Qasr Al Muwaiji

Qasr Al Muwaiji was built in the early 20th century during the rule of Sheikh Zayed bin Khalifa the First, by his son Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed bin Khalifa.

It consists of a square enclosure (65 x 65 m) with square towers projected at the north-west and south-east corners, and a gate set slightly off the centre in the southern enclosure wall facing Al Muwaiji Oasis, the smallest and most westerly oasis of the city of Al Ain.

Qasr Al Muwaiji was used as a diwan (a council or seat of governance) and as a place for the community to congregate.

In 1946, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan was appointed Ruler’s Representative in Al Ain and moved to Qasr Al Muwaiji. The palace became his diwan and his family home. His eldest son, HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the late President of the UAE, was born at Qasr Al Muwaiji two years later and spent much of his youth there, learning from his father.

Qasr Al Muwaiji and Al Muwaiji Oasis are key components of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Al Ain, which includes several archaeological sites, historic buildings, forts and watchtowers that are abundant around the oases and villages on the outskirts of Al Ain city.

EXHIBITION
The Qasr Al Muwaiji exhibition is housed inside a modern glass building at the courtyard of the palace, where the stories of the palace and its inhabitants are told. The exhibition explains the close connection between the palace and the members of Abu Dhabi’s ruling family, an impressive lineage stretching from Sheikh Zayed the First down to HH Sheikh Khalifa.

The exhibition’s main focus is on the life and achievements of HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who was born and raised at Qasr Al Muwaiji. It follows his preparations for the responsibilities of leadership under the guidance of his father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and then his accomplishments as President: investing in his people, extending the UAE’s regional and international influence, and leading the nation to a better future.

Visitors can also explore the history of Qasr Al Muwaiji from its earliest days, and from its role as a host to visiting travellers and the importance of water to its survival and success, to its significance as a family home, seat of power and focus for the Al Ain community.

Opening hours
Daily: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Location: Khalifa bin Zayed Street, opposite to Ruler's Representative Court, Al Ain

Last Modified - 06/06/2022