Cultural Capital

History comes alive at Abu Dhabi’s newly renovated Qasr al Hosn – the oldest fort in the UAE and the seat of the former Ruler, Sheikh Shakhbut bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

- Joanne Molina

Designed to offer a bold new vision of the past, present and future of Abu Dhabi, Al Hosn is a shining example of how an exquisite renovation can lead to economic, social and cultural benefits for generations to come. The newly renovated and opened urban centre features four interrelated components: the historic Qasr Al Hosn Fort, the National Consultative Council building, the Cultural Foundation and the House of Artisans.

HE Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, said: “Qasr Al Hosn embodies the heritage of Abu Dhabi… we are proud to re-introduce this cultural monument after it has been preserved, restored and renovated to become part of Al Hosn, an unparalleled cultural destination in the heart of the city.”

Now transformed into a national monument following several years of rigorous and ambitious conservation works, Qasr Al Hosn is a monument that traces the city’s development, from a settlement reliant on fishing and pearling in the 18th century to a modern, global metropolis. Visitors may also view the historic National Consultative Council building, site of the early discussions and negotiations on the unification of the emirates.