Qasr Al Hosn

Qasr Al Hosn - The Birthplace of Abu Dhabi

Go back to the time when Abu Dhabi was born. The oldest structure in the city is Qasr Al Hosn, which was constructed in the 1760s and used to act as a watchtower to guard the trade paths along the coast. Today, it is a proud Emirate heritage and resilience turned into a fascinating museum, which traces the history of the evolution of Abu Dhabi, which occurred over more than 250 years. With Captain Dunes, you can explore this national treasure with expert guidance, comfort, and cultural insight that brings history to life.

Things To Do At Qasr Al Hosn

• Explore The Fort Museum: Wander through restored rooms, ancient walls, and royal chambers that narrate Abu Dhabi’s growth from a small fishing village to a modern capital.
• Explore The House Of Artisans: Observe local craftsmen working on weaving palm fronds, embroidering material, and building complex pottery by using ancient methods.
• Cultural Performances: Listen to live Emirate music, dance, and storytelling sessions, which will bring you back into the past.
• Walks: Take part in special walks around the town, which provide you with appealing information about the leadership of Abu Dhabi, its traditions, and life.
• Photography Spots: Capture stunning shots of the white limestone fort surrounded by modern skyscrapers - a blend of past and present.

Visitor Info

• Location: Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum Street, Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi.
• Timings: Daily from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
• Average Visit Duration: Around 1.5 to 2 hours is ideal to explore both the fort and the House of Artisans comfortably.
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to enjoy pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Facilities:

• On-site restrooms and air-conditioned exhibition halls
• Café and gift shop available inside
• Free Wi-Fi zones
• Wheelchair and stroller accessibility

Photography:

Photography is allowed in outdoor areas and select indoor sections. Flash and tripods may be restricted inside museum galleries.

How To Reach

• By Bus: Take routes 10, 32, or 54, which stop near Al Hosn Street.
• By Taxi: About 10 minutes from the Corniche or 15 minutes from Marina Mall.
• By Car: Easily accessible with paid parking available nearby.
• With Captain Dunes: Book your Captain Dunes cultural day tour for stress-free transfers, guided exploration, and a tailored visit to Qasr Al Hosn and nearby heritage sites.

Nearby Attractions

• Heritage Village: A recreated traditional Emirati village.
• Corniche Beach: Ideal for a relaxing evening stroll by the sea.
• Emirates Heritage Club: Learn about pearl diving and ancient crafts.
• Louvre Abu Dhabi: A must-visit for art and architecture lovers.

Insider Tips

• Best Photo Spot: Capture the fort with the city skyline in the background during sunset.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll walk across sandy courtyards and exhibition halls.
• Join a Guided Tour: It adds meaning to every artifact and story.
• Respectful Attire: Modest clothing is recommended, as it’s a cultural site.
• Cultural Events: Check the official Qasr Al Hosn calendar for seasonal exhibitions, workshops, and National Day celebrations.

Where To Stay & Eat

Stay nearby at Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, or Bab Al Qasr Hotel for easy access and luxury comfort.

For dining, try Al Fanar Restaurant for authentic Emirate cuisine or Jones the Grocer for a modern, cozy meal nearby.

Step Into The Past With Captain Dunes

Qasr Al Hosn isn’t just a monument - It’s a living memory of Abu Dhabi’s origins. Walk through centuries of tradition, leadership, and artistry with a guided journey curated by Captain Dunes. Book your heritage experience with Captain Dunes and see how the old and new beautifully coexist in the heart of the UAE.