AL HASHIMI

Sep 30, 2025

4.0

I visited the Qasr Al Hosn and the House of Artisans in September 2025. It was not busy and I took four hours to see everything. The captivating exhibits helped create mental images of Abu Dhabi’s journey from being principally reliant on pearl diving to now drilling for oil. A lot of the displays were interactive, which enhanced the experience. The fort is well preserved providing a snapshot in time. The House of Artisans did not disappoint with its well-preserved artefacts and interactive displays. I tried on the different traditional perfumes and oils. However, I was disappointed that I could not participate in the tea-making ceremony as the manager had a meeting, and he just verbally explained the details. I felt I missed out on a key feature. Tickets were reasonably priced and I felt it was good value for money. The cafe offers a well-deserved break, and the gift shop is stocked with souvenirs. It’s easy to get to using the bus or a taxi. The staff were friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. I would recommend travellers to pay a visit to gain insight into the local culture and history.

Ankur A

Jul 24, 2025 • Anand, India

5.0

Its a hidden gem at abu dhabi, they have preserved their history for future generations. All the details are well explained with audio visuals. You will find less tourists so its peaceful and one can spend good time photo graphing the palace and studying history of UAE

Aiza Stevanovic

Jul 20, 2025 • Cacak, Serbia

5.0

Tourists maybe.. but expats in UAE should visit the place where it all began. This castle saw many things and changes and its feel is just different. The museum is located in the heart of downtown. There’s very nice parking, underground. You can visit the museums head to children’s library and check the exhibitions. The whole area screams culture. And how they build the whole area is honey for eyes. It’s great spot for those cool sci fi yet traditional photoshoots. Really beautiful and serene area in the middle of skyscrapers.

Paul C

Jun 30, 2025 • Dolany, Czech Republic

5.0

We visited the fort of Qasr Al Hosn and also the adjacent House of Artisans. Both were fascinating. The House of Artisans is so well presented, but maybe more could be done with the coffee making ceremony. The fort was equally interesting, with a history of the buildings and the UAE founding family. We learnt a lot here! We would certainly recommend a visit to Qasr Al Hosn if you’re in Abu Dhabi!

TheLeongOhana

Jun 29, 2025 • United States

4.0

I visited during the heat of the afternoon and had the fortress practically to myself the entire visit. I bought my ticket at the House of Artisans which was also included in the admission price. The fortress was renovated to its current state and I was on my own to wander around to seek out the various exhibits. Some of the exhibits included architecture, important Emirati women, the Bani Yas , royal family, and more. Most were open air in rooms located on the first or second floors. There was only one section that was air conditioned which contained more of the artifacts on displays along with an introduction to the founding of the UAE. The oldest portion of the fortress was the watchtower, however, it was cordoned off but strangely a video was running inside as I could hear the narrative as I walked by. The North East tower was recognizable as the design of the 1000 dirham note. I finished my visit at the House of Artisans where I partook in the bait al gahwa coffee ceremony (videos or photos not permitted) and had a personal tour of the different local crafts presented inside. One some days there are even on hand classes. I actually found this portion of my visit to be more interesting.

Gaelle N

Jun 7, 2025 • Nice, France

5.0

Un chef d œuvre architectural, j ai pu enfin expérimenter l efficacité des méthodes traditionnelles d aération. Le parcours est assez rapide avec assez peu d informations dans chaque salle du bâtiment principal. Pour moi, la partie la plus intéressante est l exposition où de nombreuses pièces historiques sont visibles et le fil conducteur est beaucoup plus clair. L endroit est splendide, confortable à visiter même en cas de grande chaleur. Un arrêt indispensable à Abu Dhabi pour un très faible prix (environ 7 euros l entree de mémoire)

Susear

May 5, 2025 • Oxford, United Kingdom

5.0

A must do place to visit if it’s your first time to Abu Dhabi as it teaches you about the original fortress and development of the city. Seriously impressive history and interesting stories on how the building was used and functioned as a palace.

Slavka V

Apr 24, 2025

4.0

This was a very nice place to visit, love the coffee ceremony and selections of souveniers. Staff is super nice and will answer any question you have.