Pre-arrival checklist
Dress Code, Security and Visitor Facilities
Prepare for respectful dress, airport-style screening and the practical limits on bags and personal items. Venue procedures may change, so confirm current requirements before travel.
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Clothing
Dress Code and Footwear
Clothing should cover both knees and shoulders. Shorts, sleeveless tops and see-through garments are not allowed; dress should remain respectful of local traditions.
- Keep knees and shoulders covered.
- Wear comfortable, appropriate shoes.
- Flip-flops and overly casual footwear are not allowed.
Following these requirements helps maintain the dignity and beauty of Qasr Al Watan for all guests.
Entry procedure
Airport-Style Security Screening
On arrival, visitors and their belongings are subject to an airport-style security check. Bring as little as possible, remove metal objects from pockets, and place cameras, phones, keys and wallets in a bag before it enters the scanner.
Handbags, hearing aids and electrical or electronic equipment needed for health reasons may be carried. Approach a security guard if you have a concern or require assistance.
Storage
Oversized Bags and Luggage
There are no cloakroom or locker facilities on the Palace grounds, and visitors with oversized bags will be refused entry. Leave excess belongings at home or in a vehicle.
If visiting on the way to or from the airport, arrange luggage storage at the airport or your hotel before arriving.
Restricted belongings
Prohibited Items
The prohibited-items guidance includes, but is not limited to:
- Food and beverages, except bottled water
- Penknives or knives of any kind
- Scissors
- Long umbrellas
- Alcohol
- Paints or aerosols
- Bicycles, folding bikes, roller-skates or skateboards
- Pets or animals
- Large bags that cannot fit through airport-style scanners
- CS gas (tear gas) or any weapon
- Tripods
Security personnel make on-site decisions under applicable visitor procedures.
Visitor support
Equipment and Accessibility
These on-site visitor services are described by the venue. Aurelin Guide does not rent or reserve them, and availability should be confirmed for the planned visit date.
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Stroller rental | AED 20 |
| Wheelchair use | Free of Charge |
On the grounds
Facilities During the Visit
There is no Wi-Fi throughout the Palace grounds, and mobile phones must be switched to silent. Restrooms are available throughout the Visitor Centre, Ceremonial Gate and Palace.
Prayer Rooms in both Visitor Center and Zayed gate are open during operational hours. A First Aid room is located inside the Palace.
Time-sensitive notice
Food Outlets and Temporary Closures
Dhiyafat Qasr Al Watan in the main Palace and Maqha Al Maktaba within Qasr Al Watan Library are temporarily closed. Legma, a grab and go outlet, will be open.
Designated area
Smoking Rules
A designated smoking area is outside the Visitor Centre. Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is not permitted inside the Visitor Centre, Palace or grounds.
Visitors found smoking outside the designated area may be asked to leave.
Final review
Before You Leave
- Confirm that knees and shoulders are covered and footwear is appropriate.
- Measure bags and remove prohibited items.
- Arrange off-site storage for excess luggage.
- Allow time for security screening.