Start our journey with one of the most impressive structures in Abu Dhabi - Qasr Al Watan, or the Presidential Palace. This majestic building, which opened to the public in 2019, is not only the seat of the UAE government, but also a living museum of the region's culture and history. Qasr Al Watan impresses with its architecture, which combines elements of traditional Arabic style with modern features. White marble, gold ornamentation and elaborate mosaics create breathtaking interiors that are a testament to the cultural richness of the Emirates.

A visit to Qasr Al Watan is not only an opportunity to admire the architectural beauty, but also a chance to explore the UAE's system of government, its history and its vision for the future. The palace offers interactive exhibitions, a library with an extensive book collection, and the impressive Great Hall, where official state ceremonies are held. Of note is the Spirit of Cooperation Wing, which symbolizes the unity of Arab countries and is a meeting place for leaders from the region.

Special tours have been prepared for visitors to Qasr Al Watan to explore the most important parts of the complex. Remember that there is a dress code - shoulders and knees should be covered. Entrance tickets can be purchased on site or online, and prices range from AED 60 to AED 100 for adults (as of 2023). The palace is open daily from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm, except on Fridays, when it opens at 2:00 pm.

Qasr Al Watan is not only a tourist attraction, but also a symbol of national pride and aspiration for the United Arab Emirates. Its monumental architecture and opulent interiors make it a must-see for anyone who wants to understand modern Abu Dhabi and its role in the region.

Another highlight on Abu Dhabi's monument map is the Wahat Al Karama complex, also known as the Oasis of Dignity. It is a memorial dedicated to the soldiers and civilians of the United Arab Emirates who gave their lives in the service of their homeland. Located opposite the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Wahat Al Karama is a moving contrast between life and death, sacrifice and legacy.

The centerpiece of the complex is the Memorial Monument - 31 massive aluminum plaques that support each other, symbolizing the unity, solidarity and strength of the nation. Each of these plaques is covered with poems and quotes expressing values such as courage, sacrifice and honor. At night, the monument is beautifully illuminated, which adds to its mystique.

Next to the monument is the Pavilion of Honor, where the names and photos of the fallen heroes are displayed. It is a place of deep reflection and tribute to those who gave their lives for their country. The complex also includes an amphitheater and a shallow pool of water that reflects both the monument and a nearby mosque, creating extraordinary visual effects.

Wahat Al Karama is open daily from 9am to 10pm, and admission is free. It's worth planning your visit for the evening hours, when the lighting adds to the site's unique charm. For those interested in learning more about the history and significance of the site, free guided tours are available (check availability on site).

The Oasis of Dignity, part of the Wahat Al Karama complex, is a space designed to contemplate and honor national heroes. It is a place where modern design meets deep symbolic meaning, creating a space that touches the hearts and minds of visitors.

Both Wahat Al Karama and the Oasis of Dignity are an important part of the UAE's national identity, and a place that allows locals and tourists alike to understand the values on which this young but ambitious country is based. A visit to this complex is not only a history lesson, but also an opportunity to reflect on universal values such as sacrifice, courage and patriotism.

We conclude our tour of Abu Dhabi's most important monuments with a visit to two sites that represent a modern approach to commemorating history and admiring the city's present. The first is The Founder's Memorial, dedicated to the memory of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, founder and first president of the United Arab Emirates.

The Founder's Memorial is an unusual combination of art, technology and nature. The centerpiece is 'The Constellation,' a three-dimensional installation portraying Sheikh Zayed, consisting of more than 1,300 geometric shapes suspended from steel cables. At night, the installation is illuminated, creating the effect of a portrait floating in space. It is not just a monument, but a true work of art that delights with its innovation and symbolism.

The Founder's Memorial complex also includes a visitor center where visitors can learn about the life and legacy of Sheikh Zayed through interactive exhibitions and multimedia presentations. The gardens surrounding the memorial were designed to reflect the sheikh's love of nature and sustainability.

The memorial is open daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., and admission is free. It is advisable to plan your visit for the evening hours, when the installation of 'The Constellation' looks most impressive. Free guided tours are also available, which are worth considering to fully understand the significance of the site.

For a contrast and to see Abu Dhabi from a completely different perspective, visit the Observation Deck at 300. This is a vantage point located on the 74th floor of Tower 2 of the Etihad Towers complex, offering a panoramic view of the city from a height of 300 meters.

Observation Deck at 300 is not only a viewing platform, but also an elegant cafe where you can enjoy the views of Abu Dhabi with a cup of coffee or tea. From here you can admire the city's impressive coastline, the famous Formula One track on Yas Island, as well as other landmarks of Abu Dhabi.

An entrance ticket costs about AED 95 for adults (as of 2023), but a portion of this amount can be used for shopping at the cafe. The viewpoint is open daily from 12pm to 8pm (hours are subject to change, worth checking before visiting).

The Founder's Memorial and Observation Deck at 300 are two different but equally fascinating ways to experience Abu Dhabi. The former offers an in-depth look at the history and values that have shaped the United Arab Emirates, while the latter allows you to see how those values and vision have translated into the city's impressive development. Both sites are the perfect culmination of a journey along the trail of Abu Dhabi's most important monuments, showing how the past and present are intertwined in this remarkable city.