Qasr Al Hosn Abu Dhabi — Tickets & Guide
Abu Dhabi's oldest stone building — a coral-and-sea-stone fort from the 1760s, restored and open.
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About this experience
Qasr Al Hosn began as a watchtower in the 1760s guarding the settlement's freshwater well, and grew into the fort that housed Abu Dhabi's rulers for two centuries. It is the oldest stone structure in the city, built from coral and sea stone, and it stood as the seat of government until the 1960s.
The site reopened after an eleven-year restoration and now works as a museum of the city itself, with archaeological finds going back 6,000 years and exhibits tracing Abu Dhabi from fishing and pearling village to what it is now. The adjacent House of Artisans demonstrates traditional weaving and palm-frond craft.
It is a useful antidote to the newness of everything else — the contrast between the fort and the towers around it is the point.
Highlights
- Abu Dhabi's oldest building, dating to the 1760s
- Coral and sea-stone construction, restored over eleven years
- Archaeological finds going back 6,000 years
- House of Artisans with live traditional craft demonstrations
Know before you go
- Central Abu Dhabi, so easy to combine with other city stops
- Allow around two hours including the House of Artisans
- Much of the fort interior is enclosed — workable in summer
- Check current opening days before travelling
- Modest dress is appropriate
Best for
Anyone wanting to see what Abu Dhabi was before the oil
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