A UAE newspaper has said that the expected opening of the symbolic birthplace of Abu Dhabi is significant for the emirate, its residents and its visitors and will further enrich the UAE’s cultural scene.

In an editorial on Wednesday, The National said that the Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority, during a majlis held at the fort on Monday by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, announced that Qasr Al Hosn is set to open to the public next year after the completion of a renovation project to transform it into a tourism and cultural destination.

"Built over 250 years ago, it was the emirate’s first permanent structure. Its conical watchtower and impenetrable fort that once served as a home to the ruling family and as a seat of government, now sit as an oasis among the glass and steel towers that crowd around it.

"As such, Qasr Al Hosn occupies an interesting physical space in the city and in the hearts of the people of this country. It is the perfect destination from which to describe this country’s journey."