Qasr al Muwaiji is an impressive structure that has watched over the oasis for around 100 years. It was built in the early years of the 20th century in the time of Sheikh Zayed bin Khalifa the First by his son Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed bin Khalifa. Throughout this time, it was a simple but striking building: a square enclosure with projecting corner towers and a grand entrance gate. It was used as a diwan (a council or seat of governance) and as a place for the community to congregate.

In 1946, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan was appointed Ruler’s Representative in Al Ain and moved to Qasr al Muwaiji. The palace became his diwan and his family home. His eldest son, HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan President of the UAE, was born at Qasr al Muwaiji two years later, and spent much of his youth there, learning from his father.

Qasr Al Muawiji and Al Muwaiji Oasis are key components of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Al Ain which includes a number of archaeological sites, historic buildings, forts and watchtowers which are abundant around the oasis and villages on the outskirts of Al Ain city.

Qasr Al Muwaiji sets out the chronology of the members of Abu Dhabi’s ruling family with a connection to Qasr al Muwaiji. This impressive lineage stretches from Sheikh Zayed the First down to HH Sheikh Khalifa, and showcases the close and long-standing relationship between Qasr al Muwaiji and Abu Dhabi’s leaders