Qasr Al Watan — a monument of cultural knowledge

Hospitality, family cohesion, tolerance, and solidarity among members of the community are the cornerstones of the Arab and Islamic heritage. Add to that the honour and pride associated with being part of this heritage, and you have leaders and a nation full of people — both citizens and expatriates — putting in every effort not just to preserve this heritage but also to create awareness about it. Holding festivals and events, establishing cultural villages and museums, constructing and maintaining mosques are part of this effort to provide the young generation and visitors the opportunity to experience and value it. In fact, the preservation and institutionalisation of culture along with education is seen as vital to the development strategy of the country. The UAE has once again underscored this by inviting residents and tourists into Qasr Al Watan, or Palace of the Nation, and making public its scientific, cultural and intellectual content. A monument of cultural knowledge and communication between peoples, the palace is an exquisitely crafted tribute to the region’s heritage and artistry.

A library, home to a vast collection of books on the UAE’s political, social and cultural history; interactive cultural exhibitions; information about the UAE and its governance; a House of Knowledge with an expansive collection of artefacts and rare manuscripts highlighting the region’s contributions; and the Palace in Motion, a light and sound show projected onto the facades of this unique landmark narrating the past, present, and the future vision of the nation are the attractions of this architectural marvel.

The UAE is well on its way to becoming increasingly developed, modern and globalised. But along with such advancement is also a re-energised focus on preserving local heritage, what it means to be Emirati and efforts to root the younger generation in this culture. Therein lies the success of this nation in balancing the old with the new, in making progress facilitate the preservation of the nation’s heritage and making this heritage, in turn, work for the country’s growth. Heritage here is timeless and the nation’s culture remains eternal, empowering and inspiring future generations and continuing to instil in them a deep sense of national pride.

The nation’s culture remains eternal, empowering and inspiring future generations.