SimplyAbuDhabi XXXVIII

The Presidential Banquet areas are often reserved for official occasions, but they are also an opportunity to extend a unique Emirati welcome to dignitaries, allies, and representatives of other nations. Those special guests who dine within this beautifully appointed banquet hall – in which 149,000 specially commissioned pieces of silver, crystal and china are on glorious display – are invited to partake of the customs and cuisines that define the UAE’s peerless hospitality. A nearby exhibition showcases some of the remarkable diplomatic gifts the UAE has received from visiting foreign dignitaries, including fine Korean ceramic vases, Turkmen carpets, and beautiful clothing from the Chinese president, celebrating the legacy of good will between the UAE and the world. Visitors to this exhibition can enjoy a close-up view of some of the most cherished diplomatic gifts received by the UAE, and learn about the fascinating cultural considerations and protocols that are involved in selecting diplomatic gifts. Al Barza is the Palace’s majlis – the traditional room of welcome that is central to Arabic cultures. At Al Barza, which holds up to 300 guests, visitors have the opportunity to experience and learn more about the traditional role of a majlis- a space for cultural, political and social gatherings - through an enriching and interesting multimedia exhibit that explores the traditions and values of the Emirati leaders past and present to govern with the consensus of their people. For further enrichment and engagement with the cultural contributions of the UAE, visit the Qasr Al Watan Library, which houses a vast collection of over 50,000 books and resources about the nation and its progressive journey. For both research scholars and the amateur historian, the Library’s Digital Library collection of over 16 million items can be accessed online from anywhere within Abu Dhabi. 62 | Simply Abu Dhabi