UAE STORY ON SHOW AS QASR AL HOSN REOPENS
▶ Abu Dhabi heritage site is a jewel in country’s tourism crown, visitors say
Visitors who watched the rebirth of Qasr Al Hosn as a museum that charts the rise of today’s modern UAE from its beginnings say it is an impressive addition to Abu Dhabi’s cultural attractions.
Thousands from all over the world made a bee-line for the oldest heritage site in Abu Dhabi on Friday for the reopening after a decade of renovation and conservation.
“It is almost like we are standing in the very birthplace of the UAE,” said Jordanian Awj Khalil, 44, who has lived in Abu Dhabi for six years.
“Abu Dhabi has been trying hard to market itself as a cultural destination and offer something different than Dubai. This is definitely going to be a huge boost for tourism here.”
The verdict was overwhelmingly positive as tourists and residents lined up for a glimpse into the UAE’s history. Some, such as Indian tourist Antim Pandey, timed their holiday to coincide with the opening.
“I am interested in history, culture and the connection between India and the UAE is so strong that I really did not want to miss this,” said Mr Pandey, 32.
The museum opened alongside rebuilt buildings of the National Consultative Council and Cultural Foundation. The site also features heritage activities, exhibitions and a revolving auditorium.
Built more than 250 years ago, the palace fort once housed the Ruling Family. It was the residence of the former Abu Dhabi ruler Sheikh Shakhbut.
The new museum chronicles the past by delving into the records of the Baniyas confederation of tribes and Al Nahyan family.
Frenchwoman Clarisse Roche, 35, who lives in Al Ain, said the renovated site is a beautiful addition to Abu Dhabi. “It is a wonderful mix between the traditional heritage of the UAE and the surrounding cityscape,” Ms Roche said.
“Traditional culture and heritage is something that has been missing in this region, so the organisers have to be congratulated for being able to put this together.”
Surrounded by modern high-rises and shopping arcades, the traditional fort commands attention and drew newcomers such as Frenchman Jean Martin, who moved to Abu Dhabi three months ago.
“This is a lovely contrast to all the tall buildings and shopping centres that you associate with this region,” Mr Martin, 54, said.
His wife, Christine, 50, enjoyed exploring the site.
“This is exactly what we were looking for,” she said. “It’s great to be able to meet people from other countries who are also exploring the UAE’s heritage.”
Abu Dhabi resident Maham Farooq, made an unplanned stop with family when they saw crowds outside Qasr Al Hosn.
“It is a brilliant opportunity to find out more about the UAE,” Ms Farooq said.
Her father Mohammed, from Pakistan, said: “We were just driving by and decided to see what the fuss was about. There is such a wonderful, welcoming atmosphere here. I have lived in Abu Dhabi for 17 years but we have never had anything like this before.”
Indian-national Luqman Shihabhupheen, 22, said the site would be a jewel in the UAE’s tourism crown.
“It’s definitely going to be a success,” Mr Shihabhupheen said. “Being able to see all these old-style buildings and the pictures from down the years is fantastic.”
Qasr Al Hosn is open from Sunday to Thursday from 10am to 10pm and on the weekends from 10am to 11pm.