Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum (Qasr al-Ain)

Overview

Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum, also known as Qasr al-Ain, is a historic palace turned museum that offers a glimpse into the life of the UAE's founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The museum features beautifully preserved rooms, a collection of rare cars, and exhibits showcasing the history and culture of the region.

The palace served as the residence of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the first President of the United Arab Emirates, and is a significant historical landmark.

Historical Cultural

Location

Address

Hessa Bint Mohammed Street and Sultan bin Zayed I Street, Abu Dhabi

Neighborhood: Al Ain

Coordinates

24.185900, 54.407400

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM

tuesday 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM

wednesday 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM

thursday 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM

friday 3:30 PM - 8:30 PM

saturday 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM

sunday 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM

Admission

Adults

63 AED

Children

13 AED (ages 3-12)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

November to March

Best Time of Day

Early morning

cooler temperatures and fewer crowds

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1.5 hours

Recommended

3-4 hours

Full Experience

half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild to warm

• Spring Exhibitions
• Outdoor Displays

summer

hot

• Indoor Exhibits
• Extended Hours

autumn

cool and pleasant

• Fall Exhibitions
• Outdoor Activities

winter

cool to mild

• Holiday Displays
• Special Exhibits

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Bring a valid ID
Check the weather forecast

What to Bring

essential

ID Water bottle Printed tickets

seasonal

Light jacket Umbrella

not allowed

Large bags Drones Professional cameras without permit

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Low to moderate

• Stay hydrated
• Sun protection

Medical facilities: First aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit/Debit cards

Currency

United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED)

Typical Costs

entry 63 AED

parking 20 AED

food 50-100 AED

souvenirs 30-200 AED

Dress Code

Modest clothing, Comfortable shoes, Comfortable walking shoes, Revealing clothing, Inappropriate attire

Booking Tips

• 1-2 weeks
• Official website
• 48 hours in advance
• Available for online bookings

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Qasr Al Ain Palace Museum App

Size: 45 MB

Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Ticket booking, Exhibition information

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Café, Outdoor areas

Charging Stations: Visitor center, Café

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH)

Distance: 120 km

Travel Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Taxi

150-200 AED 1 hour 30 minutes

Public transport

25-30 AED 2 hours

From City Center

Distance: 130 km

Car

Fuel costs 1 hour 30 minutes

Bus

25-30 AED 2 hours

Taxi

150-200 AED 1 hour 30 minutes

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: It's a significant part of UAE's history and a beautiful representation of traditional architecture

Historical Significance: The palace was the residence of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the UAE, and offers a glimpse into the country's past