From Dubai: Abu Dhabi City Tour with Qasr Al Watan & Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Qasr Al Watan: The radiant heart of UAE's governance

Qasr al Watan, also known as the Palace of the Nation, is a majestic cultural landmark of UAE. You will be welcomed into the spectacular Great Hall as soon as you pass through the palace’s imposing archways. The interiors boast opulent halls and chambers featuring ornate carvings, domes, and grand chandeliers.

The Great Hall is often utilized for significant official events, ceremonies, and diplomatic gatherings. Don't forget to visit the Spirit of Collaboration room where you'll come across diplomatic gifts that were exchanged with the UAE as a sign of good ties with other countries. Vases, daggers, swords, and even a piece of cloth that covers the Holy Kaaba—gifts from Saudi Arabia to the United Arab Emirates—are among the artefacts you may find here. The Qasr al Watan Library is another noteworthy feature, where guests can peruse rare manuscripts, historical documents, and artifacts, gaining insights into the nation's journey from its Bedouin roots to its present-day prominence.

Sheikh Zayed Mosque: The melting pot of tradition & modernity

The Sheikh Zayed Mosque, also known as the Grand Mosque is an equally impressive work of architecture that fuses the traditional Arabic & Islamic culture with a more contemporary architectural style. Inside the mosque, you will find grandiose halls, gold calligraphy, and majestic carpets. Boasting a seating capacity of more than 40,000, the mosque lures visitors from across the globe. Revered as the "White Pearl of the Gulf," it stands as a breathtaking marvel of marble and gold, surrounded by meticulously manicured lawns and shimmering pools The hollows of its onion-top domes meticulously engraved with verses from the Quran is sure to leave you in complete awe.

Itinerary

• 11pm-12pm: Pick-up from Dubai

• 1:30pm: Entry to Sheikh Zayed Mosque

• Entry to Qasr Al Watan

• 7pm-8pm: Return from Abu Dhabi

From Dubai: Abu Dhabi City Tour with Qasr Al Watan & Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Discover the rich cultural tapestry of Abu Dhabi on this afternoon sightseeing tour from Dubai, which includes hotel transfers and an English-speaking guide. Explore iconic landmarks like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the world's largest mosques with a capacity to hold up to 40,000 worshippers, and Qasr Al Watan, the presidential palace that covers over 1 million square feet. This tour spans approximately 5 hours, covering key areas such as the Corniche, Saadiyat Island, and the city center. With guided commentary in English, this experience offers an immersive journey through Abu Dhabi's past, present, and future, highlighting its architectural marvels and historical significance.

Explore the Grandeur of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Your tour stops at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque where you will be mesmerized by Ottoman and Fatimid Islamic art. Built between 1996 and 2007, this mosque spans over 145 acres and features eight minarets standing at a height of 41 meters each. The prayer hall is adorned with Swarovski crystals in the shape of an upside-down date palm tree, one of the world's largest chandeliers weighing approximately 9 tons. Visitors can spend up to two hours exploring the intricate details such as the giant chandelier and the Macedonian marble archways inlaid with mother-of-pearl stones. This mosque is unique not only for its size but also for its architectural blend, showcasing various Islamic styles from around the world, making it a must-visit landmark for anyone interested in religious architecture.

Experience the Elegance of Qasr Al Watan

At Qasr Al Watan, guests can explore the presidential palace that serves as a symbol of UAE's governance and heritage. This magnificent complex covers over 1 million square feet and was completed in 2019. The House of Knowledge showcases rare artifacts like The Birmingham Qur'an dating back to around 564 CE and The Atlas Manuscript on Astronomy from the Ottoman period, providing visitors with a deep dive into Islamic history and culture. The Great Hall is ornate with earthy tones and gold detailing, offering an awe-inspiring view of the intricate craftsmanship. Visitors spend approximately one hour here, marveling at the labyrinthine white domes and the grandeur of the presidential throne room. This palace stands out as a unique blend of traditional Emirati architecture and modern design, making it a significant landmark in Abu Dhabi.

Tour Highlights

• Explore Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque with Ottoman and Fatimid art
• Tour Qasr Al Watan covering over 1 million sq ft
• Audio guide available in English only
• Marvel at Swarovski chandelier resembling an upside-down date palm tree
• Experience the House of Knowledge showcasing rare Islamic artifacts
• Walk through Saadiyat Island with its cultural landmarks and beaches
• Access to Corniche for scenic views along Abu Dhabi's coastline
• Enjoy hotel transfers from Dubai with pick-up at 2 PM

Perfect for history enthusiasts, architecture buffs, and culture seekers, this afternoon tour provides an in-depth look into Abu Dhabi’s rich heritage. The guided experience allows you to explore the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Qasr Al Watan, and other key landmarks, giving you a comprehensive understanding of Abu Dhabi's architectural marvels while enjoying its cultural significance.