SimplyAbuDhabi XXXVIII

Entering the West Wing, the atmosphere becomes more formal as visitors are privileged to view the area of the palace used for official state business. Of course, before opening to the public in 2019, the palace was exclusively used for official purposes, such as hosting foreign heads of state and for meetings of the UAE’s supreme council and federal cabinet, all which are still carried out in the impressive West Wing zones. It is here that visitors can learn about the history of the UAE and the traditions and values of its governance. As Sheikh Mohammed declared at the opening celebration, “Qasr Al Watan reflects the UAE leadership’s dedication to fostering a strong connection between the community and their heritage.” The West Wing features an impressive meeting space known as the “Spirit of Collaboration” – so named because it has been the summit location for organisations such as the Arab League, the Gulf Cooperation Council, and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation. The Spirit of Collaboration room also serves as the meeting place for the UAE Cabinet and Federal Supreme Council. Standing on the eight-pointed star on the marble floor under the dome, visitors should be sure to look upwards, to behold the sight of the twelve-tonne chandelier, which is made up of 350,000 crystals. It’s so colossal and ornate that the chandelier had to be assembled in place – a fittingly awe- inspiring symbol of the space in which the very future of the region is being decided. 56 | Simply Abu Dhabi