribute to the legacy of the nation’s founders and the visionary path that continues to guide the country today.

Another highlight is the House of Knowledge, where the “Golden Ink: A Journey Through Arabic and Islamic Manuscripts” exhibition showcases rare manuscripts, calligraphy, and examples of Islamic scholarship. This exhibition is a beautiful reminder of the region’s longstanding contributions to global knowledge and culture, highlighting the UAE’s deep-rooted intellectual heritage.

Unique Experiences Celebrating UAE’s Heritage

Qasr Al Watan offers a variety of unique experiences that celebrate the diverse elements of the UAE’s identity. One of the most captivating events is the Horse Marshal Display, held daily at 5:45 PM. This performance honors the UAE’s equestrian heritage and showcases the country’s long-standing relationship with horses.

The Military Music Show, which takes place every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 4:00 PM, brings the Palace grounds to life with stirring melodies that celebrate unity and pride. These performances are a fitting tribute to the UAE’s history and military achievements.

The Palace in Motion: A Light and Sound Spectacle

As evening falls, visitors can witness the Palace in Motion light and sound show, held daily at 6:30 PM. This breathtaking spectacle is projected across the grand façade of Qasr Al Watan, telling the story of the UAE’s past, present, and future. The show offers a mesmerizing visual experience that adds to the grandeur of the Palace, creating a lasting memory for all who witness it.

This event, alongside the other cultural experiences, adds a layer of excitement and education, offering both residents and international visitors an opportunity to connect with the UAE’s history and cultural pride in an engaging and immersive way.

Qasr Al Watan: A Symbol of Excellence in Tourism

In recognition of its immense cultural value, Qasr Al Watan was named the ‘Middle East’s Leading Cultural Tourist Attraction 2025’ and ‘World’s Leading Cultural Tourist Attraction 2024’ by the World Travel Awards for the second consecutive year. These accolades are a testament to the Palace’s significance not only as a political hub but also as a cultural and tourism beacon for both locals and international visitors.

Qasr Al Watan continues to shine as a unique visitor attraction, with its impressive cultural offerings and iconic architecture making it a must-visit landmark for tourists in the UAE.

Embracing Emirati Hospitality and National Pride

In addition to its historical significance and architectural splendor, Qasr Al Watan engages with the ethos of the UAE as a welcoming, proud, and united nation. The meeting of every visitor with the palace’s “hospitality” and service culture is a memorable one, as the staff strives to embody the emirates true warmth and generosity. The Palace, with its art and culture, and performances and interactive exhibits, provides guests the opportunity to learn of and engage with the UAE diverse and extraordinary heritage, and to take home irreplaceable memories from this heritage.

On this 54th Eid Al Etihad, and in the UAE’s Qasr Al Watan, the symbol of the UAE’s unity and the reflection of the UAE’s perennial hope stands tall. In this historic monument, the UAE’s milestones remind all of us the citizenship of the UAE and of the unity, serving culture and civilization. First time or an experienced visitor, and as the desert gateway to the bright skyline of the UAE’s cultural values, Qasr Al Watan promises its guests a memorable reflection of the ever new values and traditions of the UAE as the center of civilization.