Qasr Al Watan Library

The Library is located within Qasr Al Watan, one of the few presidential headquarters in the world that open their doors to the public. The Library is an essential destination within this cultural edifice in the Emirati capital, Abu Dhabi.

Qasr Al Watan Library reflects the UAE Vision 2021, which is based on supporting the knowledge economy to promote development and its sustainability by investing in minds and human resources. The Library is a notable addition to the chain of public libraries that are spread across Abu Dhabi, which work to provide sources of knowledge using the latest methods and technologies.

The Library is distinguished by its location in the middle of the palace, which has a unique architectural design, and includes more than 50,000 titles, approximately 1,800 rare books, and collectibles donated by His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, and the collectibles of the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC).

Qasr Al Watan Library offers a comprehensive reading experience, with resources available in Arabic, English, and other languages. These resources include printed books, e-books, audiobooks, video-books, periodicals, multimedia, university theses, research articles, newspapers and magazines, reports and documents, encyclopaedias, book summaries, dictionary-style references, databases, and rare manuscripts and books.

The Library interior provides comfortable conditions for reading, research, and writing, in modernly designed halls that are equipped with advanced computers and electronic browsers, making it easy to search for electronic resources. The Library also develops thoughtful interactive applications that promote cognitive enrichment.

Programmes:

In addition to its extensive collection of books and resources, the Library fosters dialogue and knowledge exchange through a variety of community initiatives and programmes, such as discussion sessions, specialised professional programmes, visual arts, and other forms of art that celebrate diversity and cultural variety. Programme and workshop sessions are held both online and in person.

Furthermore, the Library offers several services to its visitors, most notably:

• Library Membership: The Qasr Al Watan Library is open to all UAE citizens, residents, and visitors, who can either visit the Library directly or obtain a membership card to access its services.

• Borrowing Services: The Library allows its patrons to borrow printed and other materials through the membership system. Additionally, all Library content can be accessed through the Library's website.

• Reference Services: Library specialists offer various reference services to help patrons access information and reference lists. They also provide Library patrons with training on how to use the digital Library and information on Library programmes.

• Guided Tours: Library patrons can benefit from special tours that help them learn about the Library and its contents, making it easier to take advantage of the available programmes and resources.

• Internet Service: The Library offers computer and tablet services with an internet connection to enable the use of its online resources.

• Digital Library: The Library's digital collection offers a variety of resources in different media, including print materials, audio, and video, and can be accessed by members from anywhere in Abu Dhabi.

Working Hours:

The Library is open to visitors from Monday to Saturday, from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

(Opening hours may be subject to change, please check with staff prior to your visit.)

For contact and inquiries with the Library staff:

Tel.: 026576295 - 026576296

Email Address: qasralwatanlibrary@dctabudhabi.ae

Click here to view the Library location on Google Maps.