How long does it take to walk around the Ras Al Akhdar area?

A full exploration of this route typically takes 3 to 4 hours. This includes walking time and significant time spent exploring the interiors of Qasr Al Watan and Emirates Palace.

Is Qasr Al Watan worth visiting?

Yes, it is highly recommended for its stunning white granite architecture and its educational value regarding UAE governance. It is a working palace, making it a unique cultural site compared to typical museums.

Can I walk from Emirates Palace to Qasr Al Watan?

Yes, they are adjacent to each other. The walk between the entrance of Emirates Palace and the visitor center of Qasr Al Watan takes approximately 10-15 minutes on paved sidewalks.

Is there a dress code for this walking route?

Yes, modest dress is required for entering Qasr Al Watan and Emirates Palace. Shoulders and knees should be covered, and transparent or very tight clothing should be avoided.

What is the best time to see The Founder's Memorial?

Sunset is the ideal time. You can see 'The Constellation' artwork in daylight and then watch as it is beautifully illuminated against the night sky.

Are there entrance fees for the landmarks on this walk?

The Founder's Memorial and the public areas of Emirates Palace are free. Qasr Al Watan requires a paid ticket for entry, and the Observation Deck at 300 in Etihad Towers also has a fee.

Is this walking route suitable for families?

Yes, the route is family-friendly with wide paths and impressive sights. However, the long walking distances may be tiring for small children, so bringing a stroller is advised.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Embark on a journey through the heart of Abu Dhabi’s seat of power and architectural splendor. This self-guided walking route explores Ras Al Akhdar, a district synonymous with the United Arab Emirates' transformation from a coastal settlement to a global capital. As you traverse this neighborhood, you will witness the juxtaposition of sleek modern skyscrapers and traditional Islamic design, reflecting the nation’s rapid ascent while honoring its deep-rooted heritage. This neighborhood stroll is not just a look at buildings, but an immersion into the political and cultural identity of the UAE. Your adventure begins at the base of the Etihad Towers, a complex that redefined the city’s skyline and gained international fame for its role in global cinema. From there, the route takes you past the shimmering facade of Bab Al Qasr, an architectural nod to Moroccan heritage, and along the scenic Corniche West Street. Here, the turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf provide a cooling backdrop to the urban grandeur. The walk continues to the world-renowned Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, a masterpiece of gold leaf and marble that stands as one of the most expensive hotels ever built. A highlight of this walking tour Abu Dhabi experience is The Founder’s Memorial, a poignant tribute to Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The site offers a peaceful moment of reflection amidst the bustle of the city. Finally, the route culminates at Qasr Al Watan, the 'Palace of the Nation.' This is more than just a royal residence; it is a working government building that invites the public to discover the principles that shaped the UAE. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast or a history buff, this self-guided walk provides an unparalleled look at the ambition and artistry of the Emirates.

Highlights

Marvel at the cinematic skyline of the Etihad Towers

Experience the opulence of the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental

Reflect on the legacy of the nation's founder at The Founder’s Memorial

Explore the intricate craftsmanship and halls of Qasr Al Watan

Enjoy panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf along Corniche West

Admire the unique Moroccan-inspired design of Bab Al Qasr

Tour Stops (6)

Etihad Towers

Standing as five shimmering pillars of glass and steel, the Etihad Towers represent the modern face of Abu Dhabi. Completed in 2011, this complex is more than just an office and residential hub; it is a symbol of the city's vertical ambition. If the towers look familiar, it might be because they featured prominently in the film 'Furious 7' during a high-octane car stunt. Tower 2, the tallest of the group, hosts the Observation Deck at 300, offering the highest vantage point in the city. From the ground, observe how the curved silhouettes mimic the sails of traditional dhows, grounding these futuristic structures in the region's maritime history.

Bab Al Qasr Hotel & Residences

Notice the striking copper-gold facade of the Bab Al Qasr. Its name translates to 'Door of the Palace,' and its architecture is a tribute to Moroccan craftsmanship. The building’s design incorporates traditional elements like intricate geometric patterns and large arched entrances. Unlike the glass-heavy skyscrapers nearby, Bab Al Qasr uses color to reflect the desert sun and the golden sands of the UAE. It serves as a visual bridge between the sleek modernism of the Etihad Towers and the more traditional palace architecture you are about to encounter further along the route.

Corniche West Street

As you walk along Corniche West Street, you are experiencing one of the most successful urban planning projects in the Middle East. The Corniche stretches for eight kilometers, but this western section offers the most concentrated views of the presidential district. To your left, the Arabian Gulf sparkles in shades of turquoise, while to your right, the manicured gardens and high-rise developments showcase the city's wealth. This area was once a humble coastline where pearl divers launched their boats; today, it is a world-class promenade that connects the city's residential heart with its political core.

Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental

The Emirates Palace is far more than a hotel; it is a cultural monument. Finished in 2005, it features 114 domes, with the central dome rising 72 meters high. The exterior is made of granite and marble, designed to reflect the various shades of the Arabian desert. Inside, the palace is famously decorated with gold leaf and houses over 1,000 Swarovski crystal chandeliers. It was built to host heads of state and remains a venue for major international summits. While much of the palace is private, the public areas allow you to witness the staggering scale of Emirati hospitality and the region's penchant for palatial grandeur.

The Founder’s Memorial

This stop offers a moment of quiet contemplation. The Founder’s Memorial is dedicated to the life and legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the UAE. The centerpiece is 'The Constellation,' a three-dimensional portrait of Sheikh Zayed designed by artist Ralph Helmick. It consists of 1,327 geometric shapes suspended from 1,110 cables, which, when viewed from certain angles, form the Sheikh’s likeness. The surrounding Heritage Garden features plants native to the UAE, such as the Ghaf tree, symbolizing the resilience and wisdom of the people who thrived in this desert landscape before the age of oil.

Qasr Al Watan

Your journey ends at Qasr Al Watan, the Palace of the Nation. Opened to the public in 2019, this is a working palace that houses the formal offices of the President and Vice President of the UAE. The architecture is a masterclass in Mughal-era influences combined with contemporary Arabian style. Inside, the Great Hall features one of the largest domes in the world. Don't miss the 'House of Knowledge' in the east wing, which showcases a collection of rare manuscripts and artifacts highlighting the Arab world’s contributions to science, arts, and literature. It is a profound statement of the UAE’s vision for its future, rooted in the preservation of heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Ras Al Akhdar route is arguably the best, as it features the city's most iconic modern skyscrapers (Etihad Towers) and its most grand traditional palaces (Qasr Al Watan and Emirates Palace) within a walkable distance.