All about Wahat Al Karama in Abu Dhabi
Some places speak louder than words ever could. Wahat Al Karama in Abu Dhabi is one of them, a landmark that carries the weight of a nation’s gratitude, grief and pride all at once. Whether you are a history enthusiast or a first-time visitor to the emirate, this is a place worth making time for. Here is everything you need to know before your visit, from its striking architecture to practical visitor information.
What is Wahat Al Karama?
A name that translates into “the oasis of dignity” Wahat Al Karama is a 46,000 sq.m. permanent war memorial in Abu Dhabi dedicated to Emirati soldiers and civilians who sacrificed their lives in service of the nation.
Born from the vision of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the memorial was inaugurated on 30 November 2016. A date that holds deep significance, as it marks the day the UAE lost its first soldier during the battle of the Greater Tunb in 1971.
The site is a popular tourist destination and a way for visitors to pay their respect to the country’s martyred soldiers and civil servicemen and women.
Wahat Al Karama Architecture
Built in just seven months, a first glimpse of the Wahat Al Karama memorial is enough to make any new visitor stare in awe.
The Memorial
The centrepiece of Wahat Al Karama memorial Abu Dhabi is a striking public art structure designed by British artist Idris Khan. It consists of 31 massive aluminium-clad tablets, each leaning against the next. That lean represents the solidarity, unity and mutual support that binds the UAE’s leadership, citizens and armed forces together.
Formed from over 1,000 cast aluminium panels, the tablets are inscribed with poems and quotations from the UAE’s founding father, His Highness the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, along with words from other rulers and heads of state. The long spine running along the rear of the Memorial bears the UAE Armed Forces’ Pledge of Allegiance.
At the base of the structure, a small stream represents the UAE’s first irrigation system, a quiet nod to the country’s humble origins before its rise. Before sunset each day, visitors can also witness an Honour Guard march at the Memorial.
Memorial Plaza
Surrounded by a terraced amphitheater, the 4000 sq.m. Memorial Plaza is a wide circular space. Made from travertine stone shipped from Turkey, the whole space can easily accommodate up to 1200 people.
The centrepiece is a still, reflective pool positioned with precision to mirror both the memorial panels and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque nearby. It is the kind of view that makes you reach for your camera before you have even thought about it.
Pavilion of Honour
A solid polygon-like structure, the Pavilion of Honour is comprised of a circular inner wall which is covered with over 2,800 aluminium plates. Made from metal reclaimed from tanks used in service with the UAE army, the plates feature the names of the country’s heroes.
At the centre of the Pavilion stand seven large glass panels representing each of the UAE’s seven emirates, surrounded by a pool of slowly moving water. On both sides of every panel, the UAE’s Pledge of Allegiance is printed in full, legible from whichever direction you approach.
The roof is built from eight slabs, seven for the emirates and one for the nation’s heroes. Two passages from the Quran are inscribed at the entrance and along the top of the inner wall.
Wahat Al Karama Visitors Centre
Accessible to the public, the Wahat Al Karama Visitor’s Centre is specifically designed for the public. The centre features an interactive visitor experience that relates the story of the country’s heroes and the story of the Memorial itself.
Another point of interest is the roof. Providing access to visitors, the roof offers a better view of the site, mosque and the Sheikh Zayed Bridge located further away.
FAQS
Where is Wahat Al Karama located?
Wahat Al Karama is located in Al Rawdah, between the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the General Headquarters of the UAE armed forces.
What are the opening hours of Wahat Al Karama?
Here are the Wahat Al Karama timings:
- Visitor Centre: 09:00 am to 07:00 pm
- Memorial Plaza: 24/7
- Tours booking: 10:00 am to 06:00 pm
Is there an entry fee for Wahat Al Karama?
No. Entry to Wahat Al Karama in the UAE is free for all visitors.
That’s a wrap to our Wahat Al Karama Abu Dhabi guide. To delve more into the country’s history, check out the heritage sites in Abu Dhabi.
Looking for more cultural sites in the UAE? Check out the list of UNESCO protected heritage sites in the UAE.
