Classic Cars Exhibition Set to Motor into Abu Dhabi

In celebration of the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and Abu Dhabi Race Week, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) will present Al Ruhool, a classic cars exhibition, at Qasr Al Hosn, from 27 November to 30 December. The exhibition will explore how the urban fabric of the city developed in the mid-20th century with the transition from nomadic styles of transportation to modern-day automobiles. The exhibition will feature 21 cars from the 1950s and 1960s.

Less than a century ago, means of transport in the UAE were drastically different, as most people relied on camels, horses or travelled on foot to get from one place to another. Beginning in the 1930s, oil exploration in Abu Dhabi led to the evolution of the city – new roads were built, automobiles were imported from around the world and cars gradually became the main mode of transportation in the capital.

Set against the backdrop of Qasr Al Hosn – Abu Dhabi’s oldest and most significant building – Al Ruhool will delve into the progress of the Emirate from a largely nomadic civilization to a modern metropolis.

Salama Al Shamsi, Director of Qasr Al Hosn, said, “As one of Abu Dhabi’s most iconic locations, Qasr Al Hosn is a true emblem of our past, present and future. Exhibitions like Al Ruhool bring to life the story of Abu Dhabi and create a tangible platform for the current generation and visitors to explore and understand our heritage. Al Ruhool – a colloquial term used in Abu Dhabi to describe former means of transportation – reminds us of the incredible transformation and growth of this region, which is still a part of our DNA. This exhibition is a must-see for everyone, especially those who are interested in history, local culture and classic cars.”

The exhibition will be inaugurated with a parade of classic cars, featuring Al Khayalla (cavalry) show with a traditional Ayyala performance, accompanied by the Abu Dhabi Police Band.

Qasr Al Hosn has a variety of programmes and events planned throughout the year in Abu Dhabi, several of which are tied to wider events happening around the Emirate.