This photo gallery gives you a sneak peek into some of the distinctive gifts visitors can enjoy at Qasr Al Watan’s Presidential Gifts Exhibition:
Walking through the Palace of the Nation, visitors can view a unique collection of diplomatic gifts that echo the diversity and cultures of many of the world’s nations. Each gift is carefully chosen and considers the culture, religion and personal taste of the person receiving it, and reveals valuable information about the cultures and economies they represent. Many of the gifts on display at Qasr Al Watan are inspired by the purpose of a state or diplomatic visit.
This photo gallery gives you a sneak peek into some of the distinctive gifts visitors can enjoy at Qasr Al Watan’s Presidential Gifts Exhibition:
Falcons
A symbol of strength and national heritage, the falcon is one of the most important animals associated with the identity of the UAE. In the past, it was an important form of hunting, while today it is one of the most honored sports in the country and is associated with the Arab values of courage, honor and nobility. For instance, falcon masks are used when hunting to cover the eyes of the falcon to calm it down during travel. The masks seen here have been gifted by Germany, a renowned manufacturer for falconry equipment.
Weapons
Traditional weapons play an important role in the communication of the history and heritage of the United Arab Emirates. Alongside their practical use for hunting and protection, local swords, daggers and rifles have social and cultural significance and can communicate identity and status. These weapons are often gifted as a sign of respect.
Emblems
Symbols rich in cultural meaning are often used in diplomacy. Every country has emblematic places, icons, or features that represent their national pride. Due to their cultural importance or their symbolic meaning, they epitomize the identity of a nation. On display is a Model of Petra, gifted by Jordan, and an etching emblem from the Vatican City State to name a few.
Sacred Symbols: Gifts of Friendship, Mutual Respect and Tolerance
Other items gifted represent the culture of the country or a specific religion. The gifts are not intended to be elaborate but represent a gesture of friendship, mutual respect and tolerance.
Over the centuries, the Holy Qur’an has been highly valued as a diplomatic gift due to its importance as the religious text of Islam. The incorporation of different types of binding, material and ornamentation add an artistic dimension to it.
Due to the importance of Islam in the region, religious manuscripts have been a symbol of diplomacy. Various artistic elements are added with the inclusion of binding, material, and ornamentation.
In the religion or Holy Quran display case, a black cover can be seen embroidered in gold. The golden embroidery is a verse from the Holy Quran and the black cover itself is part of the dressing of the Kaaba which is the holiest place for Muslims; located in Mecca in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The dressing changes on a yearly basis and is called the Kiswa. What can be seen on display is a gift from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and is a small part of the larger dressing.
Carpets from Turkmenistan, ornamental vases from the Phoenician era, and gold wreath that trace back to ancient Macedonia are just of the few priceless possessions you can find at Qasr Al Watan. Visit Qasr Al Watan to see a distinctive assortment of diplomatic gifts received from heads of state and foreign dignitaries across the years.
Qasr Al Watan welcomes visitors of all ages daily from 10:00AM to 17:30PM, for more information and to buy your tickets please visit https://www.qasralwatan.ae
